Search Results: NaturallyCurly
If you’re looking to stretch out your curl pattern without heat or chemicals, we’ve got three methods for you.
Method 1
Cleanse in twists
Wash your hair with a cleansing co-wash like the Carol’s Daughter Hair Milk Cleansing Conditioner. Then rinse and towel dry – with your hair in twists throughout this process.
Method 2
Stretch as you dry
Spray Refresher Spray throughout wet hair, then place hair clips at the end of small 1-inch sections of hair. With the clips still in, diffuse hair on the cool setting until dry.
Method 3
Stretch as you style
Section wet hair and spray each section with Refresher Spray. Then apply Styling Pudding to each section and do a two-strand twist.
For extra stretch, place clips all the way down the two-strand twist.
Watch the Video
This post is sponsored by Carol’s Daughter.
BB creams are products that promise a little bit of everything–protection, nourishment and better texture. They are usually associated with skin, but now they’re slowly becoming popular as a hair styler and protectant. They aid in providing a soft hold, vitamins and definition to curls. They can often be more nourishing then gels and leave less build up. They don’t have a “crunch” effect when your hair dries, as some gels and even mousses typically leave behind. Some of the newer BB creams can be a great addition to your hair arsenal, or collection of products. However, you should know how to use them for your wavy or curly hair, first.
Helpful Tips On Using BB Cream For Hair
-
Use a light moisturizing curl or BB cream as a leave-in when your curls are thirsty. Mix it with a gel that plays well with others for a combination of moisture and curl definition, especially in hot and humid conditions.
-
Use a little extra BB cream in the fall and winter, when the air is cooler and drier. Try one that has both moisturizing and defining properties so that you don’t have to add gel and be concerned about having limp waves.
-
Make sure the BB cream mixes well with gels or work well by itself. Before covering your whole head and ending up with a crunchy flakey mess, test a smaller section of your hair with the cream and your choice of gel to be sure they work well together. To use a curl cream by itself, look for one that says it defines curls or enhances curls. Sometime curl creams like this are called gel-creams.
Next Page: Which ones should I try?
Which ones should I try?
Here are some great brands that have BB creams especially made for hair.
- AG Hair Cosmetics BB Cream
- It’s a 10 Silk Express Miracle Silk Smoothing Balm
- Pantene BB Creme
- ALTERNA Caviar CC Cream 10-1
How to Apply BB Cream to Hair
Applying your cream is simple and much like the way in which you apply a gel. After your shower, section your hair into 3 to 5 sections. On wet hair, apply the amount directed of the product to each section. Working the creme from the root to the end of the hair. You may want to also leave a little extra on the ends of your hair for some extra protection from climate elements and split ends.
Once you’ve applied the cream, allow your hair to dry only 50-60%. Allow the product to work its magic. If you want to experiment by adding gel, this works well also. Do so after your next wash day to figure out how the BB cream works alone, first.
Would you use a BB cream on your hair? Why or why not? Tell us on Facebook.
It’s early in the morning. The alarm goes off and you need to get out the door, FAST. You just noticed your hair isn’t bouncy and pretty like you’d want it to be. Of course, there’s always the coveted “bed-head” look. Maybe not so coveted for work, though.
Any of these scenarios are common for you curly girls? There’s a quick, soothing fix…lavender mist. Not only is a lavender mist easy to make, it’s beautiful fragrance and carries medicinal properties can do wonders for your mind and your hair!
Lavender promotes a hair growth; it’s amazing for your scalp. Its anti-inflammatory properties ease dandruff issues, too. Lavender has been known to bring about a more tranquil state of mind and lessen anxiety. A good scalp massage with a few drops of this oil can do wonders for a stressful day.
Ok, so what if you don’t wake up with bouncy, happy curls? No fear! Your mister bottle and clips should be near!
What You’ll Need
- Water bottle
- Lavender oil (you may get this at a health food store”>
- Distilled water
- Duckbill clips
Directions
- Using a water bottle, add 5-8 drops of lavendar oil to 1 liter of distilled water and shake well.
- Gently spritz your curls so they are damp.
- Using duckbill clips, twist your hair into 4 sections.
- Squeeze each section so that the oil penetrates.
- While you apply make-up or just have your morning coffee, allow the clips to work their magic for 5-10 minutes.
- Remove the clips and allow your new waves and curls to look radiant!
If you have less time, you can make smaller bottles of the spray to carry with you–one for your bag, car, office, etc. Instead of clips, you can twist curls with your fingers after apply the spray. Making a lavender mist for your pillow or room is another great way to incorporate this relaxing scent into your routine.
Pillow Spray
What You’ll Need
- 8 Ounces of distilled water
- 15 Drops of lavender oil
- 10 Drops of chamomile oil (shake well”>
You can decorate the spray bottles you make your mixtures in and give them as gifts too. Get creative with some glitter, markers and paper punches for tags and decorations for your mister bottles!
