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For the most part, our busy schedules don’t always allow us to make the time to wash and style our hair every day. At the same time, washing our curls isn’t always healthy for them either.
Is there a happy medium? Achieving methods for 2nd and 3rd day curls may take you some time and practice to get “just right,” but is sure to be worth your time.
Third Day Curls
The Challenge
The top enemies of 3rd day hair are:
- frizz
- definition
- loss of shape
- too much or too little oil on the scalp
The Solution
Healthy first day curls lead to gorgeous 2nd, 3rd and even 4th day curls. Caring for your curls on the first day will help keep them looking and feeling their best for the following week with minimal styling.
MORE: How to Tame Frizzy Roots
Healthy From Day 1
Your regimen on day one will determine the success of your curls for the rest of the week. It’s important to take your time and don’t rush, to make the most of this process. Be gentle when you detangle, dry and apply product to your hair, this will lead to great curls to start with!
- Condition, paying attention to your roots and ends, combing the product through with a wide-tooth comb as you shower
- Use a leave-in conditioner and gel (appropriate for your curl type”> to help form and hold better 2nd and 3rd day curls
- Apply your product in sections to your hair and allow it to air-dry or use a diffuser
Sleep Well
A bad night’s sleep is sure to thwart your first day curls, so be sure to care for your newly styled curls with best practice sleeping methods too.
- Pineapple your hair by tying it up with a satin or cotton tie. Knowing how to pineapple will prevent curls from losing shape while you sleep
- Wrap curls in a satin bonnet
- Sleep on a satin or silk pillow case to prevent frizz and breakage
MORE: 9 Ways to Sleep with Curls
Pick Me Ups
Finger Style
Over the next two to three days, use your fingers to shake and rake through your curls – GENTLY.
Quick Fix Spray
If need be, use a “quick fix” spray like Deva Mista-Right or JessiCurl “Awe-Inspiraling” spray. These are gentle enough to not cause build-up, and will help revive curls and give some “spring” and bounce to curls.
Water Your Curls
Try to not use too much product in addition to what’s already in your hair. Have a spray bottle with water (to which you can add drops of lavender oil”> and tend to your curls by spritzing them with a light mist of water throughout various parts of your day. This will help to revive curls and the products applied in the days prior. Carry a small spray bottle of bottle with you (or keep one in your car or your office”> to have on hand.
MORE: DIY Lavender Hairspray
Spot Treatment
You may notice some changes in your hair over the next days, as you don’t wash. Embrace the changes and try out new styles too.
If your curls loosen up or relax a bit, try some pins or headbands to keep them at bay.
If some frizz comes your way, use a small amount of pomade to add some sheen and shine to a few small parts of your hair, to keep your natural look.
After a few “practice” rounds, you just may find that your schedule isn’t as hectic and your hair looks just as great, or even better!
What is Ayurveda?
Over 5,000 years ago a natural system of healing from within was created by the Vedic culture in India. There are roots of this natural, healing medicine in Tibetan and Chinese medicines as well. After many years of being suppressed, the Ayurveda lifestyle has once again found its way into modern-day cultures around the world.
According to Deepok Chopra, “recognizing that human beings are part of nature, Ayurveda describes three fundamental energies that govern our inner and outer environments: movement, transformation, and structure.” These three energies are known in Sanskrit as “Vata (Wind”>, Pitta (Fire”>, and Kapha (Earth”>.
Chopra explains that they shape and influence our individual nature and characteristics, “if Vata is dominant in our system, we tend to be thin, light, enthusiastic, energetic, and changeable. If Pitta predominates in our nature, we tend to be intense, intelligent, and goal-oriented and we have a strong appetite for life. When Kapha prevails, we tend to be easy-going, methodical, and nurturing.”
These three forces are present in everyone, but there are typically two predominant energies in each of us.
What are the health benefits?
Recognizing how ayurveda can teach us about our own health, our health problems as well as how to relieve them, is one of the largest benefits of this ancient healing art. Chopra explains that: “The guiding principle of Ayurveda and the other Eastern healing arts is the interconnection of all things. We aren’t simply an isolated collection of atoms and molecules, but are an inseparable part of the infinite field of intelligence. From this holistic perspective, health isn’t merely the absence of illness or symptoms ― it is a higher state of consciousness that allows vitality, well-being, creativity, and joy to flow into our experience.”
From a beauty perspective, this healing art can help us understand more about the products we currently use, compared to those we should be using on our skin (as they have effects internally and externally”>. Here’s a quick list of some easy, at home, “remedies” from Try Ayurveda:
- Wrinkle-free Soft Skin: Smooth castor oil on the face to keep it soft and wrinkle free.
- Clear Skin and Pores: Clean the skin and pores with unpasteurized milk on cotton wool.
- Natural Moisturizer: Make your own moisturizer for normal skin. Mix eight ounces of yogurt with a tablespoon of both lemon juice and orange juice to use on the face as a masque. Remove with damp cloth in about fifteen minutes.
- Skin Conditioner: To condition the skin, make a paste of two tablespoonfuls of cream stirred with one of honey. Leave mixture on skin for five minutes and remove with a wet facial cloth.
- Skin Tone and Pigmentation: A raw potato rubbed on the skin helps lighten pigmentation problems and improves skin tone.
- Smooth Complexion: Apply orange juice to the face for a smoother complexion.
How to try an Ayurvedic lifestyle
The Ayurvedic principles for restoring and maintaining mind-body balance are as relevant today as they were thousands of years ago:
- Take time each day to quiet your mind (find a quiet place and learn how to meditate”>.
- Eat a colorful, flavorful diet.
- Engage in daily exercise that enhances flexibility, strength, and cardiovascular fitness.
- Sleep soundly at night for 8 to ten hours.
- Eliminate what is not serving you (foods, unhealthy relationships, etc.”>
- Cultivate loving, nurturing relationships.
- Perform work that awakens your passion.
Ayurveda for your hair
In order for your hair to benefit from Ayurvedic treatments, your body must be treated just as kindly. A wholesome mix of natural foods, water and nutrients , as well as quality sleep and physical activity, will benefit you internally, and externally. When your diet becomes a healthier, more wholesome, one, your skin and hair will begin to reap the benefits as well. Here are a few ideas and tips to include in your healthy ayurvedic habits for your hair.
Curl Treatment
What you’ll need:
- 1/3 cup yogurt
- 1 cup water
- 3-4 rosehips
- raw sugar or honey to taste
Scalp Treatment
A warm oil scalp massage two times a week will help stimulate and moisturize the scalp. Use quality coconut, almond or olive oil. Apply some mildly warmed oil to your hair and gently massage into your scalp evenly with your fingertips. Leave on overnight if you can, if not, leave on for at least an hour or two, then , shampoo your hair. The scalp massage helps you relax and aids in a sound sleep as well.
Ayurvedic Hair Pack
-
1 teaspoon henna powder
-
1 teaspoon amla powder
-
1 tsp aritha powder
-
1 tsp shikakai powder
-
1 egg
-
2 tablespoons yogurt
-
1 teaspoon honey
-
1 tablespoon fresh aloe vera gel
Mix the ingredients together thoroughly and apply to dry hair for 30 minutes, and/or, up to 4 hours. Wash off in the shower and shampoo as usual. Do this regularly- once or twice a week- to experience amazing hair protective results.
