A Care Guide for Wavy and Curly Hair

For a long time wavy and curly hair was treated as something to be “tamed”. Today natural curls are a symbol of confidence and authenticity. Curly hair has different needs from straight hair: natural oils struggle to travel down to the ends, so it dries out and frizzes more easily. With the right care, those curls become defined, glossy and soft.

Know your hair

Curls are usually grouped into three: loose waves, defined curls and tight coils. You can have more than one pattern on the same head. More important than the pattern is how well your hair holds moisture. If your hair gets wet quickly and dries quickly, it struggles to hold moisture and needs richer hydration.

Washing: less often, more gently

Curly hair doesn’t like daily washing. Two or three washes a week are enough for most.

• Sulphate-free shampoo: Harsh cleansers strip natural oils and increase frizz. Choose gentle, sulphate-free shampoos.
• Co-wash: Between shampoo days, washing with conditioner alone cleans the hair while keeping its moisture.
• Focus on the scalp: Apply shampoo only to the roots; the lather that runs down while rinsing is enough for the ends.

Hydration

Conditioner is the heart of a curly routine. Apply plenty from the mid-lengths to the ends and detangle gently with your fingers or a wide-toothed comb. A rich mask once a week gives deep moisture and elasticity. Covering your hair with a shower cap while the mask works boosts the effect of warmth.

Styling

Applying styling products while hair is still wet keeps curls defined.

1. Leave-in conditioner: Locks moisture into the hair.
2. Curl cream or gel: Defines curls and holds them all day.
3. Scrunching: After applying products, gently scrunch the hair upwards with your palms.

Instead of rubbing with a towel, press hair dry with a microfibre towel or a cotton T-shirt.

Drying

If possible, let hair air-dry and don’t touch it while it dries. If you use a hairdryer, choose low heat and a diffuser. Once hair is completely dry, gently scrunch out the crunch left by gel. On days you heat-style, don’t forget a heat protectant.

Night-time care

Cotton pillowcases draw moisture from hair and cause frizz through friction. A silk or satin pillowcase or a hair bonnet protects curls until morning. A loose bun on top of the head also stops curls being crushed.

The morning refresh

If curls have lost shape on day two, mist hair lightly with a mix of water and a little conditioner, then scrunch. In a few minutes you’ll recapture day-one definition. Your curls are uniquely yours; the more patience and love you give them, the more beautiful they become.