Ace the 2026 Massachusetts Barber Exam – Snip, Style, and Shine!

Using thinning shears is particularly effective for a layered hairstyle that requires reduced bulk. Thinning shears are designed to remove weight and blend hair without altering the overall length significantly. In a layered cut, different sections of the hair may have varying lengths, and thinning shears help create a smoother transition between these layers, especially in thick hair. This technique allows for a more manageable style while maintaining the desired shape and dimension of the haircut.

In contrast, the other options do not typically require thinning shears. A straight-edge hairstyle usually calls for precision cutting rather than texturizing. A buzz cut involves cutting hair very short and uniform, which does not benefit from the use of thinning shears. An asymmetrical cut focuses on creating contrast between lengths on either side and may not require the reduction of bulk, as it aims to emphasize the difference in lengths rather than blend them.