From gorgeous waves to awesome coils, curly hair is the most remarkable asset – but mastering the art of defining your curls and fending off frizz isn’t always the easiest job it looks.
You see, curly hair can be kind of poor (in a good way). He also likes to go rogue, thanks to his wild and free nature.
So today we teach you how to say goodbye to an unruly buffet and say hello to gorgeous curls.
Moisture is your best friend
For those of us with curly hair, moisture really is our numero uno. Unlike straight hair, curly hair tends to be dry.
While you may have some moisture (aka sebum, your scalp’s natural oils) at the roots, curls and coils make it difficult for that moisture to reach the ends of the hair. This means that split and dry ends can be a daily occurrence.
To reduce dryness, try washing only your scalp. This way, you’ll get rid of product and oil build-up without stripping excess moisture from your hair lengths.
Leave-in conditioner is an ideal way to keep curls hydrated. Just make sure you choose one that’s packed with healthy ingredients that will nourish your strands without leaving a heavy silicone coating.
Argan oil, coconut oil and shea butter are all moisturizing magic and can help reduce daily damage and breakage.
Another great way to moisturize dry hair is to apply a hair mask. They are usually best applied to wet hair (especially the ends) once or twice a week to strengthen and nourish your hair from root to tip.
Ditch the daily shampoos
It’s time to let go of the strict shampoo regimen. Curly hair does not need to be washed daily, as excessive washing can increase dryness.
On shampoo days, finish with cold water to close the cuticles. It may not be the most pleasant experience, but it will help lock in moisture for smooth, shiny, head-turning tresses.
TRACE: Us “Respect My Roots” Natural Gentle Shampoo. 100% Curly Girl Approved. I am just saying!
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Say no to alcohols, silicones and sulfates
Curly hair (actually, all hair, for that matter!) should avoid harsh ingredients that strip hair and damage cuticles.
While sulfates are often touted for their super cleaning ability, they are also incredibly strong detergents – and not the good kind.
The same can be said for some silicone-based products that can wreak havoc on curly hair over time. Silicone can coat your hair and prevent moisture or nutrients from entering the follicle, ultimately leaving your locks overly dry. Dry, curly hair = frizzy hair. Read our silicone blog here.
Some alcohols can also strip your hair and scalp too much. This can cause brittle hair that breaks easily and won’t curl properly and skin irritation. The problem is, not all alcohols are drying – there are good, fatty alcohols that can hydrate your hair. Read our alcohol blog here to find out which ones to avoid for your hair and skin care.
Sulfate, silicone and alcohol free shampoos and conditioners like ours are super gentle on hair to prevent drastic dryness or crazy frizz.
Be gentle with your tresses
When it comes to drying your hair, be gentle. You can’t just put them in with any old towel and technique – the result will be a big frizzy mop.
Instead, place your towel gently over your head and dry your hair or rub it gently. Removing excess moisture this way will help prevent a curly hair disaster.
You can also up your towel game by swapping out your regular towel for a cotton t-shirt or microfiber towel.
To detangle your tresses, simply use your fingers and run them gently from roots to ends. Otherwise, use a wide-toothed comb.
BUT! Be careful when brushing. Brushing dry hair will separate, fluff and frizz the curls. Brushing or combing when wet is a better option. Using the *correct* brush or comb for curly hair will give you the best results.
Using the wrong brush will wreak havoc on your hair’s unique curl pattern.
Keep the fire going
Curly hair is usually extremely thirsty – blow dryers, curling irons and straighteners will make it even drier.
Where possible, keep styling away from heat and instead let your hair dry naturally. This is the best way to create curls that are wonderfully soft and full of life.
If you must use styling tools, use them at their lowest temperature and make sure you apply a heat protectant first.
(Ps. us Respect My Roots Natural Shampoo and Conditioner. they contain added thermal protection – how good is that?!).
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Embrace your true locks the Curly Girl way
Transform your curls from frizzy to gorgeous with the Curly Girl Method – a wonderful hair care system specially designed to tame the curly mop craze.
Created by curly hair guru, Lorraine Massey, the Curly Girl (CG) method is the perfect choice for those who really want to embrace the best of their curls and waves.
Click here to read part 2 of this blog where we dive into the CG method!
