We have all (unfortunately) grown up with magazines and social media telling us that pin-straight hair was the epitome of beauty standards. However, this can’t be further from the truth. There is nothing as stunning and elegant as naturally curly wild hair. If you are a woman blessed with naturally curly hair, count yourself lucky and embrace your unique hair in all its glory. To help you further on this journey of self-love and acceptance, we bring you all the comprehensive tips and product recommendations for styling naturally curly hair. Read along to know more.
Embrace your natural curls
Gone are the times when women had to look a certain way to be considered beautiful. Today we know that beauty comes in all shapes and forms (and hair types). It’s time to put down the straightener and celebrate the natural beauty of your curly hair. And why not? Curly hair is fun, beautiful, and unique. No two curly-haired heads are alike and in this world where everyone wants to stand out, you can do it effortlessly. So what is stopping you? If the answer is you don’t know how to deal with common problems associated with curly hair such as frizz, put your worries to the side. Here are some of the common challenges faced by curly-haired girls and effective ways to tackle them:
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Frizz. Yes, the annoying frizz! If only you could get rid of it once and for all. The good news is that you can. Try pre-pooing your hair to combat frizz. Also, always remember, that the more moisturized your hair is, the less frizzy it gets;
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Tangles. Do you dread brushing your curls due to how tangled it gets? You are not the only one. To effectively detangle your curls, use a wide-toothed comb over a standard hair brush. Also, try ‘pineappling’ your hair before you sleep;
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Dryness. No one likes dry, limp curls. Dryness can take away from the natural beauty of your hair. Try using fast-acting leave-in conditioners to keep dryness at bay. Also, choose your hair-drying method carefully. We suggest diffusing your curls to prevent dryness.
Understanding naturally curly hair
As we mentioned earlier, each mane of curly hair is unique. Different types of curly hair have their own unique characteristics and needs. What works for one curly hair type might not work for others. Yes, this includes what products you are using and the styling techniques that you apply. To bring out the complete beauty of your curls, you need to understand them at a grassroots level. So here are different types of curly hair and their characteristics:
Type 2 or Wavy hair
Type 2 or Wavy hair lies somewhere between straight and curly. The curls in this type are quite loose and can be compared to the waves in the ocean. This hair type tends to appear almost straight when wet, however, curls start to form as you dry it. Wavy hair is also often straighter near the roots and curlier towards the ends.
Type 3 or Curly hair
This curly hair type is what we often associate with stereotypical curly hair. This hair type is extremely voluminous and the curls can range from tight ringlets to loose round curls. The curls often form in an S-shaped pattern and it can also get dry very easily.
Type 4 or Coily hair
Type 4 or Coily hair comprises tight closely packed curls that are formed in a ‘Z’ pattern. This hair is actually more voluminous than it appears. It is also extremely delicate and can get easily damaged. These types can be further classified into types A, B, and C based on the width of the curls.
Looking for a way to make your curls last longer between washes? Discover "The ultimate guide to keeping your curls looking great between washes".
Hair care tips for naturally curly hair
So now that you have understood what your curl type and pattern is exactly, let us now look at some of the most effective haircare tips for curly hair:
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Choose the right shampoo and conditioner. The Shampoo and Conditioner that you use can have a dramatic effect on the health and look of your hair. Hence, choose your haircare products carefully. Go for a Sulfate and Alcohol free shampoo and conditioner as these chemicals strip the hair of its natural oils. Opt for haircare products loaded with good ingredients such as Shea Butter, Argan Oil etc instead;
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Follow the proper washing and conditioning techniques. Washing your hair the correct way is of the utmost importance as improper washing techniques can lead to frizz and dryness. Always prep your hair by prepooing it with a hair mask or hair oil. Hot water can be extremely damaging to your hair and hence only wash your hair with lukewarm water only. Go for a strong hold conditioner that doesn't weigh down your curls and cowash between washes for healthier hair.
