New York State Cosmetology Practice Exam 2025 - Free Cosmetology Practice Questions and Study Guide.

In hair cutting, using shears at a 45-degree angle is particularly effective for creating layers and texture in the hair. This angle allows for a good balance between the weight of the hair and the desired shape, enabling the stylist to achieve a natural look with movement. Cutting at 45 degrees helps in removing bulk while also providing a gradual transition from shorter to longer hair lengths, which is essential for styles that require layering.

Choosing a different angle, such as 30 degrees, may result in less visible layering and texture, while a 60-degree angle could lead to overly dramatic layers that may not blend well with the rest of the hairstyle. A 90-degree angle, on the other hand, is often used for cutting blunt lines and creating a more uniform length across the hair, which is not the primary goal when working with shears for layering. Thus, a 45-degree angle is widely recognized as the most versatile and effective choice for creating layers and achieving a polished finish in a haircut.