Ah, those wild, wonderful and (sometimes) wild, curly locks! With all the bounce, beautiful waves, and personality that come along with them, one would think curly hair is easy to manage. Unfortunately, that’s far from the case. For those of us with curls, an effective hair routine can be a real puzzle to put together. That’s why we’re here to help curly-haired beginners get started with their hair routine.
We want to make sure you walk away feeling confident and educated, like a curly hair expert. And don’t worry, it’s not as intimidating as it sounds. You can take just a few basic steps to creating a routine that will keep your wild locks looking gorgeous. We’ll even show you the ropes on how to battle dreaded frizz, keep your curls luscious, and keep your routine simple, because we know you’re busy. Ready to dive into your perfect curl routine? Let’s go!
1. Cleaning & Conditioning Your Curly Hair
It’s finally time – the dreaded clean and condition! Don’t worry though, if you don’t know where to start yet, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s tackle knots, curls, and fabulous hair all in one sentence: Cleaning and conditioning your curly hair doesn’t have to be an intimidating task!
First, let’s start with a good cleansing. Curly hair needs more moisturizing and conditioning than other hair types do. So, when you’re choosing a cleanse, make sure to pick one specifically designed for curly hair. While you’re shopping, consider looking for one with natural ingredients to make sure you’re choosing something that’s gentle enough for your curls.
Next, on to the conditioning! Before you dive into your shower, take a few seconds to detangle your curls in the mirror. Then, when you hop in, spray a generous amount of a conditioning spray of your choice onto your hair. Don’t skip the spraying — this helps make sure your curls stay soft and healthy.
After you leave the shower, twist your hair gently into sections, leaving the ends of the sections loose. Then, apply a generous amount of your chosen oil or curl cream and let it sit for 3 minutes before unwrapping the hair. This will give your curls an extra burst of hydration to keep them fresh for the week!
Finally, let your hair dry naturally, or if you don’t have time for that, use a diffuser with low heat on a medium speed. This will help widen your curls while tenderly drying them so they stay bouncy.
Now you’re left with bouncy and fabulous curls! And luckily, you no longer have to be afraid of taking care of your curly strands. Cleaning and conditioning your curls is a breeze – just follow the steps above to enjoy healthy and luscious hair.
2. Drying Your Curly Hair After Washing
The moment has arrived! You’ve just washed your curls to reveal the beautiful volume and shape underneath all the dirt and grime, and you’re ready to rock your curls. But, before you can go about flaunting your style, you need to dry your hair.
It’s doesn’t have to be daunting. After all, you’re up against no one but yourself and your beloved curls. And it’s time to show them some love! Here’s what you need to do:
First, grab your diffuser and apply some heat protectant product to your curls. Then, turn your hair dryer on to low to medium heat and use your diffuser to gently dry your curls. By using the diffuser, you’ll be helping the heat to reach all of the strands without the damaging effects of the direct heat. Plus your curls won’t look overly puffy, so you can rock an amazing style!
Hold the diffuser close to the root and move it upward rather than downward. You’ll be drying from the roots first, and then working your way to the ends. This will help you to avoid frizz and keep your curls as defined as possible.
When you’re done with the diffuser, turn off the heat and tilt your head over for a few minutes. This will allow your curls to cool and give them an extra boost. Finally, use some product to preserve your curls. This could be an oil, a cream, a gel, or anything else that keeps your curls looking their best.
And you’re done! Now you’re ready to flaunt your luscious curls. Wasn’t that fun? Sure, it took some time, but it was worth it, right? So go forth and keep rocking your fabulous curls. Just remember to stay away from the damaging heat!
3. Selecting & Using the Right Hair Products
Having curly hair can be a beautiful thing. But it also comes with certain challenges, one of them being selecting and using the right hair products. We know it’s a lot to take in, so we’ve put together some tried-and-true tips to help you get it right!
First things first, always look for products specifically formulated for curly hair. Store-bought products are often loaded with sulfates and silicones, which can weigh down your curls and make your hair dry, brittle, and prone to breakage. Depending on your curl type, you might also need to avoid products with alcohol, which can dry out your hair. So check the labels carefully, and opt for natural, sulfate-free products whenever you can.
Next, you’ll want to read reviews from fellow curly-haired folks, who have already tested the products out for you. There’s nothing more helpful than seeing what other people’s opinions are before you buy something. You can get a good idea of which products work and which don’t, so that you can find something that will give you the results you’re looking for.
Finally, when it comes to application, you’ll want to experiment to find out which techniques make your curls look their best. For instance, maybe you prefer to use your hands to apply product, or you might like using a wide-tooth comb. Whatever it is that works for you, make sure to use as little as possible and focus on applying the product evenly.
