How to Cut Curly Hair

How to cut curly hair is a skill your stylist should know before you sit in the chair. Take advantage of a consultation with the stylist before committing to a cut. Most salons offer free consultations and this is the surest way to end the search for a hair cut that that will flatter your face and make the most of your curls.

Don't Cut Your Own Hair
Of all hair types, curly hair is the toughest hair to cut well. Never, ever cut your own curly hair. You'll mess it up for sure.

Find a Stylist Who Understands Your Hair Type
You'll need to seek out a stylist that specializes in curly hair and knows how to work with your curls. Watch the women around you; whenever you see a woman who has gorgeous curly hair, ask her who her stylist is. You may need to try several stylists before you'll find one who understands how to cut curls. When you do, treat her like gold.

Insist on Layers
If you haven't found a stylist who knows how to handle curls yet, keep this nugget of information at the forefront: curly hair always demands layers. If you don't layer curly hair, you'll end up looking like you have a triangle on your head because the ends will stick out so much more than the body at the crown of your head. Layers will allow your curls to frame your face evenly.

Ask For a Low Maintenance Cut
This is crucial because curl hair is delicate and easily damaged by blow-drying and processing. You want a style that you can wash and wear. You're already going to need to condition like crazy and add lots of styling product to smooth frizz and define your curls, so ask for a style that will shrink up when naturally drying such that it frames your face nicely. Avoid any cuts that require blow-drying.