Why Trims Are Your Secret Weapon

How To Turn Routine Trims Into High-Value Services

Every stylist has heard it before—“Just a trim.” But what seems like a simple request is actually an opportunity to enhance movement and create a shape that grows out seamlessly. The right approach can elevate a basic cut into a high-valued service, turning routine visits into loyal, long-term clients. 

In “Not “Just a Trim”: Elevating Maintenance Cuts” from BTC University and Booksy, Global Educator Joel Torres (@joeltorresstyle) shares how small adjustments in body positioning, texturizing techniques and fringe detailing impact balance, control and longevity in ways that upgrade a trim from basic to high-value. Read on for a sneak peek at Joel’s approach to making trims more precise and profitable.

Want to learn all of Joel’s go-to techniques? Become a BTC-U Member for unlimited access to his class and expert tips!

A Shape That Lasts: Simple Adjustments for a Better Finish

Joel shows that trimming the ends isn’t just about dusting off length—it’s about setting the foundation for a long-lasting shape. These small adjustments can make a big difference:

• The Stand-Up Trick: Having clients stand for certain sections prevents unintended elevation caused by the chair’s curve, ensuring the line falls exactly where it should.
• Cape Adjustments for Precision: Flipping or repositioning the cape eliminates interference, keeping the lines sharp and structured.
• Density Awareness: Refining the shape with density in mind prevents wispiness and hidden bulk, allowing the hair to grow out seamlessly.

Watch Joel demonstrate the stand-up trick: 

Adding Movement: Layering That Grows Out Seamlessly

Joel’s approach to layering isn’t just about removing weight—it’s about where and how you do it to control movement. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• He starts with the back layers first to prevent over-cutting the sides, ensuring balance and maintaining length where it matters most.
• He uses the pivoting radial method to adjust cutting angles subtly, keeping the flow natural and avoiding choppy, disconnected layers.
• He chooses between controlled slicing and point cutting based on hair type—using slicing for softness and movement while avoiding over-thinning on finer textures.

These techniques create a cut that moves naturally, holds its shape, and grows out effortlessly.

Here’s how to maintain balance when cutting the perimeter:

Fringe Refinements: Customizing for Each Client

A fringe isn’t just an add-on—it can define the entire cut. The wrong approach can leave it too heavy, too sparse, or disconnected from the overall shape. Joel says subtle refinements make all the difference in creating a balanced, wearable fringe that grows out seamlessly. Here’s a few of Joel’s tips:

• Overdirection is key. Bringing sections toward the center—what Joel calls the “bring it to the heart” guideline—creates a natural, face-framing effect without harsh lines.
• Recession areas require a tailored approach. Instead of taking a standard section, adjusting the width based on density prevents gaps and ensures a fuller, more cohesive shape.
• Elevation changes everything. Whether cutting for fullness or softness, controlling elevation determines whether the fringe sits heavy and bold or light and effortless.

Watch Joel explain how to select the level of elevation: 

See Joel’s full process and all his best tips—watch the class here.