INTRODUCTION
There are so many different textures of hair. From pin-straight to tight coils, there are so many different ways to style your hair. A great haircut looks great on everyone, but the way you cut it needs to be tailored to the specific characteristics of each hair type. Here are 10 ways to conquer haircuts for every hair texture, so your clients (or you!) can have a style that honors their natural beauty.
- Embrace the Consultation:
A good hair consultation will help you understand your client’s hair texture, style preferences, and hair care habits. Ask about the client’s natural curl pattern, hair density, and if there’s any damage to her hair. This information will help you determine the best way to cut her hair.
- Know Your Tools:
It’s important to note that not all thinning shears are created equal. Make sure to invest in high-quality thinning shears that are specifically designed to work with textured hair. You’ll also want to look for shears with slightly wider blades to accommodate thicker hair and avoid snags. For some textures, thinning shears may be used sparingly, but don’t over-thicken them as this can cause frizz.
- Work With the Wet (or Damp) Canvas:
Wet hair can be cut with more control and accuracy, especially on curly and coily hair. On the other hand, very fine hair can be very limp when wet. Try different moisture levels for each hair type.
- Embrace Sectioning:
No matter the texture of your hair, sectioning is your best friend. Cut your hair into small sections using clippers to isolate the part you’re working on. This helps you focus on the task at hand and stops you from cutting too much.
- Point Cutting is Your Texturizing BFF:
In point cutting, the scissors are held vertically and snipped at an angle to cut small sections of hair. This method removes excess hair and gives beautiful texture to straight, wavy and curly hair. Care should be taken when cutting very coily hair as over-pointing can cause unevenness.
- Blunt Cutting for Straight Hair Perfection:
Blunt cutting is when you hold the scissors horizontally and cut a straight line across your hair. This technique is great for straight hair because it creates neat lines and gives your hair a polished look. Curly or coily hair should not be cut blunt as it disturbs the natural curl pattern.
- Slicing for Bouncy Waves:
Slicing is when you hold the scissors at an angle and cut diagonally up into the hair. It defines and adds volume and bounce to your natural waves.
- DevaCurl Cutting for Coily Hair:
DevaCurl cutting is specifically designed for coily textures. This technique involves cutting the hair in its natural curling clumps while it is wet to maintain the curl pattern and reduce frizz. If you are interested in specializing in this technique, consider taking a DevaCurl Cutting course.
- Celebrate Natural Shrinkage:
Dry Curly & Coily Hair Shrinkage
When your hair is wet, it shrinks significantly. Don’t be tempted to cut your hair too short or too long based on the length of your wet hair. You can compensate for dry hair shrinkage by cutting your hair a little longer than you would like when your hair is wet to get the right length when your hair is dry.
- Partner with Styling Products:
For textured hair, the right styling products can have a major impact on your client’s hairstyle. We recommend products that improve natural texture, reduce frizz and define curls. Show your clients how to effectively use these products to keep their new hairstyle.
Bonus Tip: Be Patient and Practice!
It takes practice to learn how to cut for all hair types. Don’t be put off if your first cut isn’t salon-ready. Learn from the mistakes, try different styles, and appreciate the uniqueness of each head of hair.