Favorite Whipped Shea Butter Recipe
NaturallyCurly user Curl_Jammy has perfected her favorite whipped Shea butter recipe – and shared her secret with our curly community!
What you’ll need
- Shea butter 3/4 cup
- Coconut oil 1/3 cup coconut oil
- Jojoba oil 1/2 tbs
- Rosehip seed oil 1 tbs
- Vanilla fragance oil few drops
Directions
- Scoop out the 3/4 cup shea butter, put it in a bowl (not plastic”>
- Microwave it for 30-45 sec until it’s soft, not melted but just soft
- Add the other oils for fragrance and added benefits
- Mix with an eletric hand mixer until whipped
- Refrigerate until it is your desired consistency (should melt in your hands”>
3 Coachella-Worthy Wavy Hairstyles
Petal Pusher
Give a day-old blowout a fresh new take with a crown of flowers around the head.
- Mist dry shampoo on a day old blow out for added volume and texture
- Work Wella Professionals Texture touch into ends for added texture and piece-y look
- Top with it off with a floral crown and a spritz of Wella Professionals Stay Essential Finishing Spray for light hold
Dream Weaver
Weave French, fishtail and traditional braids throughout the hair for a romantic yet rebellious look.
- Spray Wella Professionals Ocean Spritz on dry hair for light hold and beach-y texture
- Take small 1-inch sections of hair and create fishtail, French and traditional braids securing at different lengths
- Work Wella Professionals Rugged Fix through the ends for a rough edge
- Loosely pull top half of hair back and secure with elastic
Smoke Signals
Go for the braided headband. Great for a no wash day – mixing up the braid type to give a unique and less contrived look.
- Prep dry hair with a pea sized amount of Wella Professionals Velvet Amplifier
- Spritz Wella Professionals Ocean Spritz to create texture at the root and length of hair
- Part hair down the middle and create two traditional side braids
- Pull each side over the top of the head and secure
- Pull out the front pieces of hair for a loose, carefree look
Moisture and curls go hand in hand. If you’re after bounce and shine then you will need to keep your hair well moisturized. There are a number of products on the market, as well as at-home remedies, that can aide in keeping curls and waves looking their best.
Here are the top 12 moisturizers that you can buy, or make at home.
Spring Curl Kit
Cantu Shea Butter Leave In Conditioning Repair Cream
Best for: Cocktailing
For great definition and lots of sheen and bounce, as well as hair that’s soft to the touch, this cream works wonders. Though it’s not organic, it does make curls and waves super soft and well defined. It works as a leave in and can be used with other products, or, for softer curls, alone.
Coconut Oil and Raw Shea Butter Mix
Best for: Coconut oil lovers
Coconut oil and raw shea butter (from a local market or health food store”> are GREAT , the combo not only does wonders for curls but smells delicious! You can even mix in a little of your favorite conditioner with this mix too. This do-it-yourself potion can be used daily for hair in need of extra moisture or make it a masque and give your locks some deep conditioning once a week.
Jessicurl Deep Conditioning Treatment
Best for: Deep conditioning
Every so often curls and waves need something more than the “regular” moisturizer or conditioner – time for deep conditioning with Jessicurl. Strengthen your hair with this weekly treatment that uses cocoa butter and shea butter to add serious nourishment to your locks.
VO5 Strawberries and Cream Conditioner
Best for: Curlies on a budget
Besides an amazing scent, this very easy to find conditioner can revitalize curls and waves. Its price tag makes it more than affordable to be able to use every day. You can even use a little as a leave in, for added softness (and sweet smelling locks!”>
MORE: Reader Reviews of VO5 Strawberries and Cream Conditioner
Karen’s Body Beautiful Butter Love
Best for: All-natural curlies
Another great all-natural product that softens hair and keeps the shine and definition of curls and waves perfectly. This product is great for thicker hair.
CURLS Whipped Cream
Best for: Providing hold with your moisture
This too tends to work better for thicker curls and it has lots of creamy natural ingredients like aloe juice, coconut oil and olive oil – to name just a few. It works as a gel substitute and is great for controlling frizz, fly aways and holding twists and curls in place. Use as a leave in and styler daily.
DIY Hair Mist
Best for: Curlies who DIY
Use this mist on your hair any time of year to keep your hair well moisturized and looking great (smells great too with a little lavender”>.
In an 8oz bottle combine the following:
- Vegetable Glycerin – 2.5 tablespoons
- Olive Oil – 1 tablespoon
- Essential Oils – limit to 1-2 and use as much or little as you want
- Rose Water – 1 tablespoon
- Distilled Water – to fill the rest of the bottle
Curl Junkie Beauticurls Argan & Olive Oil Daily Hair Conditioner
Best for: Curlies who love oils
Great consistency, and works as leave in or wash out conditioner for just about any curl type. Deliver lots of moisture to your locks with this potion , and a little bit tends to go a long way. Plus, you can layer it with other products too. And it’s natural ingredients are a hit too – aloe, argan, jojoba and coconut – yum!
Suave Tropical Coconut Conditioner
Best for: Dual purpose on a budget
This too has a great scent and is in the very affordable price range. Use it as daily conditioner or a little as a leave-in – it won’t build up and always leaves hair soft, manageable and smelling like fresh coconut.MORE: Reader Reviews of Suave Tropical Coconut Conditioner
Honey Hair Mask
Best for: Pantry cocktailers
Try making this Honey Hair Mask once or twice a week for your locks:
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup olive oil
Directions:
Mix the honey with the olive oil. Heat in microwave oven to melt and apply to hair, then cover head with a plastic cap for 20-30 minutes. Wash out and style as usual.
Shea Moisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie
Best for: Multi-use conditioning
This all-natural hair dressing is a must have! It’s versatile in that you can use it as a leave – in or a deep conditioner. The scent of coconut and hibiscus make it a pleasant treat too. It can be used alone or with other products and won’t flake or cause build up so you can use it frequently.
Darcy’s Botanicals Tucuma Butter Moisture Whip
Best for: Organic ingredient lovers
An all-in-one style product for well defined, conditioned and controlled curls and waves. This organic recipe has a truly buttery consistency that makes for beautiful, well moisturized coils.
Curlies are always looking for ways to alter their curl pattern for looser curls that last for days – without the use of straightening tools or harmful treatments.
You know your hair best, what it needs more of and what it needs less of. Stretching your curls allows them to hold moisture for longer amounts of time too, so the effort you put in will be worth it for days to come!
How to Stretch Your Curls
Step 1: Wash It
- To start, wash your hair as normal
- Comb through your wet hair in the shower and apply product to it while in the shower
- Add a product that emulsifies hair like a pudding or creme/lotion (Miss Jessies Curly Pudding, Curl Junkie Curl Assurance or Curly Hair Solutions Extenzz“> to wet hair, using a little more than you normally would
- Try not to “mess” hair too much when applying the product – keep it as “flat” to your scalp as possible
- Divide your wet hair (with product”> into sections and begin to twist each section from top to ends.
