As a curly haired woman, we’ve had our fair share of disastrous haircuts. Hairdresser north lakes trained only for straight hair, snipping away at our coils with no strategy. Walking out with misshapen, frizzy triangles was par for the course. But once we found a hairdresser near me specializing in curly hair, it was a total game changer. Read on for expert tips on identifying an ace curly hair stylist.
The Struggles of Standard Salons
Most hairdressers are only trained in cutting straight or wavy hair. But curls have a whole different set of needs. Without proper education, a stylist’s good intentions lead to funky shapes and crazy frizz.
Classic techniques like thinning out thick sections destroy coveted volume. Blunt edges on curly hair puff outward. Layers meant to add movement create awkward gaps instead.
Standard salons also lack suitable products. Heavy, cheap gels weigh down natural texture. Harsh sulfates in shampoos dry out thirsty curls. Is it any wonder curly clients leave unsatisfied? Finding a specialist makes all the difference.
Signs of a Savvy Curly Stylist
So how do you spot a hairdresser who truly understands the curly girl method? Here are telltale indicators:
Specialized Training and Education
Dig into their background. Many devote workshops, online courses and classes solely to cutting and styling curls. DevaCurl, Ouidad and Rezo Cut all offer certification courses. Seek out this invested education.
Mastery in Cutting Techniques
Ask pointed questions about their methods. Do they cut curl-by-curl to complement natural shape? Are they familiar with innovative techniques like the DevaCut or Unicurl? Or do they rely on traditional straight-hair methods?
Gentle Styling Approach
Find out how they style texture. An expert knows consistent heat damage kills natural patterns. They teach clients to embrace curls rather than fight frizz with damaging chemicals and hot tools.
Use of Curly Hair Products
What products do they use? The best salons stock professional brands formulated for curls, like DevaCurl, Ouidad and Rizos Curls. Beware stylists who just use generic products.
An Impressive Curly Portfolio
A picture is worth a thousand words. Ask to see before and after photos of clients with various curl types. This visual evidence gives you confidence in their experience.
Rave Reviews from Curly Clients
Do online reviews and testimonials mention expertise with curls? Fellow customers don’t lie. Seek validation that natural curlies are thrilled with their cuts.
Ask the Right Questions
Schedule a short phone or in-person consultation first. Come armed with questions like:
- How do you cut and style specifically for curly hair?
- What specialized training do you have?
- What techniques and products do you recommend for my curl type?
- Do you embrace working with natural texture versus fighting frizz?
- May I see a portfolio of your curly clients?
Conclusion
Finding an expert curly hair stylist takes work. But the reward is bounce, body and beautiful definition custom-tailored to your unique coils. Always do your homework before an appointment. Read reviews, ask questions, and request examples of their experience. Your curls deserve specialists who help them thrive in all their untamed glory. It’s worth being picky to find the curly hair hero you crave.