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Can you believe it’s almost 2025? While we’re looking back at all the beauty moments of this year at all this year’s beauty moments, we’re also looking forward to the trends coming in the new year, specifically for the curls. “The focus is all about embracing natural textures,” says IGK NYC hairstylist Olya Iudina. “People are moving away from over-styled looks and leaning into the beauty of their own curls.”
Remember how people were diffusing their curls? Yep, it’s still on the horizon. “Embracing your natural curls has been making a big comeback in 2024 and for 2025,” says RPZL Master Stylist Stephanie Angelone. “Instead of blowing your hair out, a round brush using the diffusing nozzle with curling products and letting natural curls dry without frizz is on the upswing.”
This year, we’re seeing a surge in styles that celebrate the beauty of all curls, from bold Jheri Curls to curly pixie. For specific hairstyles, layered bobs, heavy fringes, and voluminous shapes offer versatility and showcase curls in their best spotlight. Regarding curly hair, we’re focusing on low-maintenance yet high-impact hairstyles (especially if we’re trying to look good when running late to work). Let’s remember beauty products to maintain the volume of the curls. “The main focus here is moisture,” says Iudina. “Something that will enhance hair texture and won’t bring it down.”
2025 is the year for the curls to shine. We’re here to express ourselves with the power of hair while keeping it chic and healthy.
Below for some inspiring curly hair looks to consider rocking in the new year.
Over time, product buildup, oil, dead skin, and pollution can clog your hair follicles and throw your scalp out of balance. These factors can lead to dryness, itching, dandruff, or thinning hair. That’s where a good scalp treatment comes in. It works to deeply clean and exfoliate, clearing away all the gunk and boosting circulation to nourish your hair follicles.
The result? Stronger, healthier hair growth. Plus, scalp treatments can help control oiliness, calm irritation, and make your other hair products work even better. Not to mention, winter can be harsh on your scalp, causing dryness and irritation. Scalp treatments, such as nourishing oils and soothing masks, help restore moisture and keep your scalp healthy.
Whether your scalp is dry, oily, somewhere in between, or simply want to give it some extra TLC, adding a scalp treatment to your routine helps create the perfect environment for your hair to thrive, leaving it shinier, softer, and full of life. That said, the below will keep your scalp nourished all winter.
The downsides to frequent shaving are that it can cause irritation, bumps, cuts, ingrown hairs, razor burn, and nicks. This can be frustrating for anyone who wants to keep everything clean and tidy. Luckily, safety razors are designed to address these issues, making shaving a much smoother, safer, and more comfortable experience—especially for those with sensitive skin.
“Safety razors work best for sensitive skin,” William Rodgriguez, a master barber at Public Image NYC tells Beautycon. “Using a safety razor to shave is the best way to prevent unsightly razor bumps, ingrown hairs, nicks and irritation.”
What’s the difference between a safety razor and a regular razor?
There is a significant difference between a safety razor and a regular razor. The difference lies with the razor head. “Safety razors use a single or double edge razor that is encased in a head that only exposes the edge of the razor,” Dr. Hartman says. “A regular razor is often known as a cartridge razor, which has a series of razor edges stacked on top of one another.”
Best practice with safety razors
When using a safety razor, it’s important to note that the head of the razor doesn’t pivot like regular razors. Instead, it’s recommended to use the safety razor in the direction of hair growth to achieve the best angles. First, it’s important to prepare the skin on your face by steaming in the shower or using a hot towel. Second, apply a pre-shave oil, shaving gel, or cream, and try to shave with and across the grain of the hair growth to avoid irritation. After shaving, rinse your face with cold water and apply an after-shave balm for a refreshing finish.
The importance of using one blade is also emphasized by the experts. “Stick to one blade if you have sensitive skin,” Dr. Corey L. Hartman, Founder of Skin Wellness Dermatology in Birmingham, AL, says. “A fresh, new blade will easily remove hair from the face with the least amount of contact with your skin possible, which will reduce the risk of skin irritation, redness and itching.”
Which safety razors should I try?
Holiday party season is here. With that, comes shopping for the perfectly festive dresses for office and family celebrations alike. To bring it all together, though? An elevated hairstyle that still shows off your curls.
