There’s no real way to explain that feeling of a bad curly haircut. As it’s happening, you can just … feel it. Somewhere along the lines the wires got crossed, and here you are, frozen in the seat. You’re staring at the mirror hoping that maybe, just maybe, you’re wrong, and this will turn out surprisingly well. And then that truly horrible moment, when you realize no, your eyes aren’t deceiving you: It really is that bad. 

As curly haired humans, we get it, we’ve been there. But thankfully, fixing a bad haircut isn’t as complicated or as impossible as it used to feel. Biotin and patience are no longer the only answer.

How to Deal With a Bad Curly Haircut

Step 1: Assess the Damage

Before you dive into the recovery process, take a moment to assess the damage. Identify the areas where your haircut didn't quite meet your expectations, so you can tailor your strategy accordingly. 

Step 2: Try to Fix It with a Curly Hair Specialist

Despite your terror, we promise, a lot of things can be fixed. If you feel comfortable asking them, your original stylist will probably be open to touching up the haircut for free. But if you’re not ready to see them again, use Yelp to search for highly rated curly hair stylists and specialists in your area. Let them know that you’re looking for a touch up. Bringing photos of what you were looking for is always a plus. 

Poorly layered hair can be evened out by an experienced curly hair stylist, but if they’ve gone too short, you may need to ride it out. Thankfully there are a few options to make things easier.

 

Step 3:  Embrace Regular Deep Conditioning

Deep conditioning is a must for curly hair, especially if you're dealing with a bad haircut. Use a rich, hydrating conditioner once or twice a week to restore moisture and nourish your curls. Consider using products that contain ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, or argan oil to keep your hair healthy and manageable.

Step 4: Nutritional Supplements

To promote healthy hair growth, consider adding some key supplements to your daily routine. Vitamins such as biotin, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids can help strengthen your hair and encourage growth. Consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.

Step 5: Protect Your Hair

To minimize further damage and breakage, it's essential to protect your curls. Avoid excessive heat styling and opt for heat-free methods whenever possible. Use silk or satin pillowcases to reduce friction while you sleep and prevent frizz.

Step 6: Experiment With New Styles and Styling Techniques 

If you’re stuck with a wash and go you just don’t love, try looking at this as an opportunity to experiment with your styling arsenal. Check out YouTube for some awesome curly hair updos, get creative with clips, or maybe it’s finally time to learn the art of the headwrap. Struggling to channel more creative looks? Start simple. The way you style your curls can drastically affect visual length—try swapping scrunching up with scrunching down (to help promote elongation). Or try manipulating your curl pattern through two strand twists, flexirods, or even curl formers. 

Step 6: Try Curly Hair Extensions

Curly human hair extensions have come a long way, and we as Bebonia Babes can confirm it. If your recent chop has left you with any awkward gaps or “shelves," hair extensions that are curly and clip in can help you fill them out easily—at least until they grow back to what you’re more comfortable with. 

While you're waiting for your natural curls to grow out, curly clip-in hair extensions or Slip-On extensions can be a fantastic solution. These extensions seamlessly blend with your existing curls and add both length and volume. Look for high-quality, natural-looking extensions that match your curl pattern and color.

If you need some help choosing which curly clip-in hair extensions are best for you, shoot us an e-mail for a texture and color match or check out our guide on different types of curly hair extensions! 

Step 7: Lean Into Self-Care

Whether or not you’re able to salvage the haircut, a bad experience can still feel really heavy. So make sure you set aside time to take care of yourself. Channel your frustration into self care —maybe through deep conditioning or mixing up your routine with essential oils. If ever there was an excuse to buy that heated deep condition cap you’ve had your eye on, it’s this experience. And hey—after all of that self care, when your hair finally does grow back it’ll be super healthy!

What are some ways you’ve transformed a bad haircut into a great opportunity? Let us know on Instagram and tag #BeboniaBabe