Idaho Barber Licensure Practice Exam

What is one important consideration when cutting curly hair?

1. Cutting it while wet

2. Using a straight blade

3. Allowing for shrinkage when the hair dries

4. Only using scissors with rounded tips

The correct answer is: Allowing for shrinkage when the hair dries

When cutting curly hair, one important consideration is allowing for shrinkage when the hair dries. Curly hair tends to contract as it dries, which means the length may appear significantly shorter once the curls set. This characteristic is crucial for achieving the desired style and ensuring that the final look remains aesthetically pleasing. If a barber does not account for this shrinkage, they risk cutting the hair too short, leading to an unsatisfactory outcome for the client. While cutting curly hair wet, using specific tools, and the shape of scissors can also play roles in the cutting process, they are not as critical in achieving the desired length and style as understanding how the curls will behave once dried. Recognizing this behavior is essential for professionals to provide a haircut that matches the client's expectations.