Bellissima Italia

How to style naturally curly hair in 15 tips

Written by Bellissima Italia | Mar 14, 2024

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 couldn’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 comprehensive tips and product recommendations for styling naturally curly hair. Read along to know more.

Is My Hair Naturally Curly?

Not sure if your hair is naturally curly? Here are some common signs of naturally curly hair:
  • Your hair forms curls or waves without the need for styling tools.
  • Your hair tends to be drier compared to straight hair.
  • You have a defined texture that is neither completely straight nor fully frizzy.

If you recognise these symptoms, it’s likely that your hair is naturally curly.
Wavy or curly hair can also look straight when wet. Furthermore, once dried without styling, if there is a lot of frizz and even untidy waves, you may have wavy/curly hair. 

The good news is that with the right steps it can be enhanced!

15 Tips for Naturally Curly Hair

Tip 1: 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. 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.

Tip 2: 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. Choose your haircare products carefully. Go for a sulphate 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 and Argan Oil.

Tip 3: 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. Hot water can be extremely damaging to your hair, so only wash your hair with lukewarm water. Use a strong-hold conditioner that doesn't weigh down your curls and co-wash between washes for healthier hair.

Tip 4: Combat Frizz

Frizz can be one of the most annoying problems for curly-haired individuals. Always prep your hair by pre-pooing it with a hair mask or hair oil to combat frizz. Additionally, remember that the more moisturised your hair is, the less frizzy it will be.

Tip 5: Detangle Your Curls Properly

Tangles are a common issue with curly hair. To effectively detangle your curls, use a wide-toothed comb instead of a standard hairbrush. Also, try ‘pineappling’ your hair before you sleep to prevent tangles.

Looking for a way to make your curls last longer between washes? Discover "The ultimate guide to keeping your curls looking great between washes".

Tip 6: Keep Your Hair Moisturised

Dryness can detract from the natural beauty of your curls. Use fast-acting leave-in conditioners to keep dryness at bay. Choose your hair-drying method carefully; Drying hair with the right diffuser and the right technologies (argan, ceramic and ions, such as Diffon Supreme) prevents frizz and dryness.

Tip 7: Understand Your Curl Type

Each mane of curly hair is unique. Different types of curly hair have their own characteristics and needs. Understanding your curl type (wavy, curly, or coily) and its subtypes (A, B, or C) can help you choose the right products and techniques.

Tip 8: Diffuse Your Curls for Volume and Bounce

 A diffuser is a hairstyling tool that spreads hot air over the surface of your curls in a controlled manner, giving you a gentle drying effect. It can help prevent frizz and dryness, and help you achieve healthy, natural-looking curls quickly.

Tip 9: Try Plopping to Encourage Curl Formation

Plopping involves using a microfibre towel or t-shirt to encourage curl formation. Spread out the towel or t-shirt, lower your curls onto it, gather up your hair, and tie it in a top knot.

Tip 10: Use Finger Coiling for Definition

Finger coiling is an easy way to add definition to your curls. Apply styling products, then gather a bunch of curls between your fingers, twisting each bunch in the direction you want your curls to form.

Tip 11: Pineapple Your Hair Overnight

Protecting your curls as you sleep is one of the biggest challenges curly-haired people face. Pineapple your hair before going to bed by gathering your hair in a high ponytail and securing it with a headscarf or hair tie. In the morning, wake up with tangle-free curls and well-preserved volume at the roots.

Tip 12: Trim Split Ends Regularly

Split ends hinder hair growth and make your curls look lifeless. The only solution is to trim them. We recommend getting a haircut every three months to get rid of and avoid split ends.

Tip 13: Limit Heat Styling

While using heat can add shine to your hair, overusing heat can seriously damage your curls. Limit heat styling and opt for heat-free hairstyling techniques whenever possible. Always use a heat protectant before heat styling and prefer heat-controlled tools, such as Diffon Supreme.

Tip 14: Protect Your Hair from Harsh Environmental Factors

Harsh weather conditions such as humidity and sun exposure can cause irreparable damage to your curls. Use a scarf or a sun hat when going out in harsh sun. Add an anti-frizz leave-in conditioner for better protection.

Tip 15: Maintain a Balanced Diet

What you eat can significantly affect your hair. Follow a balanced diet containing plenty of proteins, vegetables, and fruits. Drink plenty of water to provide hydration to your curls from within.

Conclusion

Embracing your naturally curly hair can be a transformative experience, allowing you to showcase your unique beauty. By following these 15 tips, you can maintain healthy, bouncy, and frizz-free curls that reflect your true self. Remember, the journey to loving your curly hair is a process of understanding and caring for it in the best way possible. 

To achieve even better results, try Diffon Supreme by Bellissima Italia! This next-generation diffuser is the ultimate solution for curly hair.

Our innovative Ion Care Technology and the combination of gentle heat with ceramic and Argan oil ensure your hair remains soft, bouncy, and well-defined. 

Experience the power of Diffon Supreme and enjoy voluminous, highly-defined curls that last!