Search Results: Curly Suzy
Dear CurlySuzy: I am a 58-year-old Caucasian female with very fine, thinning curly hair. I also have highlights. I had my hair cut in a bob but the blow drying and flat ironing has made a dry mess. Since I live in East Texas, humidity is a big factor the more we get into warm weather. I’m trying to let my hair be natural but its frizzy, lifeless and not very becoming. If you can give me some direction and advice about products and styling, you will get the “gold star” and a huge “e-hug” from me. My hair is not really long; basically just below my chin. I do hope you can help me.
Dear Mickey: Here are a bunch of suggestions below. I truly believe your curls can be fabulous. I think you need a lot of moisture in those curls. These suggestions are to help with the frizz, dryness and sad curls.
For Blow Drying
Professional Finger Diffuser is good to use when you blow dry your curl. Try not to touch or scrunch too much while you are styling.
Shampoos & Conditioners
For a great sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner, try DevaCurl No-Poo and DevaCurl One Condition.
Jessicurl Gentle Lather Shampoo and Jessicurl Aloeba Daily Conditioner is another good combination. I also like the Jessicurl Trial Size Collection of products to test how they work for your curls. It is important to follow the instructions in the sit for best results.
Elucence Volume Clarifying Shampoo is a good shampoo to alternate with the non-sulfate ones.
Mousse
Any of these mousse products would be great for volume and curl activation. They will dry with a glaze, so just scrunch a very little bit for soft defined curls. All good for controlling frizz in humidity.
Pomade & Styler
MOP Glisten High Shine Pomade is a great pomade for the ends that can get fuzzy. Also good to use on hands when barely scrunching out the glaze. Use very little (the size of a small pea”> rub between palms and then apply.
Curlisto Structura Spray is a great spray to use on curls after they dry. Just a little bit and you will have great frizz control.
The Curltini styling elixir is a pricey item, but includes products that we chose for this hair type that work best together. There is even a handy recipe card that gives instructions and lots of options.
AG Re:coil Curl Activating Balm is very powerful — just use a very little bit.
Deep Conditioners
These are some great deep conditioners that you can use for 30 minutes once a week:
Curl Junkie Curl Rehab Moisturizing Hair Treatment
Dear CurlySuzy: I have 3B type hair cut in a short bob, longer in front than in back. I currently use Fructis curl paste and L’Oreal Studio Line out of bed. I like big hair and use a diffuser to blow dry. My problem is now that summer is here, my hair is completely flat! I need help — but I want my hair big and a mix between curl and wave. What should I use?
Dear Donna: Here are some suggestions for your curls. First, you might need to use a clarifying shampoo once a month in your curls to get the build-up from the products out of your hair. Build up can make your curls flat and limp. I will also give you some suggestions for products that add volume and curl definition. Some will dry with a bit of a glaze. Just scrunch a bit when your hair is dry and the curls will be soft and bigger. I hope this helps, and please email me if you have more questions.
3 good clarifying shampoos; you will probably like the Elucence one the best:
Hair Rules Aloe Grapefruit Clarifying Shampoo
Elucence Volume Clarifying Shampoo
These are some great deep conditioners — good to do a 30-minute treatment once a week. Definitely do a treatment after using clarifying shampoo.
Curl Junkie Curl Rehab Moisturizing Hair Treatment
MYHoneyChild Olive You Deep Conditioner
Jessicurl Weekly Deep Conditioning Treatment
These products will really add volume when you use your diffuser! The gel you like will probably work well under these.
Dear CurlySuzy: I happened across your site by chance and don’t have a lot of time to find products but want to get started. Hopefully you can steer me in the right direction. I have prematurely gray hair (it’s just about all silver”> that’s probably 2c or 3a. By the nape, I’d say 3b. Right now, it’s medium to long length with long (overgrown, due to the fact that I *still* haven’t found a decent stylist”> layers. I always air dry & have a toddler so not a lot of time. Suggestions?
Dear Karen: Here are a bunch of links to products for your curl type 2c to 3a. I hope this helps! The cleansers and conditioners will help all the other products work well. A non-sulfate shampoo helps with moisture, which will keep the frizz away. The conditioners are nice too. Please email me again if you have questions.
DevaCare No Poo and DevaCare One Condition are a great non-sulfate cleanser and conditioner.
Jessicurl Gentle Lather Shampoo and Jessicurl Aloeba Daily Conditioner are another good combination.
Curltini is a combination products that we chose for this hair type that work best together; there is even a handy recipe card that gives instructions.
Curl Keeper and AG Re:coil are two products that work really well together. Apply the Curl Keeper on very wet hair and follow with the Re:coil. Curl Keeper is a leave-in that really helps with frizz and definition — it is like a light leave-in. Re:coil is a curl activator and has some hold to it; it’s also very concentrated!! A little goes a long way. You could use this by itself as well.
John Masters Organics Citrus Neroli Detangler is a great leave-in conditioner that any product will work well with.
HPO is a great new line for us.
You can search for a curly salon in your area on NaturallyCurly.com.
Dear CurlySuzy: I am an African-American woman with 4a or 4b type hair. My hair is tightly coiled, especially at the back of my head, with a wiry texture if it’s not covered in some kind of product. My main problem has been finding products that can keep my hair moisturized. I tried Carol’s Daughter (not for me at all”>, Miss Jessie’s (I like the Baby Buttercreme for two strand twists and rat -tail twists”>, Pantene Brown Bottle (works the best of all the shampoos and conditioners I’ve tried”>.
I don’t know what to do to my hair after the conditioner to keep it moisturized. I usually air dry.
Is it impossible for me to have soft, moisturized, natural hair? Can you help me?
Dear Gretchen: Yes, it is possible. First I would start with the shampoo. If you love the Pantene, stay with it, but try to also alternate with a non-sulfate shampoo. Sulfates are really drying and harsh. Also you can just rinse your hair some days and wash your hair with conditioner. In regard to products, here are some links to some that you might like. The first is an article about the woman that created the cocktail Curlarita. Curlarita is the second link and is a great combination of products to add moisture and control to your 3c /4a curls (and 4b I think”>. It contains the most moisturizing products. The other links are to lines that are super for your hair type as well. Hope this helps, and please email me if you have more questions.
Curlarita is the most moisturizing combination of products with a great instructional recipe card included.
This is a great combination; you just need to use a little bit of the custard after putting in the Knot today:
Kinky Curly Come Clean Moisturizing Shampoo
I like this line and these are just 2 that you might like:
Curl Junkie Curl Assurance Gentle Cleansing Shampoo
Curl Junkie Curl Assurance Aloe Fix Hair Styling Gel
This line is great, too, healthy and moisturizing.
Dear CurlySuzy writes articles on ingredients and finding the right products for your curls.
Summer is nearly here. Thoughts of white jeans and tropical drinks are welcome after months spent in sweaters and indoor heating. The weather is changing from dry and cold to warm and humid. And your hair routine has to change as well.
It is time to really listen to your curls. If you have a lot of tangles, your locks are feeling rough and there is breakage, you need some serious rescue from the winter wear and tear. And you need to protect your locks from the stresses yet to come from summer sun, chlorine and salt water.
Our First Aid Kit
Healthy, moisturized hair at the beginning of the summer is the best way to combat the dreaded frizz. To help you, NaturallyCurly.com has developed a First Aid Kit for your curls. The five products in the kit are all about rescue and replenishment.
- HPO Happy Scalp is a rich blend of oils to sooth your scalp and get rid of product build up.
- AG Split End Spa is damage control for the frayed ends, and it also protects hair color from the summer sun.
- Curl Junkie Curl Rehab Moisturizing Hair Treatment is the perfect rich, rejuvenating conditioner for the summer.
- Jessicurl Weekly Deep Conditioner strengthens and adds serious moisture to your curls, preparing them for the summer.
- Arbre de Vie Shea Hot Oil Treatment will reduce breakage and leave your curls shiny and healthy.
The First Aid Kit is a great smart way to get your curls ready and healthy for the summer. Now that you have gotten your new summer season hair routine organized, you can breath a sigh of relief.
But what do you do with your hair at the pool or beach? We all know the curly challenges we face when we go swimming. There we are, outside in the sun and salt air, without a dryer, mirror or our HG products. What’s a curly girl to do? The very idea of it is enough to keep a curly girl like me away from water.
Get 15% off your CurlMart purchase by typing in the promotion code “CurlySuzy15.”
But there is another option. Along with water, a trashy novel, and sunscreen, I keep my beach bag well stocked with curly products, and some tips for keeping my curls looking good:
- • Use products that contain SPF protection or high levels of shea butter, a natural sun shield. UV protection sprays are great, such as Ouidad Sun Shield Sun & Sport Leave-in Conditioner.
- • Wear a cute hat or scarf to protect your hair from sun and wind.
- • Have a good, manageable hair cut and hair style.
