Short curly hair can be a challenge to trim, especially if you don't want to spend money on a salon visit. But with a few simple tools and techniques, it's possible to give yourself a fresh, stylish cut at home. In this article, we'll share our step-by-step guide to trimming short curly hair yourself, along with some tips for maintaining your new look. Let's get started!
Table of Contents
- Tools You'll Need
- Prepping Your Hair
- Sectioning Your Hair
- Cutting Your Hair
- Tips for Trimming Short Curly Hair
- FAQs
- Hair Care Tips
Tools You'll Need
Before you start trimming your hair, make sure you have the right tools on hand. Here's what you'll need:
- Sharp hair cutting scissors
- Wide-tooth comb
- Clips to hold sections of hair in place
- Water spray bottle
- Handheld mirror or two mirrors to see the back of your head
Prepping Your Hair
Start by washing and conditioning your hair as you normally would. This will help remove any product buildup and make your hair easier to work with. After washing, gently towel dry your hair until it's damp but not soaking wet.
Next, apply a leave-in conditioner to your hair to help detangle and moisturize your curls. Use a wide-tooth comb to gently comb through your hair and remove any tangles or knots.
Sectioning Your Hair
Divide your hair into four sections: two at the front and two at the back. Use clips to hold each section in place.
Starting with one of the back sections, use your comb to separate a small section of hair that's about 1 inch wide. Hold the section of hair between your index and middle fingers, and use your scissors to trim the ends. Repeat this process for the entire back section, working from the bottom up.
Once you've finished trimming the back section, move on to the front sections using the same technique. Take your time and make sure each section is even before moving on to the next.
Cutting Your Hair
When it comes to cutting short curly hair, less is often more. It's best to start with a conservative trim and then make adjustments as needed.
Take a small section of hair between your fingers and trim the ends with your scissors. Avoid cutting straight across, as this can create a blunt, unnatural look. Instead, use a technique called point cutting, which involves cutting into the ends of the hair at an angle to create a softer, more natural look.
As you work your way around your head, make sure to keep your sections even and use a handheld mirror or two mirrors to check the back of your head.
Tips for Trimming Short Curly Hair
- Take your time and work in small sections
- Use a light touch when cutting
- Don't cut too much at once
- Consider getting a friend or family member to help with hard-to-reach areas
- Experiment with different cutting techniques to find what works best for your curls
FAQs
Can I trim my curly hair when it's dry?
It's best to trim curly hair when it's damp, as this makes it easier to see the shape of your curls and ensure an even cut.
How often should I trim my curly hair?
It's recommended to trim curly hair every 6-8 weeks to maintain healthy ends and prevent split ends.
Should I use thinning shears on my curly hair?
Thinning shears can be useful for removing bulk from thick curly hair, but they should be used sparingly and only on the ends of the hair.
Hair Care Tips
After trimming your hair, it's important to take good care of your curls to maintain their shape and prevent damage. Here are some tips:
- Use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner
- Avoid heat styling tools and opt for air-drying instead
- Use a leave-in conditioner or curl cream to keep your curls moisturized
- Try not to touch your hair too much, as this can cause frizz
With these tips and techniques, you can confidently trim your short curly hair at home and maintain a healthy, stylish look. Happy cutting!
