If you have curly hair, you know that a great haircut can make all the difference in how your curls behave, look, and feel. But with so many specialized curly cutting techniques available, it can be overwhelming to figure out which one is best for you. DevaCut, Rezo Cut, Cut It Kinky, and more. Each offers unique benefits tailored to different hair types and styling preferences.
There’s also a lot of speculation about what makes a “curly cut” truly unique. Should curls be cut dry or wet? Individually by curl or as a group? Should they be stretched out or cut in their coiliest state? Should stylists use razors, scissors, or both? These questions have sparked debates among professionals and curl enthusiasts alike, and the truth is, the right answer often depends on your hair and your goals.
At Wicked Hues, The Hairlock Supreme, Anna, believes it’s all about working with the geometry of the three-dimensional shape of the hair in its curliest state while addressing as many split and dead ends as possible. Every curl has its own needs, and a good curly cut honors that individuality.
This guide will walk you through the most popular curly cutting techniques, their pros and cons, and help you determine which approach might work best for your hair. Spoiler alert: The right stylist may use a combination of techniques to achieve your perfect look.
Understanding Popular Curly Cutting Techniques
1. DevaCut
- What It Is: The DevaCut, created by Lorraine Massey, is a curl-by-curl dry cutting method designed to shape curls in their natural state.
- Best For: Enhancing natural curl patterns, reducing frizz, and creating a customized shape.
- Pros:
- Tailored to each curl individually.
- Ideal for a variety of curl types, from wavy to tight coils.
- Reduces frizz and encourages definition.
- Cons:
- Can look uneven when hair is straightened.
- May not add enough volume for those with fine or low-density hair.
- Highlights uneven curl patterns if textures vary significantly.
2. Rezo Cut
- What It Is: Created by Nubia Suarez, the Rezo Cut balances volume and length while maintaining versatility for both curly and straight styles.
- Best For: Those who want rounder, fuller shapes without sacrificing length.
- Pros:
- Maintains length while enhancing volume.
- Works well for high-density hair.
- Creates a balanced, rounded silhouette.
- Cons:
- Overemphasis on volume may not suit clients seeking elongated, sleeker curls.
- May not address uneven growth patterns effectively.
3. Cut It Kinky
- What It Is: Developed by Aeleise and Aishia of Black Girl Curls, Cut It Kinky is tailored specifically for tight curls and coily textures. It prioritizes healthy hair practices and curl definition.
- Best For: Natural hair enthusiasts seeking a haircut that complements tight curl patterns.
- Pros:
- Specifically designed for coily hair.
- Emphasizes hair health and proper maintenance.
- Educates clients about curl care and product use.
- Cons:
- Requires adjustments to existing hair care routines.
- Less suited for those who prefer frequent heat styling.
4. Curlsys
- What It Is: A technique that uses specialized scissors to create curl-by-curl cuts, enhancing volume and definition while reducing frizz.
- Best For: Clients seeking more defined curls and volume.
- Pros:
- Adds volume without sacrificing shape.
- Reduces frizz and enhances natural curl patterns.
- Cons:
- Can struggle with mixed curl types, creating imbalances.
- Limited precision for sculpted shapes.
5. Twist and Cut
- What It Is: This technique involves twisting sections of hair and cutting along the twist to remove weight and add movement.
- Best For: Clients looking to reduce bulk and create soft, invisible layers.
- Pros:
- Removes weight without significantly altering length.
- Adds movement and texture.
- Cons:
- Lacks intentional shaping, making it unsuitable for clients seeking defined silhouettes.
- Can create uneven layers, especially with tighter curls.
How to Choose the Right Technique
When selecting a curly cutting technique, consider:
- Your Curl Type: Different techniques work better for specific textures. For example, Cut It Kinky caters to coily hair, while the Rezo Cut works well for high-density, loose curls.
- Your Desired Style: If you want volume and balance, the Rezo Cut may be your best bet. If you prioritize frizz reduction and curl definition, a DevaCut might be more appropriate.
- Your Lifestyle: Techniques like Cut It Kinky emphasize minimal product use and natural styling, while others, like the CC1 Technique, accommodate straightened looks as well.
Why the Right Stylist Matters More Than the Technique
The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to curly haircuts. A skilled stylist may draw from multiple techniques, or even adapt their own, to achieve your desired results.
For example:
- A client with a mix of curl patterns might benefit from the precision of a DevaCut for some areas and the volume of a Rezo Cut for others.
- Someone with coily hair may appreciate the health-first approach of Cut It Kinky but need layering techniques from Twist and Cut to reduce bulk.
The key is finding a stylist who understands your curls and has the expertise to customize their approach. Don’t be afraid to ask about their training and experience with different techniques to ensure they can meet your unique needs.
Final Thoughts: Curly Hair Is an Art Form
Your curls are as unique as you are, and the right haircut can transform the way you feel about your hair. While each curly cutting technique offers something special, the best results come from a stylist who understands that every head of curls deserves a tailored approach.
At the end of the day, it’s not just about the technique, it’s about artistry, communication, and care.
For more tips on curly hair care, explore the rest of our blog and consult with a stylist who’s passionate about helping your curls thrive.