- • Get your hair wet and put conditioner in before swimming or spending time in the sun. Wet hair absorbs less salt or chlorine. Some conditioners to try include Curl Junkie Curl Assurance Daily Hair Conditioner, Curlisto Botanical Rinse, Curls Coconut Sublime Moisturizing Conditioner, Curly Hair Solutions Conditioner, Elucence Moisture Balancing Conditioner.
- • After swimming, rinse your hair. Chlorine and salt can make you hair very dry and brittle if it isn’t rinsed out.
- • Avoid washing your hair too often and use a mild non-sulfate cleanser. Some to try include Jessicurl Gentle Lather Shampoo, Kinky-Curly Come Clean Moisturizing Shampoo, HPO Hair & Body Shampoo, Oyin Honey Wash, John Masters Organics Evening Primrose Shampoo.
- • Co-washing is a great summer routine using your favorite light conditioner.
- • Leave your conditioner in longer than usual when you are showering.
- • Add a leave-in conditioner to your hair styling routine. Some good ones to try include Curl Junkie Curl Assurance Leave-in Conditioner, Curly Hair Solutions Silk Leave-in Conditioner, Long Lovely Locks Coco Light, John Masters Organics Citrus Neroli Detangler and Kinky-Curly Knot Today.
- • Use styling products that are frizz fighters and are moisturizing.
- • Read labels; be sure your stylers are water-based. Product build-up will create limp, dry hair.
- • Limit your use of hot tools. Air dry, when possible.
- • Use moisturizing refreshing sprays midday or in the evening to tame and smooth your summer locks. Try Paul Mitchell Awapuhi Moisture Mist, Ouidad Botanical Boost, Curl Junkie Curl Fuel Curl Enhancing Spray, Blended Beauty Kick for Curls Aloe Juice Spritz, DevaCurl Mist-er Right, Innersense Sweet Spirit Leave-in Conditioner, Oyin Handmade Frank Juice and Jessicurl Awe Inspiraling Spray.
- • Deep conditioning your hair on a weekly basis will keep your hair well-moisturized. Alternate between hot-oil treatments and deep conditioning treatments. Some of my favorites are: Miss Jessies Rapid Recovery Treatment, MyHoneyChild Coconut Papaya Hair Paste, Blended Beauty Herbal Reconditioner, Curlisto Deep Therapy Masque, Curl Junkie Hibiscus Banana Deep Fix Moisturizing Conditioner and HPO Butter Drops.
- Tell us about your concoction in a list format
- Enter between June 9 and June 16
Enter our First Aid Kit Contest
CurlySuzy has created a dreamy First Aid Kit, and we now have a contest to go with it! Tell us what has been your personal concoction for refreshing those parched summer curls? The four most creative answers win their own CurlySuzy’s First Aid Kit!
Enter the contest at YouTube, Twitter, Facebook or CurlTalk .
Dear CurlySuzy: I currently have very little relaxer left in my hair. I have 3C hair (my father’s hair was fine and extremely curly only in the back”>.
What exact products of the ones listed under 3C would you suggest I start with since I’m just starting out going natural?
Dear Crystal: I’ll list some articles that you might like to read about products and other women who are making the transition. I’ve also included some products that would be good for your new curls. Very moisturizing, gentle cleansers are really important. Your curls are fragile and might tend to get dry pretty easily. Lots of conditioning is good too. A lot of people co-wash (wash hair with conditioners instead of a cleanser all the time”> as well. The stylers listed are moisturizing and have a bit of a hold.
I hope this helps and please email me if you have more questions.
Great cleanser and conditioner:
Curl Junkie Curl Assurance Gentle Cleansing-Shampoo
Curl Junkie Curl Theory Moisturizing Hair Conditioner
Curl Junkie Coffee Coco Curl Creme is a great curl cream with a little hold; it’s very concentrated.
Super deep conditioners — good idea to do at least once a month for 30 minutes.
Curl Junkie Curl Rehab Moisturizing Hair Treatment
Curl Junkie Hibiscus Banana Deep Fix Moisturizing Conditioner
Love this new line. Super moisturizing. The cleanser, spa conditioner and the stylers might be somethings that you would like.
The Curlarita Cocktail is great splurge and works well for 3C curls
It’s fun to read about the creator of the Curlarita Cocktail! (Please note she is the second woman on the article, so scroll down.”>
Oyin Handmade —all of her products are fantastic
Blended Beauty Happy Nappy Styles is a great styler, very concentrated — a little goes a long way
Blended Beauty Kick for Curls Aloe Juice Spritz is a very popular curl refresher with lots of moisture. It’s good for midday or first thing in the morning.
