Smooth and shiny curls can seem like they are miles away when you are first figuring out what products your curls like. Even those curlies who have been natural for years can still have trouble battling their frizz. We’ve put together a list of 10 tips and tricks that can give you that smooth and shiny hair you’ve been waiting for.
Take care of those curls: It can be hard to completely embrace your natural look, but once you ditch the straightener and any other method that damages your hair, you will notice a huge change in the health of your hair. You will start to notice less frizz and damage, and instead you’ll see shine and have smooth curls.
Condition often: Conditioner is key to get the smooth and shiny look you are looking for. Find a conditioner that your hair absolutely loves and run with it. Remember, there are many people who only wash their hair with conditioner for a reason!
Be careful with that comb: If you comb out your hair, start at the bottom and work your way up. Starting at the top can cause breakage and damage which leads to frizzy hair. Many people with curly hair only finger comb their hair, but if you do use a shower comb, be careful how you use it.
Give your hair a break from heat: Most curlies know that heat can cause some serious damage and lead to some serious frizz. If you diffuse your hair often, use a lower heat seating to keep your curls from being damaged. If you decide to use a straightener, make sure you find a heat protector that will do a good job at keeping your hair healthy.
Watch what you eat: Protein, dark green vegetables and fresh fruits lead to shiny hair (read more here“>. Veggies contribute much needed iron and vitamin E, while fish has omega-3 and omega-6, two fatty acids that make hair shiny. Unfortunately, no holiday desserts make the list.
Drink lots of water: Water benefits your body in many ways, including the state of your hair. Lack of water in your body causes dry, coarse and brittle hair. If you have a hard time drinking the amount of water you need to every day, keep a water bottle with you and fill it up constantly. The more water you drink, the better you’ll feel and the better your hair will look.
Avoid an overload of coffee and soda: Coffee and soda are two jumpstarts that many people turn to in the morning. However, too much caffeine can prevent shiny and smooth hair. Instead, grab a smoothie or juice with fruits and vegetables in it to add the shine your craving.
Rinse your hair with cold water: You might have heard about this method from other curlies, and there is a reason why. Rinsing your hair with cold water causes the cuticle of your hair to lie flat and the cool water smooths your hair. It might not be the most comfortable way to end a shower, but your curls will thank you for it.
Want to color your curls? Use henna: Henna is a natural way to color your hair that many curlies turn to, but it also improves your hair’s health and adds shine. Before you turn to a store-bought color, try henna first.
Test products: Thankfully, there are products made for curly hair that are specifically meant to add shine and take away frizz. Trial and error is key, but when you find a product that adds shine to your hair and also takes frizz away, you will never quit using it.
