Monday, July 20, 2009

Curls 101

I live in South Carolina, where the humidity, heat, and ocean waves are the ruler of my naturally curly, and unfortunately frizzy, hair.

I seem to have a pretty decent cut, but would love some tips on how to manage it and product recommendations.

Thank you!

Ann in SC

Curly hair can be a beautiful thing or it can be a beast because there are so many factors that contribute to the overall outcome. For example; humidity level, how much conditioner didn't get washed out, how long you left the towel wrapped around your head, how long it air dried while you fixed breakfast or how much product you used or didn't use. Truth be told, naturally curly hair will never look the same two days in a row. There are a few tips and tricks that can help in the plight of controlling and accepting curly hair.

Do moisturize (Shampoo, Condition and leave in) Even in humid climates curls need moisture to stay shiny and frizz free.

Do be gentle. Curls need a soft touch, too much handling disrupts natural curl pattern.

Do apply product evenly. When using desired product dispense in hand and rub hands together like you are putting on lotion. Then use fingers as applicators and the palm as the reservoir for more product.

Product Recommendations

Short to Medium Length hair
Cocktail* MOP defining cream + MOP glisten

Long hair

Schwarzkopf Bona Cure Moisture Kick
spray conditioner
Cocktail* OSIS text it gel + OSIS buff styling cream

*mix together in hands before applying

Do tilt head while diffusing to allow hair to dry off scalp to create volume.

Don't rub hair with towel when getting out the shower. Instead, gently wring hair to remove excess water, leave hair wet but not dripping, then apply product.


Don't touch too much. Fussing, creates frizz. Try to keep natural curl pattern intact as much as possible.

Don't over-dry when using a diffuser. Leave a little moisture in the hair to air dry, this will decrease frizz and the "crunchies." Focus on drying roots to create lift and movement.

Hopefully these tips and tricks can come in handy when dealing with
the Beauty and the Beast of curly hair.

3 comments:

  1. I also have naturally curly hair and have finally learned to love it! These products have made me so happy:

    http://devaconcepts.com/ (includes great cleansing and styling products)

    http://www.curlslikeus.com (curls cloths, to gently get the excess moisture out of your curls)

    And this book is the Bible for the curly-haired woman (or man) - Curly Girl by Lorraine Massey.

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  2. love your suggestions in this post. I live in NC and have struggled with the humidity too. I highly recommend "Curly Girl" as well--tons of great tips for natural curl. You've got to make peace with your hair.

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  3. I can attest that these tricks really work. I have the same problem with my hair and I have been doing the things mentioned above and it has helped a ton.
    Ashlee is the best hair designer I have ever met.

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