How to Manage Your Curly Hair

Beautiful Curly Hair!

Curly hair can be regarded by many, including myself, as a mixed blessing. It's like having a "Bipolar Relationship" with them. Some days we love them dearly and other days we just want to get rid of them forever.

Having curly hair, however, may not be the main problem. I believe the real discontentment arises from the condition of curly hair.  This type of hair texture is prone to dryness and frizziness leading to out of control episodes. It's no wonder we wish to have no fuzz easy to style straight hair. I mean, who wants this headache!!!?

The question then is: Why is curly hair so different? Research shows that hair follicles determine the shape and pattern of your hair. An oval shaped follicle produces curly hair, while a circular shaped follicle produces straight hair. The good news or bad news is, that hair (and possibly follicles) is constantly replacing itself. You can see these changes as you grow from childhood to adulthood.

Yes! It is true, we may have a love/hate relationship, but we can all agree that we can enjoy the best of all worlds! (curly, wavy and straight). Curly is beautiful, curly is sexy! C'mon, Let's  Celebrate and Embrace Them!



The following are tips and techniques you can use to help you manage your beautiful tendrils:

How to Add Moisture

• Use shampoos that are made to encourage curl definition
• Shampoo your hair once/twice a week.
• If you find the need to shampoo more than twice a week, use conditioners in between shampoo to cleanse your hair, as conditioners have some degree of cleansing agents. You can also use dry shampoo. They are a perfect option between regular shampoos.
• Use curl enhancing moisturizing conditioners everytime you shampoo your hair.
• Use an intensive curl enhancing moisturizing treatment, at least once a month to boots hydration

What Do I do After I Shampoo My Hair?

• Leave some conditioner in your hair or use a leave-in conditioner. This will help to maintain moisture and improve manageability.
• Do not use a towel to dry your hair as it creates friction, which ultimately leads to frizz. Instead use absorbent paper towels or a chamois towel. Scrunch, do not rub.
• Do not use a comb or brush as they can disturbed then curl pattern
• Use your fingers from roots to ends
• Let it dry naturally. However, if you must dry it, use a diffuser or a dryer with a sock on the nozzle. Placing a sock will help to control the power of the airflow.
• Do not use hot air when drying. Instead use medium to cold air to seal the cuticle, create shine, and reduce frizz


What If I Want Height and Styling?

Hair Clip

• If you need height at the crown, take small sections of hair and use hair clips close to the root while hair is drying.
• Style is a personal choice. I like my curls loose. There are many hairstyles that can be achieved with curly hair.
• If you are looking for more definition, do pin curls where you need it. Pin curls are like rollers they define curls.
• Do not brush your hair. Only Use Your Fingers.



`What About Cutting?

• In my experience, cutting curly hair when dry, prevents over-cutting and curl disturbance. It helps me to see where the curl naturally falls when they are being cut.
• Do not use razor when cutting dry/wet hair, as it tends to create more frizz and frayed ends.
• If the cut is performed on wet hair, do not create tension when cutting. Only cut half of the intended inch to prevent shrinkage. Remember, curly hair appears longer when wet.
• Avoid blunt cuts. Instead, cut at an angle to encourage movement and definition
• Go easy on the layers as they can create a mushroom effect.
• Go easy on texturizing or thinning because you need the weight to define and balance your curls. 

What Styling Products Can I Use?

• First and foremost, DO NOT overdose your curls with products. Stick to one or two finishing products such as anti-frizz and curl enhancers.
• Minimize the use of products containing silicone, as they only help temporally and do not resolve your concerns about dryness and lack of moisture.


Your Friend and Colorist,
Maria Arias