Want more? Check out these easy DIY hair recipes:
PHOTO Hippie Health Coach
Silk worms are not the most beautiful of animals, but what they produce can make a difference in the way you look overnight – literally.
Silk amino acids are the small proteins that bind the tiny fibers in silk and are used to prevent dehydration –a key element for hair and beauty products. Though they are natural, silk amino acids are animal products (as in, they do come from animals–the silk worm”>. The proteins from silk amino acids are also water soluble , which makes silk an easy component, and a healthy one, for most hair and beauty products.
Overnight Sensation
Women with curly hair agree that they notice little to no breakage when they use a silk pillowcase at night. Silk pillowcases help to retain the much needed moisture in your hair. Curly and coily hair tends to be very dry, so they need as much moisture as they can get. These pillowcase will also help if you have problems with tangles and knots.
Silk contains 18 essential and non-essential amino acids, and amino acids are the true “building blocks” of the human body. They help to build and repair tissue, form antibodies to combat bacteria and help carry oxygen through the body, which naturally “repairs itself” between the hours of 10pm-2am. So sleeping in silk PJs may not be a bad idea, as it may help your skin breathe and repair itself as you sleep.
Protects Against Elements
You don’t have to limit yourself to silk in the bedroom, silk can continue to work for you during the day in the form of scarves. Regardless of your sense of style, you are sure to find a pattern, color and length that can work for you. Use scarves to tie your hair up at night and secure with some metal clips, wear one to work, or protect your hair from the elements when you’re outdoors.
Strengthens & Seals
There are a number of products which coin their name on silk alone–Biosilk and Silk Elements are only two. However, a number of hair and beauty care products boast about containing silk as their key ingredient. Whenever silk amino acids are applied to hair, the proteins bind to the natural keratin in the hair and help to strengthen the hair and protect against moisture loss. The silk also assists in repairing damaged hair as well.
Combats Wrinkles
Products containing silk for face and skin, such as Avon’s Skin So Soft Signature Silk actually has antioxidant effects that can help combat wrinkles. The silk in beauty products helps to provide necessary moisture to skin and leave skin smooth and soft.
Next: 3 Ways to Tie a Scarf
Style 1: Fishtail Braid Crown
- Start with hair that has been washed with a conditioning cleanser like and blow dry straight.
- Part hair down the middle and moisturize from roots to ends with Hair Milk Nourishing and Conditioning Styling butter to hydrate and protect hair from damage.
- Apply 1-2 pumps of Hair Milk Nourishing and Conditioning Styling Foam to lock in moisture and get the perfect amount of flexible hold, minus the sticky, flaky residue.
- Starting on one side, French braid hair down to nape of neck and then finish ends with a fishtail braid.
- Fishtail braid the hair by separating it into 2 sections, take a small piece of hair from the outer left side and pull over to the right. Then, take a piece from the outer right side and pull over to the left continuing until braid is complete.
- Repeat on other side of head.
- Separate the ends of the braids to make them a bit messy and add some texture.
- Cross and pin the ends of each braid to the opposite side of your head.
Style 2: Flirty Waves
- Take your chic crown braid to flirty waves by rubbing a dime-sized amount of Mimosa Hair Honey into fingers and undoing braids just up until crown of head. Mimosa Hair Honey will prevent your braid out from getting frizzy.
- Fluff and pin until hair is desired shape.
Watch the Video
This post is sponsored by Carol’s Daughter.
Lisette, also known to YouTube and Instagram as Luhhsettyxo, created a new video for NaturallyCurly to show you 3 easy styles for prom. Formal events often mean high heat and over manipulative hairstyles, but we know the importance maintaining hair health no matter the occasion, so here are three non-damaging prom and formal styles that can be achieved with no heat and little manipulation.
What you need:
- Some bobby pins
- A brush like Cricket Cricket Amped Up Teasing Brush
- A hair donut like Brown 3pcs Bun Ring
- A spray bottle (with water”>
- Something to smooth your edges like Eden Body Works Control Edge Gel
- A moisturizing styler with hold like SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Hold & Shine Moisture Mist
Watch the video:
Want to see more of Lisette? Check out her teen-friendly type 3 curly hair advice on YouTube with Luhhsettyxo.
Tanya Wright is an actress (Orange Is the New Black and True Blood”>, author, natural hair influencer and all around curlfriend so when she shared an excerpt of her book “I Found God In My Hair, 98 spiritual principles I learned… from my hair!” we were intrigued. Tanya is currently fundraising for her latest project “HAIRiette of HARLEM,” the first interactive natural hair web series. You can help support HAIRiette here.
The following is an excerpt from her book “I Found God In My Hair.”
