Dyeing Curly Hair At Home In 2025 – Answers to Your Top Questions
Having dyed curly hair can give you a whole new look. Dyeing your curls can make you look and feel brand new instantly.
But, coloring curly hair can cause some anxiety for some of us curly girls. We naturally have dry strands and there are concerns with damaging our hair by adding chemicals.
The good news is that dyeing curly hair at home is pretty safe once you choose good products, follow the product recommendations and take care of your dyed curly hair.
After dyeing your hair at home you can still have healthy, defined ringlets.
So, today, I’ll try to put some of your fears to rest. Let’s take a look at some of the most frequently asked questions about dyeing curly hair.
Disclaimer: I am not a professional hairstylist and these are all tips and opinions are based on my personal experience as a curly girl.
Affiliate Disclosure: “This post contains affiliate links, which means I receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase using this link.”
Before we talk about dyeing your curly hair, let’s start by tackling the first burning question –
“Should I Dye My Curly Hair?”
Because curly hair can naturally be dry, it’s definitely worth researching to find out for sure whether the best thing for your curls is to expose them to chemicals, which may cause them to be drier and frizzier.
The good news is that coloring your curly hair is so much safer than it used to be.
There are fantastic hair dye products on the market that make dyeing your curly hair at home much safer and easier.
Does Dyeing Curly Hair Ruin Curls ?
Will Dyeing Your Curly Hair Cause You To Lose Your Curl Pattern? or you might be wondering, “will my curls go away if I dye my hair”
Nope! Dyeing curly hair will not ruin curls once your hair is colored with the best products and practices you should have damage-free dyed curly hair.
Dyeing curly hair doesn’t mean that your curls will automatically be ruined or become straight.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that coloring your curls may cause a change in the curl pattern if your hair is overprocessed.
For instance, if you lighten your curls too quickly – that is, if you go from dark hair color to blonde in one session, that can cause too much damage and loosen your curl pattern.
Also, if you use products that are too strong for your hair, you will likely end up with damaged curls.
The health of your curly hair before dyeing will have the biggest impact on the response of the dye to your curl pattern.
Will Curly Hair Highlights Ruin My Curls?
When you get curly hair highlights the right way and with good products, you won’t experience damage.
In fact, doing curly hair highlights is probably better for your curly hair as it uses less hair dye and if done well, you’ll get a beautiful result.
Is It Hard To Color Curly Hair At Home?
Drugstore hair dye products make it super easy and affordable to color your curls at home and can get great, damage-free dyed curly hair.
If you’re fearful of doing it yourself, definitely book an appointment with your preferred hairstylist.
Conclusion
Dyeing curly hair doesn’t have to be scary and it certainly doesn’t have to be damaging, especially if you follow the tips in this article.
The main thing to keep in mind about getting dyed curly hair at home is to use temporary, semi, or demi-permanent hair dye and have a curly hair routine after dyeing that is rich in hydration.
However, if you’re not up for trying this at home, schedule an appointment with a hairstylist who specializes and has a lot of experience with dyeing curly hair.
At your appointment be clear about what you’d like your results to be and ensure that you leave with some recommendations for aftercare and products.
I’d love to hear from you – have you dyed your curly hair? Or do you plan to after reading this post? Let me know below ?
Before You Go, You Will Love These Other Posts For Curly Hair:
Learning how to deep condition curly hair and using a curly girl approved deep conditioner for your curly and wavy hair is a must for healthy hair. Deep conditioning is incredibly effective in restoring and maintaining healthy hair.
Deep conditioning your wavy or curly hair is extremely crucial and beneficial in the constant search for the moisture protein balance that your curls need.
Following a consistent deep treatment routine is one of the most important aspects of curly and wavy hair care, whether you’re following the curly girl method or not.
Ready for your curly or wavy hair to reach it’s full potential? Let’s take a closer look at what deep conditioning is, the many benefits your curly hair will derive from it and how to deep condition your hair.
If you’d like to get a list of recommended curly girl approved deep conditioners, read this post.
Affiliate Disclosure: “This post contains affiliate links, which means I receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase using this link.”
