How to Ask for an Asymmetrical Pixie Cut
Learn what to tell your barber to get the asymmetrical pixie cut that fits your face shape and style.
An asymmetrical pixie cut is short on one side and longer on the other. It is fun, bold, and easy to wash. But going this short can feel scary if you have never done it before.
Here is a simple guide on how to talk to your barber so you get the exact cut you want.
What Makes It Asymmetrical?
"Asymmetrical" just means the two sides do not match. One side is cropped close to your head. The other side has longer hair that sweeps across your forehead or hangs near your cheek.
You get to choose how big the difference is. You can have a small difference where one side is just a little longer. Or you can have a big difference, like a shaved side with long bangs on the other side.
Who Does It Look Good On?
This cut looks great on many people, but it works best when matched to your face shape:
Round faces: Keep the long side past your cheekbone. This makes your face look longer and slimmer. Square faces: Ask for soft, wispy edges. This softens a strong jaw. Heart faces: Keep long bangs swept to the side to balance your chin. Oval faces: Almost any style of this cut will look good on you.
If your hair is very thick, your barber will need to thin it out so it does not look puffy. If your hair is thin, the layers will help make it look fuller.
Exactly What to Tell Your Barber
Never just sit in the chair and say "give me an asymmetrical pixie." That means different things to different people. Say these things instead:
1. Pick your side: Tell them which side you want short and which side you want long. Think about which side of your face you like best. 2. Set the short side: Tell them if you want it cut with scissors or buzzed with clippers. Use your fingers to show how short you want it. 3. Set the long side: Tell them where you want the long pieces to end. Say, "I want the long side to hit my cheekbone," or "I want it to stop at my jaw." 4. Talk about the back: Decide if you want the back tapered tight to your neck or left soft and feathery.
Always bring two or three pictures. Pictures show your barber the exact shape and texture you have in your head.
Upkeep and Daily Care
Short hair is fast to dry, but it needs work to stay in shape. You will need a trim every 4 to 6 weeks. If you wait too long, the short side will get messy and lose its shape.
Every morning, you will need a tiny bit of pomade or wax. Rub it in your hands and smooth down the short side. Then use your fingers to mess up the longer side.
If you want to see how this short cut looks on you before anyone touches your hair, try HairMatch AI. You can scan your face shape for free and buy photo packs starting at $0.99 to test the cut on your own face first.