For many, “God” is a very loaded word. I get it. I grappled with changing the title for fear that I might alienate people, especially the ones that were too cool, too smart or simply didn’t believe in God. Trust me, I’ve gone through my own rocky relationship with the man (or woman?”> upstairs. I went round and round on this and came back to my first choice title, mostly because it was true.
This book is about the things I learned about life via my relationship with what has been the bane of my existence for most of my existence: MY HAIR! I was responsible for putting the physical time, research and energy into the book, but the inspiration to write it—the thing that kept goading me forward—is something (or someone”> I can’t fully explain. Also inside are fun quotes by some folks you know and love, plus photos of my various roles as an actress and all my hairstyles along the way.
Read on to see the first seven of Tanya’s 98 spiritual principles she learned from her.
one: infinite possibilities
I am a dreamer–for sure. But dreams rarely become a reality until you take action. I am an obsessive finisher and terribly, terribly determined — perhaps it’s the Taurus in me! Once I get a goal fixed in my mind, I rarely veer off course until I have achieved it, no matter how large the task.
Here’s the thing: I believe that one of the prerequisites of dreaming is that you have to believe that what you dream is possible in order for it to become true! And the truth is anything is possible! The world is made up of infinite possibilities.
Our hair is made up of millions of hair follicles, too; follicles are CIRCULAR in shape, like the letter “o” or the number 0. According to the dictionary, this shape is also representative of “pure potentiality,” it is also the “number from which all numbers spring forth.” In essence, we have thousands and thousands of “o’s” atop our head.
My hair is a reminder that I have infinite possibilities at my disposal.
two: patience
Length is a popular desire among most women with textured hair—who doesn’t want a long, luxurious mane? But growing your hair requires patience—length just doesn’t happen overnight. When you see a gal with long, flowing coifs you can be sure that it took a while to get it there.
For me, patience is the “trait most desired”. Whenever I feel myself getting impatient, I instinctively switch my thoughts to the present moment and start breathing– whatever it is I’m waiting for invariably comes without me being stressed and pressed about it and often when I’m not looking at all. I does feel like “a watched pot never boils.”
My hair journey has been very long and extremely windy. My hair teaches me to have patience.
three: indestructible
Did you know that our hair is the most indestructible part of our bodies? It contains our DNA—that’s pretty strong! Sometimes we get swept to and fro by the tide of life—we are happy when we have ‘good’ days, and not-so-much when we have ‘bad’ ones. There is a part in all of us that isn’t swept by the tide, no matter what our external world looks like, no matter what changes in fortune for us.
My hair teaches me that, no matter what I may ex- perience in the external world, that I am indestructible.
four: elasticity
Ah, curls! I have lots of them, all over my head. Springy coils that swing to my shoulders when wet and shrink up toward my scalp when they’re dry. I can pull a curl taught and release it and it snaps back—like a rubber band. Life is full of changes, so sometimes, I have to change direction, chart another course. This has hap- pened to me more times than I care to count!
My hair teaches me to be elastic so that I can deal with whatever twists and turns life throws at me.
“People always ask me how long it takes to do my hair. I don’t know, I’m never there.”
— Dolly Parton
five: versatility
People tell me all the time I’m a chameleon—I can look very different from one day to the next. The truth is, my look—what I wear, how I wear my hair— depends largely on how I feel when I wake up in the morning. I am an actress so my profession demands that I be versatile, but in life, I have found it’s good to be versatile, too. The ability to relate to different kinds of people—to move from one group to the next and have something in common with all of them—is a sign of a versatile person.
My hair teaches me to be versatile.
six: control
My hair journey started from one simple idea: “if I could get control of my hair, maybe—just maybe— I can get control of my life!” My professional life is always changing—it’s unpredictable! It’s hard to plan things in advance because the circumstances of my life can change on a dime—and often has. Before I read the book “Curly Like Me” (a great book for women with naturally textured hair written by Teri LaFleur”>, I had resigned myself to the fact that my hair was just something I would not be able to control— ever. ‘Curly Like Me’ gave me hope; it helped me to see that there WAS a method to the madness, and there WAS a way to deal with my hair where I was in control of it instead of feeling like it was always in control of me.
My hair teaches me that I have control.
“It’s the way we treat the hair once it’s on top of our heads that literally makes it or breaks it.”
— Unknown
seven: attachment
“My hair is like a box of chocolates: I never know what I’m gonna get”. Rather than get attached to the result of something—of thinking that things should look and be a way that they aren’t—I have learned not to get attached to a fixed picture in my mind. Letting go of attachment is, perhaps, one of the most profound life lessons I’ve ever learned. Almost all of the world’s spiritual teachers say that attachment most often leads to misery.
My hair has taught me to detach myself from results.
Be sure to check out “HAIRiette of HARLEM,” the first interactive natural hair web series. You can help support HAIRiette here.
