Curly hair offers endless styling possibilities – from beachy waves to bouncy ringlets and chic updos. Achieving beautiful curls requires the right technique and tools. This guide provides a step-by-step routine for creating stunning curly hairstyles, from prepping your hair to the final finish.
We’ll also cover different curl types, product recommendations, and styling tips for various looks. By following these steps, you can enhance your natural curls or create glamorous styles with confidence.
Before styling, start with clean, conditioned hair. Choose the right products: Use sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner formulated for your curl type to cleanse and moisturize hair.
Preparation
If you plan to use heat, apply a heat protectant spray to shield your hair from damage.
Section your hair
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Divide your hair into sections using clips or ties. This helps ensure even styling and prevents tangling. The number of sections depends on your hair length and thickness. For example, 4–6 sections for shoulder-length hair, or more for longer hair.
Use a wide-tooth comb
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Before styling, gently comb through any tangles with a wide-tooth comb to avoid breakage. This is especially important after washing or when using styling products.
Detangle and Condition
Curly hair can be prone to tangles, so take the time to detangle gently.
Apply conditioner
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After washing, work a generous amount of conditioner through your hair from mid-lengths to ends. This helps smooth the cuticle and makes detangling easier.
Detangle with fingers or a brush
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Use your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to carefully remove knots, starting at the ends and working your way up to the roots. For stubborn tangles, use a detangling brush or comb specifically designed for curly hair.
Protect curls
If you use a brush, do so on damp hair and start at the ends to minimize pulling.
Deep condition (optional)
For extra moisture, you can apply a deep conditioner and leave it on for a few minutes (or overnight) before rinsing. This is particularly beneficial for dry or damaged curls.
Hydrate and prep
To set the stage for styling, consider using a leave-in conditioner or curl cream. Apply a small amount to damp hair and distribute it evenly. This will help define your curls and provide long-lasting hold.
By properly detangling and conditioning, you’ll ensure your hair is ready to be styled into beautiful curls.
Styling with Products
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Curly hair thrives on moisture and definition. Choosing the right styling products is key to achieving your desired look. Here’s a breakdown of common products and how to use them:
Leave-In Conditioner
Apply a leave-in conditioner to damp hair to hydrate and detangle. Look for lightweight formulas that won’t weigh down your curls.
Work it through your hair from mid-lengths to ends, using your fingers to distribute evenly. A leave-in conditioner provides moisture and helps protect against frizz.
Curl Cream or Defining Cream
Curl creams are excellent for adding definition and hold to curls. Scoop out a small amount of curl cream and emulsify it between your palms. Then, scrunch the product into your hair, starting from the ends and working your way up.
Focus on sections and use a raking motion to encourage curl formation. Curl creams help enhance your natural curl pattern and add shine.
Mousse
Mousse is great for adding volume and lift to waves or loose curls. Shake the mousse well, then dispense a dollop into your hands. Rub your hands together and apply the mousse to your roots, then scrunch it through the mid-lengths and ends.
Use a comb to distribute the mousse evenly. Mousse provides body and hold, making it ideal for fine or flat curls. For tighter curls, use a gel instead of mousse to avoid frizz.
Gel
Gel is the go-to product for defining tight curls and coils. Start with a small amount of gel (about a quarter-sized amount for short hair and adjust for longer hair). Rub the gel between your palms and then scrunch it into your hair.
For tighter curls, use a twisting or scrunching motion to encourage clumping. If needed, add more gel to any areas that look dry or undefined.
A good gel will provide strong hold and help your curls last all day.
Tip: Apply gel to soaking-wet hair for maximum definition. Let it dry without touching your hair to avoid frizz. Once dry, you can scrunch out any crunchy cast for a softer look.
Serum or Oil:
For a finishing touch, you can apply a small amount of serum or oil to your hair. Serums help reduce frizz and add shine, while oils (like argan oil or coconut oil) can moisturize and seal the cuticle. Apply a few drops of serum or oil to your palms and run them through the ends of your hair. Avoid the roots to prevent greasiness.
