Confession: My curly hair has always been a wild journey for me. Growing up in the ’90s and early ’00s, when straight hair was considered the gold standard, I tirelessly attempted to tame my curls with chemical treatments and heating tools. However, all I got in return were fried ends and hair overloaded with products, leaving me feeling utterly miserable.
As someone deeply involved in the fashion industry, I’ve witnessed the progressive changes in hair care over the past decade. Outdated, heavy leave-in treatments have given way to innovative formulations tailored specifically for curly hair needs. And now, after more than ten years since I last used a straightening iron, I’m proud to say that I’ve abandoned my quest for straight hair. Nowadays, I embrace my natural curls, styling them without heat whenever possible. If you’re skeptical, I invite you to keep an open mind because the advice I’m about to share is simpler than you might expect.
1. Embrace the Microfiber Towel
Let’s start with the basics: your towel. Regular terrycloth towels can be rough on your hair, leading to increased frizz and dryness. Microfiber towels are a game-changer. They’re softer, more absorbent, and significantly reduce drying time. For curly hair, it’s best to leave your hair wrapped until it’s semi-dry – this ensures excess water is absorbed without causing damage. Try the microfiber towels from Crown Affair, and trust me, you’ll notice the difference.
2. Master the Art of Diffusing
Air-drying isn’t always an option, especially when you’re in a hurry. That’s when a diffuser comes to the rescue. I’ve had my fair share of hair mishaps with regular hair dryers, but learning to use a diffuser correctly has been a game-changer. Attach the diffuser, set your blow-dryer to medium-high heat, and adjust as needed based on your hair’s thickness and heat sensitivity. Tilt your head forward, aim the diffuser towards your curls, and work section by section. Patience is key, so keep going until your hair is almost dry. And don’t forget to pay attention to your roots for bouncy curls. The diffuser attachment from Dyson Supersonic is worth the investment.
3. Mix and Match Your Product Cocktails
Did you know that mixing two hair care products together can yield different results than simply layering them? It’s called a product cocktail, and it’s a game-changer for curly hair. Finding the perfect combination might take some trial and error, but start by blending products you already love and use. You can try pairing a curl cream with a gel, mousse with a leave-in conditioner, or a conditioning oil with a curl-defining hair serum. Take it from me; experimentation will lead you to your unique winning combination. If you’re just starting out, give the Curlsmith air-dry cream a go, and enhance it with the flaxseed-infused gel from Fix My Curls.
4. Shield Your Hair with Sunblock
We all know the importance of protecting our skin from the sun, but do you ever think about your hair? Prolonged sun exposure can cause moisture loss and pigment fading, resulting in dry and lackluster curls. Applying sunscreen to your hair should be a routine step, regardless of whether you air-dry or use a diffuser. Consider using a heat protectant like the SPF 30 heat protectant from Clarins to shield your hair from the damaging effects of UV rays.
5. Embrace Heat-Free Styling
I get it – the thought of leaving your curls to dry naturally without any heat styling may feel intimidating, especially if you’ve relied on it for years. But trust me, well-nourished and properly cared-for curls can amaze you with their natural beauty. After applying your products, try finger-curling sections, creating pin curls with clips, or braiding your hair for beautiful waves the next morning. If you need a little extra assistance, the heatless curling set from Kitsch is a fantastic option.
Remember, beauty is all about embracing what makes you unique. Embrace your curly hair this summer, and let it be the star of the show. For more tips and inspiration, explore the world of beauty at beauty. Trust me, you’ll never look back.
This post was originally published in Vogue India.