Few things are more terrifying for a curly girl than walking into a salon for a curly haircut appointment, and not knowing what your ‘do will look like when all is said and done. But ladies, there’s no need to grip the salon chair in terror while you let a stylist who may or may not have much experience with curls hack away at your hair. The more relaxing thing to do? Get a DevaCut!
Your first DevaCut can be life-changing. No, seriously. It’s not uncommon for newbies to cry tears of joy (or grin uncontrollably) after getting one of our unique curly haircuts, whether it’s at a Devachan Salon or a curly hair salon with stylists trained in Deva techniques. You see, the process is not like anything else out there. Our unique dry-cutting technique allows the stylist to create a customized shape for every client based on her one-of-a-kind curls.
There are three kinds of stylists trained to give DevaCuts: Deva Inspired (Level 1), Deva Advanced (Level 2) and Deva Certified (Level 3). The higher the level, the more training that stylist has received from DevaCurl. It’s also likely that a DevaCut with a Certified stylist will cost more than an appointment with an Inspired stylist. Our Stylist Finder will show you which options are available in your area, and you can call your local salon to set up an appointment.
After the snip session, the pro will also teach you how to cleanse, hydrate, and style your hair based on the look you’re going for and your lifestyle, so that two days after your appointment you aren’t standing in your bathroom feeling frustrated and confused. But before all of that magic happens, it’s important to know what to do before heading to the salon. That’s why we’ve put together this quick DevaCut preparation guide for anyone who is new to Devachan Salon or is planning to visit one of our Deva Inspired, Deva Advanced or Deva Certified stylists. Here’s how to get ready for your appointment:
Leave your hair alone
Your stylist will cut your curly hair while it’s dry, and in its natural state. Arrive at the salon with your curls conditioned, detangled, dried, and un-styled (no twist-outs, braids, curling or flat irons or any other manipulation). Let your hair hang loosely—accessories like ponytail holders can disrupt your curl pattern. If you’re currently using products with sulfates, silicones or heavy oils, do your best to avoid them for one to two weeks before your booking. Ditching those ingredients will make your hair softer, more hydrated and more defined, which will allow the stylist to see your true curl type.
The length of your appointment will depend on whether you’re a newbie, or if you’ve had a DevaCut before. For a new client, plan on being at the salon for two hours. This includes the initial conversation you have with your stylist, the actual cut, the Transformation Service, a styling coaching session and drying time. If you’re a returning client, it’ll take 60 to 75 minutes for your DevaCut, Transformation Service and the drying process.
Keep your expectations in check
Bringing in a few #hairgoals pics to show your stylist is a great idea, but when you’re scouting online, choose images of curly hair that match your own texture and lifestyle. A beloved look on a similar curl type is much more likely to be achievable for you and your stylist. And don’t limit your search to Instagram—the DevaCurl blog and the thumbnails on all of our product pages are a great resource for curly hair inspo, too.
Be prepared to open up
Shari Harbinger, Co-Founder of the DevaCurl Academy, says it’s so important to talk candidly to your curl stylist about your journey. “Share as much as you can. Don’t wait for the pro to ask all the questions,” she says. The more your curl stylist knows about your hair history—the highlights, the challenges and your approach to daily maintenance—the better he or she will be able to create a cut and a daily styling routine you’ll love.
Make a list of questions
You may have mental notes about everything you want to go over with your stylist, but once you plop down in the chair, it’s easy to forget your talking points. To prevent brain fog, jot down your most pressing concerns and aspirations. What do you want to know about product application? What’s your biggest gripe about your hair? Are you struggling with moisture or a particular part of your regimen? Conversation is the key to connecting with your stylist, and learning how to love your curls. With a little bit of prep, you’ll get exactly what you want out of your appointment. And, oh yeah, to find an amazing curl stylist in your area, check out our Stylist Finder.