Tiara
This is not your mother’s prom tiara. Pop this on over your topknot for an edgy take on the prom queen staple. We especially love that this is a hairstyle most of us can do at home (for free!”> and that’s one less thing to worry about as you prep for prom!
Bun pin; NastyGal
Jeweled Headbands
We love when a red carpet starlet wears her jewels in her hair rather than the conventional necklace and earrings. If you plan on wearing your hair down to prom, add a jeweled headband and pin the pieces that frame your face back so that your features can be seen in your photos. Etsy or Pinterest have plenty of homemade headband inspiration for the DIY-er in you too.
Jeweled Headband; bando
Chain Headpiece
If you’re rocking a dress with a simple silhouette, we recommend going all out with your hair accessories. This chain headpiece will definitely turn heads, and if you’re blessed with natural curls or waves they’ll look gorgeous with this crown on top! We’re thinking a major Khaleesi moment here.
Chain Headpiece; NastyGal
Flower clips
With hints of spring in the air, flower clips may be a way to not only think spring, but give your hair a pretty and soft look for the season. Stick one in a bun or on a low ponytail. Use them to sweep hair from your face, or just add a something a little different to your look for the day.
Flower clips; ASOS
Feathers
Hair feathers have been trending in the bohemian and festival scene for a while, but they have a place in glamorous events as well. This take on the trend has a more Gatsby-esque feel, so it would pair beautifully with a silk prom gown or even 1920’s inspired beaded cocktail dress.
Feather Hair Piece; ASOS
Pearls
Pearls were reincarnated as an edgy accessory on the runways this season, and we love this unexpected way of incorporating them into your prom look. Lace a string of pearls through your braid or prom updo for a look no one else will be have.
Pearls clip; ASOS
Jeweled Barrettes
Section off one or two pieces of hair around your face and use pins or jeweled barrettes and clips to show off your facial features. Leave a few face-framing pieces out in the front.
Jeweled barrette; bando
Statement Headband
Match your headband to your dress for a bold and pretty statement. We love that this messy bun is dressed up yet not too stuffy. The imperfection here is key to getting that it-girl look.
Burst headband; ASOS
Hair Charms
If you want to keep the focus on your dress and makeup, add just a subtle touch of sparkle to your strands with these clip in hair charms.
Hair charms; NastyGal
We love working with inspiring young women, and miss Hanna LaShay is no exception! The girl can sing, act, model and she can do a mean flat twist! Just look at those perfect parts. We also love working with brands whose ingredients we can get behind and we know for a fact that our community loves them too – that’s right we’re talking about SheaMoisture. Hanna’s mom is a salon owner so she was first introduced to the brand by her mom. This is how she flat twists her hair as a protective style when she’s on the go or for going to school.
What You’ll Need
- rattail comb
- wide tooth comb
- styling cream – Hanna used Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Style Milk
- styling souffle – Hanna used Coconut & Hibiscus Curling Gel Souffle
Directions
- After shampooing, part your hair with a rattail comb to section your hair
- Take a small amount of Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Style Milk and apply it evenly to the first section of your hair
- Use a small amount of Coconut & Hibiscus Curling Gel Souffle to lay down the edges (for a cleaner look”>
- Detangle that section with a wide tooth comb
- Flat twist that section by grabbing two strands of hair and twist one over the other, continue to do this adding a little bit more hair to the twist each time (watch the video to see what we mean”>
- Once you twist all the way to the nape of your neck, continue with a regular two strand twist to the ends of your hair
- Repeat steps 1-6 for each section
Hanna typically creates 8 or 9 flat twists, this will vary based on how big or small you want your curls to be. When you’re ready to take your flat twists out (Hanna leaves her in for a week”> you simply untwist them as you would a normal two strand twist. Hanna likes this style because it’s quick and easy, she can do them on the go and her hair won’t be as time consuming for her busy weeks.
Watch the Video
If you’d like to see more of Hanna, check out her Deep Treatment Routine which we filmed on a Sunday afternoon. You can also subscribe to her YouTube IAmHannaLaShay or follow her on Instagram.
MORE: Watch Hanna’s Deep Treatment Routine
This post is sponsored by SheaMoisture.
10 Ways to Fix Greasy Roots
1. Powder
Use any type of loose powder (baby powder with lavender or corn starch work great”> and apply it with a brush or make up sponge or puff for extra control. Work the powder through your hair, at the roots and style as usual.
Products
PHOTO SOURCE THE BEAUTY OF YOUNG LOS ANGELES
2. Fruity Fix
Try an apple and citrus fix as a gentle acidic rinse. Mix apple cider vinegar or lemon juice with warm water and use it as a rinse in the shower. The acidic properties of these will help remove the oil and clean hair and roots thoroughly, without damaging the hair.