With just a few simple steps and the right products, you can create stunning, curly hair-approved party looks from your home. Whether you’re going for elegant, playful, or bold, there’s something for everyone to choose from below.
Super Defined Glam Curls
To achieve an elegant look that enhances your natural curls, wash your hair and apply a leave-in conditioner. Section your hair and apply curl-defining cream using your fingers or the praying hand’s method. Then, use a diffuser to dry your hair and separate curls for volume. Finish by adding shine spray or hair oil to the ends for a polished, party-ready glow.
Half-Up, Half-Down
You can never go wrong with a half-up, half-down hairstyle. With freshly washed curls, start with using a curl refresher spray or leave-in conditioner. You can either use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to part and separate the top half from the bottom half. Gather the top section of your hair into a loose ponytail or twist it into a small bun to keep your curls intact.
Wet Look
You can apply a generous amount of curl-defining gel to damp hair for a sleek, high-fashion party style, channeling Rihanna. Make sure to slick the roots back for a polished, wet appearance. To finish the look, scrunch the ends to maintain defined, glossy curls.
Side-Swept Curls
If you’re looking for a classic hairstyle, simply sweep your curls to one side and secure them with bobby pins. If you want a glamorous style, add a glittery clip to give it an extra dose of sparkle.
Elegant-Messy Curly Bun
Without a doubt, a bun can make you look put together. All you have to do is grab and gather your curls at the top of your head and pull them back in a ponytail. You can pull the ponytail halfway through on the last loop of the tie to create a loose bun look with a few ends sticking out.
Winter wash days for coily hair require a little extra love and care to combat the dryness and brittleness that come with the colder months. The key to maintaining healthy, defined coils is to focus on moisture-rich products that hydrate and protect.
For starters, reach for a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo following a deep conditioning treatment to give moisture and strengthen your hair. Then, you can use a leave-in conditioner to lock in moisture. Meanwhile, a curl cream or styling gel can help define your coils and reduce frizz. Don’t forget to add an oil or hair serum to seal in all the hydration and give your curls that healthy, shiny finish. In other words, with the right essentials, you can keep your coily hair soft, bouncy, and full of life all winter long.
Below, discover our favorite essentials to add to your wash day routine.
It’s that time of year again: family gatherings, gift giving, and cozy evenings in. Additionally, ‘tis the season for holiday parties, too. That likely means you’re on the lookout for hairdo ideas that will turn heads and inspire festive cheer.
Lucky for you, there’s an abundance of inspiration out there. Our favorite celebrities, for example, are turning heads with stunning hair looks as of late. If you’re considering getting a silk press this season, take a look at Coco Jones at the 2024 Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade. Otherwise, you might want to go for a classic Hollywood look, such as a slicked-back straight hairstyle or a short bob, like the music trio FLO. Or Maybe, like Lizzo, a braided crown or is a little more your speed. And did someone say blondes have more fun? With their bouncy ‘dos, Sabrina Carpenter and Wicked’s Ariana Grande certainly say so.
Regardless of your preference, below are a few dazzling hairstyle ideas to make a statement this holiday season.
The holidays are a time for relaxing, eating well, and creating unforgettable memories with our loved ones. It also often means many of us are traveling. That said, between the dry airplane air, hotel products, harsh water pressure, and unpredictable weather, our curls might be more prone to dryness than usual. we have to make sure our curls rise to the occasion and shine no matter what.
To help us through it all, Joey Scandizzo, celebrity hairstylist and co-creative director of ELEVEN Australia, is here. He notes the importance of, when it comes to travel, keeping things simple. “Traveling can also mess with your normal hair routine,” says Scandizzo. “The key is keeping your hair hydrated without weighing it down.”
To keep your hair healthy while traveling, find more tips below.
Hydrate your hair
Scandizzo notes that hydration is the ultimate superpower to nourish and add moisture to your curls. “Humidity will pull in extra moisture from the air leaving you with frizzy and wild curls,” says Scandizzo. “Add a bit of sweat and oil buildup, and your hair can start to feel heavy and greasy pretty quickly.”
Wear a protective hairstyle
Scandizzo recommends styling your hair in braids or a chic bun. “It’ll protect your curls and give you one less thing to worry about while you’re traveling.” If you want to do a quick hairstyle, braids or twists are great options. “They’re easy ways to prevent excessive tangling while still letting your hair flow naturally.”
