Cutting curly hair to frame your face requires a delicate approach. The key is to work with your hair's natural texture and shape, rather than against it. Many stylists recommend a dry cut to achieve the best results. This allows them to see how your curls fall naturally and make precise cuts that enhance your face shape.
Understanding the Dry Cut Method
A dry cut, as demonstrated in several videos like "How To Cut Curly Hair In Layers w/ face framing - YouTube" and "Curtain Fringe & Face Framing Dry Cutting Curly Hair - YouTube", allows for precise shaping and eliminates the shrinkage factor that often distorts the final look when cutting wet curls. The stylist cuts the curls while they are in their natural, dry state, enabling them to see the exact length and shape that will result.
Step-by-Step Guide (General Approach)
While specific techniques may vary based on individual hair type and desired style, the general approach often includes these steps:
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Sectioning: Divide your hair into manageable sections. This will enable precise cutting of face-framing pieces. Many tutorials, such as those found on TikTok (https://www.tiktok.com/discover/how-to-cut-face-framing-pieces-on-curly-hair), recommend starting from the middle of your head towards the temples.
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Careful Cutting: Carefully remove small amounts of hair at a time. Remember, you can always cut more, but you can't add it back. It's better to err on the side of caution and cut gradually. This is crucial, particularly when creating face-framing layers. Start with small sections and work your way outwards.
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Connecting Layers: The objective is often to create a seamless transition between the face-framing layers and the rest of your hair. This might involve blending the layers to avoid a stark contrast in length or curl pattern, as described in the YouTube video "How To Cut Curly Hair In Layers w/ face framing - YouTube".
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Shape and Style: Finally, once you've cut the face-framing pieces, style your hair to see how the final cut looks. This is the best way to determine if more trimming or shaping is needed.
Considerations for Different Curl Types
The approach to cutting face-framing layers might vary slightly depending on your curl type. Tighter curls may require more attention to detail to ensure even layers and avoid creating a "shelf" effect (mentioned in https://www.devanasalon.com/blog/how-to-eliminate-the-shelf-in-your-curly-hair/). Wavy hair, on the other hand, may require less precision.
Seeking Professional Help
For optimal results, especially if you're unsure about DIY cutting, it's recommended to consult a professional stylist experienced with curly hair. They can assess your hair type, face shape, and desired style to create a personalized cut that truly flatters your features.
