Caring for curly hair can be a time-consuming affair, and it can also become very stressful. A woman’s curls are about as unique as one’s fingerprint, and because of this, it can be difficult to find a regimen that works perfectly for you. I want to share with you some of the amazing ways to care for your curls that I’ve discovered by working with clients of all different textures in their search for the perfect routine.
Hydrate:
A common problem with curly hair is that it has the tendency to become dry very easily. If your hair is lacking luster and your curls aren’t forming like they used to, it is most likely because your hair is lacking moisture. Using an intense moisture shampoo and conditioner (Joico Moisture Repair is one of my faves!) is the perfect way to avoid this. Not only will it hydrate your hair, but it’ll also repair any damage caused by split ends, blowdrying or just everyday wear and tear.
Blot and Squeeze:
After cleansing their hair, one big mistake that many make is towel-drying. Rubbing your curls with a towel equals instant frizz! A more effective way to get water out of your hair is to gently blot and squeeze any excess water out. A towel in itself also lies in the caution zone for curly girls. The terrycloth fibers of a towel can be very abrasive on curls and can rough up the cuticle of your hair, making it harder to detangle and style. Try using an old cotton T-shirt in lieu of a towel the soft cotton is much more gentle on your hair and will help keep you frizz- and tangle-free!
Don’t Wash — Cleanse!:
One of the first things I learned about curly hair was that in many cases women wash their hair too frequently. When dealing with curly hair, one of you best allies can be the natural oils in your hair, and you want to be careful to not strip you hair of these oils. So my solution is to not wash your hair too often (maybe 1-2 times a week), and when you do, don’t just wash it just cleanse it! I find that a great way to cleanse curls is to condition your hair first. Work your favorite conditioner through the ends of your hair up into your root area. Now, with the conditioner still in your hair, shampoo as normal. This will keep you from over-washing your hair and will keep all of your precious oils in your hair where they belong.