What Is Deep Conditioning
Deep conditioning treatments or hair masks provide your curly or wavy hair with what the hair needs – most times, moisture or protein.
A deep conditioner works well because its formula gives your hair the nutrients it needs by penetrating deeply into your hair cuticles.
Read these posts to figure out if your hair needs moisture or protein.
Benefits of Deep Conditioning Curly Or Wavy Hair
As mentioned above, let’s take a look again at the many benefits we see from using a curly girl approved deep conditioner for curly or wavy hair:
easy detangling
more manageable curls
healthier curls and waves
hydrated wavy and curly hair
defined curls
tames frizz
repairs damaged, dry hair
restores hair elasticity
How Often Should You Deep Condition Curly Hair
Most curly girls get the best results when they use a deep conditioner for curly hair once a week. Deep conditioning once a week, ensures that your curls are getting the nutrients, restoration, and hydration it needs every week.
Lots of wavy girls prefer to deep condition less often. Some wavy girls wait until their hair looks and feel like it needs a deep conditioning treatement.
However, this doesn’t mean that your hair needs a deep conditioner treatment every week.
The best way to determine how often you should apply a deep conditioner to your curly hair is by examining and assessing it weekly.
The needs of your hair may change from week to week and this means that the frequency of your deep conditioning treatments will vary.
If you’re satisfied with the health of your curls when you test, then you can skip deep conditioning.
If not, then assessing the look, feel and elasticity of your curls will help you determine what nutrients (protein or moisturizing ingredients) your hair needs so you can choose the best deep conditioner for your hair at the point in time.
How To Deep Condition Curly Hair
Try this routine every time you deep condition your curly hair.
Once you saturate your hair with the deep conditioner you can put on a plastic shower cap or squish to condish (read more in the next section) before putting your hair in a shower cap.
The shower cap helps your body heat from your scalp open your hair cuticles for the deep conditioner’s nutrients to enter more easily.
Use A Heat Cap To Allow Deeper Penetration
Secure your curls in a plastic cap. The heat from your scalp is usually enough for the deep conditioner to work. But, for additional heat, you can use a microwavable steam cap. The heat helps with opening the hair cuticles to allow for more product penetration.
Deep condition for the recommended time on the product label and not longer.
Leaving deep conditioners in your hair longer than recommended may lead to protein or moisture overload, depending on the formula you’ve used.
Rinse Deep Conditoner
After the recommended time, rinse out the deep conditioner thoroughly with cool water. Using cool water helps to close the cuticles and keep the nutrients in.
It might be tempting to leave in some deep conditioner for extra moisture but this can cause more harm than damage.
Instead, start off your curly hair styling routine with a curly girl approved leave in conditioner.
The first thing you want to do before you reach for a deep conditioner is assess your hair.
Examine your hair to check the elasticity, feel and look of your hair strands. This will help you determine if you’re experiencing any moisture overload or protein overload.
Once you’ve identified whether your hair needs more hydration or protein, it makes choosing the best deep conditioner for your curly hair easier.
If you’re experiencing moisture overload, you’re going to want to use a deep conditioner with protein to restore the moisture protein balance to your curls or waves.
If you’re experiencing protein overload, try a protein free, moisture rich deep conditioning treatment to hydrate your curly or wavy hair, again to restore the moisture protein balance of your hair.
Another way to decide on which type of deep conditioner to reach for is by looking back on the products you used during the week. If you used a lot of protein free styling products, chances are the moisture rich deep conditioner is necessary.
Conversely, if you styled with lots of moisturizing products with little to no protein, a protein curly girl deep conditioner would be better for you.
Secrets Of The Best 2a 2b 2c Wavy Hair Routine 2025
Unlocking the perfect routine for your wavy hair—whether it’s 2a, 2b, or 2c—can be a quest.
The search for the ideal wavy hair care routine and products tailored to your unique texture can feel overwhelming amidst the sea of curly girl product options available today.
But, don’t worry! As a mom of a daughter with gorgeous 2b 2c hair, I’ve tried and tested many techniques and curly hair products tailored for her wavy texture. I’m happy to share our favorite routine that works wonders for her.
