Hydration is key
One of the most important aspects of maintaining curls is keeping them hydrated. Curly hair tends to be drier than straight hair because the natural oils produced by the scalp have a harder time traveling down the length of the hair shaft. To combat dryness, use a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner specifically formulated for curly hair. Look for products containing hydrating ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, or argan oil to help nourish and soften your curls.
Apply leave-in conditioner
After washing your hair, apply a leave-in conditioner to help lock in moisture and prevent frizz. Leave-in conditioners also provide added protection against heat styling and environmental damage. Work the product through your damp hair using your fingers or a wide-tooth comb, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends where curls tend to be the driest.
Avoid overwashing
Washing your hair too frequently can strip away natural oils and cause your curls to become dry and brittle. Instead, try to wash your hair no more than two or three times a week, depending on your hair type and lifestyle. In between washes, you can refresh your curls by using a water-based spray or mist to rehydrate them and revive their shape.
Use a microfiber towel or T-shirt to dry your hair
Traditional towels can be rough on curly hair and cause friction, leading to frizz and breakage. Instead, opt for a microfiber towel or an old t-shirt to gently squeeze excess water out of your curls after washing. Avoid rubbing your hair vigorously, as this can disrupt the curl pattern and cause frizz. Instead, gently blot your hair to remove moisture without disturbing your curls.
Apply styling products
Once your hair is towel-dried, apply your favorite styling products to help define and hold your curls in place. Choose products that are specifically designed for curly hair, such as curl creams, gels, or mousses. Work the product through your hair using your fingers, ensuring that it is evenly distributed from root to tip. Experiment with different styling techniques to find what works best for your curls, whether it’s scrunching, twisting, or finger coiling.
Protect your curls while sleeping
To prevent your curls from getting flattened or frizzy while you sleep, consider using a satin or silk pillowcase. These materials are gentler on your hair and help reduce friction, allowing your curls to maintain their shape and definition overnight. Alternatively, you can pineapple your hair by gathering it into a loose ponytail on top of your head and securing it with a scrunchie or satin hair scarf.
Regular trims
Regular trims are essential for keeping your curls looking their best. Split ends and damaged hair can prevent your curls from forming properly and make them appear dull and lifeless. Aim to get a trim every 8-12 weeks to remove any split ends and keep your curls healthy and bouncy.
Conman Sukesh Chandrasekhar’s love letter to Jacqueline Fernandez for her song ‘Yimmy Yimmy’: Each word and every line appears to mirror our story
Protect your curls from heat damage
Excessive heat styling can damage your curls and cause them to lose their shape over time. Whenever possible, opt for heat-free styling techniques such as air-drying, diffusing, or using foam rollers to achieve your desired look. If you do need to use heat tools, be sure to apply a heat protectant spray beforehand to minimize damage and always use a lower heat setting to avoid frying your curls.