If you have curly hair, you’re probably envied by your straight-haired counterparts. That curly coif of yours represents freedom, independence, and fun. But it’s not all fun and games taking care of your curls. If you manhandle curly hair, you’ll end up with a frizzy mess. That’s why you need to properly wash your curls to maintain the bounce, body, and shine.
We’ve got a few helpful tips to help wash your curly hair with ease. We’ve also included some extra advice for styling your hair so it always looks its best. We’ll start with the hair washing basics and go from there.
Use the Right Shampoo
Your curly hair shafts have curves and bends. Due to this curvature, the natural oils from the scalp can’t easily reach the length of the hair shafts. This is why curly hair is prone to dryness and breakage. However, there’s hope for curly hair if you find the right shampoo. Use these tips to choose a shampoo that will pamper and nourish those glorious curls. If you’d like to save some time with picking the right shampoo you can check our list of best shampoos and conditioners for curly hair.
- Steer Clear of Sulfates: Many shampoos contain sulfates which are cleansing agents. These sulfates create a lathering effect to remove oil and dirt. The problem with sulfates is that they’re very drying and strip the hair of moisture. This is why it’s best to go sulfate-free if you’ve got curly hair.
- Avoid Alcohol: We’re not talking about the stuff you drink, but rather the alcohol in shampoo. Your curly hair needs moisture and alcohol dries hair and removes moisture. Look for a sulfate-free, alcohol-free shampoo for curly hair that will leave your hair soft and moisturized.
- Go for Hydration: It’s all about moisture and hydration when it comes to shampooing curly hair. Look for a hydrating shampoo that will keep the moisture locked in your thirsty curls.
Use a Conditioner Formulated for Curly Hair
Curly hair requires a moisturizing conditioner. This type of conditioner helps retain shape and cuts down on frizz. Look for one that’s lightweight, creamy, and hydrating. It’s easy to find quality conditioners for curly hair so choose one with a scent you like.
Now that you know what type of shampoo & conditioner to use, it’s time to lather up!
How to Shampoo Curly Hair
Once you’re in the shower and your curls are soaking wet, it’s time to get the most out of your shampoo. Apply the shampoo to your scalp, while holding the ends of your hair together. This will ensure a tangle-free wash. Then massage the shampoo into your scalp while pulling lather through the hair strands to reach the ends of your curls.
After scrubbing your scalp and working the shampoo through your hair, it’s time to rinse. To open up the cuticles of your hair, turn the water temperature up a bit. This will help your hair absorb more moisture from the conditioner in the next step.
How to Condition Curly Hair
The first thing to do is wring the excess water out of your hair. Next, apply the conditioner to your hair. Try not to get too much conditioner on your scalp. This way, you won’t have to wash your hair so often.
If you have time, turn off the shower and let the conditioner remain on your hair. A good 7 minutes should suffice. It would be even better to put on a plastic shower cap. This will help seal the conditioner’s moisturizing ingredients in your hair.
When it’s time to rinse out the conditioner, use lukewarm or cool water. This way, you won’t apply too much heat to strip away moisture.
Tips for Drying Your Clean & Conditioned Curls
Now that your hair is washed and conditioned, it’s time to dry it so it’s ready for styling. Use a soft microfiber towel to gently pat-dry your hair. And don’t even think about using a hairdryer! Your curls need to be dried gently and naturally to retain moisture. Once you’re done with the towel, let your hair air-dry.
It’s Time to Style Your Curls for Bouncy Fun!
Before applying any product to your hair, use your fingers to tousel your curls. Then unsnag any tangles with a wide-tooth pick. Now spritz your curls with a curl reactivator.
As far as styling products go, there are styling gels, serums, and creams just for curls.
Many women with curls prefer styling cream. Unlike a gel that can leave curls crunchy, a cream help curls hold their form and keep them frizz-free. Just don’t over-do it. It only takes a dime-size dab of styling cream. Use your fingertips to apply it and gently work it into your curls.
Curly hair requires some extra work to keep it clean, bouncy, and shiny. But it doesn’t have to be a chore to wash curly hair and style it. Once you know what products to use and how to use them, taking care of your curls is a cinch!
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