Medium Layered Hair Styles

Types of Medium Layered Hair Styles

Medium hair is generally defined as reaching from below the jawline to several inches below the collar, though different stylists classify hair lengths differently. When choosing a layered hair style for medium length hair, it is important to consider not only the length of the hair, but also the shape of your face so you have a style that best suits your features. Layers can add softness, distinction, and mystery to any style, depending on how they are cut and coordinated. Different features of medium layered styles include:

• How the ends are tapered: Symmetrical, jagged, or angled ends can affect how the style lays on the head and how it adheres to the face and shoulders.
• Length of the top layer: Keeping the topmost layer the full length of the hair will smooth out the style, while having different lengths throughout the style adds additional volume.
• Total number of layers: A greater number of layers adds greater volume but may be more difficult to manage.
• Curliness of the hair: Very curly hair will form natural waves that could cause layers to tangle.

How each of these features are combined can create vastly different styles, and a professional stylist can help you decide which look may be best for you before cutting a single strand.

Caring For Medium Layers

Layered hair styles can be difficult to care for because as layers grow out, the style becomes more ragged. Medium layered hair styles are generally good for as long as eight weeks without a trim, but the greater number of layers you use, the more frequently you may want to get a quick trim to keep the style looking great. Using conditioner regularly can help keep the different layers manageable and will also help prevent split ends and other unsightly damage. When styling medium layers, use a small amount of volumizing product to separate layers and add more distinction to the style, and a small amount of spray may be necessary to keep each layer in its place. Take care not to style your hair too heavily, however: very stiff layers are obvious and less attractive than the natural flip and flow of hair.

Adding Details to Medium Layered Hair Styles

The greatest asset of a medium length layered style is its versatility. While it’s short enough for many different looks and swift care, it’s still long enough to be twisted into elegant updos and other formal styles. Medium styles can easily be jazzed up with a variety of accessories, or for a more permanent detail, add highlights or colored tips to accentuate different layers.

Problems with Layers

Unfortunately, despite their wide range of possibilities and styles, medium layered hair styles are also one of the most difficult to change after they’ve been cut. Unless you are willing to let the layers grow out for a long time, it may be necessary to switch to very short styles if you decide layers aren’t for you. Adding hair extensions is another option to help layers grow out – the extensions will disguise the different lengths in the style while they have a chance to even out.

For fun styles that still have sophisticated possibilities, many women turn to medium layered hair styles. By changing the types of layers and how they are formed, as well as adding unique details, medium layers can be a great choice for many different personalities and lifestyles.