Search Results: NaturallyCurly
NaturallyCurly: Please introduce yourself!
Jessica Fortin: Hi, my name is Jessica Fortin. I am a junior at Boston College, where I am studying nursing.
NC: How and when did you start embracing your curls?
JF: I straightened my hair everyday until my junior year of high school, when I decided that it was time for a change. It took way too much time to tame my extremely thick, curly hair.
NC: What is your current routine?
JF: I don’t do much to my hair—mostly because it’s cheaper and easier that way! Getting the occasional trim to keep my hair healthy, washing my hair regularly, and scrunching with minimal product is really all it takes.
NC: So from start to finish, on a curly day, what’s your process?
JF: I wash my hair with Frederic Fekkai Glossing Shampoo and Conditioner at night. Then, I wrap a towel around my head to remove excess water. While my hair is still damp, I scrunch with Moroccanoil Intense Curl Cream. Then I go to bed with damp hair and just hope for the best!
MORE: Real Texture Talk: Marisol Correa
NC: What are your must-have products and tools?
JF: I always need clips or bobby pins to hold my hair away from my face. As far as product goes, I love my Frederic Fekkai Glossing Shampoo and Conditioner and the Moroccanoil Intense Curl Cream. I don’t change up my products very often…I like to stick with what I know!
NC: What are your favorite hairstyles to wear with your curls?
JF: I like to wear my hair back and out of my face. I usually wear it half-up by pulling it back in a clip or I use bobby pins and braid back the sides.
NC: What do you do at nighttime for your hair?
JF: Aside from scrunching my hair with product after I shower, I don’t really do anything for my hair at night. I just go to sleep and wake up with a curly surprise in the morning!NC: What about your hair stylists?
JF: I have been going to the same stylist for years and I won’t go to anyone else! Her name is Wendy and she’s great because she keeps it simple—she thins out my hair a bit and layers it to take off some of the weight without making my hair an awkward length, which can be terrible with curly hair!
MORE: Real Texture Talk: Bobi Curls
NC: What reaction did you get when you first decided to go natural?
JF: I received a lot of compliments, which encouraged me to keep wearing my hair curly! It was so different for me, and I didn’t like how my hair looked at first, but my friends and family would always tell me how beautiful my hair looked. I disagreed with them, but I eventually became comfortable wearing my hair curly.
NC: What is the best thing about being curly?
JF: The best thing is that it’s so simple to achieve a unique look! I do very little to my hair and I still feel that I achieve a look that differs from everyone else’s.
NC: How do you thing having curly hair impacts your life?
JF: It is so easy! I don’t have to worry about the risk of straightening my hair and then getting caught in the rain/snow/humidity, which usually results in some kind of afro. It’s much easier to embrace my curls and if the weather isn’t ideal, I just go with it.
NC: What would you tell others to encourage them to embrace their curls?
JF: Embrace your curls! Many of my friends with straight hair always say that they wish they could have curly hair like mine. Having curly hair gives you the option to go straight when you want, but you can also do so much with your natural curl!
NC: Tell us about your current and upcoming projects!
JF: I am currently studying abroad in Parma, Italy. I plan on traveling around Europe for the semester until I return home to Michigan for the summer, and then I’ll be back at Boston College for my senior year in the fall!
Ever since we spied Linette Torres’s amazing coils and read that she attributed them to homemade flaxseed gel, we’ve been dying to DIY it ourselves! Luckily for us, NaturallyCurly user Curly-Spirally shared her recipe with us, along with very detailed instructions.
What you’ll need
- 1 cup of water
- 1/4 cup of flaxseeds (linseeds in the UK”>
- Sauce pan
- Strainer (wire or nylon”>
- Whisk
Directions
- Pour water & linseeds into saucepan, turn stove to high
- Stir every so often to keep the seeds moving and keep them from sticking to the bottom of the pan
- Bring to a boil, gently stir continuously
- Turn heat down when a thin, foam-like jelly forms, keep stirring
- Turn off heat when seeds are suspended in the clear jelly instead of sinking to the bottom
- Pour the liquid and seeds into the strainer over a bowl
- Beat the gel with a whisk for 10 seconds
- Apply to hair as you would a gel!
This February, NaturallyCurly is celebrating a full month of Curly Mixology! Each day we’ll feature one recipe for you to treat your curls to in the comfort of your own kitchen. Tweet us your favorite recipes with hashtag #CurlyMixology or share them on our Facebook page!
Lavender Hair Spray
Lavender Hair Spray
NaturallyCurly user lindalennon uses this homemade oil spray on her second or third day hair to revive her curls. It leaves her curls shiny and softly softly scented without greasy residue.
What you’ll need
- Empty spray bottle
- 3 tbsp of natural oil, like almond or olive oil
- 1 tbsp of dried lavender buds
- Distilled water
Directions
- Warm oil in the microwave, only 25-30 seconds max
- Pour warmed oil over lavender buds in a bowl
- Let sit for 3-4 hours for lavender oils to release
- Strain out about 1/2 of the lavender from the mixture (this step is optional, but will prevent the spray bottle from clogging”>
- Pour mixture into empty spray bottle, and fill the rest of the way with distilled water
- Spray on second and third day hair to revive curls
NaturallyCurly: Please introduce yourself!
Marisol Correa: Hi, my name is Marisol. I’m a wife and mom to four healthy, happy and beautiful children. I’m also an event coordinator for Four Brothers, LLC, and during my spare time I blog, vlog and wear many other hats!
NC: How and when did you start embracing your curls?
MC: I embraced my curls later in life — I wish I would have done so sooner! I truly enjoy them now and I have never looked back.
NC: What is your current routine?
MC: I’m a bit of a “product junkie,” so my routine varies. I use a sulfate-free shampoo 1-2 times a month. I also co-wash every three days, more or less, deep condition weekly and always seal my ends with an oil or butter.
NC: What are your must-have products and tools?
