Cutting short curly hair for women requires specific techniques to ensure the curls maintain their shape, volume, and health. This professional guide will provide step by step to cut short curly hair, helping you achieve the best results.
Understanding Curly Hair
Curly hair has unique properties that set it apart from straight or wavy hair. Before diving into cutting techniques, it’s essential to understand these characteristics:
- Curl Pattern: Curly hair can vary from loose waves to tight coils. Identifying the curl pattern (2A to 4C) helps determine the best cutting method.
- Shrinkage: Curly hair often appears shorter when dry due to shrinkage. It’s important to account for this when cutting.
- Dryness: Curly hair tends to be drier because natural oils struggle to travel down the curls. Proper hydration and care are crucial.
Techniques for Cutting Short Curly Hair
1. DevaCut
Overview: The DevaCut, developed by DevaCurl, is a dry cutting technique tailored for curly hair.
Method:
- Dry Cutting: Cut the hair while it’s dry and in its natural state. This allows you to see how the curls will fall.
- Curl-by-Curl: Cut each curl individually to maintain the shape and integrity of the curls.
- Personalized Approach: Customize the cut based on the client’s curl pattern and desired look.
Benefits:
- Precision: Ensures each curl is cut to its best advantage.
- Natural Shape: Maintains the natural curl pattern and volume.
Considerations:
- Experience Needed: Requires skill and experience to execute properly.
2. Ouidad Cut
Overview: The Ouidad Cut is designed to enhance the natural curl pattern and reduce bulkiness.
Method:
- Wet Cutting: Cut the hair while it’s wet to see the curl pattern more clearly.
- Carve and Slice: Use carving and slicing techniques to remove bulk and create shape.
- Sectioning: Divide the hair into sections for more control.
Benefits:
- Volume Control: Reduces excess volume while maintaining curl definition.
- Defined Curls: Enhances the natural curl pattern.
Considerations:
- Technique Specific: Requires training in Ouidad’s specific methods.
3. Curly Girl Method
Overview: The Curly Girl Method, popularized by Lorraine Massey, focuses on gentle handling and cutting techniques.
Method:
- Dry Cutting: Cut the hair while dry to see the natural curl pattern.
- Minimalist Approach: Trim the hair minimally, focusing on maintaining health and shape.
- Hydration: Ensure the hair is well-hydrated before and after the cut.
Benefits:
- Curl Health: Prioritizes the health and hydration of the curls.
- Natural Shape: Maintains the natural curl pattern with minimal disruption.
Considerations:
- Regular Maintenance: Requires regular trims to maintain shape and health.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cutting Short Curly Hair
Step 1: Consultation
Discuss Goals: Understand the client’s desired length, shape, and style. Consider their lifestyle and maintenance preferences.
Step 2: Preparation
Wash and Condition: Start with clean, conditioned hair. Use products designed for curly hair to enhance moisture and manageability.
Detangle: Gently detangle the hair using a wide-tooth comb or fingers. Avoid rough handling to prevent breakage.
Step 3: Sectioning
Create Sections: Divide the hair into manageable sections. Use clips to keep the sections separate.
Step 4: Cutting
DevaCut Method:
- Dry Cut: Ensure the hair is completely dry and styled as it naturally falls.
- Curl-by-Curl: Cut each curl individually, following the natural curl pattern. Trim only the ends to maintain shape.
Ouidad Cut:
- Wet Cut: Dampen the hair with a spray bottle if needed.
- Carve and Slice: Use carving and slicing techniques to remove bulk and shape the curls.
- Sectioning: Work in sections to ensure even cutting.
Curly Girl Method:
- Dry Cut: Ensure the hair is dry and styled naturally.
- Minimal Trim: Trim the ends minimally to maintain health and shape.
- Hydration: Rehydrate the hair as needed during the cut.
Step 5: Shaping
Face-Framing: Consider the client’s face shape and create face-framing layers to enhance their features.
Volume Control: Adjust the cut to control volume, removing bulk where necessary while maintaining the curl pattern.
Aftercare and Maintenance
Styling Products: Recommend products designed for curly hair, such as curl creams, gels, and leave-in conditioners.
Drying Techniques: Encourage air-drying or diffusing with a low heat setting to maintain curl integrity.
Regular Trims: Suggest regular trims every 6-8 weeks to maintain shape and health.
See Also: How To Style Women’s Short Hair With Wax
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Cutting Too Much
Issue: Curly hair appears shorter when dry, so cutting too much can lead to an undesired length.
Solution: Cut conservatively, accounting for shrinkage. It’s easier to trim more if needed.
2. Ignoring Curl Pattern
Issue: Cutting curly hair without considering the curl pattern can result in uneven and frizzy hair.
Solution: Always cut according to the natural curl pattern, using techniques like the DevaCut or Ouidad Cut.
3. Over-Thinning
Issue: Over-thinning can lead to a loss of volume and shape.
Solution: Use thinning techniques sparingly, focusing on areas where bulk needs to be reduced.
Conclusion
Cutting short curly hair for women requires a thorough understanding of curly hair properties, precise techniques, and a personalized approach. Whether using the DevaCut, Ouidad Cut, or Curly Girl Method, the goal is to enhance the natural beauty of the curls while maintaining their health and shape. By following the detailed steps and considering the unique needs of curly hair, you can achieve stunning and manageable short curly hairstyles.