Whether you’re blessed with coily ringlets, curly locks or soft waves, there is a tried-and-true list of curly hair must-haves for keeping them healthy, happy, and frizz-free. With the right tools, techniques, and curl-enhancing hair products for curly hair, you can lock in a routine to make every type of curl look its best.
Two of the most important products for curly hair are the ones that cleanse and initially hydrate: shampoo and conditioner. As the foundation of proper curl maintenance, this ubiquitous shower duo should be specially formulated for curly hair.
Curly hair must-haves always include a leave-in conditioner. Not only do leave-ins add and lock in extra moisture, but they also help retain that moisture between washes by sealing the hair cuticles. This protects your curls for the long term.
If you’re still using a blow dryer, make sure to attach a round diffuser or stylist-approved air diffuser bag. These curly hair must-have products are designed to limit the flow of hot air, prevent frizz, and protect your curls from potential heat damage – especially considering curly hair is naturally on the dry side.
Even though you’re using a heat diffuser, keep the blow dryer at a low speed and on low heat. Try drying your hair upside down while scrunching with your fingers to add definition. And consider practicing curl-safe styling by applying a heat protectant like Honey Milk Heat Shield.
Rather than rubbing your hair dry with a towel, gently pat it with a microfiber towel to absorb just the right amount of moisture and prevent frizz. This technique is gentler on hair, so it will limit breakage and ensure healthy curls. You can also add your product directly to damp hair and scrunch-wrap it up to dry, which is even better than blow-drying!
The surface of regular terrycloth towels is made of tiny loops that cause friction. At a micro level, this rubbing breaks open the protective cuticles on the surface of each strand of hair, which lets water evaporate at a much faster rate. Soft low-friction fabric maintains curl integrity by helping lock in moisture.
Don’t overlook curl enhancing hair products like curl serums and creams. They dramatically reduce the frizz because they are specially formulated to smooth and define curls while adding shine. Try rubbing a dab of Fructis Sleek & Shine Anti-Frizz Serum with curl-loving argan oil on the tips and lengths of your hair before drying.
Curl creams, hair oils, and styling serums are definitely some of the best products for curly hair. Beyond adding deep hydration, they provide definition, bounce, and some degree of hold. A hybrid like Curl Sculpt Conditioning Cream Gel conditions as it styles. And depending on your curl texture and porosity, you can cocktail curly hair products like a leave-in and a gel to achieve your desired moisture level and look.
Curly hair gets knotted easily, so take steps to prevent tangles. Always use a wide-toothed comb or detangling brush to avoid breakage, which can lead to serious damage.
You can detangle in the shower while applying conditioner or afterwards with a leave-in or hair oil. It’s important to start from the ends and work your way up instead of brushing or combing from the roots down.
Similar to using soft microfiber or cotton on curls after a shower, frictionless silk or satin pillowcases care for your curls overnight – so add them to your list of curly hair essentials. They really make a difference when it comes to keeping the hair cuticles intact, and thereby retaining moisture.
Your curly hair must-have products should include curl styling sprays or mists. They are especially beneficial for curly hair that is washed less often and usually needs a refresh for definition and a moisture boost between shampoos.