- Add a duckbill clip at the end of each section (make them smaller for shorter hair and larger for longer hair”>
- If the clips don’t stay, try a smooth elastic to wrap at the end of each section instead
Step 3: Dry It
The best and healthiest llow your sections to air dry, or , use a diffuser if you have less time.
Step 4: Release It
- When your hair is dry , release the clips or bands from each section
- Gently shake each section with your hands/fingers
- Style as usual
- You can opt to add a light hair spray or pomade for added shine , or an extra day, when wearing your curls a bit loser
This routine will create smoother, looser curls that you can wear for 2-3 days.
NaturallyCurly: Please introduce yourself!
Tammala Boyd: Hi, I’m Tammala! I’m a country girl at heart, born and raised in South Carolina. I’ve lived in the great state of Tennessee for 4.5 years before a recent move back to SC.NC: How and when did you start embracing your curls?
TB: I’ve been natural for the past nine years. I wore locs for about five years out of those nine and because of thinning from the traction, I decided to cut them and comb them out…so, here I am! It’s going on five years and I’m LOVING my curls!
NC: What is your current routine?
TB: My current routine consists of cowashing every 1-2 weeks with Tresemmé Naturals Nourishing Moisture Conditioner. I only use shampoo about once a month. While the conditioner is still on my hair, I detangle with a wide tooth comb before rinsing. Afterwards, I apply my hair’s favorite Cantu Leave-in Conditioner and then seal with my personal blend of hair/body butter.NC: So from start to finish, on a curly day, what’s your process?
TB: I take down my pineapple and dampen my hair with a fine mist of water. Then I finger part my hair down the middle into two sections. Working with one section at a time, I respray the first side starting from about 1-2 inches from the root on down. Next, I take small amounts at a time of my Cantu Leave-in Conditioner and start applying, first concentrating on the edges and then working my way down to the ends. Then I take each section and twist in the direction of my curl pattern. This process makes sure that the entire section is moisturized all the way to the ends (I found this technique on YouTube and it makes all the difference in refreshing my curls”>. I repeat on the opposite side. Then I separate the clumps that I’ve just made, fluff up the curls and run my fingers through the roots to work out any parts.
NC: What are your must-have products and tools?
TB: My must-haves are Tresemmé Naturals Conditioner, Organix Macadamia Oil Shampoo and Conditioner, Cantu Leave-In Conditioner, a blend of Shea butter, EVOO, grapeseed and coconut oil, and a wide tooth comb.
NC: What are your favorite hairstyles to wear with your curls?
TB: I like simplicity. I love my wash-and-gos and after my curls get too old and frizzy or when I’m too lazy, a messy bun is my next favorite. I will also do a side braid or side bun. Nothing special, just simple and quick. I’ve worn a fishtail braid to the side a time or two, thanks to my daughter wanting to see something other than a “plain” braid.NC: What do you do at nighttime for your hair?
TB: I used to sleep on a satin pillow sham religiously, but now I just pull it all up on the top of my head into a pineapple if it’s fresh or into a loose messy bun if my curls are old.
NC: What reaction did you get when you first decided to go natural?
TB: The reaction that I got when I first went natural is the same as today… “Is that your real hair?” I get lots of looks and stares. I’ve even had to jump into a conversation or two that the people standing behind me are having about MY hair.
NC: Did you big chop or transition? Did you ever have any curly girl insecurities?TB: I did a big chop before starting my locs, which consisted of me taking the clippers with a #8 guard and just going for it! FREEDOM!!!
As a kid and as a teen, since my mom didn’t put my first relaxer in until I was almost sixteen, I was a little insecure about my hair. My friends all wore their hair straight or with curls from a curling iron. My hair was in a braid, ponytails or multiple braids. I was able to get my hair shampooed and pressed every now and then, but that wasn’t often. What made it alright for me though, is that where I’m from, NO one else had hair like mine nor did they have as much hair as I did, so it made me feel special at the same time.
NC: What is the best thing about being curly?
TB: The best thing about being curly is not feeling like I’m a slave to chemicals and their side effects, and most of all, feeling and looking like an individual.
NC: How do you think having curly hair impacts your life?
TB: Having curly hair has made me a much stronger person. I’ve embraced the fact that no, I am not my hair (shout out to India Arie”>, but my hair is an outward expression of who I am. I can walk into a room full of people with my head up, no longer looking down to avoid eye contact. I feel good about me!
NC: What would you tell others to encourage them to embrace their curls?
TB: First, you’d have to be ready to accept change, and you’re going to have to be ready to love yourself unconditionally. It’s a lifestyle change. In doing these things, you will be able to embrace your curls and all that comes with them. ROCK THOSE CURLS, GIRL!
NC: Tell us about your current and upcoming projects!
TB: Well, my current project is my oldest daughter who is graduating high school in a few months and then going off to college! My upcoming project is going to be ME…getting healthier, losing weight, and starting work on a new CD project.
I’m what my grandma used to call a “jack of all trades” and what my husband calls “a free spirit.” I have done and/or will try some of everything, within reason! But the one thing that I always go back to is singing. It’s my gift.
Most women believe , and even dispense advice, on the fact that hair grows faster with more frequent trims and cuts.
According to John Barrett, a New York City salon owner, “Hair grows a half-inch per month, whether you cut it or not.” However, the rate at which hair grows can also be determined by other factors such as genetics, diet, seasons, weather and even endocrine function such as low thyroid.
“The benefits of regular trims are many and varied,” notes Cunnane Phillips, a trichologist at the Philip Kingsley Clinic in NYC. “They will aid in keeping the ends from splitting and looking frayed, thereby giving the appearance of healthier and longer hair. When ends split and are severely damaged, they can cause breakage and that breakage travels up the hair shaft, which leads to playing catch-up.”
Keeping hair clean and healthy is a top priority, and therefore, regular trims, every four to eight weeks (depending on the hair type and shape”> are necessary for the basic health of your hair.
A good basic hair care routine, including regular trims, can help bring your locks back to life, give them shine and bounce too. Here’s a simple routine to follow for healthy, growing locks:
Healthy Growth Routine
Healthy Diet, Healthy Hair
Find foods rich in vitamins and omega 3 oils, silica, iron and calcium. Green leafy veggies, raw oats, whole grains, raw fruits and organic proteins. Being that hair is composed of mostly protein, and in order to encourage hair growth, adhere to a diet rich in protein. A recommended diet for this purpose includes calves liver, brewer’s yeast, wheat germ, and two tablespoons of granulated lecithin. Along with protein, these foods are also high in B vitamins, an important nutrient for hair. Silica is found in the outer coverings of potatoes, green and red peppers and cucumbers. Bean sprouts are also high in silica. And don’t forget the water – and lots of it! Hydrating your body is vital, and leads to healthy curls and waves too.