MC: My must-have products are coconut oil, avocado butter, conditioner, leave-in conditioner, various oils, butters and creams…I’m a product junkie!
My must-have tools are my fingers, a wide-tooth shower comb, a Denman brush and a Tangle Teezer.
NC: What are your favorite hairstyles to wear with your curls?
MC: I’m a big fan of wash-and-gos, two-strand twists, twist outs, pony puffs, and twists and curls.
MORE: Real Texture Talk: Bita Pourtavoosi
NC: What do you do at nighttime for your hair?
MC: My nighttime routine depends on the type of style that I’m wearing. I always make sure to sleep with a bonnet, satin cap/scarf, or a satin pillowcase. When I do a wash-and-go I follow my wash-and-go routine.
NC: What about your hair stylists?
MC: I don’t have a stylist…I do my hair on my own! Now that I’m natural, I am very particular about who touches my hair. I was the same way when my hair was relaxed, but now it has gotten worse!
NC: What reaction did you get when you first decided to go natural?
MC: There were plenty of haters…even family members ridiculed me! But it wasn’t about what made them happy; it was about what would make ME happy. I didn’t want to hide behind the “Creamy Crack” and live a “LYE.” I wanted to rock what God gave me and be proud as a Naturalista. Take me as I am!
NC: Did you big chop or transition, and for how long?
MC: I was a short-term transitioner; I transitioned for about six months. I chose to transition because I didn’t know what my natural hair texture was! I wanted to get reacquainted with my curls and do plenty of research before choosing to continue transitioning or do a big chop. I did my first big chop in June 2011. During the transitioning process, I had used heat on my hair to blend the two textures. I didn’t know much about heat damage at the time, so when I did my BC I had major heat damage!
I did my second big chop in July 2011 and cut my natural hair, which was about six inches long at the time, down to a half inch!
MORE: Real Texture Talk: Molly Geipel
NC: What is the best thing about being curly?
MC: I love the versatility. I love being able to experiment with products and find out what my hair loves. And I love just letting my curls go wild and free!
NC: How do you think having curly hair has impacted your life?
MC: I truly believe that it has impacted my life in a positive way! I’m into fashion, makeup and all things beauty — much more now than I was before. I personally feel that, for the first time in my life, I truly love myself. I accept myself for who I am!
NC: What would you tell others to encourage them to embrace their curls?
MC: Surround yourself with positive and supportive people, whether it’s family or friends. And if it seems that you’ve run into a dead end and are thinking, “I can’t,” take a breather and reassure yourself that you can! Ask for help. Ask a family member or friend, consult with a natural hair beautician, search websites…and most importantly, don’t quit!
NC: Tell us about your current and upcoming projects!
MC: When I’m not taking care of my amazing children, spending time with my family, tending to the home front, working, blogging or vlogging, I’m working on getting back into my acting career! I used to model, act, sing and dance. I put it all on the back burner so that I could focus on my family. Now that they are getting older and are in school, I feel like I’ve gotten my second wind!
Where you can find Marisol:
Blog/Website: http://www.MamaNaturalista.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/mamanaturalista
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/MarisolCorrea
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/MarisolC79
Instagram: http://www.Instagram.com/MamaNaturalista
Pinterest: http://www.Pinterest.com/MamaNaturalista
Baby Food Hair Masque
Banana Baby Food Hair Masque
Banana is a favorite ingredient among seasoned curly mixologists. But if you don’t own a blender, you may be left picking bits of banana out of your hair at the end of your treatment.
That’s where the baby food comes in. Its smooth pureed texture makes baby food an excellent substitute in any recipes that require bananas!
What you’ll need
- Banana baby food (optional: organic baby food”>
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
Directions
- Mix ingredients well in a bowl
- Apply generously to hair before shampooing
- Cover your hair with a plastic cap
- Leave on for 45 minutes – 1 hour
- Rinse and shampoo as normal
Stripping with Style
Stripping with Style
NaturallyCurly user Akani recommends using this recipe once every 6-7 months to remove build-up. It can sometimes take more than one treatment to fully remove product residue, Akani gives her full tips here!
What you’ll need
- 4-5 tablespoons shampoo
- 2 tablespoons baking soda (depending on your hair”>
- Conditioner
- Distilled water (optional”>
- Wide tooth comb
Directions
- Stir shampoo and baking soda together until it forms a thick paste
- Comb mixture through hair evenly, completely covering from root to tip
- Massage scalp in sections, work slowly and methodically
- Rinse hair thoroughly with warm water
- Condition hair generously, leave in for 5 minutes
- Detangle with a wide tooth comb
- Rinse with cold water
NaturallyCurly: Please introduce yourself!
Molly Geipel: My name is Molly. I am a junior English and Psychology major at St. Olaf College in Minnesota, and I’m currently studying abroad in London!NC: How and when did you start embracing your curls?
MG: I didn’t start embracing my curls until high school. Before that, I didn’t know how to manage them, so they were a mess! For a long time, I just ignored them altogether and worked a ponytail every day. Then in middle school, I tried everything I could to disguise them, which led to a rather fraught relationship with my flat iron. I learned to work with my curls instead of against them in high school, and we’ve been on good terms ever since!
NC: What is your current routine?
MG: My routine is really simple. My hair is thick and coarse in addition to being curly, so I use a good quality shampoo to keep it healthy and soft. Right now, my favorite is Redken All Soft.NC: So from start to finish, on a curly day, what’s your process?
MG: I usually wash my hair at night, giving it plenty of time to dry before bed. I find that my hair takes time to “set” after drying and usually looks and feels better after a few hours than it does immediately after drying. After washing my hair, I’ll sometimes use a leave-in conditioner, especially if my hair has been feeling dry. Otherwise, I just quickly comb through it with my fingers and let it air dry.
MORE: Real Texture Talk: Maeve Kennedy Gormly
NC: What are your must-have products and tools?
MG: Redken All Soft Shampoo and Conditioner, Davines Defining Invisible Style Cream, and my CHI Flat Iron.
