Search Results: NaturallyCurly
When it comes to natural hair, there are lots of ways to style your strands in a way that stands out.
A part is a great way to draw attention to your hair, and it can also affect the way your face looks in terms of shape. However, while some naturals have a natural part, what we’re born with might not always be what we want to present on the daily. And other naturals don’t have a visible part to begin with! So when you want to change things up and section your hair into a new style, here are a few of the best parts out there.
No Part? No Problem!
We know, we know, this is cheating a little bit. But for lots of naturals, their hair looks best when they have no part! With bouncy curls just falling wherever they fall, you can create a full-bodied look that is natural and effortless. If you don’t want a part, just let things fall and rest however they want to go.
Photo by @mominatu
Photo by @actually_ashly
Photo by @_iamsimplyk
Photo courtesy of @daynabolden
Straight Down The Middle
This is one of the best parts for natural hair because it’s so universal—this type of part works well with several different hair textures and styles. You can part your hair in the middle and just leave it out, of course. Or middle parts create a neat look that is perfect for sleek styles that call for your hair to be pulled back in a bun or ponytail, or into classically cute pigtails! A middle part can make a heart-shaped face appear more narrow, especially when you have longer hair.
Photo courtesy of @claire_most
Photo by @freshlengths
Photo by @curlsbyclaribel
Off to the Side
This slightly sassy part is great for those with a round face shape since it serves to elongate the appearance of the face. For all our baby-faced curlies, this will be the “Take me seriously” part that will age you up — no special effects required. If you have a lovely square-shaped face that you want to soften up on occasion, this will be the part that’s going to round off some of your sharper angles. To determine which side you need your side part to be on, examine your facial features. If one side of your face has stronger features or features that point upward, that’s the side you want to put your part on.
Photo by @sunitav_
Photo by @freddieharrel
Photo by @authentically.b
Zigzag
Looking to pump up the volume on your curls? Zigzag is one of the best parts for natural hair for a few reasons. The zigzag part helps create a lifted appearance to the roots as it serpentines across your scalp, and, really, it’s also just plain fun! If you have lower-density hair and a particularly visible part, this method is going to be just a little extra time that will instantly make any look seem extra special!
Photo by @jd_winters
Photo by @rhyliebriana
What parts have you tried, curlies? Be sure to keep up with the best tips in hair sectioning with us, and don’t forget to share your photos with @naturallycurly tagged!
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
Growing up in the Dominican Republic, I probably got my first blowout when I was three years old. The natural hair on the island is seen as “bad hair.” Curls, fros, and kinks are all a “no-no” in my country. My sister had thicker hair and tighter curls than me so she always used to get her hair relaxed and I was always happy because I was the one with “good hair” because my hair was easier to manage. Seeing and experiencing different responses and growing up listening to the terms “bad hair” and “good hair” taught me at the time that my curly hair wasn’t beautiful enough, so I hated it.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly hair?
To be honest, it was easier for me and more affordable. Moving from the Dominican Republic to NYC made me realize how expensive going to the beauty salon could be, plus it’s no reason to get a blowout in the hot and humid streets of NYC. When I started transitioning, I fell in love with the process. I realized it wasn’t only about having beautiful curls, it was about embracing my roots, my history, the history that many Dominicans deny on a daily basis, and my ancestors who are forgotten. When the truth hit, that’s when I started to embrace my curls with pride.
How have your family, friends, and co-workers reacted? What was your response to them?
“¿Muchacha tu ta loca?” which means “girl, are you crazy?” in Spanish. My mom went nuts when I stopped straightening my hair. I would always receive comments like “Why is your hair so messy?”, “When are you going to brush your hair?”, and “You look better with straight hair.” I got less support from my family, especially my mom who praised straight hair so much that she would straighten my hair every weekend, so finding out I was going natural really shocked her. I chose to embrace the process and educate those who are ignorant about natural hair along the way.
How did you transition to wearing your natural texture?
I used to cut my dead ends every 2-3 weeks and religiously deep conditioned 1-2 times a week with homemade masks with 100% natural products.
What is your current hair regimen?
I still deep condition every week, get trims every 3-4 months and clarify my hair every 2-3 weeks.
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a big impact on the way your hair looks?
Three-strand twists and the Denman brush are definitely a go to. When I was transitioning, twist outs were my best friend to help define my damaged curls. Now, I use the Denman brush for everything — it definitely helps a lot by defining my curls and detangling them.
Any advice you’d like to give other women who may be in the transition phase or need some encouragement in their hair journey?
Patience is the No. 1 thing you need when transitioning. No hair product or haircut will help your natural hair as much as having a lot of patience. Also, if you experienced heat damaged like me, you have to let go of the damaged hair and just cut it off. Lastly, deep conditioning every week is a must!
What’s your hair story? Share your story with us here to be featured in our Texture Tales series.
Image :@_saltycurls
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
It was quite interesting as I was the only one in my immediate family who had curly hair and the only one in my extended family who never straightened or treated my hair. My parents always expressed how beautiful my hair was and helped me be confident. But the first time I ever straightened my hair, I was like 15. Boys kept telling me I looked better with straight hair. So I started doing it more & more. I felt like I looked messy when my hair wasn’t straight.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly hair?
I cut my hair very short, and all of a sudden my curls revived!! People started commenting on my hair, I started loving the way my curls were growing and I decided no more heat!
How have your family, friends, and co-workers reacted? What was your response to them?