Use a silk pillowcase or hair wrap
During vacation, like always, you want to protect your hair while you sleep. Scandizzo notes that if you’re traveling to a warm climate, wrap your hair. “Bring a satin bonnet or a satin pillowcase for your neck pillow,” says Scandizzo. “Both options help reduce friction, keeping frizz under control while you rest or lean back.” He also recommends wrapping your hair in a scarf, wearing a wide-brimmed hat, and carrying an umbrella when you’re out in the sun.
Pack go-to travel hair essentials
When it comes to packing your favorite hair products, Scandizzo recommends packing a lightweight, hydrating shampoo and conditioner to balance moisture for your curls. Here’s a tip: keep your hair hydrated without weighing it down. “Pack a lightweight, hydrating shampoo and conditioner to maintain that moisture balance,” says Scandizzo. “Alternatively, pack a mini 50ml curl cream for the flight to keep your curls smooth and hydrated.”
Finding the perfect gift for someone with curly hair can be a challenge, but a curated gift set is a thoughtful and practical solution. We think the best gift sets include a combination of nourishing shampoos, conditioners, styling creams, and treatments that cater to the unique needs of curly textures. After all, your curl friends want their strands to be moisturized, frizz-free, and defined.
That said, when shopping for the kits, look out for ingredients like shea butter, argan oil, and coconut oil which help promote healthy hair. So, give the gift of confidence this season with a premium curly hair gift set that can elevate your loved one’s routine.
Below, we narrow down our favorite curly hair gift sets.
Curly hair is glorious. But, like any good thing, it requires care and maintenance. Let’s face it, though. Some mornings we simply just don’t have the time to re-style our hair and chance it not turning out the way we’d hoped for.
That said, it’s great to have a trusted style you can whip out when you’re in a rush. “Go-to, easy, protective hairstyles for curly hair are often updos,” says Master Cosmetologist at the Ogle School, Stanley Nolan. It’s all about using the right products and tools to give your hair more volume or definition. “Adding texture and shine to your curls can be a quick and effortless way to get a beautiful, shiny, bouncy look.”
Below, for more quick, easy, and cute styles for those busy days.
Ponytail
Nolan recommends using a styling cream or pomade to make sun the ponytail in place. “Place the product along the hairline, as well as over the crown of your head.” You can use a small boar bristle brush to lay down your edges.
Slick Bun
Without a doubt, a slick bun makes you look professional on a new level. Nolan recommends securing the hair into a bun and using your brush to smooth down any remaining bumps or flyaways. “For extra hold, you can wrap the ponytail with an elastic band or pin the bun tightly.”
Relaxed Updo
Maybe you want to do a relaxed hairstyle for a busy work day. After drying your curly hair, apply a curl-defining cream and gather hair into a ponytail halfway between the nape and crown of the head. “Wind the ponytail around the base of the hair tie to form the bun.”
Top-knot
A top-knot hairstyle can be done like you’re putting a half-updo. Nolan recommends using bobby pins to secure the hair into place before misting it with hairspray to lock everything in while maintaining the natural bounce of your curls. “If needed, you can gently pull on some sections to adjust the shape of the bun for a more effortless finish.”
Curly Pineapple
You can go for a classic curly pineapple. All you have to do is pile your hair up and secure it with either a scarf or bobby pins. If you’re looking to add more shine with this hairstyle, Nolan recommends applying a small amount of lightweight styling cream or oil to add texture and a glossy finish.
Fluffy Twists
Celebrity hairstylist Xia Charles notes that you can use a leave-in conditioner to create a fluffy twist hairstyle. “After washing, divide your clean, damp, detangled hair into sections,” says Charles. “Move slowly down the length of your hair, ensuring it dries and smooths completely.”
After drying, use a rat tail comb and section your hair. “Twist the sections from root till end,” says Charles. “Repeat this process till your hair is completely full of long fluffy twists.”
Let’s face it. Curly hair can get dry and frizzy at times. That’s because curly hair requires more moisture than other hair types. In other words, finding the right products, and hydrating more than you think you should, is key. Additionally, in the winter months, hair tends to be dryer due to heating systems, cold temperatures, and more heat styling.
