Curly Hair Care for Conditioning & Strengthening

There is a misconception out in the curly world of exactly what conditioning and strengthening hair really means. Many people assume that they are one and the same. The truth of the matter is that they are very different. Here are some curly hair care tips for keeping your locks both strong and conditioned.

Hair Strengthening

Creating Healthy Hair

Strong curls will break less during styling. When you strengthen hair, you are really creating healthy hair. This “style resistant” hair is created by infusing vitamins into the hair cuticles. This process nourishes the hair roots, prevents breakage and hair loss, and will improve circulation. Unfortunately, curlies should keep in mind that these products only work temporarily, so it is important to repeat your favorite hair strengthening routine once per week so that the strength can continue.

• Products – There are many curly hair care products available in the form of creams, oils, and even some products specifically developed for all curl types. One of the best products for curly hair strengthening is a deep conditioner. Jessicurl Weekly Deep Conditioning Treatment is a great option. If you don’t have the time for a deep conditioning treatment, you may opt for hair strengthening shampoos and conditioners. Try CurlJunkie Beauticurls Strengthening Conditioner in place of your normal conditioner and watch the healthy hair appear! Want to put the strength on as a finishing touch? All you need is a spray or cream that is designed to strengthen either wet or dry curls. Spiral Solutions Leave-in Protein Spray will strengthen your locks and provide shine.
• Diet – The food we eat plays a very important role in hair strengthening. A diet rich in calcium, phytoestrogens (found in soy products”> and vitamin C can work wonders in terms of strengthening those fabulous curly locks.

Hair Conditioning

It’s all about moisture

Many of us use lotion, drink a lot of water, and use similar methods to moisturize our skin every day. Our curls need this same type of curly hair care in the form of conditioning.

Unlike strengthening, which keeps hair from breaking, conditioning adds moisture to our curls, and should be part of our healthy hair regimen. In all honesty, a good conditioner can mean the difference between a head of beautifully flowing locks and a head-full of frizz.

• Rinse-out Conditioners – There are many choices when it comes to conditioners you can use and rinse out after shampooing. Read the labels carefully to determine if the specific conditioner is right for your type of hair. It’s best to leave the conditioner in your hair for a few minutes before rinsing it out. This will allow it to penetrate your curls and add the moisture that you seek. If possible, up to 30 minutes is desirable.
• Leave-in Conditioner – In addition to adding moisture to your curls with a rinse out conditioner, you can opt for a leave-in conditioner. After washing and towel drying your hair, apply a leave-in conditioner to your hair and then style as normal. Leave-in conditioners allow your hair to soak up the moisture on a continuous basis, adding a soft feel and shiny look throughout the day. Be careful not to use too much, however, because if there is one thing that we curlies hate, it’s that greasy look.

Strengthen or Condition?

• The strength of your curly hair comes mostly from within, and depends on your diet and overall health.
• Curly hair care involves a lot of conditioning to help your curls stay moist and frizz-free.
• Deep condition regularly, eat right, and use leave-in conditioners daily, and you will be well on your way to hair beauty!