My family has always loved my hair! This has really helped me love it as well. In fact, my dad always wants my hair to be “bigger”! It’s so much easier to deal with “different” hair when you have people around you constantly making you feel better about it! I also feel like right now everyone is really appreciating textured hair and volume!
How did you transition to wearing your natural texture?
I always did. I was just never comfortable with it. I didn’t feel put together if my hair was curly, but now I feel weird if my hair isn’t curly!
What is your current hair regimen?
Lost of hair masks, moisturizing, leave-in conditioners, diffusing, finger coils, and love!
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a big impact on the way your hair looks?
Diffusing for sure.
Any advice you’d like to give other women who may be in the transition phase or need some encouragement in their hair journey?
Textured hair, in my opinion, is the most amazing hair. It’s not possible for it to be boring. It’s fun, fluffy, big, bold, and it’s beautiful! Care for it and love it because many wish they had the gorgeous hair you have!
What’s your hair story? Share your story with us here to be featured in our Texture Tales series.
Image by:@kitzelreyes
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
My whole life I grew up not liking my hair. I would wake up super early to straighten my hair and I thought it was impossible to get my curl pattern back. Beauty standards are all about silky-smooth, straight hair and I was tired of it. At home no one mentioned my hair, but it was a touchy subject.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly hair?
I realized that I didn’t need that to be “presentable,” and I just let my hair run wild. One day while doing my make-up, I came across a YouTube video talking all about the Curly Girl Method. I was so curious because I had never heard of it before. Either way, I decided to give it a go. Embracing your natural texture is all about persistence, patience, and a lot of trial and error. It has not been easy, yet I haven’t felt this good about myself in years.
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
Realizing I’m not the only one looking up to my curls. There are people out there who want my hair?!?! Crazy!!! That moment right there made me realize that I got this and my curls are just as beautiful! I think being a beauty influencer has made me more open to the curly community and I have made some amazing friends.
How do you protect your curls at night?
I wear my hair in a pineapple. I also have a satin pillow and I wear a satin bonnet.
Who is your curl crush?
@Hif3licia — her hair is amazing.
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
Witch I Love Your Hair Magical Mist and my Denman brush.
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
I wash and condition with the True by made beautiful and I have been using the GVP Sally’s Conditioning Balm as a leave-in during the winter for extra moisture. I follow up with the Uncle Funky’s Daughter Curly Magic and I add Aussie Instant Freeze Gel depending on the day I either diffuse or air dry.
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
Transitioning — it definitely was hard. My hair wasn’t curly or straight. I had such a hard time, but here I am now enjoying my hair. Don’t get me wrong — I still struggle, but not the same.
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
Using the Denman brush to define my curls and using the Hairepear hair towel has made a huge difference in controlling my frizz. I will also share a tip: If your hair is in need of hydration, go to your local organic store and get aloe vera juice and use it as a refresher.
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
Be patient and continue with this journey. It’s worth it. It’s such an amazing feeling to be able to wake up and love all of you. Your curls are just as beautiful — embrace your hair! My hair has given me self-love and confidence that makes me feel beautiful and unique. I still have a long way to go with my curls, but like I said, patience is key. I decided to dedicate my social media platform to talk all about curls and how to rock it because I didn’t have that. I didn’t have YouTube or Instagram to show this was possible. I want to change beauty standards and show the world that curly hair is just as beautiful.
What’s your hair story? Share your story with us here to be featured in our Texture Tales series.
What is your hair type?
3b
What has been the most empowering moment of your journey so far? Most challenging?
The most empowering moment of my journey so far is being able to help fellow transitioning curlies. Most importantly my mom, she wouldn’t go a week without her hair being in a roller set and blow dried. To now see her rock her curls has been the most rewarding for sure! I must say transitioning was definitely hard to deal with and on the days where my curls would just not budge no matter how much TLC, it would break me down, but I was determined to be liberated and not allow society tear me down into grabbing that blow dryer just to make my hair look manageable. The journey has it’s struggles but I wouldn’t have it any other way. So be patient and be strong transitioning curlies I promise you the results are all worth it especially if you are able to help others along the way.
How do you prefer to protect your curls at night, bonnet, scarf or satin pillowcase?
Protecting my curls can sometimes be a hassle, but I can never go wrong with putting my hair up in a pineapple and using a satin pillow to help reduce frizz.
Who is your curl crush?
I didn’t have the guts to chop it all off and start fresh so transitioning was my way to go and I must say @lynnkate was definitely my curl crush because like myself she recovered from chemical damage from dyeing her hair too much and it gave me hope. Definitely, set attainable goals because it won’t happen overnight and also don’t look and expect to have hair goals from someone who has completely different curl types because you will definitely set yourself up for failure.
What’s your curly girl essential?
I must say my curly girl essential is definitely water. Sometimes people think you need to lather a whole bunch of product especially after already styling which is a mistake I commonly made but with time I realized a few sprays of water took my curls a long way and most importantly it’s inexpensive! Always trying to save my coins because products aren’t cheap.
Do you prefer to shampoo or co-wash?
I definitely love me a low poo cleanser, but I do clarify once a month just to make sure I get my scalp squeaky clean.
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
I currently style my curls with a cream styler and top it off with a gel during the hotter months and then follow that by air drying half way and diffusing the rest of it. Some of my favorites go-to’s are SheaMoisture JBCO line, Ouidad Advanced Climate Control Gel, LUS All-in-one Leave-in, Righteous Roots Oil, DevaCurl Styling Cream, Bounce Curl Clarifying Shampoo, and Curls Blueberry Bliss Curl Control Jelly.