Now that you’ve got the basics down, confidently go forth and find the perfect products to help show off your beautiful curls! Start small, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different products until you find something that works for you. Good luck!
4. Techniques To Style & Mold Hair
It’s time to bust out the molding paste and hairspray, because we’re here to teach you some techniques on how to style and shape your curly hair! Believe us, it won’t take long for you to be styling with some major skills. Here are a few tips to get you started:
Start with a curly cream. Whether you want to keep your curls defined for an entire day, or if you’re looking to give your curls a smooth and silky texture, applying a gentle curl cream product is always a great option. Make sure to apply it evenly throughout the hair and give it a few minutes to set before proceeding to the next step.
Define your curls with a styling foam. Whether you’re a fan of the classic “scrunch and go” technique or you prefer to use a diffuser to get your style just right, using a styling foam after applying a curl cream will provide you with the best hold. For a more natural style, use only your fingers to lightly scrunch the curls and don’t forget to finish with a light-hold hairspray.
Try some mousse. If your hair is naturally heavy and thick, give it a bit of lift with a styling mousse. Before you jump in and pump away, be sure to apply it to damp (not wet) hair and distribute it evenly before you style. Mousse gives your curls some body and definition, which will make them look amazing.
Try some molding paste to finish your style. Molding paste is a sort of miracle-worker for curly hair. It gives your hair some shape and definition, and it can be used on damp or dry hair. Experiment with how much you use—a tiny amount will do the trick, so try different amounts until you find the perfect amount for your desired look.
Practicing these techniques regularly will ensure that you become a master at styling and molding your curly hair. So, don’t be afraid to try something new and have fun with it—we’re sure you and your hair will thank you in the end.
5. Tips For Keeping Curly Hair Healthy
Ready to show off your luscious curls to the world? Keeping your curly hair healthy and happy is an essential part of maintaining its vibrancy and bounce. If you’re a beginner in the care and maintenance of curly hair, here are 5 tips to help you get started.
1. Get the right products. Finding products specifically designed for curly hair can make a huge difference. Oily scalps can be tricky to manage, so choose a shampoo that works with curly hair. Aim for ones with natural ingredients and avoid those with added sulfates or other chemicals that can dry out your locks.
2. Befriend your hairdryer. Yes, you heard right. While avoiding heat is key to healthy hair, low-heat settings can actually help define your curls. Try using a diffuser to help spread out the air and prevent frizz.
3. Exercise caution with color. Dyeing your curly locks is a big decision. If you do decide to take the plunge, opt for more natural products and apply the dyeing process as infrequently as possible.
4. Nourish from within. On top of your topical treatments, don’t forget to give your hair some TLC from the inside. Eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and supplementing with vitamin B and biotin can go a long way in maintaining the health of your curly locks.
5. Embrace natural patterns. When styling your hair, use minimal products and don’t pull or manipulate too much. Let your coils and kinks come through naturally, and avoid overusing products or brushing your hair too often, as this can cause your hair to become dry and prone to breakage.
Taking care of your curly hair doesn’t have to be a chore! Keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be on your way to bouncy and beautiful curls no time.
6. Popular Hairstyles Best-suited for Curly Hair
Are you looking to take your curly hair to the next level? A beautiful, bouncy, and voluminous curly hair is every curly girl’s dream. But, how do you get there? Fear not! You’re in the right place. With the right tips and tricks, you can easily upgrade your curly hair routine and enjoy gravitationally-defying curls all day long. Let’s take a look at some popular hairstyles that are best-suited for curly hair.
First off, the braid-out. Have you ever wished for an even more voluminous mane of curls? A braid-out is the perfect solution. All you have to do is braid your hair into several small sections and let it sit overnight. Once you undo your braids, voluminous and bigger curls? Appearing like magic!
If you’re looking for something a bit more defined, why not try a twist-out? This hairstyle is extremely versatile. All you need to do is twist your hair into small sections and leave it overnight. When you undo the twists the next day, cute, curly ringlets will appear. Heaven!
If you’re looking for an extra bit of sparkle, try a rhinestone headband on top of any style above. Not only will it add a touch of glamour, but it’ll also help your hairstyle stay in place!
Another popular choice for curly hair is the pineapple. Unlike its namesake, this hairstyle is far from exotic. All you need to do is collect your curls at the top of your head and secure them with a scrunchie. It’s an effortless way to enjoy bouncy curls all day.
Last but not least, we have the wash-and-go. With its low maintenance and high payoff, this hairstyle has become a go-to for curly haired women. All you need to do is wash your hair, apply a curl-defining product, and let your hair air dry. Insta-ready curls in the matter of minutes, no heat tools required.