Wash and Dry
Keeping hair cleansed with a gentle shampoo 1-3 times per week (depending on hair type”> is important. The scalp should be cleansed of residue and build up, exfoliated so that good circulation continues as well. Hair should be nourished with moisturizing conditioners and leave – ins as needed too. Be sure the water you use isn’t too warm or too cold so that you can get more shine from your wash. As per drying, when possible, air drying curls is always best. Allow your products to go to work and air dry curls and waves. However, if you need to get the job done faster, a diffuser is the second best option – not allowing too much heat to be directed to the scalp or hair roots. MORE: Does Hair Build Tolerance to Products?
Environment, Seasons & Weather
Take note of the seasonal changes as well as those that come with a change in the weather from time to time. Rain and humidity, extreme cold and heat can make for changes in our bodies, hence, our hair. Protect your hair from the sun, chlorine, salt and other harmful exposures by using hats, scarves and safe hair products (ie oils and leave in treatments”>.MORE: Spring Curl Care Kit
Trim It
Regular trims can help avoid with split ends – which can lead to cutting off more than you hoped. Be sure to speak to your stylist about how often your hair type needs to be cut, in order to keep a certain length, or, eventually, grow into a new one.
Sleep Well
Try using a satin or silk pillowcase or scarf to avoid hair damage and breakage. Hair can catch and pull on cotton pillowcases. Also try pulling hair up, with a lose elastic, while you sleep so it doesn’t risk breakage.MORE: How to Pineapple
April is NaturallyCurly’s month of Curly Myth Busters. Don’t be April fooled by these common curly hair myths!
Myth or Fact:
Does hair build ‘tolerance’ to products?
It is a common belief that hair and skin grow tolerant, and in some ways immune, to the topical products we place on them daily. Some believe that the solution is to switch products regularly to reactivate our curls and the way they react to products.
The Verdict
“Hair can’t tell the difference between brands or build up tolerance to any product,” says London-based hair and scalp expert Philip Kingsley.
And since hair isn’t actually “living,” it can’t really build a tolerance or an immunity to products you use. However, there are certain factors such as product build-up and the weather, changes in eating and exercise habits, living conditions, and even, stress, can make for changes in how products react when you use them.
“Dry, humid or wet weather can change the way your hair feels and behaves, and an accumulation of chemicals on the follicle and hair shaft (if you color, relax or use thermal styling tools”> may make it seem like your shampoo and conditioner aren’t doing their job,” says NY dermatologist Marina Peredo, MD.What to do now? First off, and most important, you must use products that don’t strip your hair of it’s natural pH balance. According to Essensuals Hairstylist Joanna Barrientos, a natural pH balance for hair is a 5-5.5. When your hair becomes brittle or too dry, products will react differently. Keeping hair moisturized and healthy is vital.
Use a gentle, clarifying shampoo to exfoliate once a week so you rid of product build up and massage your scalp well too. “If you do this occasionally, you can go back to the shampoo and conditioner you loved and will likely see restored results,” states Dr. Peredo.
Next, pay attention to changes in your working and living enviormnents as well as changes in the weather and seasons. When the warmer weather is upon us, you should take into consideration the humidity and sweat your body produces. During cooler months and colder temperatures, there’s more dry heat in our surroundings and a need to give our hair more moisture and assistance in replenishing natural oils.
If you have any chemical processing done to your hair, you should also consider these as factors for using products and possibly noting changes. “Coloring, highlighting, relaxing and perming all affect the fundamental properties of your hair, says Gray. If you’ve had one of these chemical processes, you may need to add deep-conditioning treatments, including masks, to keep your hair in tip-top shape,” says hair expert, John Gray.
Maintaining a healthy diet and getting the necessary amount of water, rest and regular activity, in addition to these suggestions will aide in keeping your hair looking it’s best.
Simple Scalp Scrub
Basic Scalp Scrub
This recipe by NaturallyCurly user Kinky-Crimpy punches above its weight with lots of benefits for its two ingredients. It removes excess oil and impurities, removes dead skin cells and improves circulation.
What you’ll need
- 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
- 2-3 Tablespoons Brown Sugar
That’s it!
Directions
- Mix ingredients in a small bowl
- Add enough sugar to make a thin paste
- Do not heat the oil as this will melt the sugar
- Wet hair in shower
- Apply a heaping scoop of the scrub to your scalp, separating hair to reach entire scalp
- Scrub the scalp with the mixture in circular motions for 5 minutes
- Rinse well, then shampoo and condition hair as normal
Jonathan Pillot and curly twins Stephanie and Suzanne Jones created Project Curly and the Curly Monologues, which of course resonates with us here at NaturallyCurly. We got to ask them all about the experience so far!
NaturallyCurly: Tell us a little bit about Project Curly!
Jonathan Pillot: I created Project Curly as a community-based platform for people (primarily women”> to self-express about how curly hair has affected their lives in any and all respects, regardless of race, age, nationality, ethnicity, etc. It was clear to me intuitively and then confirmed by conversations with curly females, that almost all of them had alot to say on this subject, and there is power in sharing stories and feeling the bond and the similarities within the context of one’s own personal experience. Connecting the individual to the general. I felt that this could be a wonderful media vehicle in a variety of platforms, from web to film/television to live events, as well as a platform for brands. It is in alignment with two professional missions: to “entertain and elevate” as well as to create content and projects that give voice to others, so that we listen, and they are heard.
Suzanne Jones: It’s a multi-platform initiative created to celebrate all things curly—whether curly hair or “curly” thinking—as in creating and living beyond the straight and narrow. It started when Jonathan Pillot created a short video piece with women of all ages and races sharing stories of their curly hair and then organized a couple of “flash mobs” for curly-haired people to meet and greet.
NaturallyCurly: What inspired the Curly Monologues?
Suzanne: The initial inspiration was to bring the curly video concept into a live show environment with real people telling their stories to an audience, somewhat in the vein of “The Vagina Monologues.” Jonathan then partnered with my sister Stephanie and I, who, as The Jones Twins, are performers, writers and producers who, among other things, create and curate theatrical projects. We partnered to create a live cabaret/real storytelling event featuring established professional performers here in NYC doing curly-inspired performances as well as real people telling their personal stories around their curly hair. The hope is to unite all types of people around the concept of celebrating difference and sharing experiences. And to entertain and uplift!
Stephanie Jones: It wasn’t hard to get behind the Curly Monologues idea, as a performer/producer of live events I thought it was a brilliant concept! The whole experience has been fab.
Jonathan: When I shot the initial interviews for the sizzle piece, I was looking in the eyes of each woman/girl and sensed that real stories, authentically told, could really work in a live event/”theater” format. I thought of theatrical pieces like “Love Letters” and “Love, Loss and What I Wore” and “The Vagina Monologues” and decided to thread out this notion to get feedback, spread the brand messaging, and see what might be possible, not just in one venue, but across cities and, possibly, countries.
NaturallyCurly: What has been the most memorable story you’ve heard at the Curly Monologues?
