This method works best for kinky or naturally curly hair. It won’t work on braids or relaxed hair. Brush your hair with a Denman brush while it is still wet to enhance natural curls. Detangle your hair with a wide-toothed comb while the conditioner is still in it. Always start from the ends and work your way up to the roots.
When buying gel, look for labels such as “For Curly Hair” or “Curl Defining. " Focus more on the ends and mid-lengths. The closer you get to the roots, the less product you should use.
Repeat this process for the rest of your hair. Start in the back of your head and finish in the front. Mist your hair with water as you work so that it does not dry. It must be damp.
If you want your hair parted in a specific way, create the part before you sit under the dryer. You can also use a blow dryer with a diffuser attachment at home. This helps elongate and set the curls while dispersing an even airflow.
For best results, start with stretched hair, like what you’d from a braid-out. If you have long hair, part it into 4 sections first: 2 on the top and 2 on the bottom. Secure each section with a hair clip. [6] X Research source
Don’t get your hair wet if you are starting with micro or box braids. Instead, grab several braids and get ready for the next step. If you want tighter curls or ringlets, start with a 1⁄4 to 1⁄2 in (0. 64 to 1. 27 cm) section instead.
If you are curling braids, stop when you are halfway up your braid. Don’t go all the way to the roots. [8] X Research source If you want tighter curls or ringlets, use a straw or smaller flexi rod instead. Slide a bobby pin through the straw and hair to secure it. Flexi rods come in different sizes. The thicker the rod, the larger the curl will be.
Again, if you are curling braids, only curl them halfway up to the roots.
If you are in a hurry, you can speed the process up with a hood dryer or a hairdryer. Use a low-heat setting so as not to damage your hair. If you wrapped Flexi rods around braids, dip the wrapped braids into boiled water for 20 to 30 seconds first. Be careful not to burn yourself. [10] X Research source
Once you take the rods out, separate each curl into 2 or 3 individual curls with your fingers. This will give you voluminous hair with less frizz. If you want more volume, comb through your hair with your fingers or a wide-toothed comb. This is a great idea for relaxed hair; don’t do it with braided hair, however.
If your hair is natural, the curls should maintain their shape until you wash them again. After that, you’ll have to redefine them with flexi rods. If your hair is relaxed, the curls may start to lose their shape by the end of the day, just like naturally straight hair. You’ll have to repeat the process to get the curls back. If you have braids, the style will be permanent. To straighten your braids, simply dip them in boiled water again, then let them hang straight and loose until they dry.
How often you wash your hair depends on how quickly it gets greasy. Depending on your lifestyle and hair type, this can be anywhere from 3 to 10 days. Don’t lean forward when you rinse your hair. When you straighten back up, your hair will get tangled and frizzy. Stand upright and tilt your head back under the running water. [12] X Research source
Every 1 to 2 weeks, switch out your regular conditioner for a deep conditioner. Don’t use oil on your hair while it is still wet. You will apply that once your hair has dried.
If you want to use the scrunching technique, wait until your hair is mostly dry. It is recommended for those with loose or wavy curls. You can wrap your hair around flexi rods or put it into two-strand twists while it is still wet. This does not count as “messing. "
Divide your hair into sections when applying the products, then run a wide-toothed comb through your hair. This will ensure even distribution. Do not use oils when your hair is still wet. Instead, stick with water-based products instead. It would be even better if they have a gel-like consistency.
Always use a low-heat setting on your hairdryer. Stop when your hair is about 90 to 95% dry. Never use a towel to pat your hair dry, as this will lead to frizz.
Thinning may work for some types of curls, but it may not work for others. Ask your stylist for their opinion.
Try salon brands such as: DevaCurl, Ouidad, ECO, or Camille Rose Naturals. When choosing oils, stick with lightweight, natural oils, such as: argan, coconut, grapeseed, or jojoba. If you must use a cheaper brand, make sure that it does not contain any sulfates, as these can cause hair to turn dry and frizzy.