These are just a few of the popular hairstyles best-suited for curly hair. Which one is your favorite? With the right information and a little bit of practice, you can easily take your curly hair routine to the next level. All you need is patience, practice, and all the right tips and tricks.
7. When to Cut & Trim Your Curly Hair
Are you tired of watching your curly locks become more and more unruly over time? Have you found yourself wishing for a way to reverse the damage and keep your hair looking its best? It may be time for you to trim and cut your curly hair.
Just like any other hairstyle, curly hair needs proper maintenance and care. Curly hair can be especially tricky because if it is not trimmed regularly, it can end up looking frizzy, dry, and wild. The good news is that trimming and cutting your curly hair doesn’t have to be an overwhelming task. With the right tips, you can keep your curls looking beautiful and healthy.
So when should you trim and cut your curly hair? Most hairstylists recommend trimming your curly hair every 3 to 4 months. This helps to keep split ends and other damage at bay while making sure your curls are looking their best. However, if you are trying to grow out your hair, you may want to cut a little less often.
In addition to trimming your curly hair every 3-4 months, you should also consider a deep-conditioning treatment once a month. Deep-conditioning treatments help to moisturize and nourish your hair from the inside out, which can help to reduce frizz, control split ends, and promote overall healthier hair.
When you go to trim your hair, make sure your stylist has experience cutting and styling naturally curly hair. They should be using special tools and techniques specifically designed for curly hair, such as a razor or a wide-toothed comb. Cutting curly hair can be more difficult than straight hair, so having the right tools is crucial for success.
Finally, you’ll want to make sure you’re using the right products on your curls. Many products created for curly hair contain alcohol, which can be extremely drying. Instead, look for products containing natural oils, like argan oil or coconut oil, which help to nourish and protect your curls.
Trimming and cutting your curly hair may seem like a daunting task, but with the right tips and tools, you can keep your locks looking their best. With regular trimming and monthly deep-conditioning treatments, you can keep your curls under control and looking beautiful.
8. Troubleshooting Challenges With Curly Hair
You thought maintaining your curly hair was easy? Think again! Despite the many advantages of having naturally beautiful curls and coils, it can sometimes be difficult to manage. Curly hair tends to be drier than other hair types, which makes it prone to breakage and knots. Plus, since products designed for curly hair can be expensive and time-consuming, it can be tricky for beginners to figure out the best solutions for their needs.
If you’re a curly-haired beginner and feeling a bit overwhelmed, here are some tips for troubleshooting the most common curly hair challenges.
One of the biggest problems with curly hair is that it tends to dry out quickly. To remedy this, the main thing you should focus on is moisture. Make sure to use a conditioner that hydrates, revitalizes, and adds shine to your curls. You may also want to try using a deep conditioning mask once or twice a week to help lock in moisture.
Another issue many curly-haired beginners face is dealing with frizz. To take control of your frizz, look for products that contain natural oils and butters, such as jojoba oil or shea butter. These will help to lock in moisture and create a barrier against the humidity in the air. You can also look for a leave-in or anti-frizz spray that can be used throughout the day for added protection.
If you’re struggling with the lack of volume in your curls, make sure to massage the scalp when shampooing and conditioning to lift the roots and add volume. Additionally, try plopping your curls with a soft microfiber towel after you shower, which helps to keep curls clumped together and minimize frizz.
Finally, it’s important to avoid overwashing your curls as well as using too many products. Both can cause your hair to become weighed down and lack definition. Instead, wash your hair two or three times a week and focus on using silicone- and sulfate-free styling products.
Troubleshooting the challenges of curly hair can seem intimidating, but with the right knowledge and products, you’ll be rocking gorgeous and healthy curls in no time.
Conclusion
For those of us with curly hair, it can feel like a never-ending cycle of trial and error. With the right routine, however, you can turned that dreaded cycle into a relaxing journey to beautiful and manageable locks. Everyone’s hair is different, but with a little bit of time and experimentation, you can find the curly hair routine that best works for you! A combination of moisturizing, detangling, and protective styles will help you get off on the right foot. With some dedication, experimentation and a bit of patience, you can hopefully enjoy your luscious locks for many years to come.
References:
Hannah, J. (2021, January 30). Curly Hair Routines For Beginners. Retrieved April 6, 2021, from https://www.byrdie.com/curly-hair-routines-for-beginners-4669504.
Styling and Molding Curly Hair. (n.d). Retrieved from https://www.matrix.com/hair-care-tips/how-to-style-and-mold-curly-hair
