Have you been experimenting with products and regimens in an effort to achieving the best curls? Sure you have. We all have done that at some point. We bet you have searched many videos and websites on how to get the best curl definition, with Wash and Go’s, twist outs, etc. Well, honey*, look no further; I think I have everything you need in a short twelve step list.
Ok, twelve isn’t very short, but it helps to be detailed. Before I get to the list though, I must point out that your curl definition is not the same as anyone else’s, so don’t go into this expecting to achieve results that you see in a picture or a video. You will be enhancing your own curls, and no one elses. Now that we have got that business out of the way, lets go:
1. Keep your hair well-moisturized
One of the best ways to train your curls to stay curly longer is by keeping them moisturized. To do this, you must condition regularly, and deep condition as well. Curls that are dry will not have the same definition as quenched and moisturized curls.
2. Shampoo or co-wash in the shower
Cleansing your hair in the shower is a great idea, and this type of cleansing is highly recommended. When you wash your hair in the shower, the water keeps your curls elongated downward reducing tangles. Flipping your hair over causes tangles, and the less you manipulate your hair, the less it frizzes.
3. Divide your hair into sections
To wash or apply products, make sure you section your hair off, which makes this easier, and avoids tangles. It also ensures that products get applied completely, and covers every inch of your hair.
Use clips to keep your hair out of the way, and apply your products from root to tip. Be sure that each section is saturated with product, which helps with curl definition and moisture maintenance.
4. Apply your products while your hair is wet
Before styling your hair, it should be wet! Do not towel dry your hair. Instead, squeeze out the excess water from your hair. After leaving the shower, begin applying your products, and if your hair dries before you finish applying, spray it with water.
Putting your products on while your hair is wet helps lock in the style and moisture. Using your hands or a denman brush*, work the product through, and watch your curls and coils clump together on their own. When you are applying your products, take your time, and smooth the hair shaft in downward motion to distribute the products evenly.
5. NO Scrunching!
Sorry, but scrunching your hair is not for curly hair. Its actually for wavy hair. Wavy-haired women do this to achieve a more curly look. Scrunching curly hair will cause it to frizz up.
I’m still trying to find the right fit to define my curls. I am trying to define and get a touch of shake movement. I’ll do my hair and then my hair shrinks up and if I try to shake it there is no movement what so ever. lol I’ve even done the maximum hydration stuff and it just likes to shrink up and be stiff.
this is it! when i first saw the title i thought it might be the beginning of another “what is natural debate”, but the article is so on point! i actually do 9 of the 12 ways posted and my hair and I are totally in love! great article! thank you so much for this! (y)
What products do you recommend that are not oil based? I think every product I own has oils in it.
I don’t do the pineapple method to maintain my twists. I find that leaving the twists out even in the pineapple method drys out my hair. I take sections and make large twists, and throw a silk cap on, in the morning I unravel the large twists. All my small twist outs have been preserved, and are very soft and moisturized, even though I didn’t apply and water, oil or product. They fall right back in place. Watch the YouTube video from GabeBabeTV called maintaining a twist out. It’s awesome.
fantastic