If you didn’t know by now, NaturallyCurly has a Q&A section that many readers can leave questions to their unsolved curl mysteries. For most textured hair people, having multiple curl patterns can be confusing–especially when it comes to how to style and which products work best.
Question
“Help! My hair is several different types and I don’t know how to style.
I have some hair that is wavy, some small loose curls, and some that have tight curls. I don’t know how to style it because it is poofy and it lacks any type of shape. My roots are very straight and smooth. I’ve perfected straightening and curling it and I love it like that but I’m tired of frying it and it takes so much time to do. I want to embrace my curls but I don’t know how!! I try “plopping” and using t-shirts to dry my hair which helps but obviously not enough. HELP.” -user Kelly.Chris
Answer
According to Shai Amiel, a Los Angeles based curly hairstylist, “The best way to bring out the bounce of the natural curl is by eliminating some of the dead ends that weigh the hair down. I’d definitely recommend cutting some of the dead ends. The shorter you go the more body and bounce you will get.”
When asked about his favorite products and styling techniques he said, “I’d use a light hold gel to give the hair some tightness in order for you to maximize the curl pattern. For best results, diffuse curls upside down. It’s best to trust a curly hair specialist to cut it properly and treat it to bring back some elasticity that has been compromised by excessive straightening and color.”
Question
“Wavy or Curly or Both?
My hair is a combination of S shape waves and also a variety of curls that coil around sidewalk chalk, a sharpie, and a straw. Should I look for products for wavy hair or curly hair?” -user azpoochAnswer
Not all products labeled for wavy or curly hair are made the same. The key is to look at the ingredients listed. Because your hair has different textures some areas may require more moisture than others. However, certain products made for curly hair may contain heavier oils and butters that can weigh your hair down even more. Using products that contain more lightweight ingredients will be your best bet. Gentle sulfate-free shampoos will cleanse without stripping the hair. Follow up with a moisturizing conditioner and style with lightweight gels and creams.
Briogeo Be Gentle, Be Kind Green Tea Shampoo
- Sulfate-free cleanser that is suitable for all hair types
- Enriched with Green Tea antioxidants, B5 & E vitamins
- Paraben and silicone free
DevaCurl One Condition
- A rich and creamy daily conditioner that delivers maximum hydration
- Key ingredients include rosemary, lemongrass, olive oil and hops
- Free of sulfates, parabens, silicones, paraffin, mineral oil, phthalates and DEA/MEA/TEA
DevaCurl Light Defining Gel
- A light-hold moisturizing gel that provides definition while preventing frizz
- Key ingredients include chamomile, wheat and soy proteins
- Free of sulfates, parabens, silicones, paraffin, mineral oil, phthalates, alcohol, DEA/MEA/TEA
Do you have a question for myself or the NaturallyCurly community? Post it in the ASK section now.