Without the right know-how, looking after curly hair can be a challenge. Luckily, there are exceptional products, treatments, and hair styling services that can make your hair look and feel healthy and beautiful.
To learn more, read on for the four steps you need to take to protect your curly hair this year.
1. Refrain from constant washing.
One of the biggest mistakes that curly-haired women make is that they shampoo their hair excessively. This is problematic for this type of hair as curly hair quickly becomes dry, and too much shampooing further removes the natural moisture. Therefore, while shampooing your hair is essential for removing dust, excess oil, dead skin cells and product buildup on your scalp, you don’t want to be doing it too much.
Similarly, the type of shampoo you use will have a significant impact on your hair’s health. Look for products that are devoid of toxic chemicals such as sulfates, alcohols and parabens, as these ingredients are likely to aggravate your scalp. Instead, prioritize using products that have fragrance-free, sulfate and paraben-free formulas.
The ingredients in your conditioner are also crucial, so make sure your chosen product includes plenty of moisturizing ingredients. It is these formulas that ensure your hair cuticle is sealed, which protects it against damage.
2. Get in the habit of using treatments and oils.
Many curly-haired individuals benefit from using a pre-shampoo treatment as it works to detangle and remove the frizz from your hair. You can leave on these treatments (such as a hair mask or conditioning oil) for about 20 minutes before you shower. Not only do they prepare your hair to be washed, but they also allow your conditioner to work more effectively.
Oils are also essential for curly hair as they boost blood circulation to the scalp and encourage healthy hair growth. Oils such as coconut oil, olive oil, castor oil, and jojoba oil are ideal for curly hair.
Coconut oil should be massaged onto your scalp with your fingertips and can be either applied an hour before you wash your hair or before bedtime and then washed out the following morning. As it is full of vitamin E, this oil will restructure your damaged strands, establish protein in your strands, and deeply moisturize your curl’s shaft. Its antibacterial properties will aid you in eliminating dandruff and minimizing hair loss.
Olive oil is perfect for adding an intense boost of moisture. First, heat 2-3 tablespoons of it in a bowl and then apply evenly across your scalp and hair. Next, wrap a warm towel over your head and leave the treatment on for about an hour. Then, you can rinse it off with your regular hair wash. Olive oil has a range of benefits and can be used on all types of curls. This oil conditions dry, damaged strands while also improving curl elasticity, strengthening curl strands, and encouraging healthy curl growth.
3. Schedule regular Brazilian Blowouts.
A Brazilian Blowout is a life-saver for any curly-haired individual, as this treatment is specifically designed to help keep your hair looking and feeling exactly how you want it. This treatment seals the hair shaft with a super nutrient complex that smoothes the hair and keeps it healthy. This, in turn, eliminates frizz, decreases fly-aways, and increases shine. It also prevents your hair from being affected by humidity.
The best Brazilian treatment for curly hair can be performed on any hair type, from frizzy to curly, processed to damaged. It can even be done on those who have color-treated or highlighted hair. Once you have had the treatment, the results will last for up to three months – ensuring that you are able to effortlessly manage your hair on a daily basis.
If you are suffering from split ends, you may also want to combine your Brazilian Blowout with the Brazilian Blowout Split Ends Treatment. This additional treatment focuses on protecting and repairing your ends and keeps them sealed for up to one month. The process only takes 10 minutes, and you can have it done at the same time as your Brazilian Blowout.
4. Invest in a satin or silk pillowcase.
Even if you take care of your curly hair during the day, you can still inadvertently cause damage while you are sleeping. When it comes to curly hair, the diameter of the hair shaft depends on your curls’ shape. As it isn’t the same thickness all the way through, the strands are more prone to breakage than other hair types.
When you sleep and toss and turn your head, you are adding extra stress to your hair follicles increasing the likelihood of breakage. For this reason, it is crucial that you opt to sleep on a satin or silk pillowcase as it can assist you in protecting your hair’s structure. Cotton pillowcases cannot provide the same protection level as the material absorbs the natural oils and scratches your hair strands.
Plus, when you sleep on a satin or silk pillowcase, your head will stay cooler which, in turn, reduces how oily your scalp gets. And, this means you can wash your hair less frequently – a win-win situation!
Final Thoughts
Taking care of your curly hair doesn’t have to be hard, as long as you follow these steps. But, it is just as important to know what you shouldn’t do. Avoid heat styling your hair often, as this is a surefire way of removing all the moisture. Additionally, refrain from always having your curly hair in tight ponytails as this can produce scalp pain.
When selecting products, treatments, and salons, make sure you choose ones created with your hair type in mind. Never settle for something that isn’t ideal for you. And, while you are at it, don’t let yourself start comparing your hair with other types. Curls are beautiful, and you are lucky to have them!
What do you think are the most critical steps to maintain the health of curly hair? Are you considering adding any of these steps into your routine? What other products or services do you like to use? Let us know your thoughts and any additional insights in the comments below!
