Different curls do different things: they have different textures, little quirks, and specific personalities. Some curls are light and bouncy, others are tight and compact. But they all need one thing — a little love (and maybe a little product). Figuring out how to find and shop products for curly hair can mean the difference between a frizzy disaster and a beautiful curl explosion.
Healthy curls don’t happen by accident. They come from understanding your curl pattern, the need for moisture, and products and strategies for your specific hair type and styling habits. Once you have the right products and techniques, you can work to enhance your natural curl pattern without feeling that your curls look limp. Say goodbye to breakage, and hello to soft, weightless curls!
Your Curl Type
When looking for the best shampoo for curly hair, it helps if you know what kind of curls you have. Curly hair falls into the “Type 3” category, but there are varying degrees of the tightness of the curl, and each will have its own level of hydration and support. Individuals with wavy hair may consider this the best natural shampoo and conditioner for curly hair. For example, if you wonder what type 4 hair is, you should know that this is naturally drier curly hair, with very tight coils.
- 3A: This curl is big, loose, and wavy. It will need a lightweight gel or cream to keep curls soft and bouncy.
- 3B: A tight and dense curl that needs rich conditioners and mousse to avoid becoming limp.
- 3C: Very tight and densely packed curls. This curl is also the driest of the three and will need heavy-duty moisture and oil treatments.
Knowing your curl type will help you make an informed decision on what type of product to purchase for your hair type. You don’t want unnecessary weight on very fine hair—or in your natural conditioner for curly hair research.
The Foundation: Shampoo And Conditioner
Curly hair is often dry because it has trouble absorbing oils from the scalp. To battle this, you have to be cognizant of the type of shampoo and conditioner that you choose.
Choose a shampoo that is made for curly hair and is sulfate-free to help keep your scalp healthy and oil-free. The goal is to avoid uncomfortably dry tresses.
A conditioner that will detangle, nourish, and define curls is essential. Shea butter, coconut, and sea buckthorn oil are all perfect ingredients for deep hydration.
You should consider only conditioning washing your hair as the best sulfate-free shampoo for natural hair. This is also one of the best shampoo and conditioner options if you have type 4A hair.
Consistency is the key to a low-key frizz condition and will help maintain your curl pattern.
Moisture
The best curl hair product for curly hair is moisture. Your hair is most likely dry, and when it does not have moisture, it will lose its shape, texture, and become frizzy or brittle and break.
Leave-in: This is a lightweight, no-frizz product for curly hair.
Curl creams add definition to your hair and help create a touchable (non-sticky or crunchy) hold.
Oils and serums, like the ones ahead, add hydration and shine to curls. Be sure to look for one that won’t leave a greasy residue (especially if you have thin hair).
Smooth or scrunch one onto wet hair to lock in moisture. Then, scrunch your hair by softly squeezing small sections of hair in an upward motion to help add lift and bounce to the curls.
Styling For Definition And Volume
Styling curly hair doesn’t mean that you have to try to tame your hair into submission. You should just be looking to work with your natural texture. And this is how you do that.
Diffusers are a must: They distribute heat and airflow evenly so your curls dry frizz-free (and keep their natural shape).
Don’t brush curls once they’re dry: Save your curls from the damage of snags and breakage by only detangling them while they’re sopping wet (with a wide-tooth comb or just your fingers).
Try new styling methods: There are a ton of ways to style curls, like plopping them with a T-shirt or microfiber towel, that can help you get a more defined curl shape after washing.
Just adopting these everyday habits can help your curls feel softer and look more polished daily.
The Power Of Letting Your Hair Do What It Wants
Curly hair is loud, vivacious, and beautifully free-flowing, and taking care of those curls and really showing them off is its own little act of expression. When you take the time to really understand your curls and give them the love and support they need, you’re paying homage to what makes you special.
Learning how to find and shop for products for curly hair isn’t just about another run to the haircare aisle. It’s about cultivating a regimen that honors the divine beauty of nature in your hair. Adequate care for your curls, whether they be waves, coils, kinks, or curls, will reward you with volume, vibrancy, and body.