How to Cut Thick Curly Hair Into a Rounded Layered Look

The rounded, layered cut for curly hair looks amazing when it's done right.

Thick, curly hair is beautiful, but its upkeep can drive the most patient person crazy. It's no wonder, then, that more and more curly-haired ladies are opting for a shorter, more manageable cut. The rounded, layered look can be flattering, edgy and even elegant if executed properly. If you've cut curly hair with good results before, you should be able to manage this haircut. Just remember to communicate and cut with precision. Your client will thank you for your expertise.

Things You'll Need

• Sharp shears
• Comb
• Water
• Curly hair products
• Mirror

Instructions

Cutting Curly Hair

1. 

   A shorter cut can look great, but make sure that's what your client wants.

   Speak with your client before you even touch her hair. Be sure to address her face shape and styling habits. Although this look is easier to maintain than long curls, it does require some styling product and patience. It should fall either above or below her chin if she has a round face. Explain that too many layers can make this cut unmanageable and ask her where she wants each layer to fall. If possible, ask her to show you a picture of what she wants so you can make the look work for her.

2. 

   Remember that you can't un-cut hair. Be careful.

   Cut the hair while it's dry. It may go against what you learned in beauty school, but curly hair changes shape so much when it's wet that it's nearly impossible to tell how much you are cutting off. More and more hairstylists are using this technique and their clients are grateful for it. Cutting dry curly hair allows you to see more or less what your final results will look like, which is very important in trying to achieve the rounded look. You'll get a chance to refine the cut after you've washed and styled the hair.

3. 

   Apply conditioner liberally to enhance the moisture in the hair.

   Wash hair with a sulfate-free shampoo. Rinse. Apply conditioner liberally. Trickle water over the conditioner and squeeze the conditioner out. Finger-comb to remove tangles. Use a microfiber towel to remove any excess moister. Apply product throughout the hair. A leave-in conditioner is a good idea, as is a curling agent or gel. Don't add too much product, as doing so will weigh the hair down. Ask the client to tip her head forward. Blow-dry with a diffuser.

4. 

   Add accessories as a finishing touch.

   Refine the cut as needed. Its texture may have changed somewhat in the styling process, so examine its overall shape before cutting. Be very careful when touching the hair, as you want the top layers in particular not to separate, as this can turn into frizz very easily. Double-check with your client about the shape and length of each layer. Apply a glossing agent or a no-frizz spray, pointing the nozzle down to ensure the cuticles lay flat. Add any accessories your client requests.

References

• "Marie Claire"; How to Really Wash and Condition Curly Hair; Lorraine Massey
• Devachan Salon: Press and Photos