Curly hair is beautiful, versatile, and unique. But as you’ve probably experienced, caring for curls can be a challenge, especially since everyone has different needs. No two curls are the same, so the trick is to find a routine and products that work for your hair. Here are 5 things you really need to know about curls:
1. Every curl is different
Did you know that there are different types of curls? Think loose waves (type 2), spiral curls (type 3), and tight coils (type 4). But even within these categories, every hair type is unique. Some curls need light products that don’t weigh them down, while others benefit from thick, rich creams or oils.
Discovering your curl type (and what your hair needs) can help you choose the right products.
For example:
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Wavy hair (type 2) can benefit from lighter styling products, such as mousse or a gentle gel.
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Spiral curls (type 3) often need a mix of hydration and definition, such as leave-in conditioners and curl defining creams.
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Coily or kinky hair (type 4) usually likes intensive care with butters, oils and moisturizing masks.
💡 Tip : What works for your hair is a matter of trial and error! You can start with products known for their hydrating properties, such as leave-in conditioners or curl activators.
2. Hydration is the key to healthy curls
It’s a fact: curly hair is naturally drier than straight hair. This is because the natural oils from your scalp have a harder time moving through the bends of your hair. That’s why moisturizing is essential to keeping your curls healthy and bouncy.
A good hydration routine might look like this:
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Choose a sulfate-free shampoo that cleanses your hair without drying it out.
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Use a hair mask weekly for extra nourishment and repair.
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Finish your routine with a leave-in conditioner and an oil or cream to lock in moisture.
💡 Tip : Struggling with dry hair? Try the LOC method (Leave-in, Oil, Cream) to intensively hydrate your hair.
3. Not all products are suitable for curls
Curly hair is often more susceptible to dryness and damage, so not all products are a good match. Preferably avoid:
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Sulfates: Cleansing ingredients that strip your hair of its natural oils.
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Parabens: Many people prefer to choose products without parabens, as these can cause skin irritation.
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Alcohols: Not all alcohols are bad, but drying types (like isopropyl alcohol) are best avoided.
What works: Ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, aloe vera, and castor oil, which hydrate and protect hair. But remember: Not everyone reacts the same to a product. Try different formulas and see what works best for your hair.
4. Protect your curls, day and night
Curls need love and protection, especially since they are more susceptible to damage from things like friction or heat. Here are a few ways to protect your curls:
During the day:
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Avoid excessively touching your curls – this can cause frizz.
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Protect your hair from the sun and other influences by using a leave-in conditioner with UV protection.
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Try protective styles like braids, twists or a bun when your curls need a rest.
At night:
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Sleep on a satin or silk pillowcase, as cotton can dry out and break your hair.
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Use a satin bonnet or hair cap to protect your curls from friction.
💡 Tip : Add a moisturizing spray in the evening before protecting your hair – this will keep your hair nourished throughout the night.
5. Styling starts in the shower
What you do while washing often determines how your curls look when they're dry. So styling starts in the shower:
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Use a mild shampoo and focus especially on your scalp.
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Condition thoroughly, because a good base is essential for beautiful, bouncy curls.
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Apply styling products to wet or towel-dried hair. Products such as curl defining creams, gels or mousses often work best when your hair is still damp.
How you dry your hair is also important. Let it air dry or use a diffuser on a low setting. Avoid rubbing it dry with a regular towel – a microfiber towel or an old t-shirt will be gentler on your curls.
💡 Tip : Experiment with different styling methods, like “plopping” (wrapping your hair in a T-shirt after washing), to define your curls without frizz.
Let your curls shine!
Caring for curls is a journey that’s different for everyone, but with the right knowledge and products, you can keep your hair healthy and beautiful. Remember, not everything works for everyone – you’ll find your perfect routine through experimentation and listening to what your hair needs.
Want to get off to a flying start? Discover our wide range of hair products – from nourishing masks to curl defining gels – and find your favorites!
