What factor is most critical in achieving a well-blended haircut?

Achieving a well-blended haircut primarily hinges on the technique employed by the barber or stylist. Good technique involves understanding how to layer, fade, and blend different lengths of hair seamlessly. Mastery of cutting methods, such as using point cutting, slide cutting, or sheer over comb techniques, allows the stylist to create a smooth transition between different lengths and textures. This skill can greatly influence not only the blending of the haircut but also its overall shape and flow.

While hair texture, cutting angle, and the use of tools play significant roles in haircutting, they serve more as supplementary elements that can enhance or affect the final outcome. For instance, while hair texture can dictate how a hair will react to certain cutting techniques, and the cutting angle influences the shape of the cut, it is ultimately the stylist's technique that determines how effectively these factors work together to produce a blended finish. Therefore, focusing on refining one's technique is paramount in achieving that desired seamless blend in haircuts.