Stephanie: All of the stories are memorable. So many authentic and passionate people have flocked to this event and amazingly creative people have taken to the stage! Our last theme was Growing Up Curly. We had storytellers of all ages, and a variety of performances. There was a beautiful story a young woman told of a grandmother who made her French braid her curly hair out of sight. She demonstrated this onstage, asking other Curlies to come onstage with her and take turns doing her hair. Another amazing presentation was by a mother, a brilliant writer by the way, whose greatest wish for her young daughter is for her to embrace her natural hair. In her story she told hilarious vignettes of all the research she’s done shopping in the hair care aisle, and how it inspired her to reach back into the archive of history and also examine pop culture to try to inspire her child to be proud of what she looks like. So powerful and so creative. We keep finding that talking about embracing your inner curly is really the story of the search for self.
Suzanne: One young lady, an actress, wrote and performed a hilarious and heartfelt piece from the perspective of her little girl self, wondering what life would be like without her kinky, curly hair and then realizing it wouldn’t be as much fun. Another great story was told and performed by a woman who, as an adolescent with a head of “unruly” blonde locks, was called “Witchiepoo” by her classmates. She decided to embrace her unusualness later in her life as a performer/musician/songwriter and ended her performance playing a ukulele and juggling oranges–Free to be herself!
Jonathan: There are two: one woman talking about how her father clearly must have wanted daughters with straight hair, not curly hair, and how he used to say things like, “can’t you do something with that hair?!” as if it was something she should be ashamed of. That had a huge effect on her life, and her saying how it took her another 35 years to be in synch with her hair. The other was an African-American woman who after hearing the stories of white girls with curly hair, remarked that she never knew that white girls had suffered any similar experiences to hers. That showed me the power of storytelling and the bridging and connecting of people.
NaturallyCurly: How and when did you start embracing your own curls?
Stephanie: For me it was not until my 20s that I started learning to care for my curls, and even now I’m still learning. At the same time, that age is when I also started embracing myself as I was, and stopped looking to fit in so much, accepting my own unique traits in general. But in my childhood, products for our hair, hair like my twin sister and mine, just didn’t exist. So we either braided it up, used things that were too heavy, greasy, or oily, or cut it short and tried not to get the pyramid look. The cuts were not always successful! Many a school picture can attest to that. One year when we were in our teens we even made a trip to NYC from our home in the Midwest to visit a certain hair salon and guess what: that short hair cut was a disaster. So I didn’t always feel attractive with this hair, until I learned how to make it look beautiful with the right haircare. It didn’t help living in an area where almost nobody had curly hair!! Being the only biracial girls in a white suburban neighborhood/school environment, and trying to use products that the kids around us were using just didn’t work! I mean washing too often with Herbal Essence shampoo wasn’t working. My twin sis and I are writer/performers and did our Curly Monologue performance about this, living curly in a straight and narrow world. So I felt more powerful and curly goddess-like as I grew older and started figuring out how to get rid of the frizzy look, I have to admit.
Suzanne: Definitely not until adulthood as my sister and I hardly ever wore our long curly hair out growing up! Then I started experimenting with short hair—though it had to be cut often or would grow into a shapeless bush. Now, I LOVE all the natural bush/afro styles that people are wearing. I kept experimenting until finding a flattering length, which is definitely longer. Now, even though in the workplace–and in general–sleek, smooth hair is the norm and the standard, I love and wear my hair naturally curly—and long–because it is who I am and how I feel my natural best.
NaturallyCurly: Any Holy Grail products?
Stephanie: I try different ones all the time. I don’t rely on just one brand. After a while, if I see that my hair stops responding to certain products in the way I liked, I try something else. It can be hit or miss. Today I tried Ouidad Moisture Lock Define and Shine cream and my hair actually looks great. I’m loving it today.
Suzanne: The products for curly hair are getting better and better, thankfully!! I LOVE Miss Jesse’s Curly Pudding (it smells good too”>, any type of Moroccan oil, and recently, since working on Project Curly —Ouidad whose products are FANTASTIC. My hair just laps up anything Ouidad now, haha.
NaturallyCurly: How do you think having curly hair has impacted your life?
Stephanie: Hair has a big hold over us as women. Not feeling cute is a big deal. So finding the right way to take care of this hair is something I have to always think about it, and I work it into my schedule even, what with kids, family, work. So now with The Curly Monologues, hearing other women’s funny stories or painful struggles and seeing the creative ways we all have of living with and glorifying in our curly hair has been so impactful. It makes me wonder if folks with textured haired actually have an extra creative gene or something!
Suzanne: Well, as a woman of both African and European descent, my curly hair is an expression of who I am, literally. It is a symbol of that mix and it often helps create connections with people, strangers who start conversations (sometimes in other languages besides English”> with me or ask me about myself. I guess you could say my curly locks have helped me bridge cultures and communities because this type of hair is globally prevalent. And since I have a deep love of people of all types and stripes, it literally helps me travel between worlds, communities. Also, curly hair is fun, sassy, never boring—a way I HOPE I come across!
NaturallyCurly: What is your goal for the Curly Monologues?
Stephanie: Bring women together across the globe by sharing something we all have in common. Curly /textured hair is present in so many cultures, from Africa to Asia, Mediterranean, Middle East as well as here in the West. The Curly Monologues shows have had a cross-section of participants and audience, presenters of Italian, Puerto Rican, French, and Jewish descent, biracial, African-American and Afro-Caribbean women. The amazing thing is hearing women say “wow, I never knew she had the same issues that I had about my hair. I thought it was only my people that felt that way”, and so on. The Curly Monologues is really a way of connecting women to each other, discovering things in common, and then creating a space for everyone to feel great about being who you are. We want to celebrate each other through a highly creative and entertaining experience.
Suzanne: We have presented two shows so far in New York and they have both been hits, the second one building on the first. We would like to keep expanding it here in New York but also across the country and the globe. We want to create a live event template that invites ALL types of people to hear and share stories and art around the concept of curly, especially as a metaphor for a free way of thinking and being: to naturally express who one is as an individual, curly, straight or whatever.
Jonathan: To expand it both here in NYC and to other geographical locations, to grow it in terms of finding the best manifestation of what is possible (in the style of the storytelling, the format for the productions, etc.”>, so that we can reach the most people and create commercially viable opportunities, as part of the overall Project Curly.
NaturallyCurly: Any upcoming projects?
Jonathan: Two feature films in the works, a women’s sensuality portal, and CrazyRebelMisfit, which is another community-based multiplatform brand that celebrates out-of-the-box thinking and ideas.
Suzanne: Definitely continuing to collaborate with Jonathan on the Curly Project, here in New York, across the globe and across all media! Also, Stephanie and I, in our Jones Twins mode are recording a musical memoir – a musical tale of our lives as twins and bi-racial sisters growing up in a black family in a white community told through “opposing” musical styles; it’s called “The Jones Twins do Bebop Muzak”. Another project: Getting my own little girl to embrace her beautiful big curly/coily hair (not easy–but possible!”>
Stephanie: Do longer form documentary film for Project Curly and to take The Curly Monologues live event on the road! Go to other cities around the country and across the globe and spread the message of Project Curly. Basically, we’d find a space with a stage and microphone and put the call out to women (men too”> to come with something creative to say through story, song, and performance about embracing your curliciousness , inner or outer, because Curly is a state of mind. So far the Curly Monologue productions have been amazing and transformative. It’s an instant community and great way for people to come together.