Dear CurlySuzy: I live in Florida and am dreading my first full summer here with my fine, curly hair that tends to frizz at the slightest provocation but also tends to get weighed down and greasy with products that are too heavy. Your recommendations would be so appreciated!
Dear Christin: Wow, you have a big challenge. There are a few options. I will give you some suggestions below. I hope this helps, and please email me if you have more questions.
Curlisto Bio-Gel Mousse A great mousse that helps with the frizz, it works best with the Curlisto Control l under it. Your hair will dry with a glaze; just barely scrunch it, and the curls will be soft and defined. If you scrunch too much it will frizz, so be careful.
Here is the Control I Gel that is the secret to getting this combination to work.
I like this AG foam-mousse, as well, to use with the Control l Gel.
This is a spray that works great on dry hair. Use just a little bit. It has great frizz control. I don’t love the smell, but it only lasts a minute.
I like this product as well to use on dry hair. It is a little tricky. It is a cream hairspray. Use sparingly.
This is a pomade, and it works well on the ends of curls or in other areas that tend to go frizzy. You need to use VERY little.
Dear CurlySuzy: I am currently transitioning from relaxed hair to natural hair and would like to know if I can use your products and if so which ones. My hair is very dry and damaged at the moment. I do not want to do the BC … so would rather transition until I achieve a length I am happy with. Any tips would be most kindly appreciated.
Dear Lorna: The BC can be scary. I would suggest using mild cleansers, lot of conditioning and deep conditioning to get your hair happy again. I will give you some links to some great moisturizing products below. Also I will include some links about people making the transition that you might like reading. If you have any questions please email me again. Good luck!
Curl Junkie Curl Assurance Gentle Cleansing Shampoo
Curl Junkie Curl Theory Moisturizing Hair Conditioner
Curl Junkie Coffee Coco Curl Creme
CurlySuzy writes articles on ingredients and finding the right products for your curls.
You have had a perfect curl day for your special occasion. Whether it is an updo, adding flowers or a special hair accessory, it has been a great hair day. You feel beautiful. By the end of the day, you are thinking “too bad my perfect curls won’t last for a few more days.”
Even more pressing: “How am I going to manage my curls tomorrow?” Bed-head — or second day hair — has a completely different meaning when curls are involved. How much do you really want your loved one to know about you and your curls in the morning? Most curlies would answer: “as little as possible!”
I have tried embracing the idea that my hair couldn’t look that bad in the morning. I imagine there will be a smile with cute amusement at the state of my curls. In a moment of complete denial, I have even had the thought that my curls could have that sexy wild look. At this point, reality comes crashing in. The special occasion curls are now frizzy, smashed and unruly, which can cause looks of shock and confusion. The reaction can be as unpredictable as the curls.
There are those rare magical mornings when the curls miraculously survive. I truly wish this upon all the curlies of the world. Many curlies are so thrilled about their super second day hair they admit to skipping the shower and saving those curls. “If I take a shower on one of these days, I might as well kiss my good hair day good-bye” says CurlTalker TC. CurlTalker Whatsercurl says, “I skip the shower. I’d rather stink than mess up my hair.”
One strategy to attaining second-day curls is sleeping on a satin pillowcase. Other curlies gather their curls in a scrunchie on the top of their head, a technique known as “The Pineapple.” CurlTalker Irish_Carrottop says “I am in love with pineappling! I love it because it doesn’t smoosh my curls when I sleep.”
Another possibility is plopping. CurlTalker Littleamazon says “I’ve heard a lot of good things about plopping (the thing where you wrap the t-shirt around your head right.”> A friend of mine does it every night before bed and her hair comes out great!” I prefer a cuter method of using the Curl-Ease towel instead of a t-shirt. But really none of these options is very attractive.
Get 15% off your CurlMart purchase by typing in the promotion code “CurlySuzy15.”
If the the second-day hair miracle doesn’t occur, the pillowcase has failed you and the pineapple or plopping doesn’t pan out, here’s another plan of action. Try to revive the curls from last night. Wake up quietly, get your products and get busy. The trick is not to overdo it with products. A curl refresher spray can do wonders. Some curlies prefer water but that tends to cause more frizz for me. Spray the ends and the root area to add some life to the curls. If the frizz is really extreme, spray the product in the palms of your hands and smooth over your curls. These are some of my favorite curl refresher sprays.
