Paneling Technique

Q: I recently heard about a cut called "paneling." The description I found said it's a short, edgier twist on layers that gives more volume. It mentioned that hair that's too thick ends up looking like a mullet, and instead of cutting on top of the hair, you pull up the top layer and cut shorter, more angular pieces underneath. I don't fully understand these directions and have never heard of this technique before. Could you explain what paneling actually is and how it works?

A: Paneling is a relatively modern layering technique that flips traditional hair cutting methods on their head to create distinctive, dynamic hairstyles. While conventional layering typically involves cutting the bottom layers shorter and leaving the top layers longer, paneling does exactly the opposite, which is what makes it so unique and visually striking.

The technique gets its name from the way it creates distinct "panels" or sections of hair that appear to move independently from one another. Think of it like architectural paneling on a wall, where each section has its own defined edge and dimension. When done correctly, these panels create incredible movement and texture that responds beautifully to natural head movement and styling.

Here's how the paneling process actually works: The stylist sections off the hair and lifts the top layer away from the head. Instead of cutting this top layer shorter as you would in traditional layering, they leave it longer and focus on cutting the underneath sections progressively shorter and at more angular, geometric angles. This creates a graduated effect where the longest pieces sit on top, with shorter, more textured pieces nestled beneath them.

The magic happens when the top layer falls back into place. Because the underneath sections are cut shorter and at strategic angles, they push up against the longer top layer, creating natural lift and volume without the need for excessive teasing or product. The shorter underneath pieces also peek through the longer top layer, creating visual interest and dimension that changes as you move your head or style your hair differently.

This technique is particularly effective for people with fine to medium hair texture who want to add body and movement without creating excessive bulk. However, it requires careful consideration of hair density and natural growth patterns. When the description mentions that thick hair can end up looking like a mullet, it's referring to what happens when paneling is applied incorrectly to very dense hair. Without proper weight removal and strategic placement, the contrast between the longer top sections and shorter underneath pieces can create an uneven, disconnected appearance reminiscent of an unintentional mullet.

Medium-length layered hair — Image: AI illustration

One of the most intriguing aspects of paneling is its versatility in styling. A well-executed paneled cut can look completely different depending on how you part and style it. When styled sleek and straight with a traditional center or side part, the longer top layers dominate the look, creating what appears to be a fairly conservative, mainstream hairstyle. However, when you change the part, flip sections in different directions, or add texture through styling, the shorter angular pieces underneath become more visible, revealing a more contemporary cut.

Stylists often use paneling as a way to give clients the best of both worlds, especially for those who need to maintain a professional appearance for work but want something more adventurous for their personal time. The technique allows for dramatic transformation simply through different styling approaches, making it practical for people with varied lifestyle demands.

When considering paneling, it's essential to work with a stylist who truly understands the technique, as it requires precision and an eye for geometric cutting. The angular nature of the cuts and the reverse layering approach demand technical skill and experience to execute properly.

©Hairfinder.com

See also:

Can you explain the terms square, round, concave, and convex layers?

How to cut jagged layers

How to cut uniform layers