Generally, no, thinning curly hair with thinning shears is not good because it usually leads to frizz and disrupts the curl pattern without effectively reducing bulk.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
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The Problem with Thinning Shears on Curly Hair: Thinning shears remove sections of hair at different lengths. This can cause the following issues:
- Frizz: Shorter hairs poke out from the longer curl clumps, creating frizz. The varying lengths can disrupt the natural curl formation.
- Shredded Curls: Thinning shears can actually cut into the curl, rather than removing entire curls. This weakens the curl structure and makes it look frayed.
- Uneven Volume Reduction: While the intention is to reduce bulk, thinning shears often create an inconsistent texture, leaving some areas still bulky while others are stringy and thin.
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Why People Think Thinning Shears Will Help: The desire to use thinning shears often stems from a perceived excess of bulk in curly hair. People hope to achieve a lighter, more manageable style.
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Better Alternatives for Reducing Bulk in Curly Hair:
- Layering: Strategic layering, done correctly, can remove weight and create movement without causing frizz. A skilled stylist who understands curly hair is crucial.
- De-bulking Cuts: Specific cutting techniques designed for curly hair, like the RezoCut or DevaCut, can remove weight and enhance the natural curl pattern. These cuts focus on removing bulk without compromising the curl's integrity.
- Proper Styling Techniques: Using the right products and styling techniques can significantly impact the perceived bulk of curly hair. For example, clumping curls and defining the curl pattern can create a more streamlined appearance.
- Hair Health: Damaged, dry hair tends to appear bulkier because it's frizzy and lacks definition. Focusing on hydration and minimizing damage can naturally reduce the overall appearance of bulk.
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When Might Thinning Shears Be Considered? In very rare cases, a stylist with extensive experience in curly hair might use thinning shears strategically. This is only appropriate for very specific hair types and under very controlled circumstances, such as blending layers or correcting a mistake. However, this should be approached with extreme caution, and you should always discuss it thoroughly with your stylist.
In conclusion, for most people with curly hair, thinning shears are more likely to create problems than solutions. Focus on alternative methods like layering, specialized cuts, and proper styling to manage bulk and enhance your natural curls.
