How to Avoid Cutting Shock
At the Curly Hair Institute in Toronto, stylists are taught to study the shape and bounce of each curl, determine where the volume and bulk of the hair should be distributed to best suit the shape of the client’s face, along with helping them achieve their hair goals. Cutting curly hair is primarily about moving the bulk from one area to another. The result is to show off ringlets, create natural movement, and let the cheekbones show through dense curls.
We encourage our clients to try and examine the shape of their face before they decide to change their hairstyle. Understanding the shape of the face, your bone structure, and your profile will guide you to the right hairstyle. Take note of where the widest parts of your hair are, as these are the areas where the most volume control will be required.
For stylists, you should encourage clients to collect photos of people with a similar hair type and identify what they like and dislike about their hairstyle. Pictures are a great tool and will help you as a stylist when you discuss a new cut or style, so be open to pictures as part of the consultation. It’s so important that our clients feel that we care and truly listen to them, but on the flipside, clients also need to be realistic in determinining what would suit them. A successful hairstyle relies on your ability as a stylist to create the style while controlling the frizz. Mastering the art of frizz control will also help you avoid "cutting shock". Be sure to have a consultation with the client before any drastic style changes are made.
