Straightening hair before cutting—good idea or no?
I’ve been a hairdresser for ten years, but have never gotten a clear answer as to whether this is okay, or if it’s not.
I’m not talking about straightening everyone’s hair. And I know that people with naturally super curly hair are a whole different ballgame.
I’m talking about those clients who have those annoying patches of slight waves and cowlicks in various places that make it difficult to see how the hair lays after you’ve cut it.
Thoughts?
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2 Answers By Expert Tutors
Lorraine C. answered • 10/04/22
Tutor
New to Wyzant
Licensed Cosmetologist, Brand Educator
Hi. Straightening the hair is not wrong before cutting wavy/curly hair. I would recommend taking an air cut cutting or Curly hair cutting class. I find that with clients who wear their hair natural, knowing how to properly define the Curl and let it dry 100% before cutting the curls gives the best results. This is because you are able to create the silhouette of your choice that suits your client who likes to wear their hair natural.
Google air cutting and you'll see what I mean.
Good luck.
Ms. Kimberly M. answered • 05/21/22
Tutor
5
(7)
Enthusiastic Cosmetology State Board Refresher Educator
That is a great question, I understand your concern. When you have a client with many degrees of wavey or curliness, I recommend blow-drying clean hair prior to cutting in order to get a more precise cut.
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LES M.
Straightening your hair before a cut can be a good idea, but it ultimately depends on your hair type and the desired final style. For people with naturally curly, wavy, or textured hair, straightening gives the stylist a clearer picture of your hair’s true length and helps ensure an even, precise cut—especially if you're going for a blunt or layered look. However, if you usually wear your hair curly or wavy, cutting it in its natural state might make more sense. This way, the stylist can shape it according to how it naturally falls and shrinks when dry, thereby avoiding surprises such as uneven layers or unexpected lengths. Also, straightening before a cut doesn’t show how the curls will bounce back, which could result in shorter-than-expected hair. Ultimately, communicate with your stylist about how you typically wear your hair on a day-to-day basis. If you're switching between straight and curly styles, a stylist experienced in both can help strike the right balance. It’s not a strict yes or no—it’s about what works for you and your hair goals. You can even try Indique Indian hair extensions as per your hair textures as well.06/11/25