NaturallyCurly: Where can our readers find you?
http://vimeopro.com/betterdays/the-curly-project
NaturallyCurly hit the streets, cameras in hand, to welcome all of the gorgeous curlies, coilies and wavies to our fine city of Austin for SXSW Music Festival. There were far more gorgeous curls than we could ever capture, but these are the ones we were able to stop in the streets and ask for a photo. You can find more street style curls on our Pinterest and Facebook pages, and always feel free to upload your own to our Facebook!
Curly Street Style
Curlfriends
Flowy Curls
Stunning Hairstyle
Big Havana Twists with Marley Hair
Long Locs
It’s Jirod Greene of the band Suite 709!
Super Long Curls!
Locs Piled High
Head Wrap
Big Hair Don’t Care
Boho Waves & Headband
Stretched Hair
Pattern on Pattern
Lady Locs
Mother Daughter Curls
Lianne La Havas
We were so excited to see natural singer Lianne La Havas perform at the Nikon Warner Sound showcase.
Jesse Boykins III
We ran into Jesse Boykins III at SXSW. We love his music, and his hair!
Long Curls
Solange!
Queen of style herself, Solange in concert at SXSW.
Bandana Headband
Messy Bun
Love the Shape
Love the Hair & Makeup
Short Curls
Love the Color
Pinned to the side
Giant Bantu Knots
Asymmetrical Curly Cut
Curls at Fader Fort
Solange… Again
We love her so much, we saw her twice!
Curly Topknot
Curls on the Go
Faux Hawk
Curly Bangs & Bun
It’s time to transition from the dry, dull days of winter to the warmer, humid spring weather. Spring brings the rain, more sun, higher temperatures, and more time spent outdoors, and with the change of conditions our curls need new and different products.
You may even find that your curls themselves change with the seasons, so you may need to experiment a little with your Holy Grail products, as well as new ones. This list is a great place for Type 3 Curlies to start their Spring Curl Care Kit shopping.
Spring Curl Kit
Leave In Conditioner
Shea Moisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie
This is a year-round favorite, but this product is especially beneficial when applied to dry ends in the spring. The ends of our hair is exposed to the elements when we venture outdoors again, and this leave in provides much needed protection.
Gel
Curl Junkie Curls in a Bottle and Curls Gel from LA Looks
Both of these gels work wonders to just-showered hair. Apply gel to soaking wet hair and apply liberal amounts to each section of hair. The best practice is to air dry your curls, and these gels work best when hair is allowed to dry on its own time. If you don’t have the luxury of air drying, diffuse your curls on a cool setting.
Finishing Product
MOP Glisten Shine Pomade
Use a little bit of this pomade on your finger tips to work through and define your curls. With the increased humidity of spring you might experience frizz, so add some of this to flyaways and ends that need a little extra shine too. I like to keep one in my office drawer for mid day touch ups!
Spring-Only Product
Curly Hair Solutions Curl Keeper
This is another product that is very seasonal for my curls, it works in warm weather only for me. Use Curl Keeper on very wet hair, and using a large amount of product will give really good definition. Air dry your curls after using this product for great shine and bounce, even without a pomade or finishing product. The large bottle is economical as a bathroom staple, but the smaller bottle fits into a purse or carry on when traveling.
Spritz & Spray
DevaCurl’s Mist-er Right and Jessicurl Awe Inspiraling Spray
Both of these products are great curl misters, and you can use them any time of day or night for a quick refresh. These products are also useful for 2nd day curls. Load up on these for spring as curlies go through these products in the warmer weather.
Last Minute Fix
Homemade coconut spray is a fantastic DIY recipe to wake up your curls and get them in shape for spring.
What you’ll need:
2 oz purified water
2 tbsp coconut oil
few drops lavender oil or essential oil
Combine all ingredients. Mix well and spray into wet or dry hair for a quick pick me up or just a treat for softer curls.
NaturallyCurly: Please introduce yourself!
Tesa Cambor: My name is Tesa Cambor. I currently reside in Atlanta, GA.NC: How and when did you start embracing your curls?
TC: I first decided to return to my natural roots in July 2011 after my 5-year-old daughter insisted on having her hair straightened like mine. We were at the beauty supply store and I was about to purchase an at home relaxer application when my daughter pointed at a kiddy relaxer.
With all the childhood innocence in the world she asked, “Mommy, can I have my hair straight like yours? Your hair is prettier than mine.” I asked why she thought that my hair was prettier than hers, and she responded, “Because it’s straight, and all my friends get to wear their hair straight.” I tried to explain to my daughter that she was beautiful just the way God had made her and that she should love and embrace her curls just the way they are and not try to change them. Needless to say, out of the mouths of babes sometimes a fountain of knowledge can be found. My daughter said, “But Mommy, you don’t love and embrace your hair just the way God made it.” I knew what needed to be done—I couldn’t teach her to love herself if I didn’t first love myself.NC: What is your current routine?
TC: My regimen is very simple. I co-wash my hair every week, sometimes every two weeks if I’m rocking a protective style. If I have buildup or if I need a thorough cleansing after having a protective style, I do an apple cider vinegar rinse and gently massage my scalp until it’s clean, followed by regular conditioning. I deep condition my hair once a month if need be, or I’ll do a hot oil treatment.NC: So from start to finish, on a curly day, what’s your process?
TC: I rarely have my hands in my hair because I usually rock a protective hairstyle. On the rare occasion that my hair is out, I like to start with freshly co-washed hair. I love to mix my own leave-in conditioners because my hair is naturally frizzy, and store-bought conditioners don’t give me the look I want.
MORE: Real Texture Talk: Ashley Witherspoon
NC: What are your must-have products and tools?
TC: Paul Mitchell The Conditioner, Aloe Vera Gel, and Vitamin E oil.
NC: What are your favorite hairstyles to wear with your curls?
TC: I have a less-is-more thing going on with my hair. I love simple hairstyles like two strand twists, braids, or flat twists. When I’m feeling like I want to stand out or look super chic I love to rock a fro-hawk, but for the majority of the time in the fall/winter I wear twists and a nice crocheted hat. In the spring/summer I love to let my hair out so that it can do its own thing.
NC: What do you do at nighttime for your hair?
TC: I sleep on a satin pillowcase because almost everything I try to put on my head either falls off or it smashes my hair to the point of no return when I am rocking a wash & go.
NC: What reaction did you get when you first decided to go natural?
TC: The reaction I got was horrible. I had hair that was about three inches past my bra strap when I cut it, so everyone thought I had lost my mind. My hair wasn’t damaged and falling out. I just wanted to be a good role model for my very impressionable daughter, and I tried to explain that but no one understood my logic. My mom asked if had I lost my mind, my daughter cried (go figure”> and my 1-year-old son started calling me daddy, lol.
NC: Did you big chop or transition? For how long?TC: I transitioned for 5 months, but I just couldn’t handle the two textures. In a fit of anger, I chopped it all off.
