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Fashion glossary

Hair carving: what it is, types of procedures, and care instructions

Giulia Rossi 2 min read

What is hair carving?

Carving — is a long-term hair styling procedure using gentle chemical compounds, creating soft waves, curls, or root volume.

Read also our full guide: Women's Haircuts: A Guide to Beauty Terms

The term and technology were developed by Schwarzkopf as a safe alternative to traditional perms. The formula works exclusively on the surface layer of the hair without damaging its internal structure. This ensures the results last for 4 to 8 weeks.

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Soft textured waves after carving procedure

The key feature of this styling method is the gradual fading of the fixative. This approach eliminates the appearance of a sharp line between the grown-out straight roots and the curled length, keeping the hairstyle neat throughout its lifespan.

Main types

Depending on the desired result and the area where the composition is applied, there are several techniques for performing the procedure.

  • Classic (texture) carving: The hair is curled along its entire length using carver rollers. This creates the effect of light, natural beach waves.
  • Root carving: The product is applied exclusively to the root area to create long-lasting volume. The main length of the hair remains straight.
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Classic carving with a beachy wave effect on medium-length hair
  • Local carving: Partial perm of specific areas. The stylist may perm only the ends of the hair, bangs, or strands near the face to correct the shape of the haircut.
  • Vertical carving: This method involves using spiral curlers. The result is more elastic and defined curls along the entire length.
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The result of root carving: natural volume without curling the main length

How to care

When washing your hair, use gentle, sulfate-free shampoos. They help slow down the leaching of hold and prolong the life of your style.

After the procedure, hair requires intensive hydration. Nourishing masks and leave-in conditioners are incorporated into regular care to prevent dryness and brittleness.

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Styling hair after carving using a hair dryer with a diffuser attachment

To enhance the texture of your curls, use specialized styling products such as foams, mousses, or texturizing sprays. Blow-drying with a diffuser attachment is recommended, using your hands to gently shape the curl.

Hair coloring should be performed no earlier than 72 hours after the carving procedure. This interval is necessary to allow the chemical processes in the hair structure to fully complete.

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About the author

G
Giulia Rossi

Luxury fashion consultant and investment dressing expert. Understands the craftsmanship behind premium brands. Helps make informed decisions: when to invest in quality and when to save.

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