A deva cut is a cutting technique specially designed for curly hair. But how curly does your hair need to be to qualify for this specialized haircut? There seems to be some debate over exactly which curl types can truly benefit from a deva cut. This article will explore what a deva cut is, who it’s best suited for, how to know if your curls are the right texture, and frequently asked questions about getting this curl-centric cut.
What Is Deva Cut?
A deva cut is a haircutting technique created specifically for maximizing the natural curl pattern. Conventional cutting methods tend to focus on the hair’s total length, using straight lines and blunt edges. While this can work well for straight or wavy hair, it often disrupts the formation of curls. The deva cut takes a more nuanced, curl-by-curl approach.
The Philosophy Behind It
The deva cut was pioneered by salon owner Lorraine Massey. It’s based on her philosophy that curls should be cut according to their natural shape instead of forcing them into unnatural, straight lines. The goal is to create a shape that works in harmony with the hair’s natural texture. This allows the curls to spring up into their full, beautiful form.
Customizing to Curl Pattern
One major component of the deva cut is customizing it to the client’s unique curl size and pattern. This means closely examining each individual section of curls and cutting accordingly. Shorter layers are often incorporated to remove excess weight and show off the best curl formation. Unlike a single blunt trim, a deva cut is more like giving each curl its own specialized haircut.
Cutting Method
The cutting itself is also done using a specific method. Hair is cut curl-by-curl either entirely with scissors or sometimes incorporating razors. This creates softer lines and textures. Another key technique is cutting hair while it’s fully dried into its curly state rather than blowing it out straight first. This ensures the proper curl shape is maintained.
Benefits for Curly Hair
When done properly on suitable curl types (more on that next), a deva cut offers many benefits:
- Removes excess bulk while keeping length
- Lightens overgrown hair or uneven growth
- Shapes curls to bring out their best spiral formation
- Reduces triangle shapes or odd kinks in curl pattern
- Enhances natural volume and bounce
- Elongates tight curls for more hang time
- Allows curls to behave more predictably
- Makes styling easier overall
Now that we know the ins and outs of what a deva cut is, who is the ideal candidate texture-wise?
Is My Hair Curly Enough? Curl Type Recommendations
The developers of the deva cut recommend it for curl types ranging from loose waves to tight spirals. But opinions differ among stylists about which specific textures are the best candidates. Let’s break down some general guidelines.
Tightest Curls: 3C & 4C
There is little debate over whether the tightest and most coiled curls benefit greatly from a deva cut. In fact, hair types 3C and 4C, with their very clearly-defined spirals, are viewed by most stylists as ideal for it.
Key Traits of Type 3C and 4C Curls
| Texture | Very tightly coiled, kinky, may have an “S” shape, prone to shrinking up when dry |
| Strand Size | Small to extra small |
| Appearance | Well-defined ringlets or coils, some may combine into larger spirals or tight curls |
These textures clearly have the most to gain from a curl-specific cutting method. The tightly wound structure lends itself perfectly to being shaped curl-by-curl. Layers are especially helpful for reducing bulk. Fans of the curly girl method swear by getting regular deva cuts for 3C and 4C hair.
Loose Waves: 2A, 2B & 2C
There is some disagreement over whether the opposite end of the spectrum – looser waves and curls – should opt for the specialized deva technique. Some stylists argue it’s best reserved only for coiled textures that need extra attention to curl formation. Others say Devachan-method certified stylists are qualified to deva cut any curly hair type.
Traits of Looser Curl Patterns
| Type | Key Traits |
| 2A | – Loose, stretched out S-waves |
| 2B | – A bit more defined waves and movement |
| 2C | – Fuller waves forming spirals and coils, some ringlets may be present |
Those in favor say a deva cut can still be useful for types 2A-2C by enhancing wave pattern, removing damaged ends, thinning out density, and encouraging more defined clumping. However, the expertise needed is higher with these textures versus tight curls. Not all deva-trained stylists feel fully comfortable cutting loose waves and curls.
In-Between Texture: 3A & 3B
When it comes to the textures in between super tight coils and loose waves, the deva cut also gets glowing reviews. Hair types 3A and 3B feature well-defined ringlets and coils – but looser ones than their tightly coiled cousins.
Traits of Medium Curl Sizes
| 3A Traits | 3B Traits | |
| Curl Formation | Spirals and ringlets with some wave | Well-defined spirals and corkscrews |
| Coil Size | Pencil-sized coils | Pencil to straw-sized coils |
| Hair Texture | Medium-thickness strands | Thicker strand diameter |
These looser spirals and ringlets are viewed by almost all stylists as functioning beautifully with deva cuts. The coils lend themselves well to curl-by-curl cutting. Layers strategically placed through these textures can have dramatic effects on spring, shape and volume.
The Controversy: Wavy Hair
The most disagreement seems to come from whether wavies should opt for the specialized deva technique. Some stylists argue waves don’t have enough of a spiral shape to truly benefit. Others counter that a skilled deva-trained stylist understands all textures, including types 2A to 2C. In their opinion, customized cutting enhances waves and improves frizz issues.
So in summary:
- 3C & 4C: Ideal curl shapes for deva cuts
- 3A & 3B: Also viewed as great candidates depending on salon expertise
- 2A to 2C: Some debate on whether these looser waves and curls warrant the precise cutting skills of a professionally trained deva stylist. Now that you know which textures may benefit from a deva cut, how do you know if your curls make the cut? Let’s go over ways to assess your strands.
Now that you know which textures may benefit from a deva cut, how do you know if your curls make the cut? Let’s go over ways to assess your strands.
