Search Results: Jessica DeFino
Image:@hif3licia
Any stylist will tell you that layering is the key to putting together an effortlessly chic outfit–but did you know it’s also the secret to defined, natural-looking curls? The LCEG method, a four-step technique that moisturizes, nourishes, enhances, and holds your curls, takes product layering to the next level and spells out exactly how to get bouncy, hydrated, frizz-free hair.
LCEG stands for Leave In Conditioner, Curl Cream, Curl Enhancing Gel, and Hard Hold Gel, and Type 2’s and 3’s can consider it their personal guide to product layering. While four steps may seem like a lot at first, this method is actually super straightforward and easy to follow–but don’t just take our word for it! “I can use conditioner only or leave in and gel and get good results, but for best results, I do the LCEG method,” Rocky of RockynCurls tells us.
Step 1: Leave In Conditioner
Most curlies would argue that leave in conditioner is the most important step of all, since it locks in moisture right off the bat. Instagram influencer, AFROZILLA says, “Leave in conditioner is an absolute must for me. Anyone that transitions to natural hair quickly learns that dryness is ‘Public Enemy #1.’ By using a leave in conditioner on my hair regularly, I’m finally giving my hair the moisture it needs to thrive.”
After washing and conditioning, coat wet hair with a leave-in formula like Dr. Miracle’s Leave In Conditioner, which is packed with Vitamins A, C, and E to soften curls and maximize shine.
Step 2: Curl Cream
Next, run a few dollops of curl cream, like SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie, through your hair. Model, Alaina King reveals, “It’s my secret to getting moisturized and voluminous curls.” This portion of the LCEG method is essential for defining your pattern and adding a bit of bounce.
Step 3: Enhancing Gel
According to Rocky, “E” can also stand for “extra-special.” She says she incorporates this step into her routine when she’s looking to add ringlets or spirals to her coarse, wavy hair, and prefers an all-natural enhancing gel. She recommends an aloe vera or flax seed version, but the Curling Gel Souflee from Shea Moisture works well, too. If you have Type 3 or Type 4 hair, trust us–you don’t want to skip this! Just add a touch of enhancing gel to wet curls and scrunch, scrunch, scrunch.
Step 4: Hard Hold Gel
To finish off the look, reach for a hard hold gel. This kind of product will serve to hold your perfect, bouncy curls in place and keep frizz at bay, allowing you to go for days in between washes. Some curlies find hard hold gel too crunchy, but with Ampro Pro Styl Protein Super Hold Styling Gel or Jamaican Mango & Lime Locking Firm Gel, that shouldn’t be a problem. Once you’ve run a quarter-sized amount of hard hold gel through your hair (depending on your particular coarseness and thickness”>, turn your head upside down and give your curls a final scrunch to ensure the ideal shape and volume.
All that being said, you may need to tweak the LCEG formula a bit to find the best fit for your curls. “It’s way too much for my hair type,” says Devan Jesmer, the beauty blogger behind @devsday, who creates a “curl cocktail–a combination of curl gel and curl cream” as her final product step, instead. Her favorite mixture involves DevaCurl Ultra Defining Gel, OUAI Curl Jelly, and Kristin Ess Hydrating Curl Defining Creme.
Not sure where to start? If your hair is on the finer side, you may want to skip the L and stick with CEG; those with a tighter curl pattern will do well with an LG or LCG combination; and Type 4’s can get away with just LCE. As Devan says, “The key is figuring out [what] to use for your hair type.”
Of course, nailing the technique and choosing the right products are only half the battle. Once you’ve got the LCEG method down, the question is, how will you dry your newly defined, frizz-free curls?
My Type 2c hair is naturally wavy, but that hasn’t stopped me from lusting over other curl patterns my whole life. I’ve wished for the smooth, effortless waves favored by Hollywood starlets or the tight, defined curls of Type 3s and 4s; anything but the frizzy head of hair I call my own. I never actually did much about it, though—my hair is too thick (and I’m too impatient”> to raise a straightener or curling iron to it, and I’ve always been wary of heat damage (which could make my hair even more fried and frizz-prone in the long run”>. That is, until the WrapCurl showed up at my front door.
