As we haul out of another humid Aussie summer into the misty beginnings of Autumn, the Mercury may be dropping but for us curly haired gals, our frizz, unfortunately, is not.
Trying to cope with curls in any weather can be a struggle, so while nailing down a dream hair routine can take time and LOTS of commitment, it’s definitely not impossible.
You’ve likely seen Lorraine Massey’s ‘Curly Girl Method’ floating around the interwebs. It’s one of the most famous routines for wavy, curly and coily hair, and it’s packed with top-tier tips for taking care of your locks.
Scroll on for simplified guide to getting your curls right and keeping them looking fresh all day long.
What Is The Curly Girl Method?
Essentially, the Curly Girl Method—which was created by hairstylist and curl expert Lorraine Massey, who wrote Curly Girl: The Handbook—is a set of easy rules, pro techniques and perfect products crafted to care for your curls and enhance them to the enth degree!
Now, certain techniques and routines will differ depending on your hair type and curl pattern, but the general gist behind the ‘Curly Girl Method’ is that if you care for your curls correctly, your hair will thank you!
By deciphering which products and techniques/application methods are best for your specific hair type, you’ll be able to improve not just your look, but your hair’s overall health—whether you’re rocking a natural wave, cascading curl, or clean coils.
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How To Start The Curly Girl Method
First step: Don’t be overwhelmed!
Beginning your journey to perfect curls isn’t linear, and the Curly Girl Method can initially feel a bit full-on and unachievable. It’s paramount that you keep an open mind, and remember that finding the right groove for your hair most likely won’t happen on your first try. The Curly Girl Method can either be a bible or a loose guide in your life; use it as you please.
What *Not* To Do If You Have Curly Hair
When caring for curly hair, major dont’s include using harsh sulphate-containing shampoos, excessively brushing or combing dry hair, using too much heat with styling tools (and not using them in moderation), applying dense styling products that weigh down curls, rubbing hair with a regular towel to dry, sleeping on wet hair, and not doing a deep condition regularly.
Essentially, avoid anything that can cause extra dryness, breakage or frizz to your hair.
Tips For Taking Care of Curly Hair
Figure Out Your Hair Texture & Curl Pattern
First things first, knowing what kind of hair you have is a MUST. If you don’t already know your hair type via where you fall on the hair curl scale then google an image of the scale to properly see where your unique hair lies. Once you know your curl pattern and texture, you cater the products in your routine to make sure that their described effect will work on your hair type.
Detangle With A Wide-Tooth Comb
Make sure to use a wide-toothed comb or your fingers to detangle wet hair with conditioner in it. The wide spacing between the teeth of the comb allows them to gently glide through curls without causing damage. Start at the bottom and work your way up. this technique in combination with the comb limits any breakage when your hair is wet and fragile, whilst also preserving your curl pattern.
Air Dry Hair Whenever Possible
Allow your hair to air dry so your curls can form naturally. If you’re short on time, you can use a diffuser. The air drying technique minimizes heat damage, which can be detrimental to delicate curly strands prone to dryness and breakage. Fresh air helps to preserve the natural curl pattern by allowing hair to dry without external manipulation or excessive heat.
Opt For Oils
Light oil is perfect as a leave-in conditioner and can go a long way in softening your hair’s texture to reduce crunchy curls from a gel. It also adds instant shine and livens curls when you’re on the go. Our top 2 go-to lightweight oils to refresh your curls with oils are jojoba and almond!
Sleep On A Silk Pillowcase Or Use a Silk Bonnet
A silk pillowcase can radically help reduce frizz while preserving your curls all through the night. Silks’ slippery texture also prevents tangles from forming if you toss and turn in your sleep. Unlike traditional cotton pillowcases, silk also won’t absorb the natural oils from your hair, prolonging hydration and shine!
Silk bonnets have the same healthy hair benefits, but offer an added level of security and control over your curls.
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