10. The Curly/Wavy Long Layered Cut
If you have naturally curly or wavy hair, you need a different approach. Standard layers can often make curly hair look frizzy or “triangular” if they aren’t placed correctly. A curly long-layered cut uses “internal” shaping to maintain the weight of the curls, allowing them to stack beautifully without becoming a giant puffball. This cut defines your curls, adds bounce, and prevents your hair from looking bottom-heavy.
How to Make
Your stylist should cut your hair while it is dry, or at least cut it with the knowledge of how your hair “springs” back. Ask for longer layers to keep the weight of the curls from expanding too much. Avoid heavy thinning, as this can lead to frizz. When styling, apply your leave-in conditioner and curl cream to soaking-wet hair, then use a diffuser to dry. The layers will help each curl stand out, giving you a full, bouncy look that stays defined all day long.
Things Needed
- Leave-in curl cream
- Diffuser attachment for hairdryer
- Wide-tooth comb
- Professional haircutting shears (for dry cutting)
Tips for Maintaining Your Layered Cut
- Don’t Over-Trim: Layers grow out at different rates. If you trim your hair too often, your layers might lose their shape. Aim for a professional dusting every 8 to 12 weeks.
- Hydrate the Ends: Because layers have “exposed” ends, they are more prone to splitting than one-length hair. Use a deep conditioning mask once a week to keep the ends of your layers soft and smooth.
- Invest in the Right Brush: If you have layers, a round brush is your best friend. It allows you to style the layers individually, which is the secret to getting that bouncy, professional salon look at home.
- Texture is Your Friend: Don’t be afraid to embrace a bit of texture. Layers are designed to move; if your hair feels too “stiff,” it probably needs a light texturizing spray to help the layers separate and flow naturally.