How to cut curly hair

This type of hair can be much longer when wet and stretched, so it’s best cut when dry. By seeing how the curl pattern naturally forms and falls, your hairdresser will be able to cut curl by curl for a bespoke finish.

‘The most important part of choosing any style for curly hair is taking face shape into consideration,’ says Zoë Irwin, creative director for John Frieda Salons. ‘If you have a round face, then something lighter and layered is more flattering. If you have a longer face, long layers work well to lift, and they work well with a fringe. The main thing is not to have a style that cuts into the curls too much – razor cuts are terrible for curls. See a curl specialist so this doesn’t happen.’

Though often pricier than a standard trim, seeing a specialist is definitely worth it. It can take a bit of extra help maintaining and looking after it, but how can you find a stylist who’s qualified to cut curls and coils? It’s a problem many of us face, with the search term for ‘Hairdressers near me for curly hair’ on Google continuing to increase at 190% year-on-year.

One way to find an expert stylist is to contact your nearest L’oréal Professionnel salon and enquire if it has a curly hair expert. L’oréal Professionnel has provided curls and coils training in its salons to help stylists become equipped with the core technical skills and particular expertise required for cutting curls and coils.

‘Instagram is a great place to discover curly hair experts in your area,’ advises Keisha Jo Lawler, brand founder of Trepadora. ‘Any curly salon worth going to should have regular posts featuring its work. If possible, try to visit the salon before booking to see the space and ensure it is somewhere you would feel comfortable. Ask questions before booking, but also own your natural texture and be realistic in your expectations.

Curly salon specialists are very passionate about what they do, but they can only enhance what you naturally have.’

‘Distribute your prep product on wet hair when just washed, and brush through

– this seals the cuticle and helps to lock in moisture,’ says Michael. ‘Don’t start using your product on half-dry hair – this is when frizz starts to develop, and you’ll create an uneven texture and finish.’

TOOLKIT: Imbue Curl Worshipping Shine Oil, £8.99, imbuecurls.co.uk; Denman D3 Classic Brush, £11, lookfantastic.com