5 tips for the best curly cut of your life
1. Finding a curly hair stylist
This might seem obvious, but many people struggle with this first step. To find a stylist in your area, try a Google search for "curly hair stylist in [your city]" or search Instagram hashtags with your city name (like #curlyhairaustin).
Some major curly hair brands have stylist locators on their websites that show how much training each stylist has completed.
After creating a list of potential stylists, check their social media to review their work and ensure you'll feel comfortable learning from them (education’s a big part of most curly services).
2. Bring a photo of your current products
Most curly stylists want to know about your current product routine, including what you're using and how you like the results. Since clients often have trouble remembering all their products, take a photo of them lined up in the order you use them. This gives your stylist complete information and you can bring it to your appointment or send it ahead of time.
3. Bring a few inspiration photos
When it comes to inspiration photos, choose wisely. After 12 years of cutting curly hair, I've noticed that everyone wants curls different from their own - wavy-haired clients want curly hair, coily-haired clients want looser curls, and everyone wants more uniform patterns.
Find inspiration photos that match your natural curl pattern and density. Use the curl chart to identify your curl type, assess whether you have high, medium, or low density, and search accordingly (for example, "low density 3c curls").
Limit yourself to three photos and be clear about what you like in each one, as stylists and clients often focus on different aspects of the same photo.
4. Hair prep is crucial
Different salons/stylists have different preparation instructions. If prep guidelines aren't available on the salon's website or social media, ask directly.
Most stylists prefer clients to arrive with freshly washed or day-old hair that's dry and detangled.
No products, or at a minimum no heavy oils, butters, or creams.
Avoid wearing your hair in a bun, braids, or tucked behind your ears after washing. If you're having trouble with tangles or matting, let your stylist know - they can schedule extra time to help prepare your hair and teach you better techniques.
5. Be open to changing your routine.
The natural hair movement began 10-15 years ago when information was scarce. Now, while there's abundant information online, much of it can be misleading. Your stylist may identify necessary changes to your products and routine - listen to their advice. If a complete product overhaul isn't in your budget, that's okay. Let them know you can only take home one product, and a good stylist will help you choose the most impactful item for your routine.