What’s your hair story? Share your story with us here to be featured in our Texture Tales series.
Image by: @curlysisterhood
What is your hair type?
3b
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far? Most challenging?
After a year of not straightening my hair, I had the opportunity to go to the dry bar and get a blowout. I was nervous to see my hair straight, and when I did, I realized I loved my curls even more. It didn’t last long for me to wash my hair and go back to my curls. It felt so amazing to love my natural hair to a point that I felt uncomfortable wearing it any other way. My most challenging moment was the beginning. I was afraid of the big chop, so I opted to cut my hair little by little. That awkward stage made me almost give up. However, I’m glad I embraced my transitioning curls as well.
How do you prefer to protect your curls at night, bonnet, scarf or satin pillowcase?
I love to use a satin scrunchie for my pineapple and a scarf around it. I also use a pillowcase! I’m satin everything when I go to sleep.
Who is your curl crush?
My curl crush would have to be my sister Nicol. She was my inspiration for going natural and will always be my ultimate curl crush.
What’s your curly girl essential?
I need a pick in my purse, my bathroom, and my car! I love volume.
Do you prefer to shampoo or co-wash?
I like both. I try to elongate my wash and go as much as possible so I need a shampoo after a week. If I have time I co-wash in between.
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
I love hydrating shampoo and conditioners like the Mane Choice. My favorite styling cream would have to be Verb’s curl cream and I love to pair it with Ouidad’s climate control gel.
What’s your hair story? Share your story with us here to be featured in our Texture Tales series.
Image by: @mrscurlcoachwalker
What is your hair type?
3b
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
Growing up was not easy. I hated getting my hair done by my mother, who is Latina with straight hair. She had no idea how to care for my hair so it was up in pig tales most of the time. When I was around 10 years old, I decided to take my hair into my own hands and I’ve been learning how to care for it ever since. There’s been some ups and downs dealing with my curls, but we made it!
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly hair?
I’ve always loved and embraced it, but I fell in love with it when I learned how to care for it. I took the time to build a relationship with my curls and now we are the best of friends.
How have your family, friends, and co-workers reacted? What was your response to them?
They love it! They all fully support me because I use the knowledge I have and I share it with everyone. I’ve become the go-to person for natural hair info in my family and with my friends.
How did you transition to wearing your natural texture?
I started with the CG method, but after a year I stopped and started listening to my hair and its needs and that’s what works for me.
What is your current hair regimen?
I consider my self a wash and go queen that’s my go-to style.
- shampoo and condition once a week co-wash midweek if needed
- deep condition weekly
- trim and cut my own hair
- use a gel or cream to style and a light spray for daily refresh
- pineapple at night
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a big impact on the way your hair looks?
I prefer the squish to condish and wet plopping.
Any advice you’d like to give other women who may be in the transition phase or need some encouragement in their hair journey?
Trust your process, take pride in your journey and celebrate your success.
What’s your hair story? Share your story with us here to be featured in our Texture Tales series.
Image by: @sueecakes
What is your hair type?
4a
What has been the most empowering moment of your journey so far? Most challenging?
The most empowering moment was when I wore my natural hair for my wedding day! I had so many doubts because I was transitioning and I wasn’t where I wanted to be. A lot of people asked what I was going to do, but I decided to be myself and wear it the way it was. I didn’t want to change it. It took me a long time to get there and I’m so glad I did! Seeing my wedding photos and seeing my hair — the way it was — reminded me that I stayed true to myself and I decided to embrace it and I felt beautiful. It was a breaking point for me.
How do you prefer to protect your curls at night, bonnet, scarf or satin pillowcase?
The first 3-4 days after I wash my hair, I do a pineapple and I also have a satin pillowcase. This helps me a lot to avoid frizz. I refresh my hair the next day with a mix of water and styling cream. My hair is very curly and I don’t retain a lot of definition after the fourth day, so I usually put it in a pineapple until my next wash day.
Who is your curl crush?
There are so many beautiful girls embracing their hair and I would have to say my first curl crush was @analidialopess. She is a Brazilian blogger and even though all of her tutorials are in Portuguese, I’ve learned so much just watching and following during my transition year. I also love @joyjah — her healthy curls and length is amazing!!
What’s your curly girl essential?
It’s hard to choose one product, but it would have to be a leave-in conditioner. My hair is dry, so I have to apply a lot of moisture now that I live in Texas. I have to put extra juice in my hair and my favorite leave-in is the Pomegranate & Honey Leave-In Conditioner from Mielle Organics. It smells so amazing and it leaves my hair very moisturized.
Do you prefer to shampoo or co-wash?
Co-wash all the way! But I use shampoo once a month to get that extra squeaky clean feeling!
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
I love trying new natural hair products and it all depends on how my hair feels. During the summertime, I use more gels to style my hair because it dries faster and I like big hair in the summer. During the cooler months, I apply styling creams just to give my hair a break and protect it from the cold. These are the products I apply when I wash my hair:
I deep condition my hair for 15 minutes, then I use a co wash-conditioner — styling cream — gel to seal it all! That’s basically what I apply most of the time. As for stylers, I love Camille Rose Curl Maker — it never fails! I always get so much definition and my curls last longer. I also love Ouidad Climate & Control Gel.
What’s your hair story? Share your story with us here to be featured in our Texture Tales series.
Image by: @craft_and_mane
What is your hair type?