The WrapCurl is a styling tool set that promises waves or curls without the time investment or heat damage; in fact, it’s said to be three times gentler than conventional hot tools—and you won’t burn your fingers or forehead on it, either.
The set relies on two main components: “barrels” and a “Waveband.” The barrels are reminiscent of those Velcro wrist and ankle weights usually used for at-home workouts, except instead of sand, they’re filled with a lightweight mix of minerals, tourmaline crystal, and bio beads. To activate the barrels, you microwave them for about 30 seconds to a minute; after which point, they emit a low level of heat and ionic steam that not only curls hair, but also conditions and shines. The Waveband is basically an adjustable headband that supports the barrels.
To use, you pull the Waveband over your head, attach the heated barrels to the band with small Velcro tabs, then wrap strands of hair around the hot barrels and let sit for 25 – 45 minutes. When you unwrap, voilá! Silky, healthy, conditioned curls—at least, in theory. Obviously, I had to try it for myself to know for sure.
WrapCurl offers several different kits depending on your hair goals. The Curl Power Kit features eight small barrels and makes for tighter curls, while the All Star Kit comes with a three short barrels and two long barrels for a mix of natural-looking waves. Both are available with either 1” or 1.5” curlers. I chose the All Star 1.5” Kit, hoping for the kind of effortless, tousled waves popularized by the stars of the TV show Pretty Little Liars. (Admit it—you know exactly what I’m talking about.”>
Using the WrapCurl is admittedly a little awkward; the process just takes some getting used to, I think. It wasn’t as intuitive as I hoped, but after wrapping and attaching the first two barrels, I started to get the hang of it.
I opted to separate my hair into two sections—a top layer and a bottom layer—and wrapped according to size with the larger barrels on the bottom. (While many of the WrapCurl promotional pictures and YouTube tutorials feature a single layer of barrels, I’d say that those with particularly thick hair will need at least two.”> The instructions say to attach both ends of the heated barrel to the Wrapband and then wrap, but I found it easier to attach one side to the band, wrap my hair around the barrel, and then attach the other side.
Be warned: After wrapping and setting, the overall look is pretty ridiculous (at least, my husband had a good laugh at the contraption on my head”>. The whole thing felt so silly that I started to doubt it could possibly lead to glamorous curls—but when I unraveled the barrels 25 minutes later, I was pleasantly surprised by the bouncy waves in the mirror. The WrapCurl seriously works. Granted, the style wasn’t perfect—I wish I had brushed out my hair beforehand to give the barrels a smoother, more adaptable base to work with—but I have confidence that next time, I’ll achieve full mastery of the WrapCurl (and the Pretty Little Liars waves of my dreams”>.
So, how does it stack up against traditional styling tools? It’s not quite as easy to use, if only because the styling technique isn’t second nature. But considering the fact that it takes less than a half hour to create soft waves without frying hair into oblivion, it has a definite advantage over your trusty curling iron.
I can’t say that this tool will work on all hair types—based on my experience, I think it’s most likely to deliver results on straight, Type 2, or chemically relaxed hair. But even though Type 3s and 4s may find the barrels harder to wrap around, at under $70 (minus the incalculable cost of heat damage“>, it’s worth a shot.
If you’re wondering what the big deal about heating tools is anyway, read up on the signs of heat damage (and the signs of heat damage denial, natch”> and reevaluate. You just may decide to give it up to preserve the health of your hair—in which case, may I suggest the WrapCurl?
Have you tried the WrapCurl yet, or are you planning to? Let us know in the comments!
In most cases, “loosening up” is a positive thing; it’s associated with relaxing, letting go, having a good time. But when my curls decide to loosen up, it’s a whole different story.
