My hair type !
Oh the blessing and curse of having curly hair. I didn't learn how to deal with my naturally curly hair properly until my early 20's, and made a lot of mistakes along the way. As a child I brushed my hair like I thought I was supposed to, which resulted in a constant halo of fluff. As an adolescent, I tried to tame my curl fluff with every gel and pomade I could find. The result = slicked down yet still fluffy ugly mess. By college I was drying my hair in pigtails (works OK, turns into flat waves), or on occasion I would straighten it into a straw-like triangle. Finally a curly haired coworker set me straight, and my first visit to a curly haired salon changed everything. I haven't touched a curling iron or dried my hair in pigtails since.
It makes me sad when I see someone with naturally curly hair straightening every day - everyone can have an awesome hair day with a little care and know-how! Luckily with books like Curly Girl and curly salons popping up everywhere, there is far more information out there for us curly haired folks. This instructable toplines some basic routines of caring for curly hair (many of which are helpful for straight hair too!), and I hope it will save some of you out there from making the same mistakes that I did!
Step 1: Choosing the Best Products for Curly Hair
shampoo , acondicionador , styling products
proteins
Prepping, Washing and Drying Curly Hair
Having naturally curly hair is truly a unique experience that comes with both challenges and rewards. Like many, I initially struggled to find the right way to care for my curls, often making common mistakes such as brushing my hair dry, which caused frizz and unwanted volume. Over time, I’ve learned that the key to great curls lies in embracing their natural texture rather than fighting it. One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is about the products I use. Choosing sulfate-free shampoos and moisturizing conditioners tailored for curly hair helps maintain the hair’s natural oils and reduce dryness. Protein treatments can be beneficial too, as they help strengthen the hair shaft, preventing breakage, but it’s important not to overdo them to avoid stiffness. Prepping hair before washing is another game-changer. I often detangle gently with my fingers or a wide-tooth comb while my conditioner is in, minimizing breakage. When drying, I avoid regular towels, opting instead for microfiber cloths or old cotton t-shirts which help reduce frizz by gently absorbing water without rough agitation. Air drying or diffusing on low heat tends to preserve the curl pattern better. It’s also valuable to adopt styling techniques that enhance natural curls. Applying leave-in conditioners or curl creams on damp hair helps lock in moisture. Using gels or mousses designed for curly hair can provide hold without crunchiness, keeping curls defined yet bouncy. What’s really encouraging is the rise of curly hair salons and resources like the Curly Girl method. These provide personalized advice and professional care that respect the unique needs of curly hair. Embracing my curls has been a journey of patience and experimentation, but the results are incredibly rewarding—healthy, defined curls that feel vibrant and beautiful every day. It’s empowering to share these tips with others so they don’t have to repeat the same trial and error that I went through.