2c + 3a
What has been the most empowering moment of your journey so far? Most challenging?
Strangers will send me their selfie on Instagram talking about how I have inspired them to start wearing their hair natural and they are so surprised by their own hair and what it’s doing! They say my posts have really helped them know what to do with their hair and where to start. That really empowers me to continue to believe in myself as someone who can help others in this journey, while I figure out my own hair. It’s helped me realize you don’t have to “know it all” before you begin to help others.
How do you prefer to protect your curls at night, bonnet, scarf or satin pillowcase?
I am a HUGE cheerleader for a silk pillowcase. It has been one of my most valuable purchases. I also wear a buff at night to preserve the definition in my curls, and that helps a lot. Buffs are also by far the most comfortable solution I’ve found.
Read more: How Curlies are Using the Buff in the Pursuit of Second-Day Hair
Who is your curl crush?
Oh gosh, so many! When I first discovered the Curly Girl Method I couldn’t believe the community there was on Instagram! It’s like its own little world! Everyone sharing details and techniques. It’s crazy how you can feel at home with a bunch of strangers, simply because of your hair. It’s amazing!
I really love:
- @dervscurls primarily for the shape of her adorable shaggy cut.
- @Lovelifecurls for her confidence in wearing short hair.
- @marina_curly_veggie for cute scarf styles and how to videos!
What’s your curly girl essential?
Right now I live and die by a bandana or a scarf. My hairline has so much postpartum regrowth happening that a bandana really comes in clutch. I have like 5 of them that I’m currently rotating through, depending on what I wear. I simply fold the square fabric to mimic the shape of a headband, put my hair in a cute top knot, wrap the bandana around my head and tie it at the top. This is my go-to style when I am with my kids or being casual. Sometimes though (depending on the scarf”> I can dress it up and wear it to work!
Do you prefer to shampoo or co-wash?
I am all about a cowash! When I go through old products that I used to use I can’t believe how stripping they feel! I just can’t stand them anymore. It’s like a cowash has become my new normal, so anything with a rich lather makes my hair feel SO dry, especially on the mid strands and ends. I also like to use a conditioner or use a masque after I cowash.
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
I am always trying new things, however, this combo is my favorite! I start with a cowash and a killer head rub. As I Am Coconut Cowash is my favorite. After I cowash, I either condition or use a masque. DevaCurl Melt into Moisture Masque and SheaMoisture Strengthen & Restore Treatment Masque are my go to’s. I let the masque sit while I shower, then rinse it out with cool water. Then, I flip my head over and do a little bit of finger combing, but not a lot. Mainly squish to condish (with water”> and praying hands to promote curl clumping. Then, I lightly blot with a cotton T-Shirt and start to apply my stylers. Some of my favorites are Lusbrands Wavy first, then apply DevaCurl Light Defining Gel or Bounce Curl Light Cream Gel by itself. Sometimes I apply more styling product when it’s 50% dry (Smasters technique“>. I love diffusing with my Dyson hair blowdryer! Once dry, fluff my roots and SOTC (scrunch out the crunch“>!
What’s your hair story? Share your story with us here to be featured in our Texture Tales series.
What is your hair type?
2c/3a
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
It was frustrating! My hair was always super thick, long, frizzy, and a tangled mess! My mom would strictly do braids on my hair cause the moment I would leave it loose, I’d get huge knots at the nape of my neck & my hair would just be a big poof ball! I would love it when my hair was straightened cause it was always 10x easier to manage and it was silky smooth.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally wavy hair?
The brutal summer heat we had back in 2016! At least that summer felt extra hot to me because I was moving at the time and having my hair straight or even the thought of having to sit there blow drying it in that heat was just too much. I was moving in with my sister and she already had Cantu’s shampoo & conditioner & a foam mousse by SheaMoisture so I decided to give them a try and I was surprised at how wavy my hair was! Of course, I had heat damage, but it didn’t look half bad and I decided at least for the rest of the summer I could do this routine! It was easy & simple and I truly liked the results. I stuck with it & two weeks into it I became so obsessed with the amazing curly world I had discovered and never knew existed!
How have your family, friends, and co-workers reacted? What was your response to them?
They love it! At first, my mom was upset ONLY because I had tailbone length hair and had to cut off quite a bit due to all my heat damage. I assured her my hair would grow back, but it would now be all healthy hair! My hair has grown a ton since, & tailbone length hair is definitely my goal. Other then that, I received a lot of support & I was quite surprised at how much people loved my curls & how they were eager to learn how I was making the change! Because of them, I transformed my Instagram into a natural hair haven & love helping other curlies around the world!
How did you transition to wearing your natural texture?
At first, it was hard because I still craved straight hair from time to time lol but I just stuck with it and pretty much just did it! I started out with learning as much as I could about the curly girl method and then just tried affordable products and different styling methods every so often until I had a routine down.
What is your current hair regimen?
I wash my hair probably every 3-4 days. I alternate between shampoo and a cowash. I deep condition 1-2x a week. I style on very wet hair and add my products in, then smooth it out with my wet brush or Denman brush, and scrunch away. Then, I diffuse until it’s 100% dry.
Here’s Amanda’s Holy Grails and Styling Tips
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a big impact on the way your hair looks?
Definitely using my wet brush or the Denman brush has helped me a lot! This is how I achieve nice big curls and get my curls to clump together. Without this step, I notice my hair is a lot more stringy and frizzy.
Any advice you’d like to give other women who may be in the transition phase or need some encouragement in their hair journey?