DIY
After shampooing, try mixing the juice of one fresh orange, water, a tablespoon of honey, and a tablespoon of sandalwood oil together and let it coat your scalp for about 10-15 minutes. Rinse out thoroughly and watch how shiny your curls will look (not to mention how great it will smell”>.Products
If you’d rather buy that do it yourself, try these tangy cleansers:
3. Wash Less
Washing your hair every day can break down the natural oils in your hair. When you wash too often the glands reproduce what they need, or what was washed away. If your hair is super oily, try shampooing every other day, if possible (or once a week if you can!”>. Use a good conditioner or conditioning treatment to keep hair soft and well nourished.
Products
Some good clarifying shampoos targeted toward oily scalps are:
4. Simplify
Stay away from products that contain too many harsh chemicals, these can cause build up and oily spots. Try out DIY products or simpler products that contain fewer, basic ingredients. Look for the words ‘lightweight’ in the titles.
Products
Here are some second-day refreshers & detanglers that won’t leave oily residue:
5. Absorb the Oil
We love it for breakfast (heck, even for dinner!”> and it’s pretty good for our bodies, so, yes, it’s great for hair too! Oatmeal makes a great absorber. Try preparing plain oatmeal and using it as a masque for your hair.
You can mix in a bit of your favorite conditioner (just a little”> and let it sit on your hair for 15-20 mins. The rinse out will take a while (also, be prepared to clean out your drain”> but it will leave your hair clean, sans the oil, and healthy.
6. Dry Shampoo
There are a number of dry shampoos on the market these days, try one that works for your hair type and use a small amount, applied directly to your oily root area. You can find travel versions to take with you to work, the gym or keep in your car for super fast fixes too!
Products
Here are some of our fave dry shampoos:
PHOTO SOURCE AVECVERITAS
7. Cover Up
If you have been looking to try out a new headband or wrap a scarf around your locks – this is a great time to try it out.
It’s spring, so take advantage of beautiful floral crowns! Or use a wider head band or scarf to cover your roots, push hair from your faces and flaunt your facial features.WATCH: 3 Ways to Tie a Scarf
8. Soothe Your Scalp
Oftentimes our hair shafts and follices don’t get too much attention–or motion.
A gentle massage may not only help you relax, but it may also help lower the amount of oily spots. Try giving your head a gentle massage in the shower or at night before bed. Without rubbing your actual hair, feel your scalp and gently use the pads of your fingers to work around your head and neck.
MORE: How to Give a Scalp Massage
9. Time to Trim
If hair is kept at it’s best, healthy, there will be less chance for oily spots to return. Browse through our Salon Finder in search of a local curly stylist near you to ensure you’re getting the right amount of hair trimmed.
10. Make the Most of It
Make the oily spots work for you! Hair can be a bit more flexible and manageable with the extra oils, so try out a cool new bun or updo- it will be easier to do and may just give you a new look for a day! Check out Evelyn’s chic retro updo tutorial for a little inspiration.
It’s that in-between season that we all love–not sure if it’s getting warmer, may still be cold, it may rain or snow… And our bodies and hair respond to those changes.
Along with the uncertainty of weather can come a lack-of-luster for our locks.
Luckily, here are some easy, all-natural, do-it-yourself potions that you can create in no time, and bring back the natural shine and bounce to your hair.
Next page: Tonic to Solve Dullness
1. Parsley & Rosemary Tonic
Solves: Dullness
What You’ll Need
- 2 tablespoons crushed parsley seeds (found at health food stores”>
- 1/2 cup chopped rosemary
- Water
Directions
- Bring 2-3 cups of water to a boil.
- Add the crushed parsley and chopped rosemary.
- Allow to steep for 20 mins.
- Cool and strain the mixture.
- Pour the liquid over your hair in the shower or sink.
- Wrap your head with a warm towel for 45 minutes to an hour.
- Do not rinse– allow your hair to dry naturally.
Next page: Tonic to Solve Dandruff
2. Nettle Hair Tonic
Solves: Dandruff
What You’ll Need
- A handful of fresh nettle leaves or 5 tablespoons of dried nettle (found at health food stores”>
- A few drops of your favorite essential oil
- A bottle or glass jar to store the liquid
Directions
- Bring the water to a boil.
- Place the nettle (fresh or dried”> in the water.
- Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add a few drops of your selected oil.
- Allow the mixture to cool and steep for 20 mins.
- Once cool, strain the liquid.
- Pour over your hair in the shower.
- Comb or massage through your hair and let it sit for 10 minutes.
- Rinse your hair thoroughly.
Next page: Tonic to Solve Dryness
3. Aloe Juice & Clary Sage
Solves: Dryness
What You’ll Need
-
4 tablespoons aloe juice (from local health or grocery store”>
-
6 to 8 drops clary sage essential oil
-
1 teaspoon water
Directions
-
Mix ingredients into a small bottle and shake well.
-
Apply to your hair in your shower and comb through evenly.