Blended Beauty’s Kick for Curls
Jessicurl Awe Inspiraling Spray
Using a pomade or a light cream after the spray can activate the smashed areas and take away the frizz. Here are a few good ones to try
Innersense Inner Peace Whipped Creme
Kinky-Curly Curling Custard (only if used the day before”>
Jessicurl Rockin Ringlets mixed with Confident Coils
CurlTalker Plink suggests this method for applying products to second day hair: spritz hair with water (not too much”>, wet hands with water, put tiny dollop of product on palms and rub hands together, along with the water. Smooth over the canopy, like making a ponytail. Gently flip over and scrunch remaining product in, smoothing over canopy again if needed, but don’t pull at it. Once dry or mostly dry, SOTC (scrunch out the crunch”>.
If all else fails, be sure to have your favorite hat or scarf. Why all this crazy effort for my curls? I think they’re worth it. I will always have them in the back of my mind. I will always be trying new products and routines for them. Maybe there is a special curl-saving pillow that I don’t know about yet! How will I fit that in my bag? I’m sure I’ll find a way!
Dear CurlySuzy: Is there a product that will keep my hair from shrinking up so much and loosen some of the curl?
Dear Brenda: Curl Junkie Curl Assurance Aloe Fix Hair Styling Gel. Might want to use this with after a lot of conditioning. It does not dry your hair out; the product just works best on really moisturized curls.
Baka Beautiful Natural-Laxer. Lots of people like this to stop the shrinkage and tightness. It is a little complicated to use but worth it. It is not a relaxer.
Miss Jessie’s Stretch Silkening Creme. Works best if you follow instructions just as it states.
Dear CurlySuzy: Will you recommend a good shampoo & conditioner for my 3C color treated hair?
Dear Jennifer: Here are some links to shampoos and conditioners. A non-sulfate cleanser will be the best for color-treated hair and curls. Hope this helps!
Jessicurl Gentle Lather Shampoo
Jessicurl Aloeba Daily Conditioner
Jessicurl Too Shea Extra Moisturizing Conditioner
AG Color Savour Sulfate Free Shampoo
AG Color Savour Colour Protection Conditioner
Dear CurlySuzy: A friend of mine recommended that I contact you about your “It’s a Curl” product line for my daughter. She’s got the typical Caucasian baby hair — fairly straight with little ringlets that try to form at the back. It’s adorable, and I want to do everything I can to bring them out and to keep them looking good through the day. I have some luck using a regular conditioner on her hair and then running a bit of lotion through it. But I’m thinking an actual hair product would be better than Johnson’s baby lotion! I don’t know if it matters, but my hair is a definite type 2b. Thanks a million!Rachel
Dear Rachel: I think I have the perfect thing for your daughter’s ringlets. It is a line called Little Sprouts. It’s A Curl is a good line too, but it doesn’t have a spray detangler. You want to use a non-sulfate cleanser and a good moisturizing conditioner. Your instinct to use lotion was a good start. But as weird as this may sound, lotion can cause dryness in her fragile curls. So mild cleansers are a must, and then lots of conditioning. You’ll also want to use a good detangler and refreshing spray for the morning and after naps. Be careful not to brush her dry curls. Combing with a wide-tooth comb when her hair is wet and you’ve applied a conditioner or detangling spray is in her curls is the best practice. I’ve included links to the products below.
Dear CurlySuzy: I am looking for curly hair products (shampoo, conditioner and styling stuff”> that is paraben-free. Do you have any suggestions? I have type 3A hair.
Dear Beth: Here is a list of products that are paraben-free. Hope this helps and please email me if you have more questions.
A good combination is Jessicurl Gentle Lather Shampoo and Jessicurl Aloeba Daily Conditioner. You can also buy a trial-size package of Jessicurl products.
A great new line — one of my favorites — is HPO Spa Spa Treatments. Try Hair & Body Shampoo and Spa Hair Conditioner.
These two products are a Holy Grail combo for many curlies: Curl Keeper and AG Re:coil.
Apply the Curl Keeper on very wet hair and follow with the AG Re:coil. Curl Keeper is a leave-in that really helps with frizz and definition. It’s like a light, leave-in conditioner. AG Re:coil is a curl activator and has some hold to it. It’s very concentrated, so a little goes a long way.Two great leave-in conditioners that work with any gel or mousse John Masters Organics Citrus Neroli Detangler and HPO Simply Curly Conditioning Styling Pudding. I like leave-ins for that added moisture, but don’t use too much or you will have weighed-down curls.
If you’re a mousse fan, here are some options — from lightest to firmest: AG Foam Weightless Volumizer and AG Hair Cosmetics Mousse Gel.
