In a layered cut the hair is not brought to one uniform length but divided into sections and graduated in layers. The hairdresser lifts each section to a specific angle and cuts it shorter than the lengths underneath. The steeper the elevation angle, the stronger the layering effect. There is a rough distinction between long, soft layers (only at the ends and in the top hair, keeping most of the length) and short, pronounced layers that give the hair a lot of movement and volume. The short-hair relative is the graduated bob, while on long hair the technique often becomes a "long layer" or a cascade/wolf cut.
The salon process starts with a consultation: hair texture, growth direction, face shape and everyday routine are discussed. The hair is then washed and usually cut wet, because layers can be placed most precisely on wet hair. The hairdresser works in horizontal and vertical sections, checks the length against a guide line and balances both sides of the head. Finally the hair is dried and the cut is checked again dry, since curly or wavy hair in particular springs up as it dries. Thinning scissors or texturising techniques are often used to soften the transitions.
A layered cut suits almost every hair type but looks different depending on texture. On fine hair, subtle layers create more fullness and visual volume; here you should avoid too many or too short layers, otherwise the hair can look thin and frayed. Thick or very strong hair can be thinned and lightened with layers so it falls less heavily. On curls and waves, layers emphasise the natural bounce but require experience so the hair does not puff into a pyramid shape. The cut also adapts to face shape: face-framing layers can visually lengthen a round face or soften strong features.
A plain layered cut (wash, cut, blow-dry) takes on average about 45 to 75 minutes, and longer for very long or dense hair. Depending on hair growth, the shape holds well for roughly six to ten weeks; after that the layers grow out and the cut loses its contour. Anyone who wants to keep the clear structure should plan a trim about every eight weeks. Maintenance is easy: layers fall into shape on their own, and a little styling with a round brush, diffuser or a leave-in product emphasises the movement. Regular care of the ends is recommended so the finest layers do not become prone to split ends.
In terms of price, a layered cut in Switzerland is usually a normal women's or men's haircut rather than a surcharge extra. Rough guide figures (no guarantee, strongly dependent on region, salon and hair length): a women's cut including wash and blow-dry is often somewhere between CHF 60 and CHF 130, and higher in premium salons in Zurich or Geneva. A men's cut with layers frequently ranges between CHF 40 and CHF 80. It is best to compare exact prices directly on the hairdresser profiles in your city, as every business has its own rates and service packages.