Three women showcasing a range of curly hairstyles, from loose waves to tight coils. Three women showcasing a range of curly hairstyles, from loose waves to tight coils.

The Best Curly Hair Routine

Curly hair thrives when you follow the right curly hair routine for your type of locks. First determine whether your locks are wavy, curly, or coily. Then give your ringlets some love with these curly hair routine steps and check out the bonus tips at the end!

Curly Hair Wash Day Routine

Should you wash curly hair every day? The answer depends on finding the right cleansing method for your curl type.

Thick and coily hair: Skip the shampoo and try gentle cleansing with conditioner only—a technique called co-washing.

Wavy and springy curls: Use a sulfate-free clarifying shampoo, like Fructis Curl Nourish Shampoo, that won’t strip natural oils.

Woman washing her long curly hair in the shower.
Woman with her hair in a slicked-back bun, prepped for styling.

Condition and Detangle

During your curly hair shower routine, start by parting your hair into sections and applying conditioner to each one. Then, use a wide-tooth comb or detangling brush to carefully work through any knots. You can also use your fingers to detangle.

For wavy hair or looser curl patterns, apply a rich formula like Fructis Curl Nourish Conditioner liberally. Leave it on for a few minutes to nourish and hydrate your hair, then rinse thoroughly.

If you're co-washing, create a deep moisturizing hair mask by combining your conditioner with a hydrating hair oil, such as Fructis Curl Multi-Use Oil. Apply the mixture from root to tip, cover your hair with a warm towel or shower cap, and leave it on for at least 20 minutes before rinsing well.

Prep Curls Before Styling

Curly hair looks its best when styled before it dries. While your hair is still wet, section it before applying styling products. Try these techniques to lock in the perfect curl:

For shrinkage-prone hair: Use Fructis Curl Scrunch Controlling Gel to moisturize and elongate your curls or coils. Coat each section of your hair with this anti-shrinkage cream to achieve your desired curl pattern.

For wavy or looser curl types: Apply Fructis Curl Sculpt Conditioning Cream Gel to create well-defined, frizz-free curls.

Pro-Tip: After applying product, try the "plopping" method with a T-shirt or a microfiber towel to maximize curl definition, reduce frizz, and prevent breakage.

Close-up of a person applying a hair mask or oil treatment.
Woman with styled, voluminous curly hair.

Time to Style!

Whether you air dry or use a diffuser, apply a quarter-sized amount of Fructis Curl Multi-Use Oil to achieve maximum volume and definition. Work it through the mid-lengths and ends of your hair, then start separating your curls. Fluff them at the roots using your fingers or a hair pick comb.

Hair Care Routine Quiz

Hair Care Routine Quiz

Discover your personalized Garnier hair care regimen.