A 5-Step Routine for Curly Hair
May 12, 2021If you have naturally curly hair, consider yourself lucky. Plenty of people spend a lot of time and money to achieve the coils and twists that you were born with. To keep your curls healthy, defined, bouncy and the envy of those with straighter strands, using the right products and styling techniques are key. Here, we’re sharing a simple five-step routine to follow for perfect curls every time.
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STEP 1:
Shampoo
Because curls can be susceptible to dryness, breakage and frizz, washing less frequently can be beneficial for your hair. Aim for one to three times per week, depending on your curl type and hair health. When you do shampoo, opt for a sulfate-free formula. Sulfates can strip the hair of essential oils and can cause frizz. We love the Garnier Whole Blends Sulfate Free Remedy Hibiscus and Shea Shampoo.
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STEP 2:
Condition or Mask
To help hair retain moisture and to prevent frizz, don’t skip the conditioner. Look for a formula that contains a balance of moisturizing ingredients and proteins. If you choose one that’s too saturated with moisturizers, it can weigh curls down. The proteins also help strengthen curls. Try the Matrix Total Results Curl Please Conditioner.
If your hair is dry, brittle or damaged, replenish and restore your curls with a deep-conditioning treatment or a hair mask like the L'Oréal Paris Elvive Total Repair 5 Damage-Erasing Balm.
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STEP 3:
Add Definition
When your hair is wet, define your curls by using a lightweight leave-in treatment like the Carol’s Daughter Coco Crème Perfecting Water Coco Mist Spray. The formula helps set, moisturize, control and enhance coils. Apply it all over from root to tip while scrunching or twisting curls.
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STEP 4:
Dry
Blasting your hair with heat can mess up your curl pattern, damage hair and cause frizz. Instead, try curl plopping. This technique involves carefully wrapping your hair in a T-shirt or microfiber material until hair is dry. To learn how to do it, check out our guide to curl plopping.
If you’re short on time and want to use a blowdryer, work in sections and use a diffuser for a smoother, more controlled finish.
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STEP 5:
Perfect
If your curls start to get frizzy, fall flat or lose their pattern in between washes, reset them with a product like the Carol’s Daughter Hair Milk Refresher Spray. Apply it onto dry or damp hair to add moisture and shine and bring your curls back to life.
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