How to Prepare for Your Dry Curly Cut

Every curly cut at Heidi's Works Studio is done on dry hair. That's the secret to a cut that looks right the way you actually wear your curls — but it also means how you arrive makes a big difference.

Here's how to come in ready.

Why we cut curls dry

Curly hair shrinks, springs and clumps differently from one section to the next. When curls are cut wet and stretched straight, it's hard to predict where each curl will land once it dries. That's how you end up with uneven lengths, a "shelf," or the dreaded triangle shape.

Cutting dry lets Heidi see every curl exactly where it sits naturally, so your shape is balanced from the moment you leave.

On the day of your appointment

• Come in with clean, completely dry hair. Not damp, not "mostly dry" — completely dry.
• Wear it down, in its natural curl pattern. This is how Heidi sees your real curl shape.
• A light leave-in conditioner for frizz is fine. Skip heavy creams, gels or anything that weighs curls down.
• Detangle with care before you come in.
• No bun, ponytail, braids or hats. These stretch and flatten curls and change how they fall.

Booking The Curly Express Cut?

The Express Cut is a quick maintenance cut and doesn't include a wash or style. Come in with your hair already washed and styled with minimal product, so it's easy to section.

What to bring

• Photos of looks you love — and anything you don't want.
• Your questions. Every Works cut includes a lesson, so this is the time to ask about products, diffusing, refreshing second-day curls, or anything that hasn't been working.

What happens if hair isn't ready?

Because the cut depends on seeing your natural, dry curls, an appointment may need to be rescheduled if the instructions aren't followed — and that may be subject to the 50% fee under the 48-hour cancellation policy. Coming in prepared means you get the full appointment and the best possible result.

How long to plan for

• The Works Curly Cut: about 2 hours — consultation, custom dry cut and lesson, shampoo and condition, styling with Innersense Organic Beauty products, then a diffuse to 100% dry and a final revise.
• The Works Deluxe Curly Cut: about 3 hours — everything in The Works, plus a detox and a repair or moisture treatment.
• The Curly Express Cut: about 1 hour.

Not sure which one to book? Read Which Curly Cut Should I Book? or see all curly haircuts.

Ready? Book your curly cut online, or call or text (818) 336-2388 with any questions.