Image by iStock
No matter what kind of wavy, coily, or curly you are, you can probably relate: curls that start out bouncy and fresh in the morning sometimes deflate, like a tire losing air, until they’re stretched, flat, and frizzy. But why?
“Curls have a mind of their own,” says Tara Love, the founder of Tara Love Hair, a salon that caters to African-American and multicultural women. “They are very unpredictable because you never know what they will do from one day to the next.”
$$AD$$Gravity
“Maybe the reason why curls fall or get looser is because of gravity,” she speculates. “The hair can also be heavy, as in high-density hair with thick strands. Fine, short hairs tend to curl tighter and experience no real gravity pull.”
If your hair is thick and dense, gravity is likely to blame for your stretched curls—and it’s not easy to fight a force of nature. That being said, you can make your hair less susceptible to the effects of gravity by using lightweight products that won’t weigh you down further. “For curly styles that you want to stay in place, leave-ins and oils are needed,” Love shares.
“I love an old staple called Infusium 23,” she adds. “It’s light and controls frizz. If you need a little oil, I love Jane Carter Nourish and Shine. It’s great for hair and body. Rub a bit in the palm and apply.”
It’s also a good idea to switch out your hard-hold gel for a light cream to keeps curls buoyant. CurlTalk member @oh.hi.its.steph recommends SheaMoisture Curl Milk: “I find it to be perfectly moisturizing and curl-enhancing, but not terribly heavy either!”
Porosity
High-porosity curls and waves are more likely to loosen throughout the day than low-porosity curls. That’s because high-porosity hair has large gaps and holes in the cuticle, making it very easy for the hair to lose moisture; and when moisture evaporates from high-porosity hair, it renders products less effective—which results in loose, frizzy curls.
“If you’re highly porous you might be in need of protein,” says this CurlTalk commenter. A silk protein treatment can help repair the gaps in your hair cuticles to keep your curls in tact.
Since highly porous hair loses moisture easily, it’s essential to stock up on ultra-hydrating products, like leave-in conditioners and sealers. You can also add anti-humectants to your hair care routine, like Ouidad Climate Control Heat and Humidity Gel, to seal the cuticle and keep moisture in. At night, try a heavy hair butter treatment—G’Natural Body & Hair Butter is a great option—to lock in hydration and prep your curls for a new day.
$$AD$$The Amount of Hair You Have
In one recent study, physicists studying the curvature of steel rods stumbled upon some interesting finds: namely, what makes curly hair go limp. Their conclusion? “The actual number of hairs per square inch on any individual’s scalp…that greater or lesser crowding may play a role,” according to Time Magazine. In other words, if you’ve got a lot of hair, your individual strands may just be too crowded to stay curly all day.
If this is the case for you, there are two things you can do:
One, incorporate a hard-hold gel into your routine to give you all-day definition. After smoothing Curlfection Firm Hold Smoothing Cream Gel through your hair, twirl individual pieces around your finger to create a defined curl pattern, and diffuse dry.
And two, accept that you’ve been blessed with thick, luscious curls—and at the end of the day, no matter how loose they are, your curls are beautiful. (At least, this is what I like to tell myself!”>
It’s important to note that even with a full morning routine of leave-ins, creams, and gels, curls sometimes need a little midday refresh. What can you do? It’s just their nature.
Ever find your curls falling flat throughout the day? What do you do to keep them springy? Share with us in the comments below!
I wish my hair would stop growing…said no one, ever. Curly, coily and wavy women especially can relate. Even when our hair grows at a normal rate, tight curl patterns make it seem as if the length barely budges. Sigh.
But before you Google “hair growth supplements,” we need to have a chat. Slow-to-grow hair probably isn’t the reason you’re longing for Rapunzel-level length (or just a lob that makes it past your shoulders”>. As we age, hair can become thinner and even starting falling out, which often tricks us into thinking that our length is the problem. These nine supplements have been shown to promote thicker, stronger hair that looks fuller, healthier, and yes, longer.