This comprehensive wavy hair routine guide is your compass in navigating the world of textured hair care, specifically designed for curly girls with type 2a, 2b, and 2c hair.
From essential wash day tips and tricks to crucial refresh day routines, this post unveils a wavy hair routine that you simply must try!
Following this 2a, 2b, 2c routine would leave you with softer, more manageable waves and curls, ensuring vibrant and healthy hair.
Ready to embark on this transformative journey to embrace your natural waves and curls? Let’s delve into crafting the ultimate 2a, 2b, 2c hair routine together.
Affiliate Disclosure: “This post contains affiliate links, which means I receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase using this link.”
Some people with type 2 hair have trouble figuring out whether they have straight, wavy or curly hair types. This can be true, especially for those with 2a hair or 2b hair.
So let’s look at the categories of type 2 hair and their hair pattern.
The natural pattern of 2a, 2b, and 2c are considered wavy hair types. The natural hair texture is between type 1 (straight) and type 3 (curly) which makes it hard sometimes to figure out if you have straight hair or curly hair.
You can use this quiz to find out if you have naturally curly hair.
The good news is that knowing your hair type isn’t the most important thing when it comes to hair care. Your hair’s porosity level will ultimately determine your hair care and the hair products you choose for your hair.
However, knowing your hair type is still a good place to start when determining how to care for your hair, as it gives some general understanding of what you can expect from your hair texture.
2a Hair
2a hair has soft waves and is most often mistaken for straight, frizzy hair. People with 2a waves have fine and don’t have a well-defined wave.
Using lightweight products to enhance natural waves and add moisture like leave-in conditioner, mousse, and light gels is a must.
Heavier products, like thick curl creams, will weigh down type 2a hair, making already fine hair look limp and flat.
2b Hair
2b hair is a bit wavier than 2a and is also prone to some frizz. 2b hair can look curly as there is a definite s pattern but oftentimes, curl activators and curly hair styling techniques are needed to enhance 2b curls.
2b hair is also typically fine and light weight products are also recommended to add hydrations, tame frizz, and enhance natural waves.
2c Hair
2c hair has a more defined ‘s’ pattern and tends to frizz more easily compared with 2a and 2b.
Your best bet for 2c curls is still lightweight hair products for hydration and definition to tame frizz and define waves. A stronger hold gel can be used for 2c curls to ensure your wash day lasts longer.
Nobody has the exact same hair type all over their head. This means that you can have a combination of hair types. To name a few:
2a 2b hair
2b 2c hair
2c 3a hair
Keep in mind that the type of hair you have is less important than the overall health and porosity of your hair. For example, if you have damaged 2a hair, the products you use will be different to someone with healthy 2a hair. So be sure to assess your hair before looking for products to take care of and style it.
Curly Girl Method For 2a 2b 2c Curly Hair
Unraveling the Curly Girl Method: Unlocking the Benefits for 2a, 2b, 2c Wavy Hair Types
The Curly Girl Method (CGM) is an innovative hair care approach specifically designed to enhance the natural beauty of textured hair, including wavy, curly, and coily locks.
If you have type 2a, 2b, or 2c wavy hair, you may be wondering how the CGM can help you unlock the full potential of your waves.
In this section, we’ll explain the Curly Girl Method basics and its benefits for your wavy hair type 2a 2b or 2c.
Understanding the Curly Girl Method
The CGM was created by Lorraine Massey to address the unique needs of textured hair, which often requires specialized care to maintain its health and beauty.
The method focuses on gentle hair care practices and emphasizes the use of natural, nourishing products to enhance the hair’s natural texture.
The Curly Girl Method can be tailored to suit various hair types, including 2a, 2b, and 2c wavy hair, making it a versatile solution for those seeking to embrace their natural waves.
Key Benefits of the Curly Girl Method for Wavy Hair Types 2a, 2b, and 2c
Improved Hair Health: The CGM promotes the use of gentle, sulfate-free cleansers and silicone-free conditioners that prevent damage and buildup. By adopting this approach, you can improve the overall health of your 2a, 2b, or 2c wavy hair.
Enhanced Wave Definition: The Curly Girl Method encourages the use of styling techniques and products that define and enhance your natural waves. By scrunching, plopping, or using a diffuser on a low heat setting, you can unlock the full potential of your type 2 hair.
