Curly hair has a personality of its own. Some days, it cooperates beautifully, and other days, it seems to have a mind of its own. The key to making every day a good hair day is understanding how to work with your natural texture instead of fighting against it.
Here’s how to do it!
Hydration is Everything
Curly hair tends to be drier than straight hair because natural oils have a harder time traveling down the hair shaft. To keep your curls healthy and soft, focus on hydration:
- Use a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner to lock in hydration.
- Try co-washing (washing with conditioner instead of shampoo) if your hair is prone to dryness.
- Deep condition weekly to prevent frizz and breakage.
Keeping your curls hydrated is the foundation of healthy, defined texture.
Skip the Towel, Use a T-Shirt
Traditional towels can rough up the hair cuticle and cause frizz. Instead, use a soft cotton T-shirt or a microfiber towel to dry your curls. Gently scrunch out excess water rather than rubbing—this helps maintain curl shape while reducing frizz.
Apply Products to Wet Hair
Curly hair thrives when products are applied to damp or soaking wet strands. After washing, work in your favorite curl cream, leave-in conditioner, or gel while your hair is still wet to lock in moisture and define your curls. Scrunch the product in for better shape and volume.
The “Plopping” Technique
Have you tried plopping yet? After applying your styling products, wrap your wet hair in a cotton T-shirt or microfiber towel, securing it on top of your head. Leave it for 20–30 minutes to encourage curl formation and absorb excess moisture. This helps curls set without frizz or flattening.
Use a Diffuser for Volume and Definition
Air-drying works for some, but if you want more volume and defined curls, a diffuser attachment on your blow dryer is a must.
- Use low heat and low speed to avoid frizz.
- Cup sections of hair in the diffuser and hold it near your scalp for a few seconds before moving on.
- Flip your head upside down for extra volume at the roots.
A diffuser helps keep curls bouncy instead of stretched out or frizzy.
Hands Off Until It’s Dry
It’s tempting to touch your curls while they dry, but doing so can cause frizz and disrupt the curl pattern. Once your hair is fully dry, you can gently scrunch out any stiffness from gel or mousse for a softer finish.
Trim Regularly to Avoid Split Ends
Curly hair is more prone to breakage, so regular trims help maintain its shape and prevent frizz. Aim for a trim every 8–12 weeks to keep your curls looking fresh and healthy.
Protect Your Curls While You Sleep
Sleeping on a cotton pillowcase can cause curls to flatten and frizz overnight. Try:
- A silk or satin pillowcase to reduce friction.
- A loose pineapple (high ponytail on top of your head) to keep curls intact.
- A satin bonnet or scarf to maintain moisture and definition.
Embrace Your Natural Texture
The most important tip? Work with your curls, not against them. Instead of constantly straightening or forcing a different style, learn what your hair needs and improve its natural shape. Experiment with different techniques and products to find what makes your curls shine.
Are you in need of expert advice for styling your curls? At Splash Salon Aveda, our stylists specialize in cutting, shaping, and maintaining curly hair, giving you a style that works with your natural texture. Contact us today to book your next appointment!