VITAMIN A
Vitamin A is an antioxidant that promotes skin regeneration and collagen production, making it ideal for healthy hair, skin, and nails. It is said to promote thicker hair and stronger hair follicles through keeping the scalp moist, which in turn stimulates growth. However, too much Vitamin A can have the opposite effect, essentially causing hair follicles to go into overdrive and resulting in hair loss. Make sure to read the vitamin label and avoid taking multiple doses so you don’t overdo it.
SAW PALMETTO EXTRACT
Paradi Mirmirani, M.D., a dermatologist at the Permanente Medical Group in Vallejo, California, tells NaturallyCurly.com that saw palmetto extract may improve the growth and fullness of hair. In one study, 60 percent of patients taking saw palmetto extract saw an improvement (whereas only 10 percent of the placebo group reported any improvement”>. This is another supplement to be careful with, though, especially if you’re taking birth control pills: saw palmetto has been shown to “decrease the effects of estrogen in the body” and thus, potentially decrease the effectiveness of birth control.
VITAMIN D
“The vitamin D receptor helps regulate your hair cycle,” says Dr. Mirmirani, who has her patients take vitamin D supplements whenever their levels are low. Even though experts aren’t exactly sure how the body’s vitamin D levels influence hair growth, most agree that it’s an essential vitamin for skin and hair health.
BIOTIN
Biotin, which is part of the Vitamin B family, is one of the most-recognized supplements for improving the strength and thickness of hair. Although the data from studies of biotin is inconclusive, Doris Day, M.D., a celebrity dermatologist in New York City, says, “I have some very happy patients taking biotin right now. Even though the data is mixed, there’s at least enough to support trying it out.”
FOLIC ACID
If you do decide to take biotin, you can increase your body’s absorption of it by pairing it with a folic acid supplement, as well. This study from the University di Bologna shows that folic acid helps the body metabolize biotin, boosting its effects.
VIVISCAL
One of the most respected hair growth supplements on the market is Viviscal, a Scandinavian supplement made with silica, Vitamin C, and fish protein. Dr. Day tells us, “I’ve observed it help with hair thickness and regrowth, especially around the temple area.”
Celebrity hair stylist David Babaii is a fan of Viviscal, as well, after witnessing its effects on a client. “Within a month, I noticed growth of new hair and after six months, her hair was even thicker than before she started taking it,” he says.
COLLAGEN
As we age, the body’s natural production of collagen slows, which can result in wrinkled skin and thinning hair. Adding collagen, which is actually a protein, to your daily routine can counteract these effects by helping the body produce more keratin protein (which, by the way, makes up 90% of our hair”>. Collagen also stimulates blood circulation, which supports hair health by helping the body deliver essential nutrients to hair follicles.
GLA
GLA, also known as gamma linolenic acid, is considered an essential fatty acid of the omega-6 variety. Even though we need omega-6 fatty acids for a variety of reasons–including healthy hair and hydrated skin–the body cannot produce it on its own. Nuts and seeds, like almonds and pumpkin seeds, are great sources of GLA–but if you don’t get this essential nutrient from your diet, you can take it in supplement form to stimulate hair growth and keep your scalp moisturized.
FENUGREEK
Fenugreek is a herb that promotes healthy hair in two ways: you can take it internally or use it topically. Part of the Indian Ayurvedic tradition, fenugreek (sometimes called “methi””> has been shown to strengthen hair at the roots, preventing hair loss and thinning hair. You can take it as a supplement, or make a hair mask by mixing equal parts fenugreek seed powder and water and applying it from root to tip. Although there aren’t studies that prove fenugreek’s benefits, many people swear by it to promote hair growth, prevent dandruff, and add shine.
Of course, the best way to promote thick, healthy hair is through a well-balanced diet. First, add these hair-healthy foods to your daily routine; then, supplement with vitamins as needed.
