Strand and Lock

Strand & Lock · Birmingham

Curly hair guides

Cutting, colour and care for curls, coils and waves.

Illustration of a shaped shoulder-length curly bob

Complete curly haircut guide for Birmingham

A useful curly haircut starts with a conversation about the shape you want, how you wear your hair most days, and how much styling time you have.

Read article Illustration of a stylist shaping dry natural curls with scissors

Dry cutting curly hair: what it is and when to ask about it

Dry cutting means shaping hair while it is dry rather than cutting only when wet.

Read article Illustration of a consultation for natural afro-textured hair

Choosing an afro hairdresser: questions that reveal practical experience

Choosing a stylist for afro-textured hair is about demonstrated experience, communication and a workable plan—not a label or one technique.

Read article Illustration comparing loose waves, spiral curls and tight coils

Curl patterns 2A–4C: a useful shorthand, not a prescription

The familiar 2A–4C system is a visual shorthand: type 2 generally describes waves, type 3 curls, and type 4 coils; A-to-C subdivisions indicate increasingly tight patterns within each broad family.

Read article Illustration of gentle detangling with a wide-tooth comb

Between-visit curly hair maintenance: protect shape, not a rigid routine

Between salon appointments, the most useful routine is one you can repeat comfortably.

Read article Illustration of caramel balayage through natural brunette curls

Curly colouring and balayage: plan for both colour and curl condition

Colour on curly or coily hair should begin with a consultation, not a promise that a particular technique is risk-free.

Read article Illustration of a diffuser used to dry natural curls

Heat damage in curly hair: reduce exposure and manage expectations

Heat can weaken hair and contribute to dryness, brittleness and breakage; repeated high-temperature styling may also change how curls behave.

Read article Illustration of a first curly appointment with inspiration photos

First curly appointment: a low-stress preparation checklist

You do not need to arrive with perfect curls or a complete product routine.

Read article Illustration of a curly hair specialist discussing curl shape and length

Choosing a curly hair specialist: assess the process, not the label

“Curly specialist” can mean different things, so look for evidence in the consultation and finished work.

Read article Illustration of a natural curly bridal updo with pearl pins and veil

Curly wedding hair: trial the style under realistic conditions

A wedding style should feel like you and be planned around your hair as you will wear it on the day.

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