Curly hair care isn’t as easy and pleasant as you may think it is. Of course, it’s possible to learn how to brush, wash and carry out daily beauty treatments, yet l must warn you – it’ll take you some time. Still, it’s better to learn all the techniques that help you maintain curly and wavy hair in good condition. Today, I’ll explain and guide you so in a moment you will be 100% sure how to boost the appearance of your curly strands. Ready?
How can you say that the hair is curly?
Surprisingly many girls have curly hair even when it seems to be straight. Of course, I’m not talking about the classic example of coils – but the strands that are either slightly curled or just wavy. The most frequently we can come across 2B type of curly hair, which is a classification made by A. Walker. How to recognize that your hair is S-shaped? Here’s the simplest way. Comb your dry hair. If you see that it becomes rough, dry, unpleasant to the touch and tangles, then you can be sure that this is curly hair that you’re dealing with.
How to start taking a good care of curly hair?
Before you start introducing new hair care treatments, answer the below questions first. They will help you define the state of your hair. Also, you will learn the care practices that cause damage to your curly strands.
1. Do you comb your hair when dry?
If you comb dry hair, then it’d be better if you stopped doing this. Instead, comb only wet hair. You can start from running your fingers through the hair before reaching for a comb. Also, it’s a good idea to comb hair right before washing so as to keep the strands knot-free.
2. What do you use to detangle hair with?
Well, it goes without saying that hair detangling is really important. It’s suggested doing it with the fingers, when the hair is still wet and covered with a conditioner. Instead of the fingers, you can also use a wooden, wide-tooth comb. You can use this comb to detangle dry hair, before washing. On the other hand, you shouldn’t use detangler brush on wet hair. Basically, you should use only a wooden and boar bristle brush to free curly hair from knots.
3. What do your hair care products contain?
If you want your curly hair to look healthy and pretty, you should treat it with the cosmetics containing proteins, emollients and humectants. Proteins help to regenerate damaged strands, but when used in excess, they may contribute to dry hair. Humectants are responsible for delivering water, emollients smooth hair out and leave it nourished. Therefore, it’s a really good idea to use emollients in daily hair care – reach for natural oils, silicones and waxes.
4. Do your hair care products contain silicones and alcohols?
Mind you, not all types of silicones and alcohols are bad. Some of them can prevent splitting ends, help hair care products deliver better effects and stimulate hair growth. It’s worth taking into consideration the fact that a huge part of such products is destined to treat dehydrated and sensitive scalp.
5. Do you use any hair styling products?
Before you panic, scan the list of ingredients of the hair care products you use and try to find the so-called ‘bad alcohols.’ Actually, you can prepare your own hair styling product. This is a flax-seed blend that you can apply to the hair (also in hot version).
6. How and what do you use to wash hair and scalp?
Girls having curly hair should use gentle shampoos. It’s also important to thin the shampoo with water before applying it to scalp. Moreover, it’s a good idea to use the shampoo to wash the scalp only. The hair will be made clean once the lather runs down. Also, you must do your best to prevent the hair from tangling when washing it.
7. Is your scalp sensitive?
If your skin is sensitive, you shouldn’t expose it to the products that contain irritating substances. And this rule mainly applies to the cosmetics that are in contact with your scalp. Therefore, replace harsh shampoos into gentle shampoos and conditioners, eliminate so-called bad alcohols, essential oils and tea tree oil. In the case of sensitive scalp, it’s better to use herbal products. Also, don’t forget to rinse the hair and scalp thoroughly.
8. Do you have problem with hair loss?
If you do, visit a doctor. Why is it so important? Because your hair won’t be healthy, if your body is sick. The causes of hair loss are numerous: anemia, vitamin shortages, hormonal fluctuations, endocrine disorders. If your body is okay, then turn to herbal scalp lotions and head massage.
What are your tricks and tips for home curly hair care? Can you recommend any hair care products?