PATIENCE IS KEY! I know it’s hard, especially for those with tighter curl patterns than me, but once you give it time and stick with it, you WILL see results! In the end, it’s definitely 100% worth the struggle because you will fall in love with your hair, but more importantly you’ll fall more in love with YOU!
What’s your hair story? Share your story with us here to be featured in our Texture Tales series.
What is your hair type?
3b
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
Growing up, I never knew how curly my hair actually was. I always went to the hair salon ever since I was nine years old to get my hair straightened. I thought that straight hair was considered “Good Hair” because that’s how society always made it seem, especially my mother.
$$AD$$What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly hair?
I wanted a big change in my life. I was going through a lot mentally and physically. I wanted to love myself and understand my worth as a young lady. I did it for myself not because it was a trend.
How have your family, friends and co-workers reacted? What was your response to them?
At first, my family did not understand it at all. They made me feel sad because they would call me names and try to make it seem like I had bad hair because I wanted to embrace what I have.
How did you transition to wearing your natural texture?
I transitioned from damaged hair to natural hair by changing hair products that contain no sulfate, parabens or silicones and instead of making home remedies because I couldn’t afford deep conditioners. I used to cut my own hair for years because I know exactly what part of my hair needed to go because it was damaged and because we all know how expensive curly cuts can be. I became a huge fan of natural oils because until this day they make my wash and go’s so much easier.
$$AD$$What is your current hair regimen?
I am fully transitioned. I love it so much because it who I am. My hair is growing a lot and I now have black hair and I will change it really soon because I love experiencing new things.
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a big impact on the way your hair looks?
So far what truly works for me is to use a deep conditioner for every wash and also to pre-poo with Righteous Roots or with my own mix of oils that I create myself with natural oils from the Dominican Republic.
Any advice you’d like to give other women who may be in the transition phase or need some encouragement in their hair journey?
I would definitely recommend anyone who is transitioning at the moment to be consistent with your hair. You will not see results right away and that’s okay. Please do not let anybody discourage you because they are fully transitioned and you’re not. We all started somewhere and everyone’s hair is different. Love yourself first.
Image via iStock
Feel that chill in the air? It’s fall, curlies!
Even the warmer states and regions are feeling the cooler breezes now. But now that it’s time to break out the coordinated layers and cute scarves, have you considered that your hair care should be transitioning with your wardrobe?
For a hair care routine to be effective, it has to be adjusted based on the changing seasons. Your curls won’t need the same things year-round, and failing to make changes can lead to your locks not getting what they really need to stay healthy and beautiful! We’ve got you though. Here are a few key tips for transitioning your haircare from summer to fall to ensure you’re rocking your best curls, no matter the weather!
Ease up on humectants and daily lotions
In the summer, you need extra humectants to lock in that moisture, but the air in the fall tends to dry out a little. Remember, water molecules move from low volume to high volume, so the wetter the air, the dryer your hair! Since fall flips the script, you naturally need fewer humectants to coat the cuticle of the hair. HOWEVER, while you might not need as much humectant product in your arseneal, moisture is still important! Don’t even think about ignoring moisturizing routines altogether (we know you weren’t, but still“>. Try easing up on the hair creams and lotions if you tend to reach for them on a daily basis, and sub in a weekly deep moisturizing mask to keep your hair hydrated.
A few good products for performing weekly treatments include TGIN Honey Miracle Hair Mask, Carol’s Daughter Hair Milk Curl-Defining Moisture Mask, or EDEN BodyWorks Coconut Shea All Natural Hair Masque.
You might even feel like getting fancy and doing a face mask while your hair sits! Curl glow and skin glow are perfect fall coordinates, after all.
Take time to trim
Fall is a great time to watch leaves shed, but not so much any broken strands! Take the time to evaluate the tips of your curls for any split ends or damage that needs to make like a tree and LEAF, then dust/trim/cut accordingly. Seasonally speaking, since winter is traditionally the time to put your hair in protective styles with the goal of deep hydration, it makes sense to make fall your usual trim time. This means hair will be healthy and ready for the winter of protective styles and extra moisturizing treatments.
Let it all out
If you want to have your curls really shine before putting them up for the colder months ahead, now’s the time for them to take center stage… yes, even more than usual. With summer, the goal is usually to keep your hair up, protected, and out of your face since the hairstyle heat trap struggle is so real. But with cooler weather and less threat of humidity-causing frizz, fully ‘out’ looks are a great choice for fall! Just make sure you’re keeping up with the shorter daylight hours for optimal selfie sharing.
Clarify your hair after summer
This is important if you spent a lot of time enjoying the sun, sand, and surf of summer time. Remember how much you were moisturizing those curls in the heat, protecting them from the sun, and re-upping your leave-ins once you got out of the pool? You actually can have too much of a good thing if all that product has layered itself in your strands. Start fall off without build-up left over from summer fun, and get that slate nice and clean! And if you’re in search of a few great clarifying products, check out Mop Top Clarifying Rescue Treatment, CURLS Pure Curls Clarifying Shampoo, and As I Am Curl Clarity Shampoo!
Seasons come and seasons go, but great hair in transitioning from one to the next never has to change…even if your routine does.Ready for more tips and tricks this fall? Make sure you’re following us @naturallycurly, and make sure you’re tagging us in your fab photo ops! And be sure to share any that you have with us in the comments below!
Image: @curlonamission
What is your hair type?