Evaluating If My Hair Qualifies
If you find yourself asking “is my hair curly enough for a deva cut?” – how do you know? Here are some steps to take in your assessment.
Analyze Your Base Texture
First, evaluate your natural texture to identify your curl type. Styling products, damage or changes in curl pattern over time can sometimes mask what your baseline texture truly is.
Here are some tips:
- Wash then air dry: Shampoo and condition to remove any existing products, then allow hair to air dry fully without applying stylers. This reveals your raw texture. Assess size of coils/waves, strand thickness and curl formation.
- Check different layers: Layering and varying curl sizes are common. Examine the hair nearest your face/the crown area since this gives the best idea of texture.
- Consider hair history: Look back at childhood photos if available – was hair extremely tight coiled or looser waves earlier in life? This helps identify patterns too.
- Get a tester cut: If truly stumped on what baseline texture is, some salons offer “curl discovery cuts” taking off just an inch or two to reveal what’s underneath without cutting off length unnecessarily.
Once you know your curl type, cross-reference earlier sections on ideal candidates. If you fall into types 3C-4C this is a definite yes. For very loose waves or variable textures, seek a stylist skilled in cutting all curl patterns.
Assess Damage & History
Next, audit the current condition of your hair. Thinking through damage, chemical processing, heat styling, treatments you’ve tried, and past cuts helps a stylist make the best recommendations. Things to consider:
- Is hair excessively dry, brittle, or over-moisturized?
- Has it been bleached, colored, relaxed, or keratin treated?
- Do you use heat styling tools often?
- Have you ever chopped hair dramatically shorter or grown it out long?
- Have you tried specialized treatments for curl issues like Olaplex or deep conditioning?
Being upfront with a stylist about damage, problem areas, or troubleshooting attempts you’ve made helps guide next steps. For example, several inches may need removing due to split ends before curl pattern can truly be optimized. Or if hair was just bleached, a few months letting it recover before cutting may be advised.
Track your texture analysis details and hair history to bring to your deva stylist so they understand the full picture from the very first appointment!
Finding a Stylist
You’ve determined your texture seems suitable and are ready to book that first deva appointment. But not all salons offering deva cuts are created equal. Here’s what to look for in selecting someone to trust:
Confirm Their Training
The desired qualification is certification directly from the Devachan salon, requiring completion of their specialized program. This intensive training ensures stylists are proficient in the curl-by-curl method on all textures ranging from loose waves to coiled curls. Anything less is considered questionable. Confirm training details upfront – don’t assume!
Look for Specialization
In addition to training, examine a salon’s site and social media for evidence of curl specialization. Photo galleries should showcase deva cuts on various textures plus mention of their certification. Devoted curl salons will also emphasize use of proper techniques like cutting hair dry and avoiding damaging practices. This indicates an awesome understanding of unique needs.
Conclusion
To embrace a Deva Cut is a personal journey guided by the unique characteristics of your hair. By exploring the signs and indicators discussed, you can gain a better understanding of whether your curls are ready to unleash their full potential through this specialized cutting technique.
Remember, the beauty of a Deva Cut lies not only in the defined curls it creates but also in the confidence and self-expression it can instill. Trust your instincts, embrace your natural texture, and, when in doubt, consult with a skilled Deva Cut stylist who can guide you towards a hair transformation that celebrates the individuality of your curls. Whether your curls are gently wavy or tightly coiled, the Deva Cut experience is about celebrating the diversity of curls and empowering you to confidently showcase the beauty that lies within your unique tresses.
While opinions still vary a bit, one thing every curl enthusiast agrees on is this: a good deva cut with the right stylist can take your texture to glorious new heights no matter where you fall on the natural hair spectrum! Embrace those lovely locks.
Common Questions on Deva Cuts
Still debating whether that specialized deva cut is right for your texture? Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions.
Are deva cuts more expensive than regular cuts?
Yes, in most cases you can expect to invest more in a deva cut. The intensive training required of stylists and extra time needed to cut curl-by-curl does come with a higher price tag. However, keep in mind you are paying for specialized skills and customization – this is not a quick budget trim! A good deva cut could save you money and frustration in the long run by better defining texture and making daily maintenance easier.
Should I style my hair a certain way before my appointment?
For the initial assessment it’s best to come with hair in its “virgin” state – washed, conditioned, and fully air dried with no products in. This gives stylists the chance to see your raw texture and natural curl pattern. Once they recommend a particular cut and look, they may then suggest a certain wash and style regimen to prep for subsequent appointments.
Will the cut look good if I don’t style it the exact way the stylist recommends?
An expert deva stylist knows your new cut will likely air dry differently than salon styled curls. The finished shape is precision cut to flatter whether hair is perfectly styled or in its wild natural state between washes. You should feel confident embrace hair in all its untamed glory while still seeing beautiful curl formation. Maintenance needs may vary by preferences but end goal stays the same – unleash gorgeous texture!
How often should I get my deva cut touched up?
Many with curlier hair types can stretch cuts longer thanks to shrinkage and layers blending well over time. But a good rule of thumb is checking in every 3 to 5 months to get shape tuned up. Schedule regular maintenance with the change of each season. Let your stylist examine the growth and curl pattern firsthand to determine how much to remove for ideal shape and health.
Will the specialized cutting help my curls last longer between washes?
One major perk deva cuts offer is stretching time between washes! Layers expertly cut to remove bulk means there is less weight pulling curls down and elongating them unnaturally between cleanings. Well moisturized curls bounce back better. Customizing shape also means you likely need less additional products to define texture.