Hair Care

8 Things to Know Before Getting a Curly Haircut

Whether you're going for the chop or just getting a trim, here's how to get perfectly cut curls every time

by Tiffanie Petett | 2 COMMENTS

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Prep yourself So, you've decided you're due for a haircut. Your first step, according to Morgan Willhite, creative director at Ouidad, is to make sure your curls are well-hydrated. This is key to achieving a great haircut that'll last until your next visit.

"Proper hydration is huge," says Willhite. "Using a deep conditioning treatment like Ouidad 12 Minute Deep Treatment, $52, will moisturize and help restore the curl formation. This will help the stylist to get a clear visual reading of the natural curl pattern, giving you the optimum results in your desired hairstyle."

If your hair has been color- or chemically treated, or has any form of damage or breakage, don't even think about setting foot in a salon until you've conditioned it. "Damaged curls need to be treated with a lot of care when cutting," says Devachan Salon senior stylist Carolyn Long. "Focus on at-home intensive conditioning prior to getting your cut."

SEE NEXT PAGE: Know your best hair-cutting state

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There are a million reasons why styling curly hair is more difficult than styling straight hair -- the products, the curl manipulation, and ensuring they all look the same for (at least) most of the day. Not to mention the whole length issue (shrinkage, anyone?). Which is why finding someone who can cut curly hair without butchering it requires more than a neighborhood Yelp search. It requires research -- knowing exactly how to get the perfect haircut with hair so full of personality.

products mentioned

Ouidad 12 Minute Deep Treatment

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