3a
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
My hair has always been a huge part of my identity. Growing up, my hair was extremely thick and long, but my mom blowdried it straight nearly every time she washed it. I kept up that practice when I started doing my own hair, at around age 12. Even with the blowdrying, my mom knew how to care for my hair. She did regular hot oil treatments, deep conditions, and trims. My hair was healthy, but I rarely wore it in its natural state.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly hair?
I began to embrace my curly hair when I got to college in the late 1990s. This was around the time artists like Erykah Badu, Lauryn Hill and Amel Larrieux were popular. These natural-looking women were so beautiful to me. I also went to college in Atlanta, and during this time it was a mecca for the neo-soul movement, which embraced natural beauty, hair texture, and individuality. I began to wear my natural curls.
How have your family, friends, and co-workers reacted? What was your response to them?
For the most part, people are very accepting of my natural hair. Some of my closest friends didn’t even realize my hair curled so much. Many people are amazed at the texture. To this day, folks ask me if I set my hair on rollers or rods to achieve my curls!
How did you transition to wearing your natural texture?
I just put down the heat tools. Thanks to my mom, I knew the fundamentals of caring for my hair, so heat was really the only thing I needed to eliminate. My curls appeared pretty quickly.
What is your current hair regimen?
I change my hair all the time. I love its versatility, but I always come back to my curls. I cut off my waist-length hair soon after I had my son and wore a pixie for a couple of years. A few months ago I decided it was time to bring back my curls, so I’m in the process of growing it out (though I am LOVING my short curly hair”>. I wash my hair twice a week, once with a sulfate-free shampoo and once with a co-wash, and follow with a silicone-free conditioner. I use a lightweight leave-in, and then a styling gel such as the Ouidad Climate Control Gel. I live in New Orleans where the humidity is insane so this is essential. I clarify my hair about once a month with a shampoo that contains EDTA to eliminate hard water build-up, and I deep condition weekly.
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a big impact on the way your hair looks?
For me, it’s all in the daily refresh. With short curly hair, you can’t hide behind a bun or braid when you have bad hair days. So I refresh my hair daily with either a refreshing spray like Ouidad’s Botanical Boost or just water, depending on what my hair needs that day. I never saturate my hair. I use wet hands and just smooth frizzy, unformed curls back into place. I may add a tiny bit more gel, depending on the frizz factor. Also, I can’t skip wash days.
Any advice you’d like to give other women who may be in the transition phase or need some encouragement in their hair journey?
Stick with it! Your hair can go through so many phases before it gets to a place you like. With a lot of patience, trial and error and some technique, you’ll get there. Hair should be fun, and not taken too seriously. Also, don’t be afraid to cut if you need to — it WILL grow back!
What’s your hair story? Share your story with us here to be featured in our Texture Tales series.
What country do you live in?
Jamaica
How would you best describe your hair type?
Naturally Curly, 3c
What has been the most empowering moment of your journey so far? Most challenging?
The most empowering moment of my curly hair journey has most definitely been my big chop on January 31st of this year. I have always had big, bouncy curls and was known for having “inches,” so cutting most of my hair off definitely ruffled a few feathers. There’s no doubt that the curly/natural hair community idolizes having huge hair and even I got caught up with that pressure – so cutting my hair off freed me from some of that pressure and allowed me to find the beauty in my natural hair again.
How do you prefer to protect your curls at night: bonnet, scarf or satin pillowcase?
At night, I sleep with either a satin bonnet or a satin scarf over my hair, it all depends on the style my hair is in.
Who is your curl crush?
Though my hair has always been natural, I’ve had instances in my life where I’ve had heat damage and my hair was just completely fried! In 2013, I decided to put the flat iron and blow dryer down and actually learned how to care for and; style my hair without heat. From my childhood years, my hair has always been blowdried for manageability (thick hair problems!”>, so as I got older around 14 or 15, I started to see more people embrace their natural textures and I decided, why not? I’ve always had a full head of hair and I’ve never seen my true texture, so I went for it! As I got older, I immersed myself into the curly hair community and I came across Jewellianna Palencia, who’s my ultimate curl crush, and I knew this was the right decision! She’s everything!
What’s your curly girl essential?
My curly girl essential has definitely got to be deep conditioning! Regardless of texture, curl pattern – all that. Deep conditioning is key. I believe deep conditioning is essential especially if you wear your curly hair out in its natural state. It’s exposed to so many drying agents (the environment, wandering hands, etc.”> and needs to be kept moisturized. There’s no leave-in conditioner or curl cream that can do what a great deep conditioner or hair mask can do; it really works wonders.
My personal favorites are: Deva Curl Melt Into Moisture, Strands of Faith Intense Deep Conditioning Treatment, Carol’s Daughter Rhassoul Softening Hair Mask and CURLS Blueberry Bliss Reparative Hair Mask.
Do you prefer to shampoo or co-wash?
I love both. It all just depends on the state of my hair. I love a good lathery shampoo, sulfate-free of course, for when my hair has seen better days and is in need of a deep cleanse and my scalp is crying out for a complete refresh. With regards to co-washing, I don’t do traditional co-washing anymore, I use conditioning cleansers. So, I “co-wash” on days where my hair is in need of moisture with a light cleanse, just to refresh my curls, especially after wash and go’s.
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
My current hair regimen consists of lots of conditioning.
I do the “condition-wash-condition” method.
1. I lightly condition my hair before cleansing, to remove shed hair and prep my hair for cleansing. For this step, I love to use my Deva Curl Wash Day Wonder.