DevaCare Arc AnGell is a good gel. It dries with a glaze, but can be scrunched for soft, defined curls.
Dear CurlySuzy: I’m new to embracing my curls, and really need some help! I’ve been wearing my curls the same way for 22 years! Pulled back tight in a ponytail gel and hair spray … lots of hair spray! Problem is my hair is now thin at the top and I’m sick of it! HELP! I have a mix of 3a and 3b hair. I was looking at the Curly Cocktail Curl & Tonic™. I have the “Curly Girl” book and was looking to do a shampoo free routine, so other than that what else would be good for me? I guess I need everything?
Dear Marisela: I think you are right that the Curl & Tonic™ would be a great place to start. There is a recipe card included that gives really specific instructions. It is the best of the best for your hair type. You hair is probably very stressed out from the hair spray and pulling it back in a ponytail. Try to use products that are water soluble. Hairspray is great for emergency situations but on a daily basis it is just choking the life out of your hair. Be sure to try to use a non-sulfate cleanser most often. It won’t get out all the hairspray, but it is a good practice to start moisturizing your hair. Moisture is the key to no frizz and curl definition. Also, a lot of conditioner is great. On some days, many curlies wash their hair with conditioner, alternating with a mild cleanser. Maybe you already know this from the “Curly Girl” book? I think, though, that you probably need to clarify your hair to get the gel and hairspray out. I will give you links to some products that you might like. Also lots of grocery stores are starting to sell non-sulfate cleansers — Tigi Bed Head has one.
The Cocktail™ is great, but be patient, as your hair is adjusting. Give it some time to get used to this new routine. Experiment with products, and if you need your ponytail, try to put a little conditioner in your hair first, then pull it up.
Some links for you:
HPO is a new line we just got in and I love it!! Great cleanser and conditioner, and the Happy Scalp Oil would be great for you.
DevaCare No Poo is a great non-sulfate cleanser.
DevaCare One Condition is great, too.
Another good combination: Jessicurl Gentle Lather Shampoo and Jessicurl Aloeba Daily Conditioner.
This Curl & Tonic™ Curly Cocktail™ is a pricey item but has products that we chose for your hair type that work best together, and there is even a handy recipe card that gives instructions.
Another good combination: CurlKeeper and Re:coil. These two products work really well together. Apply the Curl Keeper on very wet hair and follow with the Recoil. Curl Keeper is a leave-in that really helps with frizz and definition. Re:coil is a curl activator and has some hold to it.
DevaCare Arc AnGell is a great gel that will dry crunchy, so scrunch a little bit when dry and the soft curls will appear.
Tweek is a good curl pick me up that controls frizz — works great over any styling product when hair is dry. It is a liquid hairspray you might like that is healthier for your curls.
Editor’s Note: CurlyCurly answers your questions in her weekly Dear CurlySuzy and writes articles on ingredients and finding the right products for your curls.
Being healthy, buying natural products and living green are on the top of my “To Do” list. Earth Month, and watching the movie “An Arctic Tale” with my kids, reminds me that going green is the only way to go. I now take my own shopping bags to the grocery store, I use less energy in my house, and I ride my bike more.
Going green while still keeping my curls looking good is also on that “To Do” list. But that task is a little more challenging for me.
Of course I love trying new products and new styling routines. But doing that while going green takes some extra work. My bad hair days still haunt me. So I have to talk myself into alternating or maybe switching to products that aren’t in my Holy Grail arsenal. Some I will never give up, while others I replace with greener options.
CurlySuzy is doing her part to save polar bears.
I am trying to find that green healthy balance in my curly products. Thinking about the polar bears and their melting world seriously motivates me. Instead of reminding my kids to turn the lights off, I just say “polar bears.” So when it comes to going green with my hair, I think “polar bears” as I’m grabbing new products to try.
The good news is that I’ve found some great options. And I’d love to hear more from you if anyone wants to add comments or email me. So here are some helpful hints and some suggestions form my green shopping cart:
Helpful Hints
Become a Label Reader. Look for ingredients that you recognize as natural, such as essential oil, fruits, vegetables, herbs, coconut milk, honey, olive oil, and butters. If an ingredient is hard to pronounce it is more than likely hard on your hair too. Hair is super-absorbent, like our skin is, so try to avoid petroleum and petroleum derivatives, as well as phthalates, formaldehyde, parabens, hair dyes with carcinogenic coal tar and synthetic fragrances.
Look for seals and labels. Some good labels to look for include ECO-Cert, USDA Organic and CSC compact
Buy Big. Try to buy liter sizes and use a pump to get every last drop of that precious hair product.
