Calling all the curly hair people out there- you do have the spotlight always, and it is all because of your exclusive locks. You get eyeballs at events and even compliments pouring in at regular intervals. But it is only you who know the trouble of managing your curly hair. After all, this hair texture can get too coarse, frizzy, and dry if not taken care of properly.
Following a proper curly hair care routine with the right products, hairstyles and tips can play up your hair game. Whether the hair texture is kinky or wavy, only healthy habits can make them look good. Read on to find out how to take care of your curly hair:
Find the Best Satin Sleep Cap
Curls are very similar to people. Know their personality, and it will get easier for you to work with them. So, figure out the right curly hair product for your curl texture and commit to the same.
What about checking curly hair tools? Since curls are more prone to split ends, using the satin sleep cap will help you avoid this problem. The cap will minimize friction between the pillow and your curls while sleeping and will thus prevent your hair from developing split ends or from breaking. It also helps prevent snarls and tangles on long curly hair.
Follow the Right Pre-Shampoo Routine
A proper pre-shampoo routine is essential to prevent damage and roughness of your curly hair. Also, it softens, conditions, and detangles your hair.
Apply conditioning oil on your dry hair before shampooing, or use a conditioner in place of conditioning oil. Section your hair and apply the oil thoroughly into your hair using your fingers. Use a towel or plastic cap to cover your hair, heat your head to open the hair cuticles, and let the conditioner penetrate deeply into your hair. Allow it to stay on your hair for 20 minutes to detangle your curly hair after washing it.
Avoid Excessive Shampooing
The curly hair texture gets dry very easily. Therefore, it is crucial not to wash it excessively. Over-washing your curly hair can open up the cuticles, thus stripping the hair off its natural oils. This will dry it out even more. And make the hair conditioner an integral part of your curly hair wash routine. Conditioning your hair even when you will not shampoo is useful. Also, avoid washing your hair with hot water as it strips off hair moisture, making it weak.
Choose the Right Shampoo
Choosing the right shampoo for your curly hair is also very important. Washing your curls with harsh shampoo instead of a mild one will strip off moisture from hair, leaving it looking dry and dull.
The key here is using products specifically designed for curly hair and choosing alcohol and sulfate-free products to dry out the hair.
Performing oil treatments will replenish moisture in your curly hair, which is very important to avoid dryness. You can even try homemade hair masks like a coconut hair mask once during the week to treat your curls.
Apply Anti-Frizz Serum
After a shower, take a small amount of anti-frizz serum ( a dime-size is perfect) and apply it to the hair to keep the curls manageable. Using too much serum can add weight to the hair. So, do not do that and always choose serum from the best brands.
Get Hair Trims Regularly to Avoid Split Ends
Curly hair is more manageable and healthier when you maintain it in good shape and keep it well-trimmed. Unfortunately, it is challenging to avoid split ends altogether. Since there is no basic repair for those split ends, it is best to cut them off.
One of the best ways of avoiding split ends is being gentle with your curls. Apart from hair trims, you can even use a detangler for brushing your hair. This will avoid all the yanking and the pulling that can result in hair breakage and split ends.
Other ways of preventing split ends are using a wide-tooth comb, staying away from heating tools, and not tying your hair into buns and tight ponytails. The essential step is getting a trim from an expert hairstylist every 2 to 3 months.
Keep Heat at Bay
Your curls lose their natural spiral shape and look lifeless if you overheat them. So, focus on hydrating your curly hair to keep its bounce intact. Stay away from hot styling tools as much as possible.
If you need to use heating tools, use them moderately with the heat settings at a minimum. Also, do not forget to use a good quality heat protectant after heating. It is best to let your curly hair dry up naturally instead of using a blow-dryer because this will damage your curls and make them frizzy.
Watch Your Diet
Avoid processed foods, junk, and spicy dishes as much as possible if you plan frizz-free and healthy curls. Instead, pack up wholesome food choices like carrots, salmon, eggs, walnuts, green leafy vegetables, and beans. They will improve the shine, strength, and health of your curly hair.
The Bottom Line
One of the imperative things you must understand about your curls is that they dry out very easily. And yes, they also crave moisture. So, if you want them to look defined, shiny and healthy for a long time, follow the steps mentioned above religiously.