Oregon Cosmetology Certification Practice Exam 2025 - Free Cosmetology Certification Practice Questions and Study Guide

When cutting curly hair, the primary concern is maintaining the natural curl pattern and shape. Curly hair tends to have a unique structure and characteristics that require special attention during the cutting process. If the curl pattern is not considered, a haircut can lead to unevenness, an unflattering shape, or frizz, which can detract from the natural beauty of the curls.

By focusing on preserving the curl pattern and shape, the stylist ensures that the curls remain defined, bouncy, and well-formed. This involves techniques such as cutting the hair while it's dry to see how the curls behave naturally and making adjustments based on the specific curl type and texture.

The other options do not align with the best practices for cutting curly hair. For instance, making hair appear straight goes against the nature of curly hair, and shortening the length by half without regard for the curl pattern can lead to undesirable results. Reducing bulk without layering is also not optimal for curls, as layering often helps to enhance movement and shape, contributing to a more flattering overall look.