NC: What are your favorite hairstyles to wear with your curls?
MG: I’m not very creative when it comes to styling my hair. On a normal day, my hair is usually down and loose or in a ponytail.
NC: What do you do at nighttime for your hair?
MG: My hair holds shape like no other, so if I want to wear it down the next day, I have to sleep with it down. If I don’t, I will wake up with an unsightly ponytail bump in my hair the next morning.
NC: What about your hair stylists?
MG: I have a favorite stylist back hope in Indianapolis that I’ve been going to for several years now, at a salon called DL Lowry. She’s really good at working with my hair’s unwieldy texture and shape. She always flat irons my hair when she’s done trimming and shaping it, which is a treat for me as I can never get it quite as straight when doing it myself.
MORE: Real Texture Talk: Brianna DeBoise
NC: What reaction did you get when you first decided to go natural?
MG: I’ve gotten nothing but positive reactions to my hair since going natural!
NC: Did you ever have any curly girl insecurities?
MG: In my junior year of high school, I got sick and tired of dealing with my unruly hair all the time and I cut it all off. I had a pixie cut for about a year before I grew it out again. It was liberating to not have to mess with the unpredictability and unmanageability of curls for a while, but I missed their distinctiveness! I’ve proudly kept my hair long and curly ever since.
NC: What is the best thing about being curly?
MG: It’s unique! And I think it’s ultimately more versatile. I can straighten my hair fairly easily, but people with really straight hair often have a lot of trouble curling their hair.
NC: What would you tell others to encourage them to embrace their curls?
MG: Don’t fight them and don’t be shy about looking different! Your curls will make you stand out and they will be the envy of straight-haired girls everywhere, I promise. I wasted a lot of time trying to disguise my curls…it would have been better spent embracing them and learning how to work with them!
NC: Tell us about your current and upcoming projects!
MG: I’m studying abroad in London for the semester. This summer, I’m hoping to come home to a publishing internship and/or to working in a local cupcake shop!
Amazing Whipped Shea Butter Conditioner
Amazing Whipped Shea Butter Conditioner
This is NaturallyCurly user Amazinnatural‘s favorite recipe of all time. Big statement, but we can see why! She says it leaves her hair “very soft and moisturized and of course it’s easy to make!”
What you’ll need
- 2 tablespoons refined/unrefined shea butter
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
- 8 drops of honey
- 5 drops tea tree oil
- 3 drops eucalyptus oil
- 2 drops peppermint oil
Directions
- Melt shea butter and coconut oil in microwave for 15-20 seconds
- Add remaining ingredients
- Pour into small container or glass jar
- Leave in freezer for 5-10 minutes
- Apply to hair as needed
MORE: DIY Homemade Hair Butter
Creamy Supreme Conditioner
The Creamy Supreme Conditioner
This recipe, submitted by NaturallyCurly user eclark6, is high in protein, good fat from the coconut oil and captures the humectant properties of honey. Depending on your hair texture, it can be used before or after shampooing. For finer hair, it’s best to treat your strands beforehand.
What you’ll need
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons virgin coconut oil
- 1 tablespoon raw honey
Directions
- Mix ingredients well
- Apply generously to hair before shampooing
- Cover your hair with a plastic cap
- Leave on for 30-45 minutes
- Rinse and shampoo as normal
Our curly, coily and wavy hair experts have spent many months testing hundreds of new and existing curl products for the 2013 Editors’ Choice awards.
These 42 exceptional deep treatments, oils, cleansers, frizz fighters and more are all you need to know and own. Click on the products below for reviews, ingredients and styling tips for these winning products. For a list of the products (by hair type”> check out our Editors’ Choice page.
Now without further ado, meet the Award Winners!
Editors’ Choice 2013
Shampoo
Type 2:
Aveda Shampure
Type 3:
Kinky CurlyCome Clean
Type 4:
BoBeamProducts Honey Hemp and Green Tea Shampoo Bar
Cleansing Conditioner
Type 2:
Ouidad CurlCo-wash
Type 3:
Carol’s Daughter Co-wash Cleansing Conditioner
Type 4:
Jessicurl Hair Cleansing Cream
Daily Conditioner
Type 2:
MopTop Daily Conditioner
Type 3:
U R Curly Quinoa Conditioner
Type 4:
Aussie Moist Conditioner
Leave-in Conditioner
Type 2:
Curl Junkie Curl Assurance Smoothing Lotion
Type 3:
Paul Mitchell Curls Full Circle Leave-In Treatment
Type 4:
Kinky Curly Knot Today
Deep Conditioner
Type 2:
EDEN BodyWorks JojOba Monoi All Natural Deep Conditioner
Type 3:
Joico K-Pak Deep Penetrating Reconstructor
Type 4:
Jessicurl Deep Conditioning Treatment
Moisturizer
Type 2:
Our Type 2 Editors don’t use moisturizer
Type 3:
Karen’s Body Beautiful Sweet Ambrosia Leave-In Conditioner
Type 4:
Oyin Handmade Hair Dew
Styling Cream
Type 2:
AG Hair Cosmetics Beach Bomb
Type 3:
Tigi Curlesque Curls Rock Amplifier
Type 4:
Carol’s Daughter Hair Milk Pudding
Styling Cream-gel
Type 2:
Ouidad Moisture Lock Define and Shine Curl Styling Gel-Cream
Type 3:
L’Oréal Paris EverCurl Sculpt & Hold Cream-Gel
Type 4:
Paul Mitchell Twirl Around Crunch-Free Curl Definer
Styling Gel
Type 2:
The Type 2 Editors gravitate toward cream-gels
Type 3:
Ampro Pro Styl Olive Oil Gel
Type 4:
Kinky Curly Curling Custard
Frizz Fighter
Type 2:
AG Hair Cosmetics The Oil
Type 3:
Ouidad Climate Control Heat & Humidity Gel
Type 4:
Oyin Handmade Burnt Sugar Pomade (to smooth edges”>
Favorite Product to Cocktail
Definition: best when used with other products, makes your other styler so much better.
