What is the main concern when cutting curly hair?

When cutting curly hair, the primary concern revolves around understanding shrinkage and maintaining shape. Curly hair has a unique texture and natural rhythm that affects how it falls when dry. Due to the nature of curls, they can seem shorter when wet than they actually will be once dried. This phenomenon, known as shrinkage, can lead to unexpected results if not taken into account during cutting.

Maintaining shape is crucial because curls can easily lose their definition or become uneven if they are cut incorrectly. A skilled stylist will often cut curly hair while dry or use specific techniques that account for how the curls will bounce back once they are styled. By focusing on these factors, the stylist ensures that the finished cut enhances the natural curls and shapes them beautifully rather than creating a frizzy or undefined appearance.