Brrrr! Use cold water to rinse your hair. Save on energy while keeping your hair shafts closed and moisturized.
Read more about hair products in Naturallycurly.com’s CurlProducts section. We have lots of reviews and ingredient listings on all the products available from CurlMart and products that are sold in other stores, salons and drugstores.Swap Products. Trade products that don’t work for you instead of throwing them away. Your mantra should be, trade away instead of throw away.
Curly Green Shopping List
CurlySuzy wants you to be able to try out some of these great products, so she’s offering a special promotion code to her readers. Type in CurlySuzy15 and get a 15% discount at CurlMart.
MOP C (Modern Organic Products”> has lots of organic ingredients and smells great too. The Curl Defining Cream accentuates and maintains the curls. I like to use it as a leave-in conditioner.
HPO (Happy People Only”> is a new line for us that I just love. The name thrills me as much as the products do!
The Spa Hair Conditioner nourishes my curls with avocado and honey. It is my new very favorite conditioner.
John Masters Organics are gentle and healthy products filled with organic & natural ingredients. The non-sulfate Evening Primrose Shampoo is a good one for delicate, dry curly locks.
Oyin Handmade are natural products that focus on styling, nourishment and the health of hair and skin. The Honey Hemp Conditioner is a do-all conditioner. Use it as a daily conditioner, deep treatment or a leave-in.
Kinky-Curly, a line we can barely keep on the shelves. It is so popular and great for your hair. The Knot Today is a super-charged detangler and moisturizer. That marshmallow root must have some magic in it.
Curl Junkie products are super healthy and moisturizing. The Curl Rehab Moisturizing Hair Treatment is a rejuvenating, restorative deep conditioner. Lots of healing butters and oils in this one.
Product is a simple and unique styling aid. It works well with all hair types and lengths. Perfect for fly-aways and split ends. Leaves hair soft, smooth and healthy.
MYHoneyChild products are one step away from needing to go in your refrigerator. They are full of the healthy green ingredients. The HoneyNutt Scalp Cleanser is a gentle shampoo that will leave your curls soft and shiny.
Innersense Organic Beauty has lots to choose from. My favorite is the Inner Reflection Finishing Polish. It is adds shine and a flexible hold to any curly style.
Arbre de Vie Shea Hot Oil Treatment is a nutritious treatment to hydrate your curls. Take 30 minutes out of your day for this one.
Little Sprout for babies and up. Only the good stuff for our little ones. My top favorites are the Children’s Curl Calmer and the Children’s Miracle Detangler . Both are lifesavers in the morning or after a nap.
You can look great without breaking the bank!
$10 and under
Elucence Moisture Balancing Conditioner, $8.00.
Co-washing curls with a good conditioner instead of shampooing is a golden rule with many curlies. Save your curls and your dollars by not shampooing all the time.
Oyin Handmade HoneyWash, $9.00
A curls to toes HoneyWash that moisturizes and gently cleanses your hair, face and body. Honey, aloe vera gel, jojoba and walnut seed oil will leave your skin and hair silky smooth.
Best products at a good value
Curl Junkie Curl Fuel, $9.00
A few pumps of this spray will refresh products that you put on in the morning. No need to re-apply your favorite creams and gels to tame frizz or fly-aways. Add shine and definition without taking another dip into your styling products.
ISO Bouncy Creme, $9.99
Just like a new pair of shoes can spiff up any outfit you’ve had in your closet for awhile, a great new styling product can do the same for your curls. A longtime legend on NaturallyCurly.com, ISO Bouncy Creme gives you soft and frizz-free curls.
Miss Jessie’s Quick Curls, $9.00
A quick and easy weightless spiraling cream. Have a brown bag lunch and spend your extra cash on your curls.
$15 and under
Feel free to email curlycuzy@naturallycurly.com with questions.
Tigi Bed Head Foxy Curls Shampoo, $14.36
This is a great, inexpensive, sulfate-free shampoo. Great smelling and very moisturizing. How can you resist the price and the possibility of foxy curls?
Jessicurl Too Shea! Extra Moisturizing Conditioner, $12.75
Super-luxurious, thick conditioner with shea butter and 14 different herbs and spices. Get some early springtime moisture into your curls with basil, peppermint,rosemary and lavender. Skip the expensive perfume and flaunt those lovely smelling locks.
Kinky-Curly Knot Today, $12.00
Smooth and detangle those knots and snarls. No more tugs and pulls to add to the daily stress of life. Another super leave-in conditioner that is well worth the affordable price.