Type 2:
AG Hair Cosmetics The Oil
Type 3:
Curly Hair Solutions Curl Keeper
Type 4:
Kinky Curly Knot Today
Smoothing/straightening Product
Type 2:
Mixed Chicks Straightening Serum
Type 3:
nuNAAT Ultra Keratin Touch 30-day Brazilian Hair Smoothing System
Type 4:
nuNaat Karité Special Anti-frizz Thermo Active
Refresher
Type 2:
Arrojo ReFINISH Dry Shampoo
Type 3:
Jessicurl Awe Inspiraling Spray
Type 4:
Oyin Handmade Juices and Berries
Finishing Product
Type 2:
DevaCurl Flexible-Hold Hair Spray
Type 3:
Hair Rules Volumizing Hair Spray
Type 4:
Jane Carter Nourish & Shine
Top 3 Styling Tools and Accessories
Type 2:
Ouidad wide tooth comb
Amika curling wand
Curl-ease towel
Type 3:
CHI Hand Shot professional hair dryer with diffuser attachment
Ouidad Double Detangler
Curls Like Us Curl Cloths
Type 4:
Denman D3 styling brush
Hair Therapy Wrap
Scent-Station, Inc. Spa Satin Pillowcase
Most Innovative Product or Tool
Definition: this product or tool thinks outside the box to solve common problems within the curly hair community.
Type 2:
Q-Redew Vapor Wand
Type 3:
Ouidad Curl Recovery Whipped Curls Daily Conditioner & Styling Primer
Type 4:
Ouidad Curl Recovery Whipped Curls Daily Conditioner & Styling Primer
Retexturizing Tool
Definition: this tool is used to change up your curl pattern or give yourself a new look
Type 2:
CHI ceramic flat iron
Type 3:
Strawllers
Type 4:
CurlFormers
Mousse/foam
Type 2:
MoroccanOil Curl Defining Mousse
Type 3:
Design Essentials Natural Curl Enhancing Mousse
Type 4:
Jane Carter Solution Wrap & Roll
Kids’ Line
Type 2:
SheaMoisture Organic Raw Shea Chamomile & Argan Oil Baby Head-To-Toe
Type 3:
Curly Q’s by Curls
Type 4:
Blended Cutie by Blended Beauty
The Experts
It was an incredibly difficult decision that involved months of product testing and heated deliberation. But our Editors finally narrowed down their must haves down to just 42 products (with many of close calls”>.
If you have curly hair, you know how important product recommendations from your curlfriends can be. See what thousands of NaturallyCurly.com readers picked as the best products for curly, coily and wavy hair for 2012.
These 30 exceptional frizz fighters, curl refreshers, leave-in-conditioners and more are all you need to know and own.
Best of the Best 2012
” src=”https://www.beautycon.com/curlreading/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/SheaMoisture-Organic-Raw-Shea-Butter-Moisture-Retention-Shampoo-1-11.jpg”>Best Shampoo
SheaMoisture Organic Raw Shea Butter Moisture Retention Shampoo
This all-natural shampoo ticks all of the curly girl boxes: sulfate-free, moisturizing and gentle. This product is one to watch as it won both your favorite shampoo and best sulfate-free product!
You say:“Definitely hands down my favorite shampoo. It is very moisturizing and helps to stretch my 4c hair which is great since I have a lot of shrinkage. Also it gets my hair sooo soft where I’m able to just run my fingers through my hair in the shower. Lovely smell and love that its all natural.” – 4B User love2323
Best Cleansing Conditioner
As I Am Coconut CoWash
Experienced curlies know the importance of co-washing and now manufacturers are offering dedicated co-wash products to meet our needs — Curl Power!
You say:
“This is my all time, number one, HG, never ever going to run out favorite. Unless they change the formula or go out of business (which I know they won’t”> this will be in my arsenal forever and ever! AMEN!!!!” – User aprilrain2606
Best Daily Conditioner
TRESemmé Naturals Nourishing Moisture Conditioner
This bang-for-your-buck conditioner is perfect for curlies who use lots of product on their copious curls and coils. It’s cone-free, has natural ingredients and costs just $6.50 for a whopping 25 fluid ounces.
You say:
“On my 8th month of transitioning and love this conditioner. Great slip for detangling and cheap. No cones which I love and the aloe and avocado does great in my hair. Great even on my daughters hair.” – 2C User GabbyPooh
Best Leave-in Conditioner
Kinky Curly Knot Today
This leave-in has plenty of lovable ingredients, but we actually love it most for what it left out! You won’t find any dreaded glycerin, parabens, proteins, silicones or sulfates here.
You say:
“This is the best leave-in I have ever used. This stuff is great and somehow it helps to define my curls and leaves my hair looking so healthy. I have used this under several different products and it actually enhances them. When I use other leave in’s, the results are subpar. This stuff is magic!” – 4A User leslie2877
Best Deep Conditioner
SheaMoisture Organic Raw Shea Butter Deep Treatment Masque
Every curl is unique but we all have one thing in common — we need moisture! We recommend a weekly deep treatment to repair damaged curls, coils and waves.
This shea butter masque boasts sea kelp to detoxify hair follicles and argan oil to restore shine and elasticity.
You say:
“Life could never go on for me if this product was discontinued lol. Best healer for damaged hair..defines curls..brings out the true beauty of my hair all the way. I have seen a new side of my hair with this. I deep condish with this and put a little back in..or just use it as a leave in after a wash or co wash. Either way it does absolute wonders..wonders..” – 3B User NaturalLife
Best Styling Gel
Ouidad Climate Control Heat & Humidity Gel
Those were your cleansing and conditioning picks, but that’s only half the battle — next comes styling!
This Ouidad gel acts as a shield against humidity, protecting the hair shaft and preventing hair from expanding.