2. Cleansing; like I said previously, I love both “co-washing” and shampooing. I do my hair every 3-4 days to prevent it from drying out. My favorite cleansers are: Deva Curl No-Poo Decadence, Camille Rose Naturals Sweet Ginger Cleansing Rinse and CURLS Cashmere + Caviar Hair Bath.
3. After I finger detangle and deep condition my hair with my Q-Redew Steamer, then I style my hair. Some of my favorite moisturizers and stylers are: CURLS Blueberry Bliss Reparative Leave-In Conditioner, Jane Carter Solution Curl Cocktail & Camille Rose Naturals Curl Maker and my go-to style is a wash and go!
What’s your hair story? Share your story with us here to be featured in our Texture Tales series.
You’ve attended Texture On the Runways in the past, what stood out to you this year?
It’s an event that really brings everyone in the community into one space: the brands, the influencers, the stylists who come from all over for New York Fashion Week. The setting of Gotham Hall is a beautiful venue, and seeing Amara LaNegra was one of the highlights for me. Just seeing all of the girls who I’ve been coming up with in this industry.
Was there a moment of the runway show that has stayed with you?
Yes, Mielle Organics. Her presentation showed all of the different emotions we experience in our community specifically of envy, jealousy, hate, low self-esteem, she really called those things out by having her models run down the runway in stunning looks. They were painted in black and gold and were trying to steal the crown. Her overall message was that everyone can wear a crown, and it was a beautiful thing to see all of the women represented who were battling different issues, whether it be that they fear they don’t fit the mold, their hair isn’t curly enough or the right texture, they don’t have long enough hair.
How do you feel like textured hair is being represented in the fashion world as a whole right now?
I feel like it’s still very much political. When well-known designers are featuring natural hair it’s still seen as a political stance or controversial because we’ve had designers appropriating the culture and making it their own. I have seen natural hair on the runway but I felt it was to prove inclusivity, so I’d like to see that continue five years down the line. Hopefully, it’s not a trend. At Texture On the Runway I think it’s amazing to see natural hair being styled by brands who’ve embraced it, like Cantu, and to see the owners and people who work for these brands working to make their vision come together.
You mentioned being able to see the people who have come up with you in the audience, what’s that experience like?
Well the first thing I noticed is that the influencers are getting younger, I’m not the young one anymore, so I was like hold up! Let me introduce myself so I’m not out of the loop. One of the young influencers was telling me that they never used to wear their hair curly until seeing Texture On the Runway 2016 on social media! It was the Crème of Nature collection where they were all wearing red and Victoria, aka @vic_toryy, was one of their models. Seeing Victoria’s hair inspired her to embrace her natural hair and embrace herself. The representation coming down that runway that night inspired a young girl two years ago, and then here she is at that very event. And I know Victoria so I introduced her to Victoria since she was there that night. It’s all about re-establishing connections, catching up with people you don’t get to see all the time. I just like the camaraderie – everyone is so welcoming and friendly.
I’ll definitely have to tell our team that story about the impact of Texture On the Runway from two years ago.
It’s been great to see the show grow. I remember the location in 2016 and have seen it in Gotham Hall twice over. It’s an influencer family reunion, it’s a good kiki. I enjoyed myself and it just felt amazing to be there.
A couple people have said that about the family reunion, so I think that’s really what people are getting out of it.
It’s so refreshing because I get to see all of these familiar faces, like when I first moved to New York and was just starting out, Sabrina was my manager. I got to catch up with her at Texture On the Runway. We all help each other in some way, or we’re going to, or we have in the past. So that’s what makes it a family reunion.
What is your hair type?
3c
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
As a child, I disliked my curly hair and wished it was straight. I grew up around people who didn’t look like me, and it was difficult for me to embrace my natural curls. For many years, I straightened my hair, which led to terrible heat damage. I finally began to see the beauty in my natural hair and embraced it! I’m so glad I snapped out of it.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly/coily/wavy hair?
I started embracing my natural hair more after watching Tia and Tamera rock their natural curls on Sister Sister. However, I still didn’t fully like my hair because I compared my curls to everyone else. Big mistake! After getting married and having my daughter, I really began to love my natural hair. I did tons of research, started a YouTube channel and I learned to take care of my hair, which in turn caused me to fall in love with my natural curls and life has never been the same.
How have your family, friends and co-workers reacted? What was your response to them?
Fortunately, my friends and family love my hair and ask for tips all the time! I couldn’t be happier to have such amazing and supportive people in my life!
Image: @happycurlhappygirl
How did you transition to wearing your natural texture?
Although, I never had a relaxer, my hair mimicked one due to heat damage. I gradually cut off some of my hair to help speed of the process and took care of my hair to get my curls to pop and to be healthy.
What is your current hair regimen?
I’m big on moisture! Therefore I make sure to implement moisture as much as possible! I usually wash my hair once a week with a sulfate-free shampoo, always making sure to deep condition regularly. This helps tremendously! I then style once a week, which is usually a wash and go! Because my hair is out the majority of the time, I make sure to mist my hair daily with either aloe vera juice or plain water. I sleep with my hair protected by a satin scarf and I make sure not to neglect my scalp in my regimen!
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a big impact on the way your hair looks?
Yes! My wash and go technique has helped tremendously — I share all the time on my YouTube channel! Technique is everything to get a desired style!
Any advice you’d like to give other women who may be in the transition phase or need some encouragement in their hair journey?
