Curly hair is fabulous and unique. It bends and coils and curves. Because of all the twists and turns, it can be fragile and delicate.
The curvy nature of hair makes it difficult for the natural oils produced by the scalp to soften and protect strands as they have a harder time traveling from top to bottom. Unlike straight hair, curly hair tends to lack moisture and dry out easily, making it more difficult to care for. For people with naturally curly hair, the hair care regimen is completely different. Here are some smart hair care tips and hacks for all kinds of natural curls.
Pick the right shampoo and conditioner
Look for a shampoo and conditioner that is specifically designed for curly hair. In general, you should choose products that contain essential oils like jojoba oil, coconut oil, sunflower oil, and avocado oil, keratin, aloe vera, shea butter, hydrolyzed silk, panthenol, and provitamins. Always remember to follow shampooing with a conditioner to help lock in moisture.
Pre-shampoo treatment
Many people with curly hair and delicate locks swear by the pre-shampoo routine. Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to condition only after cleansing. You can use a conditioner both before and after you shampoo. Curly, coarse hair tends to lose moisture very quickly. Using a conditioner before shampooing in theory helps to protect the hair strand so that the shampoo won’t strip the hair of its natural oils.
Avoid over-shampooing
Curly hair doesn’t need to be washed with shampoo as frequently as straight hair. Frequent shampooing can stretch and stress out fragile strands, and dry out your thirsty curls. However, conditioner is your friend. Welcome that friend into the shower with you frequently, applying conditioner even if you don’t shampoo your hair.
Pick the right brush or comb
Curly hair is often brittle and dry and can break easily when combed or brushed. Try brushing or combing curly hair in the shower to avoid breakage. Start with a wide-tooth comb to break up any knots. You can also comb while the conditioner is still in your hair to make it easier and to ensure the conditioner coats all your strands. When choosing a hairbrush, invest in a high-quality brush with natural bristles instead of plastic. A boar bristle brush can help spread natural oils from the scalp through the ends of the hair.
Turn down the hot water
Although cold water shampoo and/or rinse doesn’t make for the most luxurious hair washing experience, yet cold water will snap those cuticles shut, which in turn will lock in moisture, making your hair shinier and frizz-free.
Lay off the heat
Blow dryers, flat irons, curling irons, all of these thermal tools cause breakage. If you are a hot tool addict, try to wean yourself off the heat. Opt for air drying on the weekends or at night. Set your hair in twists or on foam rollers and let it dry naturally. When you do use tools, invest in the highest quality you can afford. Look for tools containing ionic properties, made with tourmaline or ceramic. Always apply a heat protection product before styling.
Taking care of curly hair does take a little strategic thinking and these easy hacks will enable you to get healthier and shinier hair.
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