You say:
“I’ve tried everything to keep my hair from expanding and frizzing in the Florida humidity. This is the only product I use in my hair and I’ve used if for over a year. I absolutely love it!!!” – 3B User Tampa, Fl
Best Styling Cream
SheaMoisture Organic Coconut and Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie
This all-natural smoothie is the most delicious way to feed your curls. It’s packed full of nutrient rich vegetable butters like coconut, avocado, and carrot — yum!
You say:
“I love this!! I typically use this when I do twist outs and I get good results, but I started using it when I do two strands and it’s great!! It moisturizes, defines my curls, gives my hair shine, and keep my twists frizz free. Also it is sulfate free, which is the main reason why I started using it.” – 3C User curly14
Best Styling Pudding, Butter or Custard
Kinky Curly Curling Custard
Not only is KCCC (as its adoring fans call it”> your top pick for best styling custard, it also won “Best product for curls,” Best of the Best Hall of Fame, AND won our Editors’ Choice Award!
High five KCCC!
You say:
“KCCC is the absolute best curl product. Much easier to apply than other curl systems, more cost effective, and a longer lasting resulting curl. My hair is shinier and feels healthier than with other products. I’ll be using it until you stop selling it.” – User surething
Best Styling Mousse
Jane Carter Wrap and Roll
We curlies can be a picky bunch when it comes to ingredients, and Jane Carter knows just how to please us. Paraben free, silicone free, sulfate free and glycerin free, this natural mousse will give you curls without the crunch.
You say:
“1st. Love the smell. 2nd: Love the Shine. This was a staple for me during my transition. I used it for rod sets, twist outs and to tie down my edges. The results were always perfect.” 3C User sammysam
Best Hair Oil
Sunny Isle Jamaican Black Castor Oil
This oil is a total multi-tasker. Jamaicans have been using this product for ages on everything from hair breakage, dandruff and eczema to itchy scalp, acne, even eyelash growth!
You say:
“Great product! It’s very moisturizing and good for sealing after using a water based moisturizer. A little goes a long way and if too much is used it can weigh your hair down. But overall I love it! Also good to use mixed in with your deep conditioner” – 4B User love2323
Best Frizz Fighter
Curl Keeper by Curly Hair Solutions
In the battle against humidity, this product is a winner! From Best of the Best Hall of Fame 2009-2012 to the NaturallyCurly Editors’ Choice Awards, this frizz fighter has totally won our hearts.
You say:
“This stuff is amazing! It is like a very light gel that truly takes the frizz away and leaves your hair smooth, soft and shiny. Although it is a tiny bit stiff until fully dry, you don’t have to scrunch out the crunch. It is perfectly soft when fully dry.” – 3A User medusa28
Best Sulfate-free Product
SheaMoisture Organic Raw Shea Butter Moisture Retention Shampoo
SheaMoisture’s on a roll! This won for favorite shampoo AND your favorite sulfate-free product too. Their all-natural organic formula is a tried and true cleanser for curls, coils and waves.
You say:
“This is by far the best shampoo I have ever used. Before this product, my expectations of shampoo in general were pretty low. I expected them to clean my hair and that was it. I never knew a shampoo could moisturize and detangle like a conditioner! Well this product DOES. It even lathers really well, even though it’s organic. My favorite product by SheaMoisture.” – 3A User curlyfries1989
Best Straightening/Smoothing Product
Chi Silk Infusion
Obviously if you’re reading this then you love your natural curls; but if you’re looking to change things up then Chi Silk Infusion will help transform your curls into smooth straight locks.
Best Growth Product
Sunny Isle Jamaican Black Castor Oil
Hair oil and growth are both hot topics amongst curlies, so a hair oil that will promote growth is something we can really get excited about.
JBCO increases blood flow to the scalp so we suggest massaging a small amount to your scalp each night and leaving it overnight, or as a hot oil treatment weekly.
You say:
“Of course using and oil is a must in my hair care regimen anyway… using this thick castor oil on my wet hair was great. I felt like I was really putting something good in my hair and it never felt like too much. That’s a good thing! My hair felt conditioned and moisturized… Good stuff!” – 4C User Cheles08
Best Hair Coloring Product
Jamila Henna
Hair coloring has typically been associated with damaging hair, but you love this natural colorant because it actually has a long list of benefits (beyond boosting color”> like volume, body and shine.
MORE: CurlyNikki’s Quick Henna Treatment
Best Silicone-free Product
TRESemmé Naturals Nourishing Moisture Conditioner
This is the second Best of the Best win for this condish! Does that qualify as a, dare we say it, Holy Grail product?
You say:
“My holy grail! There isn’t one thing I don’t like about it! I use it as a co-wash, conditioner, and leave-in. Has great slip and is great at detangling.” – 2C User Nhathaway26
Best Finishing Product
Curl Junkie Curls in a Bottle
Leave-in conditioner, frizz controller, shine booster — so many uses for this one product. No wonder they call it Curls in a Bottle!
You say:
“This my favorite product in all that I use. I will always use it. It finishes my hair with just the right punch. I have very tightly coily hair and this product adds the right finish to my wash n go.” – 4A User meesh64
Best Second-day Product
Shea Moisture Organic Coconut and Hibiscus Curl & Style Milk
Mastering second-day curls is essential if you want to cut down on shampoo frequency. This hair milk will help.
You say:
“LOVE LOVE LOVE!!!!!!! I recently did my big chop and this was the first product I used. LOVED IT!!!! It goes on smooth, keeps my curls hydrated, and gives me definition. Will definitely keep buying this as a staple!” – 3B User ashkristina
Best Styling Tool
CHI Original Flat Iron
One of the reasons being curly is the best (and there are many”> is the versatility! Feel like adopting a new look? This CHI flat iron is the top pick for both our readers and our Editors.