Styling techniques for naturally curly hair
Want those envious instaworthy curls that you often see on celebs like Rihanna and Zendaya? Go for these expert approved styling techniques. Using proper styling techniques can define your curls better and enhance your natural curl pattern. Try these today and see the difference they make to the overall look of your hair:
Diffusing curls for volume and bounce
Add instant volume and bounce to your curl by diffusing it. A diffuser is a hairstyling tool that spreads hot air over the surface of your curls in a controlled manner to give you a gentle drying effect. It can help prevent frizz and dryness and help you achieve healthy natural looking curls in a jiffy.
Try Plopping to encourage curl formation
Plopping is nothing but using a microfibre towel on your curls to encourage curl formation. Spread out a microfibre towel or t-shirt in front of you and lower down your curls on it. Gather up your hair and tie it in a top knot. Yes, it is that easy.
Finger coil it for definition
Finger coiling is an easy way to add definition to your curls. Apply styling products and then proceed to gather a bunch of your curls between your fingers. Twist each bunch in the direction you want your curls to form and you are good to go.
Pineapple your hair overnight
Protecting your curls as your sleep is one of the biggest challenges curly haired girls face. Try pineappling your hair before you go to bed. Gather your hair in a high pony tail and secure it with a head scarf or a hairtie. Wake up to tangle free curls in the morning effortlessly.
How to keep your curls healthy
Achieving those healthy natural looking curls is not a one step process but a lifelong commitment. Hence following proper haircare practices at every step is of the utmost importance. Here are some of the best practices you can follow to revitalize your hair:
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Trim split ends regularly. Split ends are a pain and you should get rid of them as soon as possible. They hinder hair growth and make your curls look lifeless. No treatment works on them and the only solution is to trim them. We recommend getting a haircut every three months to get rid of and avoid split ends;
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Limit heat styling whenever possible. While using heat can add shine to your hair, over using heat on your curls can seriously damage them. Limit heat styling and go for heat free hairstyling techniques whenever you can. Always remember to use a heat protectant before heat styling as well;
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Protect your hair from harsh environmental factors. Harsh weather conditions such as humidity and sun exposure can cause irreparable damage to your curls. Hence, protecting your hair from them is really important. Use a scarf or a sun hat when going out in the harsh sun. Add in a anti-frizz leave in conditioner for better protection;
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Incorporate a balanced diet. What you eat can seriously affect your hair. Hence always follow a balanced diet containing plenty of proteins, vegetable and fruits. Also drink plenty of water to provide hydration to your curls from within;
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Always diffuse your curls. As we touched upon briefly, diffusing your curls is the defacto method for getting healthy looking natural curls.
So what exactly is diffusing?
Diffusing is nothing but using a diffuser to dry your curls. A diffuser is a new age hair styling tool that controls the amount of heat applied to your curls and spreads hot air over its surface evenly. This helps you dry your curls gently and prevent frizz.
One of the best diffusers on the market currently is the Diffon Supreme by Bellissima Italia and we swear by its results!
The Diffon Supreme is a revolutionary hair drying tool that works on the principle of good heat. With superior Italian engineering at its heart, it is designed specifically for the needs of curly hair. Its innovative Curl booster system combines the action of a perforated grid and twelve long fingers to delicately dry your curls while protecting their natural shape and elasticity. Its Digital Heat control features 3 heat and 2 speed settings that gives you customized drying on the go. Further, Its Ion Care technology leaves your curls shiner and smoother. Not only this, its Creamic and Argan Oil technology protects your curls as you dry them and gives you an anti-frizz effect.
Its specially designed system works on 770 Watts power which might seem low, but in reality it is extremely gentle on your curls and protects them. It is also very flexible to use as a result of its professional 3 m cord and Silicon diffuser tips. Not only this, its faster drying times makes it ideal to use on long curly hair and when you are in a hurry!
So, add the Diffon Supreme to your cart today and see magic happen! Don't forget to share the results with us.