Reduced Frizz and Breakage: By eliminating heat styling, using a microfiber towel or cotton t-shirt to dry your hair, and deep conditioning regularly, the CGM helps minimize frizz and breakage. This results in smoother, more manageable waves for 2a, 2b, and 2c hair types.
Customizable Routine: The Curly Girl Method can be tailored to suit your specific hair type and needs. Experiment with different CGM-approved products and techniques to find the perfect routine for your 2a, 2b, or 2c wavy hair.
Embrace the Journey to Beautiful Wavy Hair
Incorporating the Curly Girl Method into your hair care routine can work wonders for your 2a, 2b, or 2c wavy hair.
By adopting the right techniques, products, and practices, you can unlock the full potential of your natural waves and enjoy healthier, more stunning hair.
Begin your CGM journey today and discover the benefits that await you and your textured tresses.
the Curly Girl Method for 2a, 2b, 2c Hair : A Step-by-Step Guide
Embarking on the Curly Girl Method for your type 2 hair journey may seem daunting at first, but incorporating a few essential steps into your hair care routine can work wonders for your textured hair.
Protect your type 2 hair from heat damage by avoiding flat irons, curling wands, and hair dryers. Embrace your natural waves and curls by letting your hair air dry or using a diffuser on a low heat setting.
Embrace Deep Conditioning
To repair and nourish your textured hair, incorporate a weekly deep conditioning treatment into your routine. Look for products specifically designed for 2a, 2b, or 2c hair types to provide the targeted care your hair needs.
Choose the Right Products
Opt for hair care products free of parabens, silicones, and sulfates, as these ingredients can weigh down your waves or curls and cause buildup. Seek out CGM-approved products that enhance the health and beauty of your type 2 hair.
Ditch the Traditional Towel
Instead of using a regular towel, which can cause frizz and breakage, use a microfiber towel or a cotton t-shirt to gently remove excess water from your hair after washing.
Apply Styling Products on Damp Hair
To lock in moisture and define your curls or waves, apply your favorite styling products to damp hair. This helps distribute the product evenly and prevents your hair from becoming weighed down or crunchy.
Don’t Give Up on Your Wavy Hair Journey
As you embark on the Curly Girl Method for your 2a, 2b, or 2c hair type, remember that consistency is key.
Be patient with the process and allow your hair the time it needs to transition and embrace its natural texture.
With dedication and the right care, you’ll soon enjoy the stunning, healthy waves or curls you’ve always dreamed of.
The easiest way to naturally make type 2 hair curlier is to follow the best practices for curly hair outlined in this post. Your 2a 2b 2c hair will become healthier and naturally more defined.
This means that your natural curl pattern will be enhanced and therefore, wavier and curlier.
When your waves are damaged from heat straightening or harsh coloring, the result is loose waves or curls.
When you use best practices for your wavy hair texture, your damaged hair will transition and your natural waves will emerge, leaving you with wavier or curlier hair.
Pro Tip: In addition to following best curly girl practices, use techniques such as finger coiling and hair plopping, to train your 2a 2b or 2c hair to be curlier faster.
2a 2b 2c Curly Hair Wash Day Routine
Similar to my 3a 3b routine, your wavy hair wash day routine is important for long lasting waves.
My mom has type 2b 2c hair and this is the routine she follows to get gorgeous, long lasting waves and curls. Follow this routine and get great results:
Wash with a sulfate free shampoo
Condition or deep condition – squish to condish
Rinse out
Cleansing Type 2 Hair
Begin your wavy hair wash day routine with cleansing your scalp and hair.
This is important to remove product build up that can weigh down your hair, making it look lymph and dull.
Natural oils and product build up can also clog hair follicles on your scalp, preventing hair growth.
To cleanse 2a 2b 2c hair:
Apply a sulfate free shampoo to your scalp only
Gently scrub your scalp with your finger tips or a shampoo brush to ensure all build-up is removed.
Move the shampoo down your hair shaft to cleanse the length of your hair.
Rinse hair thoroughly
This is sufficient to cleanse the length of your hair without causing any damage.
