while cutting. The most common parting lines are horizontal, vertical, diagonal back, diagonal for-
ward, concave and convex. For maximum ease, efficiency and precision when making partings, the
hair is combed in the direction that the parting will be made.
Distribution
Distribution is the direction the hair is combed in relation to the parting. The four types of distri-
bution are natural, perpendicular, shifted and directional.
Natural Distribution
Natural distribution is the direction the hair assumes as it falls naturally from
the head due to gravity. Natural distribution is used from horizontal, diagonal,
concave and convex lines and is primarily used to cut solid forms.
Perpendicular Distribution
With perpendicular distribution, the hair is combed at a 90° angle from its part-
ing. This type of distribution can be used from any line and is primarily used
to cut graduated and layered forms. Keep in mind that perpendicular lines
intersect to form a 90° angle.
Shifted Distribution
When the hair is combed out of natural distribution in any direction except perpen-
dicular to its parting, it is known as shifted distribution or overdirection. Shifted dis-
tribution can be used when cutting most forms except solid form. It is generally used
for exaggerated length increases and blending between different areas of the head.
Directional Distribution
With directional distribution the hair is distributed vertically, or
straight up from the head, and horizontally, or straight out
from the head Directional distribution results in length
increases due to the curve of the head.
Projection
Projection, also known as elevation, is the angle at which
the hair is held in relation to the curve of the head prior
to cutting. The most common projection angles used in
haircutting are 0°, 45° and 90°. Angles between 0° and
30° are considered to be low projection, between 30° and
60° medium projection and between 60° and 90° high
projection. Projecting below 90º produces weight. Pro-
jection angles 90º and above begin to layer the hair.
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