DO NOT COMPARE YOUR HAIR! It’s so hard not to do this when we’re glued to our social media of women with long, curly hair and we sometimes find ourselves wishing we had someone else’s hair. Don’t do it! Focus and love YOUR hair because it’s beautiful and it needs YOUR love so that it can flourish in its own way! Have patience, it’s so important! It will not happen overnight, but be encouraged that it CAN happen! Stay consistent and don’t give up. You can achieve ANY style and you can achieve healthy hair!
What’s your hair story? Share your story with us here to be featured in our Texture Tales series.
What is your hair type?
3a
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
I felt like I was the ugliest thing in the world. Growing up, I didn’t look like any of the Bollywood heroines and I definitely didn’t look like anyone from the Brady Bunch.
There was a scene where Marsha brushes her hair 1,000 times and I thought that was the secret to straight hair. I followed her method and it didn’t work out for me. Girls like her scarred me for life!
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly hair?
I saw beautiful black women online embrace their natural hair – something I have never seen in person. I live in Alaska, so there is not much diversity here. The few women of color that I grew up with definitely did not wear their hair natural. But in 2012, when I first joined Instagram, I saw hundreds of black women wear their hair curly! It inspired me to drop the hair straightener.
How have your family, friends and co-workers reacted? What was your response to them?
I straightened my hair every day for years. Until one day, I accidentally went to school with wet hair. As my hair started to dry, my ringlets emerged. My hair was big, full, and curly by 4th period.
People were shocked. Jaws were dropped. These two boys wanted to propose to me. As they were arguing who was going to marry me, I walked away and met up with my best friend – who has straight, blonde hair. Only her reaction mattered to me. To me, she was the epitome of beauty. But to her I have “the most beautiful hair in the world!”
How did you transition to wearing your natural texture?
It wasn’t until 2015 until I started being strict with the CG Method.
What is your current hair regimen?
I use JBCO & Red Pimento oil on my scalp to generate hair growth. I do this the night before I wash my hair.
My current routine is on my YouTube channel. Embedded content: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_lflIngQz_I
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a big impact on the way your hair looks?
I diffuse my hair upside down with a DevaFuser. I plop my hair onto a microfiber towel and dry my roots until they are 80% dry. I use cool, low air so this takes a long time, but I have to do it for volume.
Image: @spisha
Any advice you’d like to give other women who may be in the transition phase or need some encouragement in their hair journey?
Accepting your hair in its natural state is a political statement. You’re telling the world that you’re not going to conform to someone else’s beauty standard.
And you know what, your ancestors had curly hair. You clearly inherited it from them. So show you’re proud of your heritage and be who you are supposed to be!
What’s your hair story? Share your story with us here to be featured in our Texture Tales series.
What is your hair type?
3c
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
My hair was straight until I turned 12. I am bi-racial. My father is Bajan and my mother is Filipina. When it started to transform from straight to curly it really confused me and I had a hard time taking care of it. It was so much for me to handle that I threatened to cut it all off because I was so frustrated. Instead, at the age of 12 years old, I begged my mom to take me to a salon for a perm.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly/coily/wavy hair?
At that age of 12, all you want is to fit in. Being different made me the topic of discussion. Some people started calling me Mufasa from “The Lion King.” When I got a perm all of that changed. I loved having straight hair and the compliments, but it saddened me that after I washed my hair, it was back to being curly. I felt like I was sold a dream that would never come true. So after battling it for three years, I decided to let go and embrace what I have, instead of trying to conform to society’s beauty standards.
How have your family, friends and co-workers reacted? What was your response to them?
In 2008 when I transitioned, my family and friends were very encouraging. It made the process easier to know that my support system was on board.
How did you transition to wearing your natural texture?
I admit that during the beginning, I wasn’t happy with the two different textures and I would resort to still using the flat iron. After gaining more knowledge through forums, I did protective styles during that time. My two main styles were twist outs and braid outs. Every couple months I would trim my relaxed hair little by little until all the relaxed hair was gone.
$$AD$$What is your current hair regimen?
My hair products are forever changing because I am a product junkie, but the process is the same. I am a fan of the condition-wash-condition method. This is where you condition first to detangle. Then you wash your scalp and let the cleanser go down the length of your hair to get rid of buildup, then lastly you deep condition. This method has helped me tremendously when it comes to the amount of time I’m in the shower. I have less shedding and fewer tangles and single-stand knots, which are the devil. After the shower I follow the LCO method. Or during the summer I add a gel for more definition.
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a big impact on the way your hair looks?
One word: shingling. This method changed my life. It gives crazy amounts of definition and makes all my curls uniform, which I love. This is where you take each individual curl and smooth and twirl it around your finger. It takes forever because it makes hundreds of curls around your head, but it is so worth it. When I style this way it will last seven days.
Any advice you’d like to give other women who may be in the transition phase or need some encouragement in their hair journey?
- Step 1: STOP heat all together. Find the protective style for you. I loved twist and braid outs but you might like braids or wigs. Also focus on getting a protein and moisture balance in your hair.
- Step 2: Get a routine going that caters to your hair needs and stick with it for no less than 30 days. See what works and what doesn’t and make adjustments accordingly.
- Step 3: Trim or cut off damaged hair that can’t be repaired. There is no point of hanging on to hair that isn’t healthy.
- Step 4: Patience. Nothing worth having is easy. Enjoy your journey, get to you know hair, and listen to it.
What’s your hair story? Share your story with us here to be featured in our Texture Tales series.