-
Allow the mixture to sit in your hair for 10-15 minutes.
-
Rinse thoroughly and air dry.
Watch: DIY Whipped Shea Butter for Skin + Hair
They always say “the truth will set you free.” So it’s about time the NaturallyCurly team tells you how we really feel about curly hair.
Our deepest, darkest straight hair desires – revealed!
Priscilla “I wish my hair was straight again, so I could spend my days worrying about whether or not the weather would ruin my thin and limp hair look (which I achieved by spending hours blow drying and flat-ironing it”>.”
Michelle “I wish I had straight hair because I really miss spending an hour every morning blowing my hair out, putting in hot rollers, plastering it with hair spray and then walking outside into the Austin humidity to see how long it takes for it to return to its natural state.”
Cristina “I wish I had straight hair so that I could curl my straight hair with a curling wand to create wavy hair, not unlike the wavy hair I already have.”
Amanda “I wish my hair was straight because clearly it is easier to manage. I thought the Indian in my family would help but I guess my hair is too nappy. How in the world will I get a job and what man will want me?”
Susonnah “I wish I had straight hair because then I could try all the amazing products made for people with straight hair! Hair spray, dry shampoo, flat irons, I want it all. And I really need some sulfates in my life.”
Jamie “I wish I had straight hair because my favorite part of my day is waking up extra early before work to make sure every strand is in place and kink free.”
Nikki “I wish I had straight hair so people would like me but never ask to touch my hair. If I had straight hair I could have been prom queen. Plus all the guys LOVE women with straight hair. It’s the best thing out there. I mean, think about it… every princess real or fiction has long straight hair. A girl can dream.”
Lori “I wish I had straight hair because as you know the saying goes, ‘people with straight hair have more fun.'”
Devri “I wish I had straight hair so I could obnoxiously swish my ponytail back and forth whenever I walk.”
Clare “I wish I had straight hair because it’s hands down the best way to wear your hair. It has so much body and character that curls cannot compete with. I feel like I stand out the most when my hair is board straight.”
Evelyn “Ah, I miss the feeling of pulling the few strands of hair I had left into a ponytail. Sure, I had relaxer burns, BUT I HAD A PONYTAIL THAT SWAYED IN THE WIND. I miss those days. This whole thriving natural hair thing? Overrated if you ask me.”
*April Fool’s! Of course we don’t wish we had straight hair.
The ad says “Tired of waking up with a mad frizzy mess every morning? Do you long for sleek, straight hair without any kinks or curls? Iron Out the Kinks in Twisted Hair Permanently – HYPNOSIS.”
We’ve heard it all now.
The ad tells us that curly hair can be a real headache.
“It takes hours to straighten every morning and as soon as you step out of the door it’s a real fright again. It can prevent you taking up water sports and even ruin holidays in countries with humid climates.”
We knew there was a reason we hated water sports!
The company claims its “Straighten Curly Hair” hypnosis session will help straighten out this problem.
“In less than 60 minutes you’ll start to feel the benefits, as your curls unwind and you realize how easy to manage your hair really is. Simply sit back and listen to this superb hypnosis session, as ‘Straighten Curly Hair’ kicks out the kinks in your hair and lets you love your sleeker, straighter style. Feel happy and relaxed about your hair. Control Unruly locks. Achieve the look you desire.”
Immediately after listening to this wonderful, 60-minute hypnosis recording, “you’ll feel a profound, positive inner change that will totally astonish you. And it’s 100% risk-free too!”
Sure it is.
Although we see the benefit of hypnosis to stop smoking or lose weight, curly hair is not a problem that needs to be fixed. Not only that, but if you are seeking a sleeker look, hypnosis is hardly the way to do it.
A better name for this video might be “Give Me Your Money, Sucker.”
Attention: This article may be published on April 1st, but it is not a joke, unfortunately, this video does exist and you can find it at Instant-Hypnosis.com.
PHOTO: TIADMOWRY ON INSTAGRAM
We already loved Tia and Tamera, but following their journeys back to natural hair has elevated them to bestie status. Or at least, we like to believe that we’re besties. So when Tia Instagrammed that she was having a bad hair day we felt like she was personally asking us for hair advice.
Here you go, personalized frizz tips just for you Tia!
Water
When hair is not properly moisturized, it will lose uniformity in the efforts to absorb moisture from the air. The number one source of moisture is water so it’s important to give your curls exactly what they are looking for.
Tip:
Use products that list water as one of the first three ingredients.
Oil
Incorporating deep conditioning, regularly moisturizing, and sealing that moisture in with an oil or styling product will help to hydrate your curls.
Our favs:
- Coconut oil
- EVOO
- Castor oil
- Jojoba oil
- Avocado oil
Satin
In order to sustain second and third day hair, it’s important to wear a satin or silk scarf or bonnet at night or sleep on a satin or silk pillowcase. Protecting your hair at night will prevent the on cotton fibers in bed linen from withdrawing moisturize from your strands, cause dryness, and as a result create frizz.
LOC Method
Your curls are most defined when wet so the battle is maintaining the definition.
Many curlies have adopted the LOC method. This is applying a liquid, oil, and cream in that order. Many curlies apply a moisturizer, oil and a butter but this may be too heavy for your curl pattern, so we recommend replacing the butter with a creamy styling product.MORE: The Ultimate LOC Method Shopping List
Tip:
For supreme curl definition we recommend applying product with your fingers, using the “rake and smooth” technique (it’s exactly what it sounds like”>, or a Denman brush. This disturbs the uniformity of your curls the least, but many naturals have also had success using a Denman brush to enhance definition.
Diffuse
For the best curl definition, you should diffuse the hair or sit under a hooded dryer. Air-drying is another great option but if your hair is not completely dry before walking outside, it is susceptible to the weather elements: wind, high dew points, and humidity.
Tip:
It is important to not touch your curls as they are drying. Any contact after your hair has been set will only induce frizz.
The Weather
Tip:
Natural Texture
For some, there is no solution because it is the natural texture of their hair. Everyone’s curls do not have or cannot sustain uniform clumpage in a dry state. Not matter how much gel you shingle on your strands, once it dries the curls take on a life of their own.
Tip:
Accept that frizz will happen, even embrace it. For many naturals, it has been a challenge to accept that their curls will not clump but I like to think of frizz as adding character to the hair.As our resident frizz embracer in the office says, “I’m ok with frizz, it just makes your hair bigger.”
For any and all curl questions, don’t hesitate to Tweet @naturallycurly. We always have curl agents on the line!
Shaz’s Hair of the Day
The Products
- VO5 “Smoothly Does It” Mousse – “The product I used was VO5 ‘smoothly does it’ (pink”> moose. It gives a fizz free finish and enhances curls.”
- Comb – We recommend a wide tooth seamless comb
- Towel – We recommend a microfiber towel to prevent frizz
The Technique
- Step 1. – After I wash my hair I comb it
- Step 2. – Then I dry it a bit with a towel
- Step 3. – Then I scrunch the mousse into my hair. It gives a very smooth finish and soft curls at the end.
Note: this specific mousse is available to UK residents (yay if you’re a UK resident!”>. If you aren’t able to find this mousse locally, our readers voted Jane Carter Wrap and Roll as their favorite styling mousse.
You can find more of Shaz on Instagram
“Change up your look!” “Try something new!” “Accessorize!”
If you’ve read, heard and watched on YouTube that you need to be accessorizing your hair this spring, but don’t quite know how to do so, you’re in the right place.
A hair scarf can be an intimidating piece of fabric if you’ve never tied one before, and even if you have used one before it can be difficult to think outside your typical bow box. NaturallyCurly team member and bow afficionado Devri is always sporting cute and colorful accessories in the office so we convinced her to share her secrets.
Here are three ways that Devri rocks a silk scarf on her type 3 curls. If you have another favorite way that we missed, post your scarf style on our Facebook page for the community to see!
Watch the Video
For more videos like this, subscribe to our channel The Twist.
However, there a few ways to take care of this age-old issue, and they aren’t too tricky to pull off!
Other than adding color, there may not be a way for women with curly or wavy hair to completely hide all dark roots, but these tricks will tide you over until your next color session.
Hide Your Roots
Create Volume
Using a wide tooth comb, create volume at the top of your head so that you can “tease” your hair a bit.
If you need some added volume, add a root volumizing product and tease after with your comb. Before you tease you may want to wash and condition your hair and dry it upside down to add volume to it.
Try:
Powder It
For oily hair, add face or baby powder to the roots of your hair. Darker hair tends to do better with loose face powder and lighter tends to do well with baby powder.
Don’t go overboard. Use powder sparingly along your roots and allow it to absorb into your scalp.
PHOTO NYX FACE POWDER
Apply a Dry Shampoo
Saturate your roots specifically. You may want to try a tinted one if possible.
Dry shampoo usually helps to create more volume and lift at the root area, therefore taking away from visible roots.
Try:
Create a Coconut Oil & Lemon Mixture
- Add a few drops each of coconut oil and lemon juice to your hair.
- Apply the mixture to the root area and allow it to sit on your hair for 30 minutes.
- Allow your hair to sit outside under the sun, or if that’s not a possibility under the dryer, for about 15 of the 30 minutes.
- Rinse after with cool water.
The Eyeshadow Trick
Pick a color that’s as close to the shade you normally have and apply it to the roots. If there are only a few visible roots, this is a great trick.
Use a make up brush or eye shadow brush to apply lightly to roots.