That’s where trusted leave-in conditioners come in! Luckily, we spoke with hair experts on the power of leave-ins. Below for tips, product recommendations, and more.
What are leave-in conditioners?
“Leave-in conditioners are typically a cream that goes throughout the hair after you shampoo and condition,” says hairstylist Mick Lewis Denver. “It is applied on wet hair and will help with moisture for dry hair.”
Celebrity hairstylist and Co-Creative Director of ELEVEN Australia, Joey Scandizzo, also notes that they are perfect for giving your hair some extra love aer washing. “Unlike regular conditioners, they stay on your hair, adding moisture, protecting it from damage, and making it way easier to detangle and style.”
What are the benefits of leave-in conditioners for curly hair?
Scandizzo raves that curly hair can benefit from using leave-in conditioners. “Curls tend to get dry and frizzy, so a good leave-in can give them that extra boost of moisture they need to stay so and bouncy all day,” says Scandizzo. “Leave-ins also add a protective layer so your curls stay defined and full of life.”
Why are they important to use for curly hair?
Curly hair takes longer to get natural hydration all the way to the ends. Quia Querisma, hairstylist and owner of Querisma Beauty Studio, also notes that curly hair is prone to dryness and “the most fragile” hairstyles. “Natural oils don’t easily travel down the hair strand,” says Querisma. “Maintaining moisture in the hair helps discourage breakage and leaves the hair feeling softer.”
Scandizzo notes that leave-ins can help give curls the moisture they need to stay healthy “They also add a layer of protection against frizz and environmental damage, keeping curls looking defined and healthy.
Which leave-ins should I try?
If there’s one thing Saweetie will do, it’s make sure she looks good when she steps out of the house. The Beautycon 2024 speaker’s recent vacation-ready cornrows, adorned by neutral and turquoise beads—matching her Tony Ward Couture light blue gown and nails— were no different.
The “My Type” rapper made sure her edges were laid down to perfection, too. The feed-in braids she rocked involve adding extension hair to cornrows or single braids, adding more volume to the hair. It appears as though her braids might have been done on her natural texture—as the next day, she took them down and revealed her silky curls while at the beach. For the braided style, of course the singer had to add a unique touch; side-swept to give them an elevated, it-girl look.
So, if you’re looking for hair inspiration for your holiday beach adventure—be it during the upcoming holiday season, a solo trip, or baecation for Valentine’s Day—take notes from Saweetie.
One thing’s for sure, two thing’s for certain: SZA gives us good vibes and music. While we can relate to her songs from her two albums, Ctrl and SOS, the Grammy-winning singer loves to show off her head-turning hair looks. And for good reason.
Do you remember when all of us would turn on the TV’s and put on 106 & Park? The Ctrl singer rocked her natural long curly hair in one episode with no makeup. Then, she rocked her big curls at the 2014 Maverick Music Festival. Additionally, there have been many times on Instagram where she’s showcased a variety of wigs—ranging from pink to orange to blue hairstyles.
Later, she rocked her hair in a top-knot updo at the 2017 BET Awards. She also made her first appearance at the 2018 Met Gala with loose curls. And, let’s not forget when she totally owned the yellow hair at the 2021 Billboard Music Awards, performing “Kiss Me More” with Doja Cat, either.
We could go on, but you get the picture. SZA is constantly raising the bar, not only musically, but also hair-wise—reminding us of the beauty and range of Black women.
In honor of her 35th birthday, today, below are a few of our favorite SZA hair moments.
While Halloween fell in the middle of the week this year, celebrities proved there’s always time for a little dress up. Show-stopping hair looks included.
First, with her black loose waves hairstyle, grammy-winning singer Coco Jones channeled the legendary Donna Summer. Then, singer Chloe Bailey rocked the Jessica Rabbit costume with red parted loose curls that complimented her purple gloves and sequined dress. Lala Anthony had a high ponytail—keeping her hair out of her face as she saved the world as Deadpool.
Halle Berry reminded us that natural curls on Halloween are just as festive as wigs or extensions. The Monster’s Ball actress wore hers alongside her witch costume. The Hottieween queen herself, Megan Thee Stallion, wore red hair as Starfire. Lastly, Quenlin Blackwell did Naomi Campbell justice—having her hair slicked back with a beret.