Best Curly Hair Necessity
Curls Like Us Cloths
Curls Like Us Cloths are no stranger to Best of the Best, they are a curly girl essential, Best of the Best Hall of Famer and Editors’ Choice Award winner!
You say:
“I could not imagine living without these towels. I use the towel out of the shower for a quick patting of the dripping water and then to scrunch in my styling products. They are fantastic and my curls are frizz free most of the time because of these lovely towels.” – 2B User curlysuzy
Best Product for Curly Kids
SheaMoisture Raw Shea Camomile & Argan Oil Baby line
We curlies care a lot about the products we use on our hair, but we care even MORE about the products we use on our babies! Secret tip: grown ups love it too.
You say:
“I am 3A protein sensitive and actually use this as a low poo when I wash my hair every 4th day. It seems very gentle, smells nice and works well with my other products. I would recommend this as an adult hair cleanser as well as for babies.” – 3A User Valerie J.
Best Transitioning Product
SheaMoisture Hair Repair & Transition Kit
We understand (better than most”> your Product Junkie urges to go out try all of the Best of the Best products. But if you’re looking for a cost-effective way to try a lot of products this kit is a one-stop shop.
” src=”https://www.beautycon.com/curlreading/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/as-i-am-1.jpg”>Best Product/line You Discovered in 2012
As I Am
“I’m a big fan of As I Am products. I have my mom addicted to this brand. The leave-in detangles as well as conditions:”> ” 4A User naturelle44
” src=”https://www.beautycon.com/curlreading/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/oliveOil-1.jpg”>Best Ingredient to Add to a DIY Hair Recipe
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
We love creating our own homemade treatments almost as much as we love trying products. EVOO is a
NaturallyCurly: Please introduce yourself!
Maeve Kennedy Gormly: My name is Maeve Kennedy Gormly and I am from Stockton, California. I am 22 years old, and I am working on my MSW with a clinical concentration in mental health at the Boston College Graduate School of Social Work.NC: How and when did you start embracing your curls?
MKG: I’ve had my share of hair trauma, including the time my dad broke a hairbrush trying to untangle my hair, attempting to use baby oil as conditioner in seventh grade and my ninth grade crush telling me that I might be attractive if only I could “do something” about my hair.
My hair was pretty straight from ages four to fourteen, but with puberty came waves and frizz. I tried to iron and spray my hair straight. Sometime in high school, I realized that I wasn’t meant to have the smooth, straight hair that I so desperately wanted, so when I went to college, I didn’t pack my straightener.
NC: What is your current routine?
MKG: Over the years, I’ve learned that my hair looks better when I do less, so I try to keep my routine as low maintenance as possible. I almost never straighten or blow dry my hair. I only detangle my hair in the shower when it is doused in conditioner, and I try not to use shampoo more than once or twice a week instead of washing my hair the “normal” way, I just rinse it thoroughly or use conditioner.
NC: So from start to finish, on a curly day, what’s your process?
MKG: My hair is more wavy than truly curly. Sometimes I just let my hair air dry without any product, but that means crazy frizz and limp waves by lunchtime. Usually, I use some mousse, leave-in curl conditioner, or spray gel. If I really want my hair to last throughout the day, I use hair spray. My hair tends to devour product, so I do not really need to worry about stiffness, even if I use gel or hair spray.
NC: What are your must-have products and tools?
MKG: I don’t go anywhere without a hair elastic, because frizz happens. I am not too picky about my products and I maintain a strict budget, so I use products from Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine, Curl, or Wonder Waves line or from Herbal Essences Totally Twisted line. When my hair gets really dry, I use an Aussie or Pantene deep conditioner.
NC: What are your favorite hairstyles to wear with your curls?
MKG: Nothing too fancy — I usually just let it fall as it will or I’ll pin a little back or to the side to keep it out of my face.
NC: What do you do at nighttime for your hair?
MKG: If I am going to bed with wet hair, I either braid it or use mousse or an anti-frizz cream. If I am going to bed with hair that is already dry and curly, I sometimes “pineapple” it or put it in a loose braid to keep it from getting tangled.
NC: What reaction did you get when you first decided to go natural?
MKG: Almost all of the feedback was positive when I started to “roll with the wave” because my straightening attempts usually just left my hair looking poofy.
MORE: How to Pineapple Your Hair
NC: What is the best thing about being curly?
MKG: No one can tell if it is not cut perfectly! I have been cutting my hair at home for almost ten years, which is nice for my budget! I used to cut it wet, but now I cut it piece by piece when it is dry and curly. It’s nice being able to count on beachy waves after swimming in the ocean. Above all, I think the best part is versatility — curly hair is just a little more interesting than straight hair.
NC: How do you think having curly hair impacts your everyday life?
MKG: Having wavy/curly hair taught me valuable lessons about vanity, humility, and self-worth. I was deeply insecure about my hair as a teenager, and before I learned how to make my hair work for me, I learned to value myself beyond what I saw (and often loathed”> in the mirror.
At fifteen, before I understood any of the deeper social and cultural contexts, I swore that India.Arie was singing “I am not my hair” directly to me. I learned to not feel boxed in or defined by my hair, my freckles, my weight or whatever my insecurity of the week might be.
NC: What would you tell others to encourage them to embrace their curls?
MKG: Going with whatever your hair wants to be naturally saves so much time and energy. You have curly hair? Rock it! Straight hair? That’s great too! No hair? I’m sure that you have a beautiful head! We turn our hair, and our appearance in general, into a symbol of who we are, how pretty we are, how special we are — but when it comes down to it, it’s just hair. You are more important than what is on your head — you are not an object to be tweaked and fixed, and your value is much deeper than your appearance.
NC: Tell us about your current and upcoming projects!
MKG: I am enjoying grad school and interning as a counselor at El Centro de Cardenal, a youth GED program that is part of the Dorchester branch of Catholic Charities. This is also my third year as a resident assistant at Boston College, where I have had the opportunity to get to know many amazing women and men. I like life chats, tea, cooking and bicycles, and I am always looking for half-decent horchata in Boston.
