PRO TIP: To create a slight undercut, have the client tilt their head forward and cut the baseline. That way, when they lift their head the angle creates natural graduation without over-cutting.

A strong perimeter gives any haircut—no matter the length—the clean lines that stylists want to create and the full, healthy hair that clients want to see. But a blunt line doesn't mean the cut can't be soft and airy, so how do you approach the perimeter? We brought two master cutters to The BTC House to break down how they achieve clean lines and they both agree—point cutting is their go-to cutting technique. Scroll down to see how Matt Swinney (@matt.swinney) and Carolynn Judd (@styled_by_carolynn) point cut TWO different length haircuts and click here to purchase their entire class on BTC University.

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“When a client with long hair comes in and asks for a change, our first instinct is to chop it off,” Matt explains. “But really what they’re asking for is versatility with their styling.” So how does Matt give satisfy these long-lock requests? Using a soft point-cutting technique to create a strong perimeter with subtle texture. “They will still be able to achieve a curl or wave that has movement but keep the length they want.”

Matt sees about 14 clients in the salon daily, so he needs scissors that can keep up with his hustle. “When choosing the tools we use every day behind the chair, it is important to consider how you work,” Matt advises. “If you are someone that cuts hair wet to dry, chose a shear that cuts dry hair just as well as it cuts wet. That’s why I use the PARAGON IIfrom ARC™ Scissors, because they are made to cut hair flawlessly no matter what technique.”

What’s the most important step to Carolynn’s Instafamous textured bob? “Take time on your first section,” Carolynn explains. “It’s the foundation for the rest of the haircut.”