How To Cut Curly Hair Yourself A Step By Step Guide

Cutting curly hair can be a daunting task, especially if you're doing it yourself. But with the right tools and techniques, it's possible to achieve a salon-worthy cut from the comfort of your own home. In this guide, we'll show you how to cut curly hair yourself, including tips for achieving the perfect cut and taking care of your curls post-cut.

Table of Contents

• Tools You'll Need
• How to Cut Curly Hair Yourself
• Step-by-Step Guide
• Tips for Cutting Curly Hair
• FAQs
• Hair Care After Cutting Curly Hair

Tools You'll Need

Before you start cutting your curly hair, you'll need to gather the right tools. Here's what you'll need:

• Sharp scissors
• Wide-tooth comb
• Clips to section hair
• Water spray bottle
• Good lighting

How to Cut Curly Hair Yourself

Cutting curly hair isn't the same as cutting straight hair. Curly hair has a natural bounce and can shrink up to 50% when dry, so it's important to avoid cutting it too short. Here are some general tips to keep in mind:

• Cut your hair when it's dry, not wet. This will help you see the true length of your curls.
• Use sharp scissors. Dull scissors can create split ends and damage your curls.
• Don't cut your hair too short. Curly hair shrinks up when it dries, so it's better to err on the side of caution.

Step-by-Step Guide

Now that you have your tools and general tips in mind, here's a step-by-step guide on how to cut curly hair yourself:

1. Start by sectioning your hair. Use clips to separate your hair into four sections: two in the front and two in the back.
2. Take one section and comb through it with a wide-tooth comb. This will help you see any knots or tangles that need to be removed.
3. Using your fingers as a guide, cut the ends of your hair. Start by cutting a small amount and work your way up. Remember, it's better to cut too little than too much.
4. Repeat with the other sections of your hair.
5. Once you've finished cutting all of your hair, use the wide-tooth comb to gently comb through your curls. This will help you see if any pieces are uneven and need to be trimmed.
6. Trim any uneven pieces with your scissors.
7. Give your hair a final comb through and style as desired.

Tips for Cutting Curly Hair

Here are some additional tips to help you achieve the perfect cut:

• Start with small snips. It's better to cut too little than too much.
• Take your time. Cutting curly hair can be time-consuming, but rushing can lead to mistakes.
• Don't cut your hair when it's wet. Wet hair can appear longer than it actually is, so it's best to cut it when it's dry.
• Consider getting a friend to help. Cutting the back of your head can be difficult to do on your own.

FAQs

How often should I cut my curly hair?

It's recommended to get a trim every 8-12 weeks to keep your curls healthy and prevent split ends.

Can I cut my curly hair with regular scissors?

No, it's important to use sharp scissors that are specifically designed for cutting hair. Using regular scissors can damage your curls and create split ends.

Do I need to wash my hair before cutting it?

No, it's best to cut your hair when it's dry. Washing your hair can alter its shape and length, which can make it difficult to cut accurately.

Hair Care After Cutting Curly Hair

After cutting your curly hair, it's important to take care of your curls to maintain their health and shape. Here are some tips:

• Use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner to avoid stripping your curls of their natural oils.
• Avoid using heat styling tools, as they can damage your curls.
• Use a leave-in conditioner or curl cream to keep your curls moisturized and defined.
• Protect your curls at night by sleeping on a silk or satin pillowcase.

With these tips and techniques, you can successfully cut your curly hair yourself and achieve a beautiful, healthy cut. Just remember to take your time, use the right tools, and follow the general guidelines for cutting curly hair.