17 Short Celebrity Hair Cuts
Halle Berry
We applaud any woman with the courage to go this short! And just think of all the accessory options…
Keira Knightley
We think the wavy texture updates this popular asymmetric cut.
Salma Hayek
Salma’s rocking some enviable volume in this short bob.
Cheryl Burke
Curls and bangs can make a dubious pair, but Cheryl pulls it off expertly.
Rachel McAdams
Rachel McAdams pairs her romantic finger curls with a masculine bow tie.
Victoria Beckham
Victoria always looks fierce, but these waves help to soften her look.
Katharine McPhee
This American Idol star looks all grown up with her slicked back coiff.
MORE: 33 Best Celeb Updos
Evan Rachel Wood
This might be our favorite ERW ‘do of all time.
Michelle Obama
First Lady Michelle Obama looks good in anything, but we particularly love these waves.
Pink
Pink, or in this case Purple, at the American Music Awards.
Halle Berry
There’s no doubting that this haircut will bring out your facial features.
Tori Spelling
Tori Spelling likes to go big — big hair, big baubles, bold lips, big lashes. This look is not for the faint of heart.
Scarlett Johansson
These undone waves make a formal lace number look modern.
Rihanna
Rihanna’s short hair looks good, but it’s her pink eyeliner that has us really swooning.
Michelle Williams
If Twiggy’s the queen of this look, then Michelle Williams has got to be the princess of the pixie.
Lady Gaga
We like to think of this look as a ‘protective style.’
NaturallyCurly: Please introduce yourself!
Angela Delyani: My name is Angela Delyani. I live in southern New Hampshire. I am an independent CAbi (Carol Anderson by invitation”> Consultant and a CASA/GAL (Court Appointed Special Advocate/Guardian ad litem”>.
NC: How and when did you start embracing your curls?
AD: My hair was actually stick-straight until puberty. It went from curly to wavy and back to curly over the years. Then it finally settled and it has been curly for nineteen years!
NC: What is your current routine?
AD: No-poo wash every third day or so, co-wash or pineapple for second (and sometimes third”> day hair. I always air dry, even in the coldest weather. My curls only get heat in the dome-dryer at the salon.
NC: So from start to finish, on a curly day, what’s your process?
AD: On a wash day, I wash (paying special attention to my scalp”>, rinse and then add conditioner. I leave the conditioner in until I finish my shower and then rinse most of it out. Once I’m out of the shower, I wrap my head in a microfiber towel. When I take the towel off, I flip my head over and run gel through my curls from roots to ends. Then I scrunch with more gel. Finally, I flip my head up, put my curls in place and let them air dry.
I try not to touch my hair much during the day, but sometimes I’ll flip it over and give it a shake and a little Mist-er Right if it needs a boost.
MORE: All About the No-Shampoo Method
NC: What are your must-have products and tools?
AD: DevaCurl products, my microfiber towel and a soft scrunchie.NC: What are your favorite hairstyles to wear with your curls?
AD: I don’t deviate much from my “standard” style, but I’d like to learn/practice mixing it up sometimes.
NC: What about your hair stylists?
AD: I inspired my current stylist, Cathy Kimpton, owner of Merlin’s Ultimate Images to become a DevaCurl trained stylist! I love the way she cuts my hair.
MORE: Devachan Stylist Helps Children Love Their Curls
NC: Did you ever have any insecurities about your curly hair?
AD: I struggled when my hair was in its wavy phases — I was never quite sure what to do with it back then. I tried to go all-one-length curly at one point, but looked like Roseanne Rosannadanna! Layers are the only way to go for my curls
NC: What is the best thing about being curly?
AD: Curls are so easy to care for and style! And I get lots of compliments. I’m so grateful that the curls are natural — I know how lucky I am!NC: What would you tell others to encourage them to embrace their curls?
AD: Give them a chance — if you’re just learning how to take care of them, it’s going to take some time for them to respond to the new routine. Don’t give up too quickly!
NC: Tell us about your current and upcoming projects!
AD: CASA/GAL is the most important role in my life. I know I make a difference in the lives of the children I work with. I am also a fairly new CAbi consultant and I love sharing Carol’s designs with women — it’s a lot of fun! Finally, I consider myself a “professional aunt.” I love the time that I get to spend with my nieces and nephews.
NaturallyCurly: Please introduce yourself!
LaShon James-Major: My name is LaShon and I am a curly girl from Long Beach, CA.NC: How and when did you start embracing your curls?
LJM: After seeing what the perm chemical did to the soda can in the movie “Good Hair,” I decided that I was no longer going to perm my hair. I figured that if the chemical could eat metal, it probably wasn’t good for my hair.NC: What is your current routine?
LJM: My current regimen is to wash, detangle and deep condition my hair on a weekly basis. I suffer from dry scalp, so I also do weekly hot oil treatments and, because I have fine hair, I do frequent protein treatments.
NC: So from start to finish, on a curly day, what’s your process?
LJM: I wet my hair and then apply DevaCurl One Condition. Then I apply As I Am Curling Jelly and let my hair dry.
MORE: Real Texture Talk: Jennifer Stewart
NC: What are your must-have products and tools?
LJM: My must-have products are coconut oil and shea butter. My must-have tools are my tangle teezer and my terrycloth towel that I use to dry my hair.NC: What are your favorite hairstyles to wear with your curls?
LJM: I love wash-and-gos and buns.
NC: What do you do at nighttime for your hair?
LJM: My nighttime routine depends on how I feel and on how I’ve styled my hair that day. Whatever I do involves either a satin bonnet or pillowcase.
NC: What about your hair stylists?
LJM: I see a stylist for trims and natural hairstyles that I can’t do myself.
NC: What reaction did you get when you first decided to go natural?
LJM: I didn’t really have any reactions to my decision. My husband just noticed that I was playing with my hair more than usual, but he’s pretty laid back, so he didn’t care either way.
