Big Chop: Everything you need to know before cutting your damaged hair
Eva Bobrow
Big Chop: Everything you need to know before cutting your damaged hair
The big chop. Two words that make the hearts of thousands of people with curly, wavy, or coily hair beat faster. This radical cut is much more than a simple hairstyle change: it's a hair rebirth . Here's everything you need to know to experience this in a calm and fulfilling way.
What is the big chop?
The term "big chop" comes from English and literally means "big cut". In the context of natural hair, it refers to the act of cutting off all the lengths damaged by chemical treatments (relaxers, colorings, straightening) or excessive heat in one go, leaving only the natural and healthy hair.
The result is usually what's called a TWA (Teeny Weeny Afro) , a very short cut that highlights the natural texture of the curls. Depending on the condition of your hair and the length of your previous transition, this cut can leave anywhere from a few millimeters to several centimeters of length.
💡 Good to know: The big chop is different from the gradual transition , which involves letting your natural hair grow while slowly cutting off the treated lengths. The big chop is more radical but allows you to immediately enjoy your true texture.
Why do a big chop?
The big chop is a significant decision that can transform your relationship with your hair . Here are the three main reasons why more and more people are taking the plunge:
A new hair beginning
Start fresh with 100% natural, healthy hair. No more brittle ends, no more juggling two textures, no more fragile hairline. It's the perfect opportunity to discover or rediscover your true hair texture.
Save time
For those in transition, the big chop puts an end to months or even years of patience . No more managing two textures daily, protecting the line of demarcation, or camouflaging the differences.
An emotional release
Many people describe the big chop as a liberating experience . It's an opportunity to break free from beauty standards and fully embrace one's hair identity. A true act of empowerment.
I myself went through this transition after the birth of my first child in 2008. Big chop, transition, natural products... I discovered a captivating world and a wonderful community. The desire to share and support others came very naturally.
How to prepare for the big chop
The big chop is an important moment that deserves preparation. Here are three key areas of preparation to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience:
Prepare yourself mentally
The biggest challenge of the big chop is often psychological . We tend to identify with our hair, and a drastic cut can be destabilizing.
Take some time to reflect on your motivations, visualize yourself with short hair, and look at photos and videos of big chops to familiarize yourself with the result. Follow people on social media who have taken the plunge to inspire you.
Preparing practically
Choose the right time . Avoid periods of stress or important events right after your haircut. Some people prefer to do their big chop in winter to have time to adjust before summer. Others, on the contrary, choose summer to enjoy the lightness of short hair.
Find the right professional
Getting your big chop done at a salon specializing in textured hair makes all the difference. A professional will know exactly where to cut to keep only healthy hair, and can suggest a style that suits your face and hair texture.
Avoid doing it alone at home as you risk cutting unevenly or too short.
✂️ At Studio Boucle Paris , we regularly support big chops. Our expert team creates a caring and reassuring environment for this significant moment. Each big chop begins with a personalized consultation and a discussion about your expectations.
✂️ Ready to take the plunge?
Experience your big chop guided by caring experts who will reveal the beauty of your natural curls 🤎
Reserve my big chopD-Day: What to expect
The day of the big chop is an emotionally intense moment . Here's how this experience typically unfolds with a professional:
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The diagnosis
The hairdresser will begin with a thorough diagnosis to assess the condition of your hair and determine the dividing line between healthy and damaged hair. They will then discuss the desired final length and style with you.
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The cup
Then comes the moment of the haircut. Some people prefer to watch, others close their eyes. Whatever your reaction, it's normal. It's common to feel a mixture of excitement, apprehension, and relief.
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Washing & Care
After the cut, your hair will be washed and treated with products specifically designed to showcase the potential of your new curls. It's often at this point that the initial shock gives way to the wonder of discovering its true texture.
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Styling & Tips
Your hair will be styled and shaped to show off its full potential. You'll leave with personalized advice, a customized routine, and all the confidence you need to proudly embrace your new look.
💡 Tips for the big day
- Please come with your hair washed 24 to 48 hours before your appointment.
- Wear an outfit that makes you feel confident and that you like.
- Feel free to bring inspirational photos.
- Allow yourself some time after the appointment to process your emotions.
- Take before/after photos to immortalize this transformation
After the big chop: taking care of your new curls
Short hair has specific needs . The advantage is that it's generally easier to maintain and requires fewer products. Here are the essential tips for taking care of your TWA:
Hydrate daily
Short hair can dry out quickly. A daily spray of water and leave-in conditioner works wonders.
Use a small amount of product
A small amount is usually enough. Too much product weighs down and suffocates short hair.
Protect the night
A satin bonnet or satin pillowcase will protect your curls.
Regular maintenance trims
To maintain shape and promote healthy, even growth.
Experiment with styles
Finger coils, twist-outs, wash and go... Have fun discovering your texture!
🌿 Our essentials for a successful post-big chop
Natural and curly-friendly products selected by our team to complement your new curls.
To build your post-big chop routine, check out our complete guide: Curly hair routine: where to start when you're a beginner .
🌿 Need support after the big chop?
Book a personalized consultation to build your customized routine and discover the products suited to your new hair texture 🤎
Book my diagnostic Discover our productsThe big chop at Studio Boucle Paris
At Studio Boucle Paris , we understand that the big chop is much more than just a haircut. It's a moment of personal transformation that we are committed to supporting with all our expertise and care.
Our approach to the big chop
Our founder, Eva Bobrow, went through this transition herself. It is this personal experience that informs our approach and makes each big chop a unique and positive moment.
✨ What your big chop at the Studio includes
- Personalized diagnosis : analysis of your hair texture, porosity and condition
- Discussion of your expectations : we'll talk about the desired length, shape, and style.
- Haircut on dry hair : for a precise and customized result
- Suitable washing and care : gentle shampoo and deep conditioning treatment to nourish your new curls
- Styling & coaching routine : you leave with the right techniques and the right products
- Support & empowerment : because every loop is beautiful
We also offer the Transition Ritual (2 hours / €145), specially designed to support those who wish to return to their natural curls, whether through a big chop or a gradual transition. Discover all our services .
⭐ Over 130 5-star reviews from clients who have undergone their big chop and hair transition at Studio Boucle Paris. Join the community!
👉 Ready to reveal your natural curls?
Book your big chop at Studio Boucle Paris and experience this transformative journey guided by caring experts 🤎
Two locations in Paris' 9th arrondissement · Dry haircuts · Natural, curly-friendly products
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