Pro tip:
Experiment with different product combinations to find what works best for your hair. Many curlies “cocktail” products – for example, using a leave-in conditioner mixed with a curl cream or a gel layered over a mousse.
Start with a light application and build up if needed. Remember to apply products on damp hair and avoid touching your hair while it dries to maintain definition.
Drying Methods
How you dry your curls can greatly affect their shape and definition. There are several methods to choose from, each with its own benefits.
Air-Drying
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Air-drying is the gentlest way to dry curly hair and allows your curls to form naturally. After applying styling products, let your hair air-dry.
You can either leave it loose or scrunch it into a t-shirt or microfiber towel (a technique called “plopping”) to help it dry in place and reduce frizz.
Plopping:
Gather your hair into a loose bun and wrap it in a soft t-shirt or microfiber towel. Secure it with a clip or scrunchie. Plopping helps shape your curls and absorbs excess water. Leave your hair plopped for about 10–15 minutes, then release it and let it air-dry.
Benefits:
Air-drying minimizes heat damage and is ideal for those with very thick or coarse hair. It also allows your curls to dry in their natural shape, which can result in beautiful, defined curls.
Tip:
If you have time, air-drying is a great option. However, if you’re in a hurry, consider using a diffuser to cut down drying time.
Diffusing
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A hair dryer diffuser is a tool that disperses airflow gently, helping to dry your curls while maintaining their shape.
Attach a diffuser to your blow dryer and use low heat and low speed settings. High heat can cause frizz and damage.
Divide your hair into sections and gently scrunch each section into the diffuser, cupping the hair to encourage curl shape. Move the diffuser around your head and avoid holding it in one spot too long.
For extra volume, flip your head upside down and diffuse the roots and underside of your hair.
Finish with cool air to set the curls and reduce frizz.
Benefits:
Diffusing can significantly cut down drying time and helps preserve curl definition.
Pro tip:
Start diffusing while your hair is still damp. Always use a heat protectant.
Using Heat Stylers
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Heat styling tools like curling irons or flat irons can be used for quicker styles or specific curl patterns.
Always apply a heat protectant before using any hot tool.
Choose the right tool based on curl size, section your hair, curl each section, and allow curls to cool before touching. Alternate curl directions for a more natural look.
Finish with cool air to set the curls.
Tip:
Use lower heat for fine hair and higher heat for thick or coarse hair, always with protection.
Enhancing and Shaping
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Once your hair is dry, scrunch out any gel cast for softer curls. Use your fingers to define clumps, separate curls for volume, or twist sections to refine shape.
Avoid brushing dry curls. Add texture with a texturizing spray or dry shampoo if desired.
Handle curls gently to prevent frizz and maintain definition.
Setting and Finishing
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Use a flexible-hold hairspray to keep your style in place without stiffness. Spray lightly from a distance and avoid direct application onto curls.
Optional finishing steps include adding shine serum, smoothing flyaways, or securing styles with pins or accessories.
Common Curly Hairstyles
- Beachy Waves
- Bouncy Curls
- Curly Ponytail
- Half-Up Half-Down
- Curly Updo
- Braids
- Curly Pixie Cut
- Curly Bob
These styles work across different curl types and occasions. Experiment and enjoy the versatility of curly hair.
Aftercare and Maintenance
Maintain curls between washes by refreshing with water or curl refresher sprays. Minimize touching, sleep on satin or silk pillowcases, and protect curls overnight with bonnets or braids.
Get regular trims, deep condition regularly, use suitable products, and be gentle when washing and detangling.
By following these aftercare tips, you can keep your curly hairstyle looking fresh and defined between washes.
Remember, curly hair requires extra care and attention, but with the right routine, you can enjoy beautiful, healthy curls every day.