NC: Did you big chop or transition and for how long? Did you ever have curly girl insecurities?
LJM: I transitioned for two years before I cut off the remaining two inches about a year ago.MORE: Hair Tools & Accessories at CurlMart
NC: What is the best thing about being curly?
LJM: The best thing about being curly is the freedom! I previously had to rely on a stylist to feel like I looked good, but now I’m in charge!
NC: How do you think having curly hair impacts your everyday life?
LJM: I feel super confident now because I appreciate my hair for how it grows out of my head. I’m not hiding behind wigs, weaves, or a perm.NC: What would you tell others to encourage them to embrace their curls?
LJM: Do it, but start slow. Do your research and be patient…don’t expect to master everything about curly life in one day.NC: Tell us about your current and upcoming projects!
LJM: I’m working on improving my blog, For the Love of Curls, which celebrates the right to be curly! I’m also working on a line of satin bonnets and scrunchies.
As the mom of a little curly girl, and a curly girl myself, I understand the “tug of war” with pre and post active little ones. Just hearing the words “but mommy, my hair is fine…” with a twinge of winey has often set the stage for some ugly scenes. However, I’ve learned a few strategies that have helped me to reduce the post-playground tears for our curly wee-ones.
Sporty Curly Kids
Detangle
Use a light mister of gentle conditioner and water or detangler on hair post shower/bath. This helps to keep little curls healthy and seems to assist in enlongating a shower or bath day, when possible.
Cotton headbands
During active sports and play time, I usually make headbands a must. You can find great, bright colored, cotton bands at any drugstore which are perfect for little girls and sports.
Have your kids select different colors for different days and outfits or combine one or two headbands (one thick and one thin”> to “dress up” their look a little more.
Mini braids
At almost any length you can find enough hair to braid, keeping the form of the curl and avoiding extra bathes. Braids are great for highly active sports and games and are a great way to keep your child’s hair out of their faces as well. Tie cute clips, ties or ribbons to the end of each braid to make it more fun too!
Lavender mist
On warm weather days I bring a water mister with some lavender drops (oil essence”> mixed in (use distilled water”> and mist my child’s hair during breaks. I’ve even taught her to do it herself.
The lavender is cleansing and the combo is refreshing for curls and the scalp. (Note: with colder weather you can still do this, just make sure it’s once you’re in the car or at home and in a warmer place.”>
Curly Styles for Cycles
Cycling with Curls
If there’s one sport that is not conducive to bouncy, beautiful curls, it’s bicycling.
While the idea of trapping your curls beneath a helmet and exposing it to wind and sweat may sound harrowing, we believe that hair should NEVER deter a curly girl from getting fit, healthy and happy.
Here are my tried and true techniques for maintaining my pile of curls under a bike helmet!
Up and out of the way!
Use a simple thick, cotton head band and gently pull your hair back, to keep hair off of your face, then put your helmet on over the head band.
The best thing for shorter hair is to just get your curls and waves away from your face and tucked back. For longer hair you’ll need to secure the rest of the hair too (more on that later”>.
There are also wider, cotton head bands which can work under helmets well. Be sure to use cotton as you may sweat and don’t want to risk clogging pores.
Work hair
Riding your bike to work is a great way to keep your footprint green! And yes, you STILL need a helmet on local streets.
Try a quick braid to keep curls at their best, or tuck your hair back and under the helmet so little is left to “fly” as you steer and peddle. The wind and the elements can make for frizzy ends by time you arrive.
Once your peddling is over, remove your helmet as well as any accessories (headbands, etc”> that you placed on your hair. Use a small spritz bottle of water and lavender oil essence (just a few drops”> to refresh your curls and waves.
Braids
Some helmets don’t allow for braids to fit comfortably. However, if you can make a thinner braid or , if you have a lot of hair and can make multiple braids and pull them down or to the side, your helmet will fit without a problem.
The best part about braids is that your curls will maintain their shape and spring once you’re done with your ride!
Bun it!
For short to longer curls, a low bun is also a great option. Use a simple hair tie or “friendly” elastic band to tie curls low, down the back of your neck. If you have longer pieces, you can also use a few bobby pins to keep them at bay.
Exercise indisputably does wonders for our bodies and brains. Unfortunately the same can’t be said for our curls and waves. Contrary to what most would like to believe, all women sweat when our heart rate is elevated, so it’s necessary to shower following just about any cardio-infused work out.
I love a good Zumba class and kickboxing has also become a new favorite. In fact, once a week, I attend an amazing cardio kickbox class — a little Zumba, live music and boot-camp style moves — it’s great! It’s also hands down the sweatiest workout I have ever done, EVER, but I love the way I feel afterwards. My hair however…not so great. Here’s my curly cardio routine.
Curly Cardio
Clean Curls
When I get home I co-wash and give it a good, but gentle, scrub, combing through with my fingers. I find that co washing keeps it clean and detangled. I usually allow my curls to air dry after applying my favorite leave-in and gel.
Treat yourself
On weeks where my work outs are a bit more frequent or intense (or both!”>, I treat my curls to a leave in masque which I usually make from an avocado and olive oil. I allow my curls to absorb the mixture for 20-30 minutes then I rinse and clean my curls and style as normal.
Accessorize
With cardio infused classes, you move a lot and you move quickly too. The last thing you need to distract you is curls bouncing into your face as you go! Time for the accessories.
I love cotton headbands that are thick — the ones from Goody are perfect. I have a set of black ones (about 1 1/2” wide”> as well as three or four colors to mix and match into. I also have thick cotton headbands (1/4-1/2” each”> which I sometimes layer over thicker headbands and can also use to tie my hair up into a ponytail at the end of the class.
Wrap it up
Lastly, I like to wrap a thick cotton headscarf wrap around my curls when I work out. When I’m done, I unwrap my hair, tie it up (if needed”> and use the scarf around my neck to keep my body temperature from getting too hot or too cold when I leave the studio.
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