Hey Curlees! Did you know that you can get curl-certified? Since the cosmetology world is based on straight hair textures, hair stylists must invest in additional training and product knowledge to become curl specialists. Doing so not only attracts customers of the curly community but also helps you gain their trust! 

So, if you’re a licensed stylist looking to add curl specialization to your professional profile, we’ve got the scoop. Here are six cosmetology certification programs you can take to elevate your styling career and become an official curl expert. 

1. DevaCurl® Academy

From self-guided to hourly classes, DevaCurl® offers four different programs that educate stylists on curl care, cuts, and overall service techniques. Each program, available virtually and in person, is a continuation of the previous, allowing stylists to sharpen their skills and eventually earn an official DevaCurl® Deva Cut Certification. The official start date of this certification is TBD.

2. Cut It Kinky

Created by Black Girl Curls’ co-founders, Aeleise and Aishia, Cut It Kinky (CIK) offers Tight Curl Education workshops on the “art, science, and business of tight curls.” The Level 1 workshop is open to all cosmetologists, barbers, and natural hair stylists, and each following level ascends from the previous training. Level 3 is where trainees can earn their CIK Mentor Stylist Certification, which is set to launch in May 2022. 

3. Rëzo

With a focus on mastering curly cuts, Rëzo offers a completely online certification program for its introductory and second-level courses. Here, you will learn the cutting expertise of circular motions concaving methods to create volume for diverse curly textures. Each level requires completion of the previous and is only available to licensed cosmetologists.

4. Behind The Chair (BTC)

Behindthechair.com offers BTC University, a completely virtual program where members can receive exclusive access to courses and instructors offering a wide range of hair care specialties, including textured (curly and coily) hair. Of these courses, members can take classes on curly cutting, braiding, washing, protective styling, and various forms of curly hair care fundamentals. Each course offers a certificate of completion. BTC University requires a $249/year subscription.

5. Sisterlocks™ 

Sisterlocks™ offers a combined online and in-person training program to become a Certified Sisterlocks Consultant. This 35-hour intensive training workshop educates locticians on diverse Afro-textured hair types and the techniques for producing fine, style-able locks.

6. Kinkylocs®

KinkylocsⓇ offers training classes and courses that allow stylists, specifically locticians, to become Certified Kinkylocs Consultants. In this program, stylists learn hair interlocking techniques and skills as well as marketing and business development strategies to grow your career as a loctician. Courses are available both online and in-person, and stylists must be at least 18 years old to register.

Let’s declare this year 2022 is your year of comeback! If your New Years’ Resolution goal was to officially start your hair care business, these certifications are a great start. In the meantime, should you need help with setting up a professional website, we’ve got you covered!

Other certifications to check out

7. Daze Hair Studio

Daisy Daze Henson of The Daze Studio has developed an easy method for cutting & styling which results in consistent, beautiful curls! Her certifications will give you the confidence offer these services to clients of all curly textures.