Short curly hair is an effortless and bold choice for many. However, when it comes to trimming curly hair, the right technique can help frame the face, giving it a more sculpted, elongated appearance. If you’re someone who wants to make your face appear smaller and more balanced with your curly locks, knowing the right trimming and styling techniques is essential.
This article will guide you through the process of trimming short curly hair with tips on how to make your face appear smaller. The right haircut can enhance your natural beauty and complement the shape of your face.
Understanding Your Face Shape
Before diving into trimming your curly hair, it’s crucial to identify your face shape. Different face shapes require different haircuts to create the desired effect. Generally, the five main face shapes are oval, round, square, heart, and diamond. Understanding which shape you have will help you tailor the trimming techniques to your unique features.
For the purpose of making your face look smaller, you’ll want to focus on haircuts that soften the edges, add volume, and draw attention away from the width of the face.
Round Face Shape
A round face tends to be soft and full, with equal width and height. The goal is to add length to the face by trimming the hair to elongate the appearance. You’ll need to avoid adding too much volume on the sides, as it will only enhance the roundness.
Square Face Shape
A square face has a defined jawline with strong angles. To soften this shape, you want a trim that creates gentle curves and avoids blunt cuts. The goal is to create balance by softening the sharpness of the jaw.
Oval Face Shape
An oval face is considered to be the most versatile shape. With a variety of cuts working for you, it’s all about choosing the right one that enhances the natural proportions of your face. For a smaller look, you may want to experiment with cutting styles that create height on top without making the face look too long.
Selecting the Right Haircut for Curly Hair
Not all short curly haircuts are created equal. To make your face appear smaller, you’ll need a haircut that provides balance. Here are some ideal styles that can flatter different face shapes:
1. Layered Curly Bob
A layered curly bob is one of the best haircuts for making the face appear smaller. By adding layers, you create movement and volume at the crown and sides, which can elongate the face and give it more definition. The key is to avoid too much volume around the sides of your face. Instead, ask your stylist for a layered bob that focuses on creating volume at the top of your head, which will help balance the width of your face.
Why It Works: The layers will give your curls texture, which enhances the face without emphasizing its width. The bob cut is versatile and can be tailored to your specific needs.
2. Curly Pixie Cut
If you prefer ultra-short curls, a curly pixie cut could be your perfect match. This cut is known for its boldness and ability to frame the face beautifully. The pixie cut creates height on top, which draws the eyes upward and elongates the face. By trimming the sides short and leaving some volume on top, you create a slimmer, more elongated appearance.
Why It Works: The pixie cut emphasizes the cheekbones and adds height, which makes your face look more angular and small.
3. Curly Shag
The shag haircut is another great option for curly hair. This cut is full of layers, giving it a rock-n-roll vibe while still being chic. It’s excellent for people who want to make their face appear smaller by adding volume at the top of the head. The layers in a shag cut add movement and texture, which helps divert attention away from the width of your face.
Why It Works: The shag haircut, when done right, creates volume on top while keeping the sides under control. This makes it a flattering style for those looking to minimize their face shape.
How to Trim Short Curly Hair to Make Your Face Look Smaller
Trimming short curly hair is all about strategy. There are certain ways to cut curly hair that can make a significant difference in how your face appears. Here are the best trimming techniques for achieving a smaller-looking face.
Step 1: Focus on the Top
The most effective way to trim short curly hair to make your face look smaller is by adding height at the crown. A short curly cut that’s flat on top can make your face appear wider, which is the opposite of what we want. When trimming, ensure your stylist creates layers that add volume at the crown of your head. This will draw attention upwards and give the illusion of a longer, smaller face.
Step 2: Trim the Sides to Prevent Bulky Volume
If you have curly hair, it’s easy for the sides to get too big. To keep your face looking small, ask your stylist to trim the sides shorter while maintaining volume on the top. You don’t want a blunt cut, as it can accentuate the width of your face. Instead, the sides should be slightly tapered, so the curls are kept tight and compact around the sides of your face.
Step 3: Use Soft, Layered Cuts
Layering is a crucial technique for trimming curly hair to make your face appear smaller. Short curly haircuts with soft, layered edges create the illusion of a slimmer face. Layers also help avoid the “puff” effect that some people experience when they cut curly hair in one length.
Step 4: Work with Your Natural Curls
The most flattering trims for curly hair are those that embrace your natural curls. Don’t try to flatten or straighten your curls to achieve a smaller look. Instead, let your curls work their magic by shaping them with trims that accentuate their natural bounce and movement. Your stylist should cut your curls in a way that allows them to fall naturally while keeping the volume and height in check.
Tips for Styling Short Curly Hair to Make Your Face Look Smaller
The trimming techniques above are key, but styling also plays an important role in shaping your face. Here are some tips to help you style your short curly hair in ways that will make your face appear smaller.
1. Use a Light Styling Cream
When styling curly hair, less is often more. Avoid heavy products that can weigh down the curls and make your face look fuller. Instead, opt for a lightweight styling cream or mousse that enhances your curls without weighing them down. This will allow your curls to lift naturally at the crown, elongating your face.
2. Add Height with Volumizing Products
Height is your friend when it comes to making your face appear smaller. Use volumizing products to lift the hair at the roots, particularly at the crown. This not only adds volume but also elongates the face, creating a smaller, more balanced appearance.
3. Define Your Curls with a Diffuser
Using a diffuser on your blow dryer can help define your curls and create a more polished look. It also adds volume to the roots without making the sides too bulky. This is especially useful if you have very curly or frizzy hair. By defining the curls in the right places, you can make sure your face appears slim and elongated.
4. Keep the Curls Away from Your Face
One of the key styling tips for making your face look smaller is to keep your curls away from your face. This means avoiding the temptation to style them too close to your cheeks. By pushing the curls back or allowing them to fall naturally, you create more space around your face, which helps give the illusion of a smaller appearance.
5. Don’t Overdo It with the Frizz
Curly hair can sometimes get a bit frizzy, especially after trimming. While some volume is good, too much frizz can make your face look wider. Use anti-frizz products and avoid over-styling, which can lead to excess volume around the face.
Conclusion
Trimming short curly hair to make your face look smaller requires the right haircut, attention to volume, and clever styling techniques. By choosing the right haircut that enhances your natural curls and adds height on top, you can easily achieve the illusion of a smaller face. Remember, every face shape is unique, and the right trim can highlight your features and bring out your best look. So, be sure to work with your stylist and experiment with different cuts and styling techniques that suit your face shape and hair texture.
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