Having curly hair is a major task and lifestyle job that few people talk about. It is demanding, high-maintenance, and time-consuming. Instead of hiding your curly hair and deciding not to give it the attention it deserves, learn to replenish and maintain it! It can be easy and rewarding when using the right products and routines.
First figure out what type of curl pattern you naturally have. Curl patterns are categorized into 4 main parts, with each type further subdivided into subtypes (a, b, c). Everyone has a different degree of curl or wave. Most people with wavy hair actually have curly hair, they are just not taking care of it enough.
Type 1: Straight hair
Type 2: Wavy hair
Type 3: Curly hair
Type 4: Coily hair
Tips: Sleeping with a bonnet on is crucial to keeping the curl pattern healthy and alive. The silk bonnet is a smooth surface that reduces friction preventing breakage, split ends, and frizz while helping retain moisture. It can also maintain your curl routine that you did that morning. You can find them in all shapes and sizes anywhere like Amazon, and drug stores.
Braiding your hair before bed is also super beneficial. Braiding is a great way to protect and style your hair. It has a lot of the same benefits that a bonnet provides like reducing frizz and moisture retention. It is a very low-maintenance thing to do for beautiful waves in the morning. Mind you the results may not be as effective for type 4 hair but definitely can shape type 1, 2, and 3 hair.
Focusing on hydration while limiting heat and harsh techniques is crucial. Curly hair is naturally drier than other hair types so keeping your curls hydrated is key. You can do this by using hydrating shampoo and conditioners built for curly hair.
My favorite hair products currently
SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER: THERAPPE™ Ultimate Moisture Shampoo and Conditioner by Nexxus are designed to deeply hydrate and nourish dry hair while maintaining softness and manageability. The great thing about this shampoo and conditioner is that it is super lightweight and does not weigh down the hair with moisture. It helps reduce frizz and improve texture keeping the hair silky. It is also silicone free which is safer for the hair.
LEAVE-IN CONDITIONER: Odele Leave-In Conditioner is a lightweight, moisture-rich conditioner designed to hydrate, detangle, and protect hair without weighing it down. It’s a favorite for all hair types, especially curly and wavy, because of its clean, salon-quality formula. It is silicone-free as well which won’t cause product buildup making the scalp clean and light. It has heat and environmental protection which allows for protection from heat styling to your curls. Odele is amazing for Type 2 and 3 hair. For type 4, I would not recommend If you need intense moisture or have very thick curls, you may want to pair it with a richer cream.
CURL CREAM: Mielle Organics Pomegranate & Honey Curl Smoothie is a highly moisturizing and defining curl cream designed for thick, curly, and coily hair. It enhances curl definition while keeping hair hydrated and frizz-free. This curl cream is deeply hydrating and heavier than the other products. I have type 3 curly hair and this product can be a little heavy for my curls. It has great definition and hydration but can be overwhelming to the scalp and curls. It is best for thick, curly, or coily hair (Type 3B-4C) needing moisture, definition, and frizz control. For lighter hair types I recommend Not Your Mothers Curl Cream or Pillow Soft Curls by Miss Jessie’s.
CURL GEL: Camille Rose Curl Maker is a lightweight, jelly-like curl-defining gel that enhances curls while keeping them soft, hydrated, and frizz-free. It’s a go-to for those who want definition, moisture, and hold without crunchiness. This product is amazing and the best thing I have ever used for my curls hands down. It defines and enhances my natural curl. Unlike most curl gels it is super flexible and makes your hair unbelievably soft without any stiffness or crunchiness. It is formulated with marshmallow root, agave extract, aloe vera, and coconut oil, which help keep curls moisturized and smooth. These ingredients make the curls shiny, silky, and flexible while holding the curl and erasing frizz. It is also free from sulfates, parabens, silicones, and artificial fragrances, making it curly-girl-friendly. This curl gel is suitable for all hair types which is why it is so great. It works for wavy to curly coily hair.
The best way to style is for your hair to be very wet, almost soaking. Only brush when hair is soaking wet and after you apply the leave-in conditioner. Then flip all your wet hair to one side, add in a generous amount of curl cream and scrunch in slowly. Then add your gel immediately after and scrunch slowly. You can flip your head upside down and scrunch with a microfiber towel or cotton t-shirt to take out the extra moisture and water. Gently flip your head back up and let dry naturally without touching or diffuse gently on medium heat.