If you’ve decided to put down the hot tools and embrace your natural curls, chances are you’ve hit a few bumps along the way. Any time you transition to a new style, there will be a learning curve and due to the fact that curls and coils tend to have a mind of their own, you might make a few mistakes along the way. The key to any great style is a bit of prep and a lot of patience. It might take you a few tries to get your curls to sit just right, but once you understand how to handle your new routine, the style options are endless. Keep reading to hear a few common curl mistakes and the best ways to fix them!
#1 Washing Too Often
Natural texture patterns of curly and coily hair tend to be slightly dryer than others. Washing too often can strip the hair of its necessary natural oils and cause damage and breakage. How often you should wash is highly dependent on your individual hair type, texture, work, and workout schedule. To determine your own routine, keep a close eye on both your scalp and the ends of your hair to find a healthy balance.
Our favorite moisturizing shampoo for curls: Wella Professionals Nutricurls Micellar Shampoo for Curls
#2 Not Using Enough Conditioner
It has been ingrained in us not to add too much conditioner for fear of weighing down natural volume. However, curly and coily hair performs much better with a healthy dose of conditioner from roots to ends. If you are worried about achieving adequate volume at your scalp, after conditioning, add a touch more shampoo to your roots to add a bit of bounce.
In addition to this, apply weekly or bi-weekly deep conditioning treatments are key for improving the health of your hair and achieving more defined curls. Lack of moisture is the biggest cause of frizz, by applying deep conditioning treatments more often, you’ll notice a more refined finish.
A deep conditioner formulated for curls: Wella Professionals Nurticurls Deep Treatment for Curls & Waves
#3 Not Taking A Break From The Heat
A diffuser can be a great way to dry hair, add volume and definition. However, one of the best things you can do for your curls is cut back on heat styling. Excessive heat styling can damage the look and feel of the hair while also disrupting the natural curl pattern. Especially if you are just learning to embrace your curls, you need to give them all the TLC they deserve. Make it a rule of thumb to air-dry during the week and if needed, use heat to style once a week. By giving your curls and coils time to heal, you’ll notice healthier, shiner, more defined curls each time you style.
#4 Brushing Your Hair
We don’t expect you to stop brushing your hair altogether, but utilizing a brush or comb can be detrimental to your style. If you need to brush, always do it right before you get in the shower or while you’re still in the shower. For best results, comb while you still have conditioner in your hair and always start at the ends and work your way up to the scalp — this will help cut down on excessive damage and breakage. Depending on your curl type and how your hair behaves, brushing your curls post-shower can seriously disrupt the curl pattern causing separation and a less defined look. It is best to detangle while still in the shower, but if you must comb your hair after, apply a leave-in and gently use a wide-tooth comb.
#5 Not Caring For Hair As You Sleep
One of the biggest mistakes you can make when it comes to curl care is not paying proper attention to your hair as you sleep. By making a few quick changes to your bedtime routine, you’ll improve the look of second-day curls and coils, which is often when they look their best! Cotton pillowcases can absorb natural oils from your hair and are a rough surface that can easily lead to tangles. Investing in a silk pillowcase, scarf, or loosely braiding curls and coils while you sleep can help cut down on the friction between you and your sheets that can cause excessive crimps in your style.
For even more curly and coily hair advice be sure to tune into the latest tips and tutorials on @wellahairusa and @wellaeducation!