MORE: Real Texture Talk: Diana Martha
NC: What is the best thing about being curly?
TC: I love being a curly girl because I feel like it sets me apart from everyone else. I love attention and I love the fact that my curly hair draws people to me.
NC: How do you think having curly hair impacts your life?
TC: Having curly hair helps me set the standard for what I call beautiful. It allows me to express myself differently everyday, according to how I feel, and I absolutely love that!
NC: What would you tell others to encourage them to embrace their curls?
TC: The hair you were BLESSED with is all your own! It sets you apart. It’s like a fingerprint…no two heads of hair are exactly alike. Embrace the beautiful woman you were created to be.
NC: Tell us about your current and upcoming projects!
TC: I am developing my own hair product line called “Hair Food.” It’s all-natural and helps with the overall health of all hair textures. It will be launched in the Fall 2013, so keep a look out! You can also follow me on Instagram @bellariccio
We asked three of NaturallyCurly’s favorite hair personalities—all different hair types—to help us understand some of the most common hair myths out there.
3 Curly Hair Myths
Evelyn Ngugi, Type 4 Expert
Myth #1: Curly hair is easier than straight hair
Evelyn says: True AND False
Let me explain. Some people will always be high maintenance, regardless of their hair texture or curl pattern. I know ladies who spend more time on their relaxed hair than I spend detangling my entire afro!
Personally I’m extremely simple, I only use 4 products total and I like simple styles (afro puff, anyone?”>.
Caring for highly textured hair is more time-consuming in one sitting. I may spend a whole hour detangling my hair, but once I style I won’t have to even think about my hair for a week.
Curly Suzy, Type 3 Product Guru
Myth #1: Curly hair is easier than straight hair
Curly Suzy says: The answer is FALSE for me
My curls are the most difficult when I wake up. There is almost always no hope for second-day hair.
I admit I have had fantasies of waking up in the morning and my hair does not look like I stuck my finger in an electrical socket. I know that will never happen and I have gotten use to setting my alarm clock a little earlier to get my curls ready for the day. So, I have had to accept that I have to manage my hair on a daily basis. Most days I co-wash and then use a product lineup that will ensure curl definition and protection from frizz. It is time consuming, but I am use to it. Even though I wake up to hair that is seriously scary I do like my curls once they have been conditioned and styled.
Alyssa Hawkins, Type 2 Wavy Blogger
Myth #1: Curly hair is easier than straight hair
Alyssa says: Half true
For me, my natural waves take a lot less time than straightening my hair. However, until you really know how to take care of your curls and embrace them, they can be harder to deal with. Mastering the art of second-day hair is something that also makes my waves much easier to do with. Second-day hair and finding products takes a lot of trial and error time, but once you have it figured out, you will find yourself saving so much time in the morning.
Evelyn Ngugi, Type 4 Expert
Myth #2: Does weather really matter?
Evelyn says: True!
Weather will dictate what your hair can do and how it will feel. The more coily and textured your hair is, the more fragile it is. Each bend or spiral in your hair is a point of potential breakage—and I got A LOT of spirals.
But remember that everybody is different: my hair absolutely LOVES the humidity of Austin, Texas, in the summer. All that moisture in the air makes my fro super soft and curl up in millions of cute coils. Some types of afros hate the moisture in the air and get frizzy.
One thing I think we all have in common is battling the dry, cold winter months. The wind whipping against your ‘fro may result in brittle hair. The moisture has been sucked out of it, and there’s no moisture in the air to bring it back. Solution? A phrase we like to use called “sealing the hair.” It’s when you properly moisturize the hair inside while getting ready and lock in that moisture (water”> with an oil. Since water and oil don’t mix, the oil will lay on the surface of the hair, protecting it from wind and keeping the water from escaping! You can also keep your hair in protective styles or wear hats to protect your fro.
Curly Suzy, Type 3 Product Guru
Myth #2: Does weather really matter?
Curly Suzy says: Yes so true!
Curls are fragile and very sensitive to weather changes. My hair can tell you if it is about to rain or if it is so dry you need to water your plants. Both of these types of weather are a challenge and I have to be ready to combat my curls against these elements.
Humidity in small doses can be great for my curls. I get some extra volume and my curls are plumper. But too much humidity and things start getting out of control. The expansion rate of my curls far exceeds what I want, and frizz is a huge problem.
On the other end of the weather spectrum is very dry air. This situation calls for a lot of deep conditioning and really limiting the use of shampoo. I also air dry my curls and use a diffuser on my hair dryer for only a few minutes to get my curls dry before I go to work. My curls can become brittle and flat in very dry weather, so I have to treat them well.
Alyssa Hawkins, Type 2 Wavy Blogger
Myth #2: Does weather really matter?
Alyssa says: Yes times a million!
During the humid times of the year (which in Texas is often”> I don’t have to add much product to my hair to hold my wave, but I need a lot of anti-frizz product. I, as a human being, hate the humidity, but my hair really loves it. It’s annoying.
In the winter months, I need the exact opposite of my humid days. I don’t have the humidity holding my waves in place so I have to use products with a stronger hold, and I’m not looking for something to tame my frizz when it’s colder. The weather completely changes my hair and what products I need to be using. I need a bathroom for spring/summer and one for fall/winter, as well.
Evelyn Ngugi, Type 4 Expert
Myth #3: Curly hair is 2x longer than it appears
Evelyn says: True. And make that 5x for me.
Think of my curl pattern like a tiny little Slinky. The springy toy looks short and small, but have you ever stretched it out? It’ll go on for days!The term we use for this phenomenon is shrinkage. Some people have a lot of shrinkage, some don’t. I have tons! And I love it! It makes my hair so versatile because I can rock different lengths throughout the week. I can wear my hair small and unstretched, I can stretch it out a little bit, or do a blow out for maximum length!
I will always be an advocate for loving your shrinkage, but if for some reason you don’t like it and you want people to see more of your true length, try twist outs and braid outs.
Curly Suzy, Type 3 Product Guru
Myth #3: Curly hair is 2 times longer when it is straight
Curly Suzy says: Almost true
When my hair is wet after I detangle it in the shower with a wide-toothed comb, it is longer but not quite twice as long. I do not have as much shrinkage as hair types 3 and 4. I find that I can get more of a wavy look if I use a heavier styling cream that does not activate my curls. If I want more of a curly look, I use a mousse and dry my hair with a diffuser. This style makes my hair look slightly shorter than the wavy style.
Alyssa Hawkins, Type 2 Wavy Blogger
Myth #3: Curly hair is 2 times longer when it is straight
Alyssa says: Not for me
Alyssa’s straight hair isn’t much longer than her curly hair.
This is one particular aspect of my hair that I really enjoy. When I get my DevaCurl Cut I know that I can straighten my hair and it will be about the same length.
When my hair is straight, it’s maybe an inch longer, but that’s about all I can get out of it.
Waves are just that; waves. They’re not the spiral curls or the kinky curls so when you see wavy hair, that’s about how long it is when straightened. With waves, what you see is (almost”> what you get!
