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Also, being in a calm state of mind is key, according to Los Angeles-based hairstylistAndrew Fitzsimons.

portait of a woman with long wavy hair standing in front of a gray wall

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“Take a deep breath before you kick off to help yourself relax.”

Of course, deep breathing will only get you so far.

it’s crucial that you have some technique up your sleeve, too.

Dampen hair and grab your tools.

Before you do any cutting, ensure you’re equipped with the proper tools.

“We want feathered layers, not chunks!”

Part and section your hair.

The speed in which you cut truly can’t be stressed enough.

Another tip from Cranford?

“We call this point cutting.”

Arrunategui elaborates on this technique.

you’ve got the option to also do this technique to remove bulk without taking length off."

4. double-check both sides are equal.

After you’ve done the damn thing (congrats!

), it’s all about making sure both sides match up.

Style to see what needs touching up.

Alternatively, you could rough-dry your hair if that’s what you normally do.

Either way, styling your hair afterward will reveal if any further work needs to be done.

Learn about 100 years of bangs history: