Different hair types have different care requirements, and those who have been blessed with luscious curls often fall into the trap of using the incorrect styling tools and products which can result in less definition and volume. This has recently started to change with curly hair products becoming more readily available and advertised.
If you’ve been seeing some of these products or curly girl methods but are feeling a little overwhelmed by rehauling your haircare regime, don’t worry. We’ve identified some of the best curly hair products available to help you make the switch to a more tailored and nourishing routine to help you get those defined curls. Keep reading as we discuss some of the ways you can look after your hair type.
How to get curly hair & enhance natural curl definition
If you have natural curls but they lack the definition you want, you may need to change the way you’re drying or brushing your hair as well as changing the types of products you use to help bring out that natural definition. Additionally, many curly hair types are prone to dryness, so you could be exposing your hair to chemicals that are too harsh when washing. Therefore, it’s important that you choose nourishing products to help restore moisture, we recommend the following tips.
Use sulfate-free products
Sulfates are found in many high-street shampoos and conditioners, but they can be drying when used too regularly and can strip your hair of its natural moisture. Whilst they can provide a deep clean and a good lather, we don’t recommend them due to their effect on natural hair proteins and oils. Since curly hair types may naturally need more hydration, it’s important to choose sulfate-free products, unless detoxing the hair, in which case a very occasional sulfate shampoo is okay. Additionally, if you have coloured hair, choosing sulfate-free will help the colour to last longer.
The Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Shampoo & Conditioner is a great choice to help protect and replenish moisture. Whilst not designed specifically for curly hair, these products are sulphate, paraben, and silicon-free, all qualities that are needed to improve your curly haircare routine. They are also suitable for both thick and fine hair types, so no matter if you have voluminous curls or dainty ringlets, these products will help enhance your natural definition.
Living Proof Day Shampoo Perfect Hair 60ml
£12.00 RRP Sale price £6.99 (Save £5.01)
Living Proof Day Conditioner Perfect Hair 60ml
£12.00 RRP Sale price £8.99 (Save £3.01)
Use hair a hydrating hair mask
Since curly hair often needs extra moisture, you should add a weekly deep conditioning treatment to your hair care regime. This will help enhance natural shine, keeping curls hydrated and defined. The easiest way to do this is by using a hair mask, which you can apply before going in the shower.
The Moroccanoil Intense Hydrating Mask is the perfect option as it can help restore this vital moisture in just five minutes but can be left on for longer for a deeper hydration treatment. It uses argan oil to moisturise and improve hair texture, shine, and elasticity.
Moroccanoil Intense Hydrating Hair Mask 250ml
£27.85 RRP Sale price £26.00 (Save £1.85)
You might also wish to pair this with a daily hair oil for best results as this can contribute to healthier and shinier-looking hair that holds its shape. The Moroccanoil Hair Treatment Oil can help to detangle hair with minimal damage, whilst also working to revive and hydrate. With antioxidant-rich argan oil and vitamins, this product works well for thick and curly hair.
Moroccanoil Hair Treatment Oil
£25.00 RRP Sale price £15.50 (Save £9.50)
It is important to note that if you do not have naturally curly hair, you will need to use a heat styler or leave-in curlers in addition to these products to achieve the look you want. This is because curly hair products are designed to enhance natural waves and curls, not create them. Therefore, using these products on unstyled hair will likely weigh down naturally straight hair. If you’re low on time but want some volume without using a curling tong, you can dry your hair using a diffuser or applying a sea salt spray to create beach waves.
Balance with a protein treatment
While curly hair requires moisture, there is such a thing as too much. When hair is over-moisturised, it can become fluffy, frizzy and undefined. If this sounds like your curls, then balancing with a protein treatment should help bring things back in order. As a general rule, you should use a protein treatment every third or fourth wash, with moisturising products used much more regularly than protein. Using too much protein can lead to a build-up on your strands, which can cause breakage and dryness, so it’s important to strike the right ratio. Keratin is a common form of protein in hair products, as this protein is a component of our hair.
How often should you wash curly hair?
There is no set rule on how often you should wash curly hair as the frequency will depend upon the type of curl you have, your scalp and your lifestyle, e.g. how active you are. As a general rule of thumb, we’d say try washing your hair every 3-4 days, and if your hair still feels dry, reduce the frequency. Loose curls are more likely to benefit from washing two or three times a week, whereas coil and tight curls may be better suited to a weekly wash. On non-washing days, you can use curling creams, oils, and styling products to help refresh your hair and add more volume or definition.
It is worth noting that you should be paying particular attention to your scalp, as healthy hair starts at the root. Keep track of how often you’re washing your hair and ensure that your scalp doesn’t have excess oil buildup or dryness.
How to dry curly hair
Drying can be a little more difficult for curly hair, as using a blow dryer can often make curls look puffy, deflated or flat. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t blow dry your hair. We suggest using the diffuser attachment on a low-heat setting, hovering the dryer around your hair after applying your products to set them. Then, once you’ve set your curl cast, you can begin to section the hair and cup the diffuser around the section to help curls form. Avoid over-scrunching or touching the hair while blow drying, as this can impact the definition of your curls. Depending on the curl type, many curly-haired people find that air-drying often offers the best results. This is usually the case with looser curls and waves, to prevent frizz from forming. If opting to air-dry, after showering, dry your hair by cupping and scrunching it in a cotton t-shirt, and apply any additional products. The natural drying process will allow your hair to take its true form.
Getting the method right for your hair type will take a little bit of trial and error as you figure out what works for you and what doesn’t. For example, some people will never brush their hair and only use a wide-toothed comb whilst the hair is saturated with conditioner in the shower and let it air dry. Some people may prefer to brush before getting in the shower to detangle the hair and then use a diffuser for defined curls. Try a few different methods to see what works for you and your curl pattern, just remember to use the right products!
Bring your haircare routine to the next level with Hogies
If you’re looking to transform your hair care routine for healthier, luscious locks, we stock a range of high-quality hair products at discounted prices to help you achieve your hair goals. Whether you’re looking for more shine or more nourishment, there’s something for every hair type in our collection. Explore the full haircare range to get started.