Have you taken any of these supplements and noticed hair growth? What are some others that you might suggest for your fellow curly girls? Share them with us in the comments below!
###### ISTOCKPHOTO
Sometimes it feels like my Type 2 wavy hair is a petulant teenager, and I’m its frazzled mother, trying to figure out what, for the love of God, is going on here! My hair-child is always “going through a phase”. One day it’s no-poo perfection; the next, my scalp is out-of-control, oily, and screaming for shampoo. This week, my waves might love the diffuser; the next, it suddenly leads to dried-and-fried frizz. As soon as a product earns a place in my regular routine, my hair suddenly starts acting out.
In a true, teenager-like fashion, it just needs some love and attention.
Never is this more true than during a seasonal shift. As the Northern Hemisphere transitions from summer to fall–temperatures dropping, moisture leaving the air–my hair feels it all. My scalp is flakier, my ends are frizzier, and my routine revolves around hydrating, nourishing, and natural ingredients.
Brushing and Combing
There’s so much conflicting advice on how and when to brush waves and curls. Only brush dry hair! Comb wet hair! No, never brush at all! Right now, I’m experimenting with not brushing or combing my Type 2 waves ever. During the fall and winter months, my hair is more prone to breakage, and brushing or combing only makes that breakage worse. (If I get a little tangled, I take a comb directly to the knotted area and work it through gently, but that’s it.”> I notice that my wave pattern has been more defined since ditching the hairbrush.
Treatment
When my ends are particularly dry, I whip up a homemade mask with a tablespoon of ghee, and a tablespoon of coconut oil. Both ingredients are full of fatty acids that inject hair follicles with moisture, and add a good amount of shine.
To treat, I warm the mixture for fifteen seconds, then apply into my roots and onto my ends. This can get a little goopy and messy, so after twenty minutes or so, I rinse it out in the shower.
In the Shower
Like clockwork, I always experience dandruff in the autumn months. To treat my dry scalp, I use an apple cider vinegar rinse once a week. It’s so easy: I just mix two parts water with one part ACV in a spray bottle, then spray the mixture into my roots after dampening my hair in the shower. I let it sink in for five minutes, then rinse with water. The apple cider vinegar balances the hair’s pH level, which in turn flattens the hair cuticle and leads to shinier, healthier, smoother waves. It also gently exfoliates the scalp to get rid of dead skin cells and product build-up.
I shampoo once or twice a week, usually with Love Beauty and Planet’s Hope and Repair Coconut Oil & Ylang Ylang Shampoo. It’s made with natural coconut oil to repair damaged ends and prevent breakage–and it smells incredible.
I condition every day, either with SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Conditioner (which has silk protein and neem oil to detangle and lock in moisture”> or Nutrine Garlic Conditioner (garlic naturally adds shine and promotes growth–and don’t worry, it’s unscented”>.
A few months ago I got balayage, so occasionally I’ll switch out these products for Clairol Shimmer Lights shampoo and conditioner, because they’re both infused with violet toner. Khloé Kardashian turned me on to this line when I worked for her, and I love it–it’s so cheap, but really effective for battling brassiness!
Products
After showering, I wrap my hair in a towel for a few minutes until it’s no longer soaking wet. Then, I’ll spray it with SheaMoisture 100% Virgin Coconut Oil Leave-In Treatment. It immediately softens my waves and makes them easy to style. If I’m having a low maintenance day, this is all I use.
When I want a more defined wave pattern, I squish a little bit of SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie into my hair. I also like Moroccanoil Curl Defining Cream, but since it’s expensive, I save that for special occasions.
During the fall and winter months, I try not to use the diffuser and instead let my waves air dry. They don’t need the extra heat damage!
Now that I’ve got my waves in check for the new season, I’m considering switching up my hair color, too. I’m obsessed with the golden highlights that are trending right now; what’s your favorite fall color trend? Share it with us in the comments below!
