The Top Cutting Tips for Curly Texture

We've seen trends come and go, but over the last decade, natural texture has made a comeback, and it is here to stay. Now more than ever, individuals want tips and tricks for embracing their curls as well as haircuts that let their true curl patterns shine. Building on what we know, there are new tools and tips emerging on the daily that we should add to our repertoire.

Touch on Home Haircare Habits

More than any other texture, small shifts in routine can change the overall appearance of curly hair and, therefore, its shape. Start any consultation by discussing what your everyday routine looks like. Things like: how often hair is washed, what products are used, and if they are any changes that can be made to get to their end goal. If you blow out your curls and reshape them with an iron, the approach will be different than if you air-dry or diffuse.

Then again, some of us have no idea how to upgrade our curls. If this is the case, consider adding on some time for a styling lesson with product suggestions. Come in with your normal style and start from here to see exactly how to improve it.

Dry Cutting Vs. Wet Cutting

A long-lasting debate in the curly-cutting community has been about whether it is better to cut hair dry or wet. While each has its benefits – take it on a case-by-case basis and, sometimes, do both.

Dry cutting is fantastic for shaping curls and seeing how the hair lays naturally. It can also be super helpful for removing weight from areas that tend to be denser. However, each time curls dry, they take a slightly different shape.
Wet cutting is more precise and can give an even, balanced shape on which to sculpt later when dry. The main fear associated with wet cutting is removing excessive length, so remember to be conservative and cut half of what you think you should because curly hair can shrink up to 80% when it dries (depending on the curl pattern).
With either option, minimal tension is key so you can see the natural movement of the hair.

A Successful Finish

As with any style, the final finish is what we all look forward to. Curly hair has two common pitfalls, product buildup and lack of moisture. To make sure you get the best possible final result, thoroughly cleanse the hair and scalp with a curl-specific product. If cutting hair wet, apply a light layer of deep conditioner to the hair and rinse it before you dry. This not only protects the curl pattern during detangling and combing but also gives you a reason to reset the curl pattern with a rinse before styling. Lastly, talk through product application – how much, what, and why. Choose the drying method that is closest to any at-home routine for best results.