If you’re now starting with the curly girl method, you can use a clarifying shampoo to remove buildup from any styling product that contained ingredients like silicone or heavy oils.
How Often Should You Wash 2a 2b 2c Hair?
It’s generally safe to gently cleanse your wavy hair with a sulfate free, gentle shampoo, once or twice a week.
Cleansing too often can dry out your hair and not cleansing enough can leave hair oil and lifeless.
If you’re unsure about when to wash your hair, take cues from how it looks and feels.
Conditioning 2a 2b 2c Hair
Conditioning is important for easy detangling and hydrating your strands. If you’re following the curly girl method, look for a conditioner that is silicone free.
Apply enough conditioner or deep conditioner
distribute it through your hair.
use a detangling brush or your fingers to detangle and help with even distribution.
Most wavy girls get the best results when they “squish to condish” at this point.
Squish To Condish Type 2 Hair
Squish to condish is a technique used to hydrate and encourage definition.
To squish to condish, simply scrunch your hair after even distribution of conditioner. This technique allows moisture to get into your hair shaft and hydrate your strands.
Once the recommended time has passed, rinse the conditioner out of your hair. Gently squeeze excess water with your hands before applying your preferred styling products.
How To Style 2a 2b 2c Hair
The way you style your hair and the styling products you use will ultimately depend on your hair’s porosity level and overall health.
Some wavy girls love to apply styling products to soaking wet hair while others get better results when they apply to damp hair.
Some love to apply their products standing upright, while others like to style with their heads upside down.
These styling tips have changed many wavy girls’ lives by transforming their once “straight hair” into gorgeous, waves with a tousled texture.
The amount of a styling product you use will depend on whether you have thin hair or thick hair.
Start off with a pea sized amount and work your way up until you’re satisfied with your results.
Experimenting with different styling techniques and products is the best way to find out what works best for you.
Curly Hair Routine For Type 2 Hair (2a 2b 2c):
Apply a leave in conditioner and brush through to distribute
Apply lightweight styling cream (optional)
Smooth Gel Over Your hair
Gently Scrunch hair
Air dry or diffuse
Scrunch out the crunch with your preferred oil or serum
No matter which styling techniques work best for you, apply your products in this order to enhance your waves.
This works well for any 2a, 2b, and 2c hair routine.
Leave In Conditioners For Type 2 Hair
Lightweight leave ins are important to add moisture to your wavy hair and won’t weigh down your hair (especially if your have fine hair).
Most wavy girls get the best results by using the praying hands technique to apply leave ins to their hair.
This method distributes the product through your hair without breaking up wavy clumps too much. If you struggled with stringy hair before, this styling technique will be a game changer for you.
Once you’ve applied your leave in, use a denman brush over a wide tooth comb, to ensure even distribution and maximum definition of your natural waves.
Using a lightweight curl cream is optional as the leave in may be sufficient to add moisture to your hair. However, if your waves need additional moisture to fight frizz, apply a small amount of your preferred curl cream. A curl cream will also enhance your natural waves leaving you with undeniably gorgeous, bouncy beach waves.
You can use the praying hands method again to apply the curl cream and then use the denman brush to ensure even distribution.
You can also style your hair using the Denman brush or you can simply scrunch your hair to encourage clumping and definition.
Most wavy girls get great results by scrunching with their hands and no additional products.
However, if you prefer, you can rub a small amount of oil or frizz free serum in the palm of your hands before scrunching out the crunch. This prevents frizz and adds shine to your waves.
Flip your hair over and from side to side as you scrunch to encourage volume.
Once you’ve scrunched out the crunch, the result will be gorgeous, soft beach waves.
If you’ve used strong enough hold products to style your wavy hair, you can expect your wash day results to last a few days with refreshes in between for 2b hair & 2c hair. 2a hair may need to be refreshed daily.
My mom’s wavy wash day hair can last her all week, with very quick daily refreshes.
After styling, you don’t want to get it messed up while you sleep, right? So, learning how to sleep with textured hair is key to preserving your waves for the next day. How you sleep will also protect your waves and minimize hair damage.
