Search Results: NaturallyCurly
Simple Morning Curl Refresher
NaturallyCurly user Necolemarie uses this on her own “not as curly” hair as well as her daughter’s very curly hair (pictured”>. She recommends using it “right when you get out of the shower (wet hair”> or after waking up (dry hair”>.”
What you’ll need
- water
- conditioner (your favorite leave in or daily conditioner”>
- spray bottle
Directions
- Fill the spray bottle about 3/4 full of water
- Add 1/4 cup of conditioner
- Shake the water bottle to mix
- Spray on hair and run your fingers through it or comb out
We think the curly fathers out there don’t get enough credit. And even though your methods are less than conventional, you always find a way to get the job done, making us giggle in the process.
This is for all the dads out there who can detangle, braid and twist with the best of ’em!
MORE: Help! My Baby’s Hair is Dry, Brittle and Frizzy
Curly Father’s Day
It took many of us years to learn how to care for our own curly hair, so we can understand the struggles of entrusting your curls, coils and waves into an unknown stylist’s hands. Oftentimes it can feel like the stylist is even more afraid of you than you are of them! Our resident illustrator, the curly genius behind TallNCurly, knows exactly how you feel…
MORE: Find a Curly Hair Salon
Do you do curly hair?
MORE: Find a Curly Hair Salon
We love trying out the latest trends and styles on our own waves, curls and coils in the NaturallyCurly offices, but we have to admit – the fishtail has always had us stumped. So we were thrilled to find this simple tutorial by Allure that made the coveted fishtail look totally achievable. Before you get started, stylist Matt Fugate suggests working on second or third-day hair because this braid looks best when it’s thick and textured.
I think the key to this simple tutorial is in the first step: tying the hair back into a ponytail before you begin. This step prevents the braid from falling apart while you each time you reach for the next strand. You could even remove the ponytail holder at the end and tug lightly on sections of the braid if you’re looking for that looser, bohemian vibe – which we definitely will be this summer! Watch the video for the simple, step-by-step tutorial.Steps for a Fishtail Braid:
1. Start with dirty 2nd day hair.
2. Gather your hair into a ponytail – position the hair tie at the bottom of your head.
3. Split your hair into two. These will be known as piece 1 and piece 2.
4. Take an outer strand of piece 1 and fold over piece 1 and into the middle.
5. Repeat on the other side with piece 2.
6. Continue this braiding pattern all the way to the bottom. Focus on grabbing the same size strands of hair.
7. Secure the ends with a clear plastic hair tie.
8. For a fatter, chunky look, pull the braid outward to thicken it.
How to Use Curl Styling Cream
What is curl cream?
What exactly IS a curl creme? There are certainly lots of them out on there on the shelves today – and they’re made for just about every curl type. Curl creams aide in providing a soft hold 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 may leave behind. Curl cremes are a great product to have on hand when you find you need to tame some frizz or if you’re hair feels drier than usual.
Styling creams
For Type 2 curls
Garnier Fructis Soft Curl Cream
Boots Essentials Curling Cream
Physique Frizz Control Curl Cream
For Type 3 curls
For Type 4 curls
Miss Jessie’s Baby Buttercreme
How to apply it
- After your shower, section your hair into 3, 4, or 5 sections.
- On wet hair, apply an ample amount 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 the elements and split ends.
- Allow your hair to dry naturally, or , use a diffuser and dry 50-60% dry.
- Optional: If you want to experiment by adding a gel with it, do so with your next wash, after you’ve seen how the product works alone.
Our curl cream tips
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Use a light moisturizing curl 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.
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Using more of a curl cream in the fall and winter when the air is cooler and drier. Try a heavier curl cream that has both moisturizing and defining properties so that you don’t have to add gel and be concerned about having limp curls.
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Make sure the curl 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.
This quick, homemade recipe can promote hair growth, give curls shine and definition, provide nourishing Omega 3, as well as being extremely cost effective. With so many benefits rolled into one, this is a must-try recipe for all aspiring Curly Mixologists.
Homemade Flaxseed Gel
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups of water
- 1/4 or 1/2 cup of flax seed , depending on how thick you want it to be
- 1 tbsp of aloe vera gel (optional”>
- 3 drops of essential oil (optional”>
- Strainer (fine mesh”>
- Wooden spoon
- Bowl or air tight container
How to Make It
- Pour 2 cups of water and flax seed into a pot, on low/medium bring it to a boil stirring flax seed often, and gently, with the spoon.
- Turn off heat when a white frothy gel like liquid forms (it will have a raw egg white consistency”>.
- Continue stirring while it simmers. Put the strainer on top of your bowl or container and pour the mixture in.
- Let it cool down, and, if you want to, add aloe gel and essential oil.
Keep the leftover flaxseeds in a ziplock bag for another use or two!
Applying the Gel
Use gel while hair is clean and damp to wet. It may have a “goopy” consistency, so you may have to “play” with your recipie a bit by adding or lessening the amount of flax seed as you create it.
Place the rest of the gel in an air tight container. The shelf life is 12-14 days in the refrigerator. Put the used flax seeds in a container in the fridge so that you can reuse them.
Our Top Tips
If your curls need moisture
- You can add EVOO to your mix for a more nourishing gel
If your gel is too thin
- Try adding a bit more flaxseed to your next batch
- Add a touch of honey
- Or experiment with a teaspoon of xanthum gum for a thickener
If your gel smells
- Adding a favorite essential oil can enhance the smell of your gel, and your locks
RECIPE: DIY Flaxseed Gel for Soft Hair
NaturallyCurly: Please introduce yourself!
Kathleen Cucci: My name is Kathleen. I am 20 years old and I’m from Denver, Colorado. I attend Boston College, but I spent the second semester of my junior year studying in London!
NC: How and when did you start embracing your curls?
KC: I straightened my hair quite a bit in high school, but I’ve worn it curly a lot more during college, mostly due to not having enough time in the mornings. Since I’ve been studying abroad the past five months and didn’t bring my straightener with me, I’ve definitely had to embrace my curls more! I don’t think I’ll ever go back to straightening it on a regular basis.
NC: What is your current routine?
KC: I usually shower at night, and I wash and condition my hair every other day. I’m currently using TRESemmé Smooth & Silky Shampoo and Conditioner which seem to be working fine, but I’m always looking for good anti-frizz products! I try to let my hair air dry as much as possible, but I often end up throwing it in a braid before bed, which gives me nice waves in the morning.NC: So from start to finish, on a curly day, what’s your process?
KC: Since I wash my hair at night, I usually just finger-comb my hair in the morning and apply a smoothing crème (currently using one form Charles Worthington”> to try and tame my frizz. I’m also a huge fan of dry shampoo in between washings, so I’ll use that if my hair needs it.
MORE: Angela Delyani’s Real Texture Talk
NC: What are your must-have products and tools?
KC: I usually just use a wide-tooth comb to get through tangles and part my hair. I don’t really have any specific “must-have” products, but a smoothing crème of some kind is a necessity to tame my frizz.
NC: What are your favorite hairstyles to wear with your curls?
KC: On days when I don’t feel like dealing with my hair, my go-to look is a simple side braid. I love experimenting with different styles though, especially half-up styles, updos and braids that look good a little bit messy, which is the only way my wavy hair seems to behave!NC: What about your hair stylist?
KC: I’ve had the same hair stylist in Denver for most of my life and I go to her every six months or so for a trim. I donated about nine inches of my hair a year ago, but it still hit my shoulders, so it wasn’t too drastic of a change! Since my hair is super thick, I don’t think I would ever want to get a super-short cut!MORE: Tammala Boyd’s Real Texture Talk
NC: What is the best thing about being curly?
KC: I love having unique hair—I already stand out as a redhead, but my curls make it extra-special! I get lots of compliments on my hair, even on days when I think it looks awful. Some people put tons of effort into having curly hair, so I guess I’m pretty lucky that I don’t have to do much to my hair!
NC: How do you think having curly hair impacts your life?
KC: Wearing my hair curly definitely makes my life easier. I hardly have to spend any time on my hair in the mornings!
NC: What would you tell others to encourage them to embrace their curls?
KC: Don’t be afraid to wear your curls! Not only will it save you tons of time, but you will grow to love your natural hair the more you rock it!
NC: Tell us about your current and upcoming projects!
KC: I’ll be spending my summer working in Denver, and then I return to Boston for one last year of college before the real world—scary! I’m hoping to teach after graduation, but I’m not sure where I want to live yet…hopefully it will be somewhere less humid than Boston.
Coconut Milk Pre-Poo
It’s no secret, we love coconut oil, so when we spotted this coconut milk pre-poo over on our friend CurlyNikki’s blog, and the rave reviews have convinced us to give it a try!
What you’ll need
- coconut milk – 4 tablespoons
- honey – 2 tablespoon
- 3 of your favorite oils – 1 tablespoon each
Directions
- Combine all ingredients
- Warm in the microwave
- Apply to dry, dirty hair
- Wear a shower cap and a thermal heat turban
- After one hour, wash out
Shelli of Hairscapades recommends using a dye applicator bottle to apply this, as it can be a messy process. But it seems worth the mess, because after the first use her hair “felt stronger, moisturized and [her] twists were so plump, juicy and shiny!”
The alarm just went off and you need to get out the door, fast! This might be your everyday scenario, so having a streamlined styling process for your curls is crucial. Here are our start to finish tips for defined and bouncy Type 3 Curls that are ready to walk out the door in just five minutes.
Get 5-Minute Curls in the Morning
Rule Number One
The easiest way to speed up morning prep time is by embracing your texture. Save yourself minutes and even hours of straightening or blow drying your hair by accepting and caring for your curls! The more your curls are cared for, the less time you will need to style in the morning. Is your hair frizzy? Instead of heading to the flat iron, moisturize your curls the night before and save time in the morning.
The Night Before
To save time in the morning, many curlies wash their hair the night before, if at all. If shampooing is still a daily staple in your routine, try reducing your ‘poo sessions to just once or twice a week will yield noticeably healthier and more moisturized curls (in addition to saving time”>. Use conditioner with every wash and try a leave-in masque or conditioning treatment once or twice a week. I recommend Curl Junkie Curl Rehab Moisturizing Hair Treatment.
Wet Styling
After your shower, use the water in your hair to work wonders on your curls. For my Type 3B and 3C curls I use Shea Moisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie as my winter leave-in followed with La Looks Curl Gel or DevaCurl Defining Gel. After I apply them, I gently apply a damp towel to plump up the curls a bit.
For frizz-free curls in the morning, it is important to dry your hair using a microfiber towel.
MORE: How to Dry Curly Hair
Sleep On It
In order to wake up with curls that need minimal upkeep in the morning, it is key to maintain them properly while you sleep. Satin is your best friend when it comes to sleeping with curls, whether it’s a pillowcase, a scarf, or a bonnet, make sure you’re protecting your hair from the moisture-leaching cotton of your sheets. Either air dry over night or use a diffuser on cool setting to dry your hair the rest of the way. In the morning you’ll have bouncy curls with great shine and definition.
Morning Spritz
If you’ve followed these wash, style and drying techniques then you really shouldn’t have to touch your curls in the morning. But if you have curls that are out of shape or just need a boost, then try this quick fix spritz.
Step 1: Use a spray bottle to spritz curls with water mixed with a few drops of lavender oil until damp
Step 2: Use duckbill clips to twist and keep your newly formed curls in place
Step 3: Leave clips in while you apply your makeup or have your morning coffee, then remove them
Two other quick fix sprays are the DevaCurl Mist-er Right and JessiCurl Awe Inspiraling Spray. Just mist and aid your curls by scrunching them lightly towards your scalp. Then your curls are ready for the day!
1-Minute Refresher Course
If you find your curls are lifeless in the middle of the day, a quick and easy trick is to bend your head forward and gently scrunch and push your curls from your neck up the back of your head. This helps give some “oomf” and volume to your curls.
Tip: If you have some hand lotion in your bag or your desk, use a little to put some shine on your curls or tame any mid-day frizz.
If you’re about to dye your hair, whether you go to a salon or do it yourself at home, you may want to take a moment and read through these tips and truths about hair dye and coloring processes.
Hair Coloring
What Does Dye Do to Curls?
Since hair is a fiber, like wool, it’s bundled and protected by the cuticle. There are three layers that make up a strand of hair. The outer layer, the cuticle is damaged during the coloring process.
Damaging the cuticle layer can be drying, cause hair loss and lead to a coarse appearance with a lack of luster and shine.
In his book “You: Being Beautiful,” Dr. Mehmet Oz explains that “artificial coloring on your hair, whether you’re bleaching it or coloring it, is the equivalent of artificial coloring in food – it may make it look as pretty as can be, but it’s not always the healthiest thing you can do to your head.”
MORE: 5 Double Duty Oils
Before You Dye
Before you coloring your hair, be sure that you wash your hair immediately before the color process.
Using a hot oil or deep conditioning treatment one or two days before your color application can also help to protect your strands and scalp. The idea is to keep as many natural oils in your hair and scalp as possible, to achieve better, more even color.
MORE: How to Color Type 4 Hair
Lightening Your Curls
Like all-over color, lightening and bleaching also affect the hair cuticle and cause even greater damage, dryness and dullness. With each application, the damage will worsen.
The hair will permanently lose its sheen and its ability to hold color. You can expect increased frizz and dryness to your curls.
Permanent vs. Semi-permanent Color
Ask yourself how long you want the color to last and how much change you are looking for. This will determine the type of color to use. Semi-permanent color is a less damaging option as it coats the outer layer of the strand as opposed to opening the cuticles. It doesn’t contain ammonia or peroxide, therefore, it can only serve to darken the hair. Lightening can’t be achieved with semi-permanent color. Semi-permanent color typically washes out after four to six weeks.
If you’re looking for a more dramatic change, then you want to use a permanent color. For gray coverage, this is also the better option. Depending on your hair and grays, you may need to repeat the coloring process every six to eight weeks.
Maintenance
It may be tough, but try and wait to wash your hair for 2 days after your color process. When you’re ready for a wash, be sure to have a shampoo and conditioner on hand that is made for color treated hair. These shampoos and conditioners can be gentler on newly colored hair and help to maintain the tones and shades of your new color.
A Natural Alternative
As curlies we are hyper sensitive to moisture and damage, so many women have sought a less damaging alternative to hair dyes. Henna is a popular choice among curlies because it does not contain the harsh ammonia and peroxides, and can even have some benefits like added thickness and shine.
NaturallyCurly user kinkycurls31314 uses this castor oil treatment once a month on her Type 4A curls for hair that is stronger, thicker and healthier.
What you’ll need
- 5 chunks of shea butter
- 2 tbsp coconut oil
- 5 tbsp castor oil
- greek yogurt
- raw honey
- 1 egg
Directions
- Warm the coconut oil for 30 secs & shea butter for 1 minute.
- Mix all of the ingredients together well
- Apply to hair and leave it in for about 2 hours
Natural Hair NBA Dancer
Maddy Wooten: If you were to ask me this question 8 years ago, my answer would have been ABSOLUTELY! Long and straight hair was popular on black women in the industry. As female dancers, “hairography” is a large part of our dancing, which often requires straight hair. Nappy hair does not move the same way straight hair does, so flowing hair is highly desired in dance. When you look back at history, black women began straightening their hair to look less “ethnic” and blend in more with other women in America. It was an attempt to fit in with society and to be valued equally in the workforce. Each dancer in the industry has her own look. It either sets her apart for helps her represent a certain brand. On teams, each girl represents a certain demographic. In order for me to look like what I was expected to look like, I needed to straighten my hair. I auditioned two years with curly hair but needed to straighten it for my official team look. 8 years ago, the black woman was always shown with relaxed hair. Nowadays, almost every commercial or print ad shows the black woman with her natural hair. The “look” of your everyday black woman according to America has grown to include both straight and curly hair. Nowadays, I don’t feel as pressured because I know how to style my hair to compliment me.
NC: What has your experience been wearing your hair natural in your industry?
MW: I feel that every black woman has a different experience when embracing their natural curls. My experience has been absolutely wonderful, largely because I have mixed hair! My hair is full and curly, yet soft so it still bounces and moves when I dance. I have been able to achieve most of the movement in my hair that was always desired when I straightened my hair. I also feel that my positive experience is largely a result of America’s new perspective of the black woman. Natural hair is in. It is a worldwide movement that is empowering black women to embrace their natural curls. I have noticed that if my hair is too big or too long, it becomes to edgy for commercial work. It leaves the “all American black girl” world and crosses over into the “edgy backup dancer” world. Depending on the type of dance jobs I want to work on, this can be a good or bad thing. It is interesting because I actually auditioned for a “cheerleader” role on a VH1 Sitcom, and they only picked black girls with straight hair. I have learned that there are just some jobs that I won’t really be considered for due to my hair, yet there are also just as many jobs that desired ethnic hair.
NC: What has the reaction been from other dancers? From staff? From your family?
MW: The reaction has been great! Not a day goes by without somebody commenting on my hair. Dancers, staff, and family alike have all given nothing but good feedback regarding my curly hair.
NC: Were you a slow transitioner or a big chopper and why?
MW: I started out as a slow transitioner because I was still a Miami Heat Dancer at the time and needed to maintain the look that I started the season with. I was also a professional dancer in the Miami area and booked all my dance jobs with straight flowing hair. I then left Miami and go underground and take a break from the industry in order to change my hair. This is when I did the big chop. My natural hair was only two inches long at the time. I picked dance jobs at theme parks and cruiseships for the next two years that did not require me to straighten my hair. I actually wore wigs and headpieces for most of my work. This allowed my hair to grow out slowly over time.
NC: What has been your greatest challenge transitioning?
MW: My greatest challenge transitioning was accepting the fact that I would actually have to leave my job in order to go natural. I had to relocate in order to get away from the industry that needed my straight flowing hair! I also did not know what lay on the other side.
NC: How does your hair affect your persona on the court? Is that different now that you’re natural?
MW: I am currently part of a dance team that has embraced my natural curls! I feel that my curls match my personality because I am a happy, positive, and bubbly individual. When I perform, my persona is friendly, inviting, and outgoing. This persona is definitely different from when I had straight hair. Back then, my persona was more on the flirtatious and seductive side.
NC: Have you inspired any of your fellow dancers to go natural?
MW: I feel that I may have inspired dancers, non-dancers, and even family members to go natural. According to my husband, when we first visited LA and took dances classes, I was the only black girl with curly hair that he saw. After I got off of my cruiseship and officially moved to LA, he saw a few more dancers who used to have straight hair and then went natural. I was one of the few working dancers with natural hair, and now over a year later there are dozens of working dancers who have all gone natural. Several of my friends from high school also went natural after witnessing my journey.
NC: What’s your current hair routine?
MW: I like to wash and condition my hair twice a week on average. How much I sweat in my hair or how much product for stage that I use in my hair are strong variables in determining when I wash. Due to some of the product that I put in my hair, I like to use a deep conditioner every time I wash instead of once a week.
NC: Must-have products?
MW: Profectiv Megagrowth Stimulating Shampoo
Profextiv Megagrowth Deep Conditioner
Miss Jessies Curly Pudding
Curls Curl Goddess Gel
Curls Lavish Curls Moisturizer
NC: What do you do to maintain your hair at night?
MW: I protect my hair a night in a modified pineapple wrap. First I perform the typical pineapple wrap, and then I hold out the very corner triangle piece and tuck in all of the ends of my hair. I then pull the triangle forward to the front of my head and tuck it into the rest of the pineapple wrap. This ensures that 100% of my hair is covered.
NC: What do you love the most about your hair?
MW: My natural hair compliments me and my personality way more than my relaxed hair did! I absolutely love what my hair says about me! I want to be able to inspire other women across the globe to feel the same way about themselves. Going natural provides a sense of self. A sense of accomplishment. A sense of perseverance. It has a magical power that can’t be match. A confidence that can’t be moved. It is empowering. It is liberating. It is all that it seems to be and more.
NC: What advice can you extend to some of the natural newbies?
MW: I would tell natural newbies to be patient and that they should not compare themselves to other girls. Mixed hair comes in many variations in texture, and everyone’s hair has its own growth rate and maximum growth length. I would also say to trial different natural hair products. What works for me might not work for you. I tried 6 shampoo product and 10 styling products before settling down with my top 2 of each.
NC: What are you working on now?
MW: I just wrapped up my fourth season dancing in the NBA and recently opened my own dance studio with my husband, Movement Inc. Dance Center in Santa Clarita, CA. I am very excited about this summer because I am also officially releasing a limited edition of my new “Nothing But Natural” racerback tank top! I am currently accepting reservations at this time because once this item sells out, it will be discontinued. Anyone interested can email me at nothingbutnaturalapparel@
NC: How can our readers find you on the web?
MW: My personal website is www.MaddyWooten.com. I also have a Facebook Pages “Maddy Wooten” and “Nothing But Natural”. I can be found on Twitter (@MissMaddyMad and @NothinBTNatural”> and Instagram (@MissMaddyMad and @NothingButNatural”>.
Whether you’re into Zumba, running, hot yoga, spinning or boxing, working out can take a toll on curls and waves, causing frizz and oil build up. Exercise makes us feels great and does wonders for our bodies and brains, however it doesn’t always do too many wonders for our tresses. And while your hair may pay a price for getting healthy, it should, of course, never stop you from staying healthy.
Like most women, we sweat when our heart rate gets elevated, some more than others. If your workout takes places outside, then you may also encounter some of the elements like wind and sun as well, which could also be harmful to curls.
Here are a few tips to consider for your curly workouts:
Fight Frizz When Working Out
Weatherproof your hair
Stay true to your natural texture, therefore, stay away from flat ironing and blow outs as the weather and the workout won’t be kind to your hair afterwards. Try to use a small amount of leave-in conditioner and gel that works with your hairtype. If you do end up sweating, you won’t have a lot of droop in your hair since there’s not much product in it to begin with.
The up-do
It’s a must to have a few good hair ties or cotton head bands in your work out bag. Hair can distract your workout when it flops into your eyes! This can also lead to more frizz. Use hair ties or head bands that are comfortable, and not too tight. Pile your curls up loosely so as not to cause breakage. If pieces don’t fit,use some bobby pins or a pretty clip to keep them at bay.
For Long Hair
If you have long curls or waves, try a braid – it’s a great way to keep your hair out of your face, and, afterwards, you just may find that you have some great looking loops and texture when you remove the braid!
The product line up
There are lots of products that may work just great for our curls, but combined with workouts, they may change in time. To start: use a gentle, but cleansing, shampoo and conditioner like Suave ,VO5 or DevaCurl to wash and hydrate your curls since they’ll need some suds and moisture. Try to leave your conditioner in for an extra 5-8 minutes when showering too. Finish with a cold water rinse. Next, go for a light styling gel, serum or creme (depending on your hair type”>.A few to try come from: Living Proof, Redken Slim Supreme, Suave Gel, LA Looks Curl Gel, Noodle Head creme. When applying products, go lighter than usual, and don’t apply too many. If you normally use a leave-in conditioner, use less. You don’t want too much build up to occur as you work out.MORE: Curly Hair Care for Cardio
Air dry
After a workout, and a shower, it’s best to let hair dry naturally. If you can, allow it to dry on it’s own. Use a satin pillowcase so as not to damage curls as you sleep. If you must dry your hair, use a diffuser and try to dry no more than 40% dry.
MORE: What’s Your Frizz Type?
Rosewater & Glycerin Hair Spritz
NaturallyCurly user Wavy-Whirly uses this old-fashioned spritz for her Type 2C waves as well as for dry skin. If you don’t have roses or rose hip seed oil on hand, other herbs can be substituted for them such as chamomile teabags, dried or fresh leaf rosemary, lavender buds, other essential oils or evening primrose oil.
What you’ll need
- 1 cup distilled or filtered water
- 2 tbsp vegetable glycerin
- 5-10 drop rose hip seed essential oil
- 1/4 cup fresh rose petals or 1 tablespoon dried rose petals
- spray bottle
Directions
- Boil the cup of water and add the rose petals.
- Steep overnight
- Strain out the rose petals and add the glycerin and rose essential oil.
- Combine these ingredients in a spray bottle that has been sterilized with rubbing alcohol, shake and refrigerate.
NaturallyCurly: Please introduce yourself!
Kristen Gluch: My name is Kristen Gluch. I am 24 and I have been married for the past two years. I received my bachelor’s in Elementary Education and I’m currently working as a nanny. I’m not sure if teaching is in the cards yet, but we’ll see. I’m also very big on the social media front and I spend a lot of my free time online, sharing my hair journey and encouraging other curly girls to embrace their natural selves.NC: How and when did you start embracing your curls?
KG: The first time I went out in public with my natural hair, I was 22 years old. From the time I hit puberty and for the decade following, I straightened my hair religiously. That meant one hour of quality time with my blow dryer and flat iron every day, no exceptions. My friends had no idea that my hair was naturally curly, and I even kept it from my husband for the first year of our relationship.
Letting my hair be curly was simply not an option until I stumbled upon NaturallyCurly.com. Because I was constantly frying my hair with heat and dyes, I had only ever seen my natural hair as a nest of brittle, frizzy straw. The before and after photos of women who did the CG routine made me think, “What if my natural hair only looks terrible because I don’t take care of it? What if I put down my brush, flat iron and shampoo and completely change the way I treat my hair?” I began my natural journey in December 2011 and I refuse to look back!
NC: What is your current routine?
KG: I am notorious for my two-day, three-day and sometimes even four-day curls! I only condition my hair a couple of times a week and I cleanse it about once a week (only on the scalp”>. On those days, after allowing the conditioner to sit in my hair for a few minutes, I gently comb my hair with a wide tooth comb or with my fingers, working my way from the bottom up. I also use a cotton t-shirt to lightly dry my hair instead of wringing it out with a terrycloth towel. I gently scrunch generous amounts of my favorite products into my hair, section by section. Then I use the plopping method if I have time or I will diffuse my hair—I try to keep away from heat unless it’s absolutely necessary.NC: So from start to finish, on a curly day, what’s your process?
KG: Every day is a curly day! On the days that I don’t wash or condition my hair, I wake up, spritz my hair with a homemade lavender spray (I found it in Curly Girl: The Handbook, and I love it”>, and run out the door. That’s it!Sometimes, if my hair is extra frizzy, I’ll dilute some gel with water and gently pat down any flyaways and frizzies. My hair is super low maintenance on days that I don’t get it wet.
MORE: Giulia’s Real Texture Talk
NC: What are your must-have products and tools?
KG: I’m currently working my way through a gallon of Jessicurl Too Shea! Extra Moisturizing Conditioner. I literally use handfuls each time I shower, so buying in bulk makes the most sense. I love this conditioner because it’s thick, smells amazing, and moisturizes my hair like crazy!
I also swear by Ouidad Climate Control Heat & Humidity Gel. It leaves my curls defined, frizz-free, and soft. And as far as cleansers go, I’m okay with anything that doesn’t have sulfates. Since I only cleanse my scalp with it, I just look for a moisturizing cleanser like Devacurl Low-Poo. Sometimes I skip the shampoo altogether and cleanse my scalp with a combination of grapeseed oil and tea tree oil.
The only “tools” I need are a wide tooth comb and an old cotton t-shirt to dry my hair.
NC: What are your favorite hairstyles to wear with your curls?
KG: Nothing beats wearing my hair loose, wild and crazy! The bigger, the better! But I do have to braid my hair when I workout or run and on days when my hair is especially uncooperative, I’ll throw it up in a messy bun on top of my head.NC: What do you do at nighttime for your hair?
KG: I just loosely throw my hair up in a bun on top of my head (or pineappling, as some of you may know it”> using a soft scrunchie and I sleep on a satin pillowcase. Super simple, yet effective.NC: What about your hair stylist?
KG: I absolutely adore my stylist. She is trained to cut curls using the Devacut method—she cuts my hair while it is dry, paying careful attention to how my curls fall.
NC: What reaction did you get when you first decided to go natural?
KG: Shock. Most of my friends had no idea that my hair was curly. But everybody was supportive and the change was definitely welcomed. My hair looked awful for the first couple of months, so their encouragement really helped me embrace the change, especially when I desperately wanted to straighten out my frizzy and unruly hair. I know some people who would have my head on a platter if I ever went back to flat ironing my hair. My curls are a part of who I am now, and I’m so glad to have such a supportive group of friends and family to remind me of that!
NC: What was the transition like? Did you have any curly girl insecurities?
KG: I’d say my hair looked like a soggy rat nest for the first two months or so. I constantly wanted to give up and felt hopeless. I felt really insecure and had my hair up in a bun every day. I hated it and yearned to straighten it again. But I’m so glad I stuck with it. This has been one of the best changes of my life!
MORE: Real Texture Talk: Bita Pourtavoosi
NC: What is the best thing about being curly?
KG: Despite popular belief, I love how low maintenance my hair is! Sure, I spend fifteen minutes on it in the shower and applying products, but when you compare that to the hour I used to spend on it every day, I’d say that my hair is super easy to manage. I also enjoy how I stand out in a crowd, and people are constantly complimenting my hair (I would have never in a million years believed this could be the case”> and asking for curly hair advice. I just finally feel like I’m “me” fully, and I love it.
NC: How do you think having curly hair has impacted your life?
KG: I have so much more time on my hands now! I can now do pool parties and impromptu beach trips, and I’m no longer afraid of a little rain. It’s amazing how much more spontaneous and fun my life is now!NC: What would you tell others to encourage them to embrace their curls?
KG: Sick with it. Even when you feel like ripping your hair out, work through it. Braid it, wear it up, or do whatever you need to do through the transition period. I have seen the other side and it is glorious! I had no idea that I could love and embrace my hair, and I am still overwhelmed by how much going natural has changed my life. I feel unique, beautiful and like I am finally myself. I hope others can be encouraged by my story and find peace with their natural selves the way I have.
NC: Tell us about your current and upcoming projects!
KG: I’d like to tackle a Master’s Degree in American media and pop culture sometime soon. More specifically, I’m really into analyzing gender roles in the magazines, films, television and video games. I’d also love to pursue a career that helps me encourage and empower women. That career is a big question mark right now, but I do know that all women deserve to feel special, unique and beautiful, with or without curls, and it is my mission to reach as many of them as possible to tell them that.
The 80’s and early 90’s saw the rise of the krimper, followed by the standard barrel shaped curling iron. But now there are a plethora of unique curling wands on the market in a variety of shapes. If you’re looking to transform your curl pattern for a few days, these tools can help you create anything from a bouncy wave to a loose runway curl. Just be sure to always apply a heat protectant!
MORE: How to Avoid Hair Breakage with Heat Styling
Weird & Wacky Curling Wands
The Natural Waver
Say goodbye to overnight braids with frizzy waves! The Tourmaline Deep Waver from Hot Tools creates waves that look so good, you’ll have people thinking they’re natural.
How to use it
- Spray a heat protectant, such as Carol’s Daughter’s Macadamia Heat Protection Serum, on all of your hair, and then separate your hair with clips.
- After misting your hair with a lightweight hairspray, hold the barrel at the root end of your hair, about three or four inches from the scalp.
- Keep the barrel in place about 10 seconds, then release.
- If you’re going for an all-over look, just pick up where you left off and repeat with the waver.
- When you’re finished, gently toss your hair with your fingers to loosen some of the wave, giving your hair a more natural look.
The Timesaver
If you’re generally short on time, the Titanium Waver could be the best choice for you. Since it has three barrels, you’ll get an all-over look of waves fast!
How to use it
- This waver does get extremely hot, and because you’re going to come in close contact with the barrel, you’ll want to wear a glove to protect your hand.
- You’ll also want a heat protectant to protect your hair.
- Once it’s heated up, hold the waver so that the solid part faces the back of your head, then grab a section of hair and place it in the center of the two rods.
- Carefully, work your hair around the two rods in a figure-8 until you get to the tip of your hair.
- Close the barrel, and then hold it in place for about 30 seconds (you may get away with slightly less time if you have thin hair”>.
- Slide the barrel out of your hair and you’re ready to move onto the next section!
The Curl Imperfecter
If you’d prefer a more relaxed look, check out the Bubble Wand by One. This skinny wand with its weird bumps may look more like a long lollipop, but its best trait is its ability to create “imperfect” curls. Unlike most curling rods, the Bubble Wand has a cool tip that doesn’t get hot. This way, you’re able to hold the wand while you work your hair up to the root.
How to use it
- Section your hair, and then clamp the tip of a 1” section of hair under the clamp on the wand.
- With your other hand, hold the top of the wand and then begin to spiral your hair around the wand all the way to the scalp.
- Release your hair from the clamp and slide the wand out gently. The all-over look is amazingly sexy!
Since you don’t need to stress out about your curls messing up, this is a perfect look for a date night at home while cuddling on the couch.
The Bouncy Waver
Forget doing rag curls—the Enzo Milano Bi-Tube Curling Iron creates that bouncy-wave look we’re seeing repeatedly on the red carpet!
How to use it
- After applying a heat protectant, grab a glove to keep your hands from burning.
- Separate your hair into manageable sections (use clips for thin hair”>, then hold the base near your scalp and pull a 1” section of hair through the center of the tubes.
- Start working your hair between the tubes in a figure-8, then hold for up to 5 seconds.
- Let go of your tip, allow your hair to slide out, then pull the curling iron straight out of the hair, making sure not to pull the curling iron downward. Repeat for the rest of your hair, then top it off with a shine booster like Original Moxie’s Twist Mist Lightweight Shine!
The Bed Head
Traditional curling irons give you tight curls, but if you’re going for the “curly girl bed head” look, Tigi’s Bed Head Curlipops is what you need! Its hourglass design creates less-than-perfect curls that’ll make you look as though you rolled out of bed looking this hot!
How to use it
- Section your hair with clips, and then slide on the heat-protecting glove (that comes with the Curlipops iron”>.
- Spray on some lightweight, medium-hold hairspray, grab your wand, and start the magic!
- While holding your wand near your scalp, start winding a small section of your hair around the wand.
- Once you hit the dip in the center, start loosely wrapping until you get to the tip.
- Keep the hair in place for about 5 seconds, then unwind the hair.
Since you decide how large of a section to curl and how tight you want to curl it, you can even give your hair an uneven look that’s even more stunning!
The Runway Waver
Dying for the lazy-wave look you’re seeing on the runways? Then check out the Single Pass Whirl by T3. Don’t be fooled by the one-dimensional design of this curling iron. It may be sleek and simple, but you’ll be amazed at what you can do with it!
How to use it
- Part your hair from ear to ear, and then clip the back part together so it’s out of the way.
- Separate the front into left and right sections and then separate those into top and bottom sections.
- Slip on a heat-protecting glove and hold the iron above your head.
- While pointing the wand downward, start wrapping your hair around it.
- Hold for 3-5 seconds, and then slide the wand upward and out of your hair.
- Continue doing this all over or just in dedicated sections until you achieve the look you want!
NaturallyCurly: Please introduce yourself!
Giulia Paolucci Auva’a: My name is Giulia. I’m 27 and I was born and raised in Italy. I am the mom of a two-year-old boy and my husband is in the military—we get to travel a lot and I love it! I enjoy reading, cooking and going out.NC: How and when did you start embracing your curls?
GPA: I hate to admit it now, but I used to wish that I had straight hair! There were very few products for curly hair, if any, when I was younger. When I was thirteen, I decided that I wanted short hair. The haircut didn’t go very well, so I put my hair in a ponytail every day and didn’t cut it again until I was sixteen. Finally I found a good stylist and she gave me a great cut. I started wearing my hair loose and curly!
NC: What is your current routine?
GPA: I wash my hair once or twice a week and always let it air dry. Right now, I am using Mizani True Textures Curl Balance Shampoo and Herbal Essences Hydralicious Conditioner. I always wash my hair upside down because it really makes a difference in terms of volume. Then I rinse my hair and use a leave-in conditioner…lots of it! Mixed Chicks or Garnier Fructis Curl Cream both work well for me.Unfortunately, here in Europe, we don’t have many of the brands available in the United States. I once tried Curly Sexy Hair and it was SO good for my hair!
NC: So from start to finish, on a curly day, what’s your process?
GPA: I usually wake up and just go with whatever my hair decides to look like! If it’s too frizzy, I will wet it and use some leave-in conditioner and if my curls are having a really bad day, I’ll put my hair up in a top knot.MORE: Tammala Boyd’s Real Texture Talk
NC: What are your must-have products and tools?
GPA: Bobby pins! I keep them everywhere—in the bathroom, in my purse, in my car, in coat pockets, etc. A good leave-in conditioner is also a must. I can’t live without Garnier Fructis Curl Calm Down Cream.
NC: What are your favorite hairstyles to wear with your curls?
GPA: I usually wear my hair loose. I love the added volume of a side part and side-swept hair. My go-to on a bad hair day is the top knot. It’s easy and so cute!NC: What do you do at nighttime for your hair?
GPA: I put my hair in a loose bun on top of my head or I put it in two braids, depending on the look I’m going for.NC: What reaction did you get when you first decided to go natural?
GPA: I got a lot of compliments after I stopped wearing my hair in a ponytail all the time! But a lot of people asked me why I didn’t straighten my hair or why I couldn’t get it to be less voluminous. Crazy, right?
MORE: Angela Delyani’s Real Texture Talk
NC: What is the best thing about being curly?
GPA: Getting compliments on what I think is a bad hair day! Curly hair can get crazy but with some TLC, it can also be beautiful and fun.
NC: How do you think having curly hair has impacted your life?
GPA: Growing up, I was very self-conscious about my curls! I didn’t know what to do with my hair, and it made me feel different in a way, but I have learned to embrace the uniqueness of my curls. Now I love that I don’t have to do much in the morning…I’m just ready to start my day!
NC: What would you tell others to encourage them to embrace their curls?
GPA: Curls are gorgeous and so are you! Love your curly hair and it will show you love in return.
NC: Tell us about your current and upcoming projects!
GPA: I am waiting to be reunited with my husband. He is in the military and is currently stationed in a different country. He has been gone for fifteen months and my son and I miss him very much, but in a couple of weeks we will be back together! I’m so excited. We plan to enjoy Italy, his next duty station, and do some traveling around Europe.
Yogurt Curl Stretcher Recipe
NaturallyCurly user Curly-Spirally uses this tropical homemade hair treatment for loosening and stretching her curls. She found that her curls felt much softer and shinier after this treatment.
What you’ll need
- 1 egg
- whole milk, plain yogurt
- a splash of milk
- lime juice
- coconut oil
- cornstarch to thicken
Directions
- Mix all ingredients together
- Pour generously over your hair, coating all strands
- Leave on for 45 minutes
- Rinse out and style as normal
