A guide for curly hair: washing and drying curly hair.
Unleashing the Magic of Curls: The Scoop on the Curly Method
The Curly Method has stormed Russia's hair scene, captivating owners of fluffy, wavy, and curly manes. It's all about transforming your current hair type, making the most out of naturally curly hair - no more struggling with high humidity or surrendering to straightening tools.
Here's the deal - the Curly Method doesn't create curls; it's a method designed for hair that's already wavy, fluffy, or curly. If you've got poker-straight tresses that refuse to hold curls, even with the hottest irons and gallons of hairspray, this method isn't your savior. But fear not, it's still up for grabs - it's all about quality hydration and TLC for your curls.
The Essential Essentials
First things first, grab a suitable shampoo for your scalp. Initially, the Curly Method called for sulfate-free shampoos, but they're too mild for oily scalps. Avoid silicones in any product - they'll create a film and prevent moisture from seeping into your hair structure.
The same guidelines apply to conditioners/balms/masks - choose items with a natural composition, free of silicones. Select something greasy based on your hair's condition. Dry hair needs deeply nourishing and hydrating products, while healthy hair can opt for middle-of-the-road choices, like those with aloe in the mix.
Styling products also need the silicone-free treatment. Foam, mousse, or gel will do the trick. The level of fixation varies - afro curls don't need a thick gel; instead, simply comb them into formed strands. Waves might need both foam and a strong gel to maintain their style.
To make styling products work harder, add a styling cream (optional).
Instead of absorbing water like a regular terry cloth towel, opt for a microfiber towel. If you don't have one, a regular cotton T-shirt or pillowcase will do.
When it comes to drying, a diffuser for your hair dryer is a must-have. If you don't have one, a regular colander works just as well (we'll chat more about that later).
Time to Wash
Washing methods apply whether you're going the Curly Method route or not: wash your hair twice. The first time is to remove any styling residue and excess dirt, while the second wash thoroughly purifies your scalp. After cleansing, apply a conditioner, balm, or mask (not your scalp) and gently detangle with your fingers and a comb. Curl-lovers should comb their wet, conditioned hair to prevent tangling, breakage, and frizz.
Leave the product in for 2-3 minutes, a mask for a recommended time (10-15 minutes), and then rinse it off. Don't let it dwell for too long, as it might straighten out and weigh down your hair.
Gearing Up for Styling
Preferably with your head down, take a small amount of styling cream or balm and apply it, starting 2-3 cm from the roots. Distribute evenly, and "squeeze" - take a section of hair from the ends, hold it in your palms, and press it towards the roots. Continue this for about 2-3 minutes, adding water as needed to keep your hair very wet.
Once you've created the curls, apply styling product, rub it between your hands, then distribute using the "squeezing" motion. Remember to turn your head and work the product into your backside, or you might end up with a few straight strands. Dry your hair with a towel and move on to the drying process.
Drying Demystified
Curly hair can air-dry, but using clips at the roots helps maintain volume. To dry with a blow dryer, you'll need a diffuser - a deep one to prevent tangling. If you don't have a diffuser, a colander will work in a pinch (we'll discuss this method shortly).
It's best to dry your hair upside down for added volume. Avoid touching your hair until it's completely dry to minimize frizz. Hold the hair dryer on one section for 1 minute, allowing a "cast" to form from the styling product. Once your hair is dry, break the cast by gently squeezing and adding a bit of cosmetic oil. Distribute the sections - some may just need a little direction. If you want more volume, use special powder or dry shampoo. To prevent a lion's mane, hold off on brushing until the next wash. If some curls stretch the next day, refresh them by gently squeezing with a touch of water and drying.
Extra Reading:
- "Long-Lasting Style: Five Secrets to Perfect Curls" delves deeper into maintaining beautiful curls throughout the day.
Curly-Method Resources:
- Luscious Curl Conditioning Cleanser
- Ultimate Repair Protective Leave-In
- Moisture-rich and protein treatments
- Luscious Curl Defining Butter
- Curling spray or cream
- Curl-enhancing serum
By following these steps and using the right products, you'll enjoy healthy, luscious curls that shine and bounce with vitality.
- For a complete curly hair care routine at home, consider adding home-and-garden essentials like a microfiber towel for drying and a colander as a diffuser substitute when drying your hair with a blow dryer.
- To maintain the longevity of your curls and achieve long-lasting style, read up on the secrets to perfect curls in the article "Long-Lasting Style: Five Secrets to Perfect Curls," and experiment with luscious curl-enhancing products such as the Luscious Curl Conditioning Cleanser, Luscious Curl Defining Butter, and curling spray or cream.