Curl Junkie Coffee Coco Curl Creme, $14.
A rich curl creme that works like a leave-in conditioner and a gel put together. Moisturize those curls and have a light hold. It is a very concentrated cream that will last you for months. As our Depression-era grandmothers reminded us, a little goes a long way.
$20 and under
Curl Hair Solutions Curl Keeper, $15.50.
An absolute top favorite, Holy Grail, can’t-do-without product on NaturallyCurly. This water-based styler fights the toughest frizz and always wins. It is one of the hardest-working products, and plays well with most creams and gels.
AG Re:coil, $18.00
This curl-activating cream, created with input from NaturallyCurly members, moisturizes and controls frizz. It creates great curl separation and definition, a priceless tool for curlies. It is another highly concentrated product, so one tube can last for several months, depending on the length and thickness of your curls and kinks.
Karen’s Body Beautiful Hair Milk, $16
There is a lotta love flowing toward this hair milk. This is a multi-talented product that can be used as a rinse-out conditioner or a leave-in. When your hair is dry, use it as a refresher and moisturizer for the ends.
DevaCare No-Poo, $17.95
Coloring your curls can be fun. But the ongoing upkeep can take its toll on your paycheck. Make that color last longer with this no-fade, uber-moisturizing cleanser.
HPO Simply Curly Conditioning Styling Pudding, $17.50
This is for anyone who fights the frizz battle. It is an ultra-rich styling pudding that works for any hair type, from waves to kinks, giving you smooth, defined curls without stickiness. This big jar will last you months!
Buy more to last longer
We all love and need conditioner. Buy liter sizes of conditioner and save while you condition or co-wash.
What about transforming your home into a curly salon?
Splurge on the Gold N Hot Professional Bonnet Dryer, $49.99
It may seem too pricey, but it will make your curls feel like they have had an expensive salon visit. It’s also a quick way to dry curls that will be frizz free and a great way to do deep conditioning and roller sets. I love sitting under my pink and white dryer thinking about how much I didn’t spend at the salon.
Book personal time with Arbre de Vie Shea Hot Oil Treatment, $4.95
Your first appointment should be for a hot oil treatment. Indulge your hair with this all-natural moisturizing oil. A treat you, your curls and pocketbook will love.
Mix up your own recipes
Search on NaturallyCurly.com CurlTalk for recipes that will deep condition your curls without leaving your kitchen. Put that apron on and create a great deep conditioner right from your refrigerator and pantry.
CurlySuzy wants you to be able to try out some of these great products, so she’s offering a special promotion code to her readers. Type in CurlySuzy15 and get a 15% discount at CurlMart.
It’s time to find your inner curl expert. To help you accomplish this goal, Curly Hair Solutions presents two new step-by-step instructional videos that show you how to create perfectly controlled, frizz-free curls by using the right tools together with the right products. You will be able to achieve these results by yourself in a way that is fun and easy. Mastering the art of styling your curly hair will bring you the gift of looking and feeling great all the time with great hair days every day.
The two brand new how-to videos will give you the ability to easily achieve a great hairstyle consistently. Curly Hair Solutions has tested these tools in many different ways, and their success has made them must-have accessories for curly hair.
The Roller Jaw Clamp Video (Secures Curls While Providing Lift at the Root”>:
This how-to video showcases the methods and techniques we use with our Roller Jaw Clamps. You will be able to master the art of creating volume and bounce whenever you want to by using our step-by-step instructions on how to get the most out of your curls.
The Root Brush Video (Controls the Direction of Hair Growth”>:
The Root Brush video will help you correct and control the direction of hair growth. You will never again have a problem with cowlicks and flat crowns. The results are amazing. The Root Brush is very safe to use and will give you instant results. It is also a great scalp massager.
My-Cherie
I am very skeptical when in comes to no-suds shampoo. I always felt that in order for my hair to be clean, there must be lather. Well, last week I decided to take a chance and try DevaCare No-Poo Cleanser.
I have very thick 4b hair, so it was a big surprise to feel how clean and moisturized my hair was. There is an incredible mixture of ingredients in No-Poo, like chamomile, hops, mint, rosemary and orange peel. It felt nice and tingly when I gave my hair a good rub and scrub. I was so impressed with the moisture, I forget about the lather. I must admit, I ran out of shaving cream and decided to use No-Poo to shave my legs also. It was a great experience.
After rinsing, I noticed how soft, clean and supple my legs and hair felt. I’m hooked and officially a Shampoo Free Diva. Bring out the Diva in you with DevaCare No-Poo Cleanser!
