Cutting curly hair at home presents a unique set of challenges that require specific techniques and tools to achieve a successful haircut. We one hundred percent recommended visiting a professional stylist. In fact, we put together a list of the top salons that specialize in cutting and styling curly hair.
However, there are instances where individuals may find it necessary or preferable to take on the task themselves. Maybe you can't get to one of these salons because they are too far away. Maybe you are on a tight budget and a $250 hair cut isn't possible. Maybe you have been burned before with a bad salon experience and aren't ready to trust someone yet. What ever the reason, we get it and we've been there.
However, we don't want to you pick up your child's paper cutting scissors from school and wacking off your hair. Just know that with the right knowledge and approach, you can achieve a stylish and well-maintained curly hairstyle from the comfort of your own home.
In this article, we will explore the tools you'll need before you begin, the different methods for cutting curly hair at home, common mistakes to avoid, and a few maintenance tips on how to care for your hair after the hair cut. By familiarizing yourself with these methods, you can confidently approach cutting curly hair at home, allowing you to maintain a stylish and well-groomed curly hairstyle from the comfort of your own space.
Recommended Tools or Products for Cutting Curly Hair at Home:
There are specific tools and products that are recommended for cutting curly hair at home. Here are some essential items to consider:
Sharp Hair-Cutting Scissors: Invest in a pair of high-quality, sharp scissors specifically designed for cutting hair. Dull scissors can lead to uneven cuts and damage the hair.
Wide-Toothed Comb: A wide-toothed comb is essential for detangling curly hair without causing breakage. Look for a comb with wide teeth and smooth edges to prevent snagging.
Hair Clips: Use hair clips to section and secure your hair while cutting. They help to keep the hair organized and make the cutting process more manageable.
Spray Bottle: Fill a spray bottle with water to mist your hair and keep it moisturized during the cutting process.
Styling Products: Consider using curl-enhancing products such as leave-in conditioners, curl creams, or gels to define and enhance your natural curl pattern.
Thinning Shears or Texturizing Scissors: Thinning shears or texturizing scissors are optional tools that can help remove excess bulk and create a more even appearance. They are useful for reducing density in specific areas of the hair.
Handheld Mirror: A handheld mirror allows you to view the back and sides of your head while cutting to ensure accuracy and symmetry.
It's important to note that although these tools and products can be helpful, the most crucial factor in cutting curly hair at home is technique and understanding your hair's unique characteristics. You should also consider consulting with a professional stylist for advice on suitable tools and products based on your specific hair type and needs.
Methods for Cutting Curly Hair at Home:
Method 1: The DevaCut Technique
DevaCut is a popular cutting technique specifically designed for curly hair. To perform a DevaCut at home, follow these steps:
Start on dry hair that has been styled in a way that allows your natural curl pattern to form
Divide the hair into small sections and clip them up.
Begin cutting by taking a small section of hair, holding it between your fingers, and cutting vertically into the ends, known as "curl by curl" cutting. This technique helps to maintain the natural shape and bounce of your curls.
Continue cutting each section, ensuring you maintain consistency and blend the layers seamlessly.
Method 2: The Ponytail Method
The Ponytail Method is a straightforward technique that helps achieve a balanced and even haircut. Here's how to do it:
Start by gathering your hair into a high ponytail at the crown of your head. The ponytail should be in the position you desire the hair to fall after cutting.
Hold the ponytail firmly and cut straight across the ends. Be cautious not to cut too much at once; it's better to make multiple small trims.
Release the ponytail and let your hair fall naturally. Check for any unevenness and make small adjustments as needed.
Method 3: The Twist and Snip Method
The Twist and Snip Method is ideal for eliminating split ends and maintaining the length of your curly hair. Follow these steps:
Divide your hair into small sections and twist each section tightly.
Starting from the roots, carefully inspect the twists and identify any split ends that protrude.
Use sharp hair-cutting scissors to snip off the split ends, working your way down the twist. Remember to cut conservatively and only remove the damaged hair.
Repeat this process for each twisted section of hair, ensuring you trim all the split ends.
Method 4: The Wet Cutting Method
The Wet Cutting Method is a common approach that allows for precision in achieving a specific length. Here's how it's done:
Begin by washing your hair and detangling it while still wet, using a wide-toothed comb.
Section your hair and clip it up, working with one section at a time.
Take small sections of damp hair and comb them straight. Hold the hair between your fingers and cut across the ends, ensuring an even length.
Continue cutting each section, making sure to maintain consistency throughout.
Common Mistakes When Cutting Curly Hair at Home
It's important to be aware of common mistakes and avoid them to achieve the best results when cutting curly hair at home. Here are some mistakes to avoid:
Cutting Too Much at Once: One of the most common mistakes is cutting off too much hair in a single attempt. It's better to start with small trims and make gradual adjustments. Remember, you can always trim more if needed, but you can't put the hair back once it's cut.
Cutting Hair When Wet: Cutting curly hair when it's wet and stretched can lead to uneven results. Curly hair tends to bounce back and shrink as it dries, so cutting it when it's dry and in its natural state allows you to see the true length and curl pattern.
Using Dull Scissors: Using dull scissors can result in frayed ends and uneven cuts. Invest in a pair of sharp hair-cutting scissors specifically designed for cutting hair. Keep them clean and regularly sharpened for optimal performance.
Ignoring Curl Patterns: Each curl pattern has its own unique characteristics, and it's important to consider them when cutting curly hair. Take into account the natural shape and movement of the curls to create a haircut that enhances their beauty. Cutting against the curl pattern can result in uneven and unflattering results.
Skipping Sectioning: Not dividing the hair into smaller sections can make the cutting process more challenging and increase the chances of missing areas or creating uneven cuts. Use hair clips to separate the hair into manageable sections and work through them one at a time.
Over-Texturizing: While thinning shears or texturizing scissors can be useful for removing excess bulk, it's important not to overdo it. Over-texturizing can lead to frizz and an uneven appearance. Use these tools sparingly and strategically, focusing on areas where you want to reduce density.
Rushing the Process: Cutting curly hair requires patience and attention to detail. Rushing through the process increases the likelihood of making mistakes or creating an uneven haircut. Take your time, work slowly, and make small adjustments as necessary.
Neglecting Regular Maintenance: Even if you're cutting your hair at home, it's still important to schedule regular trims to maintain the health and shape of your curls. Neglecting regular maintenance can result in split ends and an unkempt appearance.
By being aware of these common mistakes and taking precautionary measures, you can enhance your cutting skills and achieve better results when cutting your curly hair at home.
Aftercare and Maintenance
After cutting your curly hair, it's important to follow a proper aftercare routine to maintain its health and shape. Here are some tips:
Styling: Embrace your natural texture by using curl-enhancing products or techniques like diffusing or air-drying. Avoid excessive heat styling and harsh chemical treatments that can damage your curls.
Regular Trimming: Most hair stylists recommend you schedule regular trims every 8-12 weeks to prevent split ends and maintain the shape of your haircut.
Moisturize: Curly hair tends to be dry, so use moisturizing products like leave-in conditioners, oils, or masks to keep your curls hydrated and nourished.
Protect at Night: Sleep on a satin or silk pillowcase or wrap your hair in a silk scarf to minimize friction and prevent frizz.
Conclusion
Cutting curly hair at home can be a rewarding experience when armed with the right methods and techniques. Make sure you really look at the methods for cutting curly hair at home to determine which is best for you. Each method offers unique advantages and allows you to achieve different results.
Remember to approach the process with patience, practice, and caution. By experimenting with these methods and finding the one that suits you best, you can confidently maintain your curly hair and embrace your individual style.
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