Below for our favorite Halloween 2024 hair moments.
Oh, Halloween is the perfect time to dress up as your alter ego. In other words, you can rock the hairstyle of your dreams. To get in the Halloween spirit, we’re taking a look back at our favorite Halloween hair moments from the past.
For example, do you remember when actress Lori Harvey channeled Beyoncé with the blonde ponytail in her iconic “Me, Myself and I” music video? Or Ice Spice’s Betty Boop curls. Then, Real Hot Girl Megan Thee Stallion wore a ton of green hair for her Gremlin costume. We also can’t forget about when Keke Palmer had a Frankenstein moment with her adorable son, Leo. The actress nailed the updo hair with gray on the sides. We are also of course taking notes from Kerry Washignton who wore a mini afro as Lionel Richie.
Check out our favorite celebrity hair moments from past Halloweens.
Let’s take it back to when Ross started her acting career in the early 2000s. The American Fiction actress sported her curls at the 2004 BET Awards. The following year, she did it again, letting her hair out, in full volume, at the UPN series Second Time Around Launch Party.
Over the years, she’s continued to wear her curls, but eventually began exploring new styles—voluminous blowouts and braids included. Almost a decade later, she rocked cornrows with a nude lipstick at the 2010 InStyle Magazine Post-Golden Globes Party. She put her hair in a bun, and finished her look with a bold eyeliner and red lipstick, at the 2014 American Music Awards. In 2016, she was found in two pigtail braids at the 2016 Nordic State Dinner. Lastly, she rocked a long ponytail with a signature red lipstick at the 2024 Vanity Fair Oscar Party.
In honor of her 52nd birthday today, look back at Ms. Ross’ inspiring hair moments over the years.
One thing’s for sure, you can never go wrong with braids. “Braids are a fun and versatile hairstyle that can be worn casually or formally,” says Ogle School Cosmetologist & Beauty Educator, Stanley Nolan. “It’s a great protective style that lasts long for girls with natural, extra curly hair.”
And, even with braids, sometimes you want to stay on trend—so why not add a claw clip? The accessory adds a level of chicness to your styles while you’re running errands—conveniently keeping strands out of your face.
Furthermore, to aid the clip with holding everything in place, Tukia Allen, a master cosmetologist and founder of Studio Bold Salon, suggests picking out products based on the texture and density. “For thicker, coarser hair you could use a clay pomade, hair wax, or a paste which will provide a stronger hold, giving definition to the braid,” says Allen. “For thinner, finer hair you could use a gel, oil-based pomade, foam, or cream which will provide a strong hold while making the braids look shiny and nourished.”
Below, you’ll find five ways to style your braids with a claw clip.
Ponytail
Start by gathering your hair as if you’re making a regular ponytail. You can position it high, mid-level, or low, depending on your preference. Twist the ponytail a couple of times to tighten it, then place the claw clip over the base to secure it. If your hair is long, let the ends fall over the clip for that classic ponytail look. Nolan recommends using the Luxy Hair’s Coastal Shell Claw Clip to “place it over the base of your ponytail.”
Half-Up, Half-Down
Stanley notes that you can follow the same steps as the ponytail, but only use the top section of your hair. You can use the laxizar Claw Clip to clip it in place while leaving the rest of your hair down.
Modified French Twist
Allen recommends gathering all your hair at the bottom of your neck. “Hold the base with one hand and twist the length of your hair upwards, coiling it tightly against the back of your head,” says Allen. “Lift the twisted section and tuck the ends under the twist or leave them sticking out for a more casual look.” Secure it with the LuSeren Claw Clip vertically over the twist.
Messy Bun
Nolan recommends gently tugging on the braid to add volume. You can take the Scünci Play Open Rectangle Claw Clip and place it over the base of your ponytail. “Make sure it sits securely in the middle of your head.” You can grab the bottom of your braids, folding them over the claw clip, depending on the style. “Open the clip slightly and tuck in the remaining length of the braid or braids underneath the clip,” says Nolan. “Adjust any loose hair for a finished look.”
