The Do’s and Don'ts of Curly Hair
design: Finley Banks
How to achieve the quickest and easiest curl routine.
by SYDNEY GOLDBERGER ★ FEBRUARY 09, 2024
Everyone knows that a bad hair day can lead to a downward spiral. I can attest that a bad hair day is enough to make me want to cry and never step foot outside of my room. Fortunately for you, I have some tips and tricks to make your hair look so good it'll be impossible for it to ruin your day.
Let's start with what not to do with your curly hair, since it's easy to forget what doesn't work.
DON’T: BRUSH YOUR HAIR WHEN IT'S DRY
This one is self-explanatory, but many tend to ignore it. Every time curly hair is brushed while dry, a frizzy mess is bound to follow. On top of this mess, it can also lead to breakage and split ends. Keep the brush away from dry hair and only use it when your hair is wet! The perfect brush for when you want to style your hair and help ringlets form is any Paddle Brush.
2. DON’T: OVERWASH YOUR HAIR
Yes, it sucks that we curly-haired girls can’t wash our hair every day, but it’s for the best. Overwashing your hair is a thing, and it can be so damaging. Excess shampoo can lead to a lack of natural oils in your hair, causing it to become brittle, which means little to no volume (and we LOVE our volume).
3. DON’T: PUT HEAT ON YOUR HAIR
I know this one is a doozie, but please embrace your natural hair and try your best to stay away from the heat. Heat tools like curling irons and straighteners can damage your hair and permanently change your beautiful curl pattern. If you must straighten it, always always always put heat protectant in; I beg you. I recommend Imbue Curl Defending Heat Protection Mist and Moroccanoil Perfect Defense Heat Protectant.
Now, let's talk about what you should do with that gorgeous curly hair of yours.
DO: SLEEP WITH A SILK PILLOWCASE
Switching to a silk pillowcase has been life-changing, and I can’t recommend it enough. It has been proven to help retain moisture, which is essential. Pair this with a silk scrunchie and your hair will forever thank you. Unfortunately, it does not get rid of bed head, but hey, you win some you lose some:)
2. DO: BE GENEROUS WITH CONDITIONER
Curly hair drinks conditioner like it’s liquid gold, so don't be afraid to “over apply” conditioner in the shower. Focus especially on the ends of your hair instead of the roots, and you are set for success (be sure to check out Living Proof No Frizz Conditioner and Moroccan Oil Intense Hydrating Mask).
3. DO: END OFF YOUR SHOWER WITH COLD WATER
Ending your shower by rinsing your hair with cold water gives it an instant shine. Hot water showers strip natural oils from your scalp and hair, which make you prone to frizz and breakage. Coldwater rinses will be your best friend for achieving that perfect hair day.
As someone who has curly hair and comes from a family of curly hair, I can say firsthand that these recommendations are key to eliminating frizzy hair days. Use these tips and get ready for the best hair days of your life!