Expert's Advice For Curly Girl: Things You Should and Shouldn't Do

Curly hair is a beautiful and unique feature that deserves its own special care and attention. If you’re a proud curly girl, you already know that your hair has a mind of its own, and sometimes, taming those wild tendrils can feel like a never-ending battle. But fear not! In this blog post, we’re diving deep into the world of curls, sharing invaluable advice from experts that will help you embrace and enhance your natural texture. From the do’s that will have your curls dancing with joy to the don’ts that might be sabotaging your hair goals, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s embark on a journey to discover the essential do’s and don’ts every curly girl should know for a head of hair that’s as stunning and unique as you are.

I. How To Identify The Curl Shape and Pattern?

Identifying your curl shape and pattern(s) is best determined while your hair is sopping wet. It is a common practice among those with curly hair. This can help you choose the right hair care products and styling techniques that work best for your specific curl type. Here’s how you can identify your curl shape and pattern while your hair is wet:

Cleanse and Condition: Start by cleansing and conditioning your hair using products that are specifically formulated for curly hair. Make sure your hair is thoroughly wet before moving to the next step.
Detangle: Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to gently detangle your hair while it’s still wet and coated with conditioner. This will help prevent breakage and make it easier to identify your natural curl pattern.
Scrunch: Once your hair is detangled, gently scrunch it upwards towards your scalp. This helps to encourage the curls to form and helps you see your hair’s natural pattern.
Observe Curl Patterns: After scrunching, stand in front of a mirror with good lighting, and observe the way your hair is forming curls. Pay attention to the way individual strands clump together and how they fall naturally.

→ A simple breakdown: Type 1 hair is straight, Type 2 hair is wavy, Type 3 hair is curly, and Type 4 hair is coily. You can refer to this article to have a clear look at all the hair types.

II. Curly Hair: What You Should Do?

Curly hair has an enchanting allure that captivates with its lively spirals and dynamic texture. It’s a natural masterpiece that deserves nothing less than the utmost care and admiration. Let’s uncover the secrets of what you should do to nourish and celebrate your curls.

Curly Hair Dos #1: Washing

Keep your hair washed to a minimum (2-3 times a week). The body’s natural oils travel down curly hair slower than straight hair because of the pattern of the coils, so your strands need all the moisture they can get. Switch to sulfate-free shampoos or ones with a creamy consistency. This way your hair is not stripped of too much moisture, and the right pH balance is maintained.

In addition to minimum washes, make time to do a deep conditioning treatment on your hair regularly (once every 1-2 weeks) to keep your curls hydrated. Refresh your curls with a leave-in conditioner spray or serum in between washes.

Read Now: How Often Should You Wash Your Hair?

#2: Hydration

Curly hair is naturally drier than other hair types, the curlier the hair, the longer it takes for natural oils to travel from the scalp to the ends, causing the lower half of your hair to look dry. Use curly hair-friendly products with no sulfates, no silicones, and no parabens to keep them moisturized and prevent dryness. These chemicals damage the hair’s natural pattern and health and can even lead to serious side effects such as hair loss. Just be sure to pick a formula that moisturizes without weighing hair down. Focus more on the ends of your hair and avoid your roots if you are prone to an oily scalp.

The secret to beating frizz in curly hair is to apply your products to really wet hair straight out of the shower. This lets you lock in the most moisture to your hair and stops the frizz from forming. You can refer to this article to get the best hair care products for your curl.

Curly Hair Dos #3: Detangle From The Bottom Up

Curly hair can be tangled easily and the perfect time to deal with this is when your hair is full of conditioner in the shower. Throw away brushes and fine-tooth combs as you do not need them. They serve to damage your hair due to breakage. Instead, it’s recommended you opt for wide-tooth combs or detangling brushes made specifically for curly hair. This is a great way to tame your mane.

Detangle your hair while the conditioner is still in it. Use a wide-toothed comb or detangling brushes or your fingers, to remove tangles and knots with ease. Start detangling from the bottom and then work your way up to the roots. This will also help the conditioner to seep into strands. Avoid pulling or tugging to prevent damage. After finishing, rinse your mane with cool water.

Read Now: 7 Best Detangling Brush To Prevent Excessive Damage 2023

#4: Dry & Styling

We always recommend you allow your hair to air dry naturally because it’s a good way to not disturb the curl pattern while eliminating the harsh effects of heat from the dryer. However, if you want to dry your hair with a blow dryer, buy yourself a diffuser and dry at the cool mode to make your curls dry defined and give you the best results.

When styling, limit the use of heat styling tools and always apply a heat protectant spray before using them. Curly hair can be styled with low heat settings to maintain its curl pattern.

Curly Hair Dos #5: Protecting While Sleeping And Regular Trim Your Hair

Put your hair up at night or sleep on a pillow covered with a silk pillowcase. Doing this will keep your curls defined and frizz-free while you sleep. And remember to go in for regular trims to keep split ends at bay.

III. Curly Hair: What You Should Not Do?

Let’s explore the “do nots” that will empower you to maintain the health, vibrancy, and bounce of your cherished curls.

Curly Hair Don’ts #1: Over-Washing

Shampooing too often washes out the natural oils your curls need to stay intact and make hair brittle. You will need those natural oils from your scalp to build up in order to give your curls that natural shine and elasticity.

#2: Apply Conditioner To Your Scalp

Work in a dollop of conditioner from an inch above your roots to the mid-lengths, and then go ahead and add some extra towards the end. Avoid washing away all the conditioner as much as possible. Leave a thin layer of conditioner to coat your strands. This is a great hack for all curly-haired women as it further softens and moisturizes your hair as it dries post your hair wash.

Curly Hair Don’ts #3: Brush Your Hair When It’s Dry

As much as possible, avoid brushing or combing the hair once it is completely dry. Unless you want a ton of frizz, keep all brushes away from your hair. If you have knots, detangle them as described above.

#4: Don’t Use A Regular Towel or Blowdryer Without A Diffuser

Remember that friction equals frizz and a regular fluffy towel is doing your hair no favors. Switch to a microfibre towel to dry your hair. Besides, avoid using your hair dryer without a curl diffuser. Blast drying is not for curly tresses.

Curly Hair Don’ts #5: Don’t Give Up On Your Curls

Whatever you do, never give up on your curls. Curly hair doesn’t have to be a hassle. You just have to find a curl routine that works well for you. Don’t be afraid to play around with different techniques until you find one that works wonders for your waves. Embrace your curls and treat them well and they’re sure to do the same for you!

IV. Wrapping Up

By following the expert advice outlined in this blog, you can unlock the true potential of your curls and achieve healthier, more vibrant hair. With the right knowledge and a little patience, you’re well on your way to showcasing the best version of your naturally curly hair.