Double Bun
Allen recommends sectioning the hair in a half up half down manner and using a hair tie in each section to create ponytails. “Take the upper ponytail and lift upwards placing a claw clip at the base,” says Allen. “The top ponytail should now hang over it.” You can use Pattern Beauty Claw Clip to create this hairstyle. You can fan the ponytail out and tuck the ends into the bottom of the claw clip, creating a top bun.
Achieving a salon quality blowout is all about technique, maintenance and protection. But, let’s face it. We don’t always have the time, or means, to go to a professional. That said, if you’re blow drying at home, it’s important to ensure you’re following the proper steps to keep hair healthy. You can achieve the perfect look, save time, and improve the health of your hair all in one. Who doesn’t want that?
Below, Andrew Fitzsimons, a celebrity hairstylist and founder of Andrew Fitzsimons Hair, tells NaturallyCurly all about how to properly use the blow dryer for sleek hair.
Use heat protectant
“It’s important to make sure that you protect your hair from heat damage when blow drying,” says Fitzsimons. The best way is to use a heat protectant spray or hair oil on your damp hair before drying. The celebrity hairstylist recommends using NatureLab’s Perfect Repair Leave In Treatment when you begin blow drying.
Start with a general blow dry
When blow-drying your hair, start with a general blow dry, avoiding focusing heat on one section. For added volume, try blow-drying your hair upside down. “Once dry, take a brush and pull the hair taught while drying,” says Fitzsimons. “Make sure your dryer is angled downwards to prevent flyaways.”
Point the dryer downwards
Start by pointing your dryer downwards as you brush through your hair from root to end. This will prevent any flyaways or baby hairs from sticking upwards. If using a round brush, you’ll want to curl the brush away from your face as you dry. Hold the dryer around 6 inches away from your face.
What should I keep in mind for a sleek blowout?
The best way to achieve a sleek blowout is to start while your hair is still wet. Fitzsimons notes that after towel-drying, work 2-3 pumps of the Andrew Fitzsimons Virgin Repair Restructuring Serum into damp hair, starting at the ends.
After applying serum, blow dry your hair, covering your whole head rather than focusing on specific areas. Once mostly dry, you can section your hair and blow dry with a brush from root to end, ensuring the dryer is facing down to avoid flyaways. Once finished, use a hair oil to give your locks a glossy, silky look.
Do you know what your favorite celebrities like Saweetie, Rihanna, Yara Shadidi, Storm Reid, Issa Rae, Alicia Keys, and Tyla have in common? Not only are they incredible performers, they also have immaculate edges. And, whether you’re new to elevating yours, or a seasoned baby hair lay-er, we can all use some tips to brush up on our skills.
“Edges, often called ‘baby hairs,’ are the fine, delicate hairs along the hairline,” says founder of Nylah’s Naturals, Kameese Davis. “Because they’re shorter and finer than the rest of the hair, edges are more vulnerable to breakage and damage caused by tight hairstyles, over-styling, or harsh chemicals.”
Tiffany Rose, CEO and founder of Hollywood Hair Bar, recommends utilizing edge control to “give you a new and fun look, but also help relieve an itchy scalp, split ends, and dullness.” Meanwhile, Dr. Jarrett Manning, a beauty expert and dentist, also recommends using a brush with strong bristles and wearing a silky scarf to tie around the edges for them to stay in place.
Below for a step-by-step on how to lay down your edges the right way.
Prep Your Hair
Start with clean, dry edges. If needed, you can apply a small amount of hair oil, pomade or moisturizer to prevent dryness. Or, you can slightly damp edges.
Brush Baby Hairs
Grab your edge brush or toothbrush to gently smooth the baby hairs. Continue to smooth down hair as desired.
Apply Edge Control
Take a small amount of edge control or hair oil and apply it along your hairline using your fingertips. You can coat the hair lightly. To get a stronger hold, apply more edge control as needed.
Style Your Edges
Use the toothbrush or edge brush to slightly smooth and shape your edges. You can create swoops, curls, or waves based on your preference. The key to this is to take your time to get the desired shape.
Set Your Edges
Once styled, wrap a satin scarf around your edges for about 10-15 minutes. This will help the product set and keep your edges in place for a few minutes or until you’re ready to leave the house for your outing.
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