Starting at SXSW
Did you know that over 14,000 conversations happen each week around curly hair? THIS movement was created and run by a community, let YOUR voices be heard and your hair seen! You can do your part by joining the conversation to empower the curl community!
Witness the Revolution At SXSW
Throughout the week we will be meeting with naturally social superstars, aspiring natural hair bloggers and vloggers, curly musicians and NaturallyCurly community members, and sharing what we learn here on NaturallyCurly.com, as well as our Facebook page and Twitter.
- SXSW Blogger Meet Up!
Meet NaturallyCurly, Chescaleigh, natural hair influencers, bloggers and vloggers at SXSW
Where: Upper Decks Austin, 301 Barton Springs Rd Austin, TX 78704When: Saturday March 9, 8:00-10:00PM
What: Join NaturallyCurly and @Chescaleigh (aka Chescalocs from YouTube”> for a curl happy hour: drinks, appetizers and curl talk. NaturallyCurly.com is hosting an exclusive happy hour for influencers in the industry. Come out and meet key hair influencers to talk curls, coils, waves, and the naturally curly blog world.- Blacks in Tech Naturally Social Panel at SXSW
Naturally Social: Growing Your Hair, Growing Your Audience & Growing Your Brand
Where: BiT House at the Hilton-Garden Inn
When: Sunday March 10, 3:30-4:30PM
What: “Join us as we examine how the natural hair movement has grown in recent years, largely in part to the social media savvy of natural hair bloggers and brands. Hear from natural hair superstars including Carol’s Daughter, Curl Box founder Myliek Teele and Afrobella, and learn how you can incorporate their social media strategies and avoid their missteps to help grow your online audience and brand.” Must have a SXSW badge to enter the panel
- Witness the Curl Revolution
NaturallyCurly and TIGI are taking over SXSW
Where: The intersection of 6th Street and Trinity Street (outside the Thirsty Nickel”>
When: Friday, March 15th at 6:00PM
Want more information? Email Events@naturallycurly.com
-
“The Warner Sound Captured By Nikon”
Official Haircare Partner TIGI is sponsoring a 3-day Live Music Residency at SXSW
Where: The Belmont, 305 W 6th St Austin
When: March 13-16
What: Join NaturallyCurly at the TIGI Dry Styling Bar to have your curls styled and photographed to be featured on NaturallyCurly.com. As well as seeing performances by The Flaming Lips, Paramore, Macklemore & Ryan Lewis, Tegan And Sara, Alt-j, Fitz & The Tantrums, Lianne La Havas, Atlas Genius, Icona Pop, and many more. Admission based on capacity.
Not attending SXSW? Participate Online!
Take part in the Curl Revolution today by following @NaturallyCurly on Twitter and the hashtags: #CurlRevolution #SXSW
We asked NaturallyCurly readers what the biggest mistake a stylist has ever made cutting their curls, and we got an earful! The full article can be found in the latest edition of Texture!
If you’d like to share your own horror stories, or simply like to know you’re not alone in your stylist struggles, join the conversation on CurlTalk.
7 Worst Curly Cut Mistakes
1. Cutting too short!
You said:
“Cutting off 6 inches when I only asked for a quarter of an inch. :'(“
“Cut my hair as short as my straight haired sisters. I was probably 10 and I cried a lot. Now I only let curly haired stylists cut my hair.”
“I said trim then she went Edward scissor hands on me.”
“Definitely cutting too much off and telling me that she’s the stylist, so she knows what’s best for my hair!”
“I had a stylist literally argue with me over shrinkage because she cut off more than I asked and I was upset. She was so adamant it just could not possibly shrink that much. “
2. Thinning and razor cutting
You said:
“Razor cut. Killed all my curls, it took three months to get them back”
“When I was in still in High School I went in for a trim and he convinced my mom and I he would do a great razor and thinning. Cut my hair 4 inches shorter did the razor and thinning, when I wore my hair curly I had literally a giant ball of frizz on top of my head. *shivers*”
“Using a razor. I will never let that happen again.”
3. Blow drying mistakes
You said:
“Using a big brush on my hair and trying to blow dry without a diffuser.”“Having me drop me head so she could blow-dry my hair upside down then had me flip it back quick. It was HUGE!!”
“Running her fingers through it while blow drying it. I finally asked her to stop”
“Trying to blow out hair with a tiny round brush”
4. Cutting the hair wet
You said:
“Cutting my hair wet and ending up making it way too short. i was left with layers that started about eye level – took forever to grow back out” – CurlTalk user sKorpio1190
“The biggest mistake stylists make cutting curly hair is cutting it wet…you might as well place a blindfold on yourself while cutting as you’ll get the same result.” – Andee Hoos
“I hate when they refuse to cut my hair dry (and curly”>.”
5. Brushing curly hair
You said:
“The biggest mistake is combing my hair while dry and curly.”
“She used a fine toothed comb on my wet hair.”
“Almost every stylist I’ve gone to dries my hair while RUNNING THEIR FINGERS THROUGH IT! This is one of the top curly no-nos! It creates so much frizz that halfway through they start to act uncomfortable and say ‘how about we just blow this out?'”
6. Straightening hair before cutting it
You said:
“I had one tell me that I had to have my hair straightened to cut my hair ..BIG mistake. Now, I don’t let anyone touch it.”
“I hate when they insist on straightening my hair first! “
“Well how much time do I have? Okay, I’ll just share one story then lol: The stylist stretching each curl straight before cutting it. Ended up w/a strange, asymmetrical hair ‘shelf’ on one side because of that.” – CurlTalk user Korkscrew
MORE: Tips for Cutting Curly Hair Your Stylist Can’t Live Without
7. Not listening
You said:
“Not listening to my goals for my hair.”
“To me the worst is when they don’t listen. If I go to the doctor and say a certain medication doesn’t work for me I wouldn’t expect them to prescribe it to me. When I go to a stylist I respect that they went to school to learn how to cut hair, but I expect when I say things like “Don’t thin out, cut too short, style straight, etc.” that they are going to respect my requests and cut my hair accordingly.” – CurlTalk user Cristy_amk
“The worst mistake I’ve come across is when they claim to know your curls better than you do. (I’ve had this hair for nearly 50 years. I think I know what it does”>.”
MORE: How to Get What You Need from a Stylist
Regardless of your ethnicity, texture, curl pattern or length, Strawllers long, simple-to-use hair rollers can help you create defined, elegant looking curls. This is a fun way to mix up your curl pattern for a special occasion, or just when you feel like a change!
- Start with clean hair.
- Separate hair into 1/4″ to 1″ sections. The curl will be tighter if the section is smaller.
- Prepare hair for the Strawllers by folding the ends with the end of paper. Depending on your hair texture, use gel to ensure best results and longer-lasting curls.
- Starting at the bottom and rolling upward towards the scalp, wrap sections lengthwise around the roller to form natural spirals.
- Secure by pinning the inside of the curl lengthwise against the scalp and dry hair completely under a hooded dryer.
- Gently unwind each roller. Apply Strawllers finishing shine and use fingers to gently separate and arrange curls.
Looking for MORE ways to change your curl pattern? Read the digital version of Texture!
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