PHOTO COASTAL SCENTS REVEALED PALETTE
Cover-up
Sometimes pulling pieces of hair to the side or up and adding a pretty pin or headband, can do the trick.
Allow it to get a little “messy” or try a zig zag part that changes where those roots pop up.
READ: Easy Wavy Updos for Failed Second-Day Hair
PHOTO FREE PEOPLE HEADBAND
Stay Away From Sleek Styles
Slicked back hair will show just about everything. Go for texture and volume. Play up your curls and waves.
Now is a good time to utilize a curling wand or foam rollers (safely, of course”>.
PHOTO SARAB3VAN
We’ve all had those days when our waves, curls, and coils just doesn’t want to work with us and we don’t have a lot of time or patience to focus on perfecting them. Well, don’t fret–here are 10 quick fixes that are sure to aid you in your bad hair days.
10 Fixes for Bad Hair Days
1. Keep a “Fix-It” Kit Nearby
It’s usually a good idea to keep a spray bottle and curl defining styler nearby as a refresher.
Wavies, try:
Curlies, try:
Coilies, try:
PHOTO MODCLOTH: 3 ROAD TRIP HAIRSTYLES
2. Pin It Down!
Keep a few bobby pins or clips handy. If you feel like your curls are coming undone, losing shape or body – add a few spritzes of water or conditioning spray and twist large sections while they’re a bit damp.
Pin each section back and remove the pins or clips when you get to work, or after you’re done with your make up.
PHOTO BE CONFECTIONATE
3. Need Help? YouTube!
Take advantage of online hair resources. Whenever you have time, check out The Twist by Naturally Curly for tutorials and styling advice. Or these curly, coily and wavy YouTubers:
Wavy Hair:
Curly Hair:
Coily Hair:
4. Keep it Simple
Though we may love to try new products from time to time, keeping a product–or two–on hand that we can count on for fly-aways, frizz and other issues, is a must. Try to keep a small jar of natural shea butter, or pomade on hand. Coconut oil is also a great product to have around in your house or office. You can use it to sooth hair and skin.
Wavies, try:
Curlies, try:
Coilies, try:
PHOTO TARA BURNER
5. Distract Them With Accessories
Keep a small drawer or basket with some favorite scarves, headbands, clips and pony tail holders on hand. You may also want to keep a few in your bag and car so a last minute change in style is easy and quick. Learn to use accessories to dress your hair up, or keep it simple, and, of course, fix a bad hair day too.
Watch: 3 Ways to Tie a Scarf
PHOTO THE KNOXVILLE HOLTS
6. Be Open to Dry Shampoo
If you need some help fixing some oily spots, try a dry shampoo spray. Brush the spray throughout your strands and you’ll notice the oil will be soaked up by the shampoo–oily spots gone!
Try one of these:
- John Frieda Dry Shampoo Refresher
- Arrojo ReFINISH
- Klorane Extra-Gentle Dry Shampoo
- Salon Grafix Play it BIG
-
PHOTO XOJANE
7. Add Body & Texture
Falling flat? Some curls and waves lose their bounce and body midday. Try a texture spray with coconut oil, shea butter, sea salt and natural botanicals.
Wavies, try:
Curlies, try:
8. Re-texturize With Styling Tools
Wavies, try:A curling wand will add volume to limp hair and help waves that fall flat. The Remington Ceramic Pearl Curling Wand is inexpensive and a fave amongst the wavy crowd. Make sure you use a heat protectant spray first–we suggest Curl Junkie Hair Styling Water.
Curlies, try:
Some durable foam rollers like these ‘dent-less’ ones from Goody. Not only are they comfortable to sleep in overnight, but they’re an easy heat-free way of adding body and definition to curls. Use a little styling cream like Moroccanoil Hydrating Cream to moisturize and hold your hair and minimize the appearance of frizz.
Coilies, try:
Curlformers. They are easy to apply and create loose, defined waves on tighter curls and coily hair. Use a setting product like Jane Carter Wrap & Roll to keep your look polished and in place.
PHOTO SHAM I AM GLAM
9. Refresh Your Second-Day Hair
Your hair most likely has some conditioner or product in it from the day before. If you are running out of time (or just don’t feel like styling today”>, grab a spray bottle and dampen your hair. Reach for a product with moisturizing ingredients and use your fingers to twist sections with your fingers. This will give your curls a more refreshed look. Allow the sections to air dry or use your diffuser to speed up the process a bit.
Wavies, try:
Curlies, try:
Coilies, try:
PHOTO MANICURITY2
10. Wear Your “Bad Hair” With Pride
Come on. That little halo of frizz is actually pretty. The hair we see in magazines and on TV–well probably 90% of it is done with the aid of blowouts and heat styling tools. Chances are, those supermodels do not wake up that way. Embrace YOUR curls and waves and realize that your bad hair days and few and far between…
Read more: Build Your Curly Confidence!
