Have you ever wondered what you would look like with a head full of beautiful curly locks? Curly hair ranges from loose waves to tight coils, and can completely transform someone’s look. If you’re tempted to make the curly jump but aren’t sure where to start, read on for tips on visualizing and previewing your own curl transformation.
Why Consider Switching to Curly Hair?
Before making any big hair change, it’s worth thinking through your motivations and goals. Here are some top reasons for going curly:
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You’re bored with your current straight or wavy style and want a dramatic change.
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You love the body, volume, and style versatility curly hair allows.
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You want to embrace your natural texture if your straight hair is chemically or heat styled.
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You’re tired of high-maintenance straightening routines and ready to cut back on heat styling.
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You’re curious if curly or wavy styles might better suit your face shape and features.
If you relate to any of these reasons, previewing some curly looks on yourself can help you decide if it’s the right move.
Envisioning Your Curly Transformation
Imagining a whole new hairstyle on yourself can be tricky. Here are some ideas for picturing your curly potential before making the chop:
Use Photo Editing Apps
Apps like Snapchat and Instagram have lenses or filters that add virtual curls and waves. Try a few selfies with different curl intensities to see what you think.
There are also apps like FaceApp that have more advanced editing features to preview adjusted hair texture and length. Uploading a straight-on headshot can give you a customizable curl peek.
Consult Online Virtual Hairstyle Simulators
Some websites allow you to upload a photo and virtually “try on” different hairstyles. Search for online virtual hairstyle simulators and select curly or wavy options to see how your face shape suits the texture.
Book a Consultation at a Curly Salon
Describe your hair goals to a curly hair specialist. Ask about suggestions on styles and textures that would work with your features. See if they offer virtual consultations where they can Photoshop curls onto your photo.
Use Temporary Styling Products or Methods
Give your straight hair a test run with:
- Temporary curling wands or rods for loose waves
- Texturizing sea salt sprays to add grit and volume
- Bantu knot outs to create spirals and coils
- Braiding damp hair overnight results in crimped waves
- Perm rod sets at a salon for longer-lasting curls
Trying temporary curl techniques can reveal how much styling time and effort your desired texture requires.
Invest in a Quality Wig
Wigs let you temporarily experience what you’d look like with a head of curls. Look for human hair wigs with lace fronts for the most realistic test with adjustable styling. Just check the return policy in case it’s not the look for you!
Evaluating Your Curly Hair Preview
Once you’ve previewed some curly or wavy styles on yourself using any of the above methods, take some time to evaluate your experience. Here are some key things to reflect on:
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How do you feel seeing yourself with curly hair? Excited? Nervous? Overwhelmed? Make sure you’re changing your hair for you, not someone else.
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Do the curls seem to suit and complement your facial features and bone structure? Or do you prefer your face shape with straight hair?
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Does the texture enhancement seem flattering with your hair’s natural thickness and density?
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Were you surprised by how tight or loose the curls looked? Is the curl intensity what you envisioned?
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How much time did temporary curl techniques require? Are you ready to dedicate the needed styling time for your new texture?
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Does your curl preview make you feel more confident and ready for the change? Or doubtful and wanting to stick with your straight hair?
Trust your gut reaction to your curl previews. If you feel excited and ready for the transformation, the results have likely boosted your confidence to move forward. If you felt uncomfortable or questioned if the look suits you, you may want to reconsider the curly switch or evaluate slower transitional changes.
Transforming Your Hair with a Curly Cut
If you’re ready to make the curly commitment after previewing some looks, it’s time to find a stylist! Here are tips for getting a cut and style to achieve your desired texture:
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Find a curly hair specialist experienced with cutting and styling waves, coils, and curls. Ask to see examples of their work with similar hair types and textures to yours.
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Bring in photos of curly hair inspiration looks that you want to achieve. Discuss the lengths, layering, and face-framing shape that would best accentuate your facial features.
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Ask if the stylist offers a consultation or preview with a curly wig before cutting your real hair. This allows you to visualize the exact shape.
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Be prepared to spend more time and money than a standard haircut to shape and teach you to style your new texture.
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Schedule a follow-up styling lesson a few weeks later to correct any issues with your new routine as your curls settle.
The right curly cut and guidance from an experienced stylist sets your new style up for success! Have patience adjusting to your texture change. Soon your glamorous waves or coils will become your new normal.
Maintaining Your Curly Hair
After your big chop, it’s essential to learn how to maintain your new curly locks. Make caring for your texture a priority with these tips:
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Use the curly girl method: sulfate-free cleansers, lots of conditioner, minimal heat styling.
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Invest in salon quality shampoos, conditioners, and stylers formulated for curly hair types.
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Deep condition weekly and use a leave-in conditioner for hydration and curl enhancement.
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Refresh curls between washes with water spritzes, curl creams, or gels applied to frizzy sections.
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Use a wide tooth comb and only detangle gently when hair is wet and conditioned.
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Try silk pillowcases, bonnets, or loose braids and scrunch to preserve curls overnight.
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Schedule occasional trims to retain shape and get rid of split ends.
Caring for curly hair is a learning curve, but you can flaunt your new texture beautifully with the right techniques. Don’t hesitate to ask your stylist questions anytime.
Embracing the Journey
Transitioning to curly or wavy hair can be a major change. But previewing the transformation first allows you to ensure the style suits you. Have fun with the curl preview process! The key is finding a texture and cut that makes you feel confident and excited for the possibilities.
Keep an open mind, embrace the journey, and your gorgeous curls will be swaying before you know it. And if you ultimately decide the curly life isn’t for you, that’s okay too! Hair changes are never permanent. Focus on enhancing the texture you have rather than wishing it was different. Any hair can be beautiful when you nourish it with care and confidence.
where did curly hair go?!
FAQ
How do you know if curly hair will suit you?
Which hair is attractive curly or straight?
What outfits look best with curly hair?
Which face shape is best for curly hair?
Curly hair is perfect for this because curls naturally create width. This can be accomplished by: Heavy bangs that fall at the level of the eyebrows and are cut straight across, or slightly angled. With curly hair, I usually find slightly angled bangs to be more attractive.