This is how you should sleep with short or long 2a 2b or 2c curly hair:
Put hair in a loose pineapple with a satin scrunchie
Wrapping Up This Easy Curly Girl Routine For 2a 2b 2c Hair
I hope this easy curly girl routine will help you with your type 2 hair.
Whether you have 2a 2b or 2c hair, the techniques and curly girl products recommended in this post should help you figure out what works best for your hair type.
Remember, what works best on one person may not work best for you. And, what works for you this month, may not work next month.
Always assess your hair’s health and porosity to determine what products your hair needs (moisture or protein) and the techniques that your hair responds to the best.
Before You Go, You Will Love These Other Posts For Curly Hair:
How To Scrunch Out The Crunch (SOTC)& Break The Gel Cast
Learning how to scrunch out the crunch (sotc) from your curly or wavy hair is vital to transform crunchy curls into defined, soft and bouncy curls or waves throughout the week.
No matter your hair length or curl type, we’ve got you covered with expert tips and techniques to reveal your most stunning curls and waves yet.
Say goodbye to the crunch and hello to fabulous, touchable tresses that last all week long. Let’s dive in and transform your curls together!
Affiliate Disclosure: “This post contains affiliate links, which means I receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase using this link.”
Scrunch out the crunch, also known as SOTC, is a curly girl technique used to soften crunchy, stiff curls that were created by a gel cast.
For best results, curly girls scrunch out the crunch after your hair is fully dried and feels hard and crunchy.
The most common way to scrunch out the crunch is to apply some sealing oil in the palm of your hands and gently scrunch your curls to break the cast.
Gently scrunch until your curls feel as soft as you like.
Gel Cast formed – curls are crunchy & stiff
What Is A Gel Cast On Wavy & Curly Hair
A gel cast refers to the thin hard protective barrier that locks in moisture, sets your curl pattern and minimizes frizz.
The gel cast is created by applying a strong hold curly girl product on your wet or damp curls. As your hair dries, the gel forms a cast that holds your defined curls in place.
You’ve achieved a gel cast when your curls look and feel stiff or crunchy.
Doesn’t sound like the ideal outcome for your wash day, right? Who wants crunchy curls?
But those crunchy curls are a great thing because it means that your defined curls are going to last long after wash day, after you scrunch out the crunch (sotc).
The gel cast and scrunching out the crunch is a favorite among curly girls as it offers a reliable way to achieve defined, long lasting curls.
Once your hair is fully dry, the cast can be gently “scrunched out,” resulting in soft, bouncy, and well-defined curls.
Gel Cast formed – curls are crunch & stiff
How To create a gel cast
As you now know, a gel cast can be a game-changer for curly girls, helping to create frizz-free and defined curls.
Using a curly girl gel or mousse, here’s how you can create a good gel cast on your curly or wavy hair:
Begin by choosing a curly girl-approved gel or mousse that suits your hair type, porosity and needs.
Apply the product to wet or damp curls, making sure to distribute it evenly from the roots to the ends.
Applying gel or mousse from the roots can help with root definition.
Create sections and use a curly girl technique to distribute the product and define your curls:
Curly girl brush, like a Denman brush or Detangling brush
Rake and shake method
Scrunching
2. Resist the temptation to touch your curls during the drying process
It’s crucial not to touch or manipulate your curls while your hair is drying and the gel cast is forming.
Touching your curls during this stage can cause frizz and disrupt the formation of the cast.
Instead, let your hair air-dry or plop while the gel cast forms.
How To Know When Gel Cast Is Formed
You’ll know the cast has formed when your curls feel hard and crunchy to the touch.
This firm, protective layer ensures that your curls maintain their shape and remain frizz-free.
A properly formed gel cast will cause your curls to feel slightly hard, crunchy, and stiff to the touch, indicating that the hair gel or styling product has dried and solidified around each curl.
The time it takes for a gel cast to form will vary depending on the product used, your hair type, and the drying method.
It’s essential to be patient and avoid manipulating your curls until the gel cast forms, signaling that your gel cast is ready to be scrunched out for soft, defined curls.
If you plan to use a diffuser, make sure the cast has set before you begin.
This will help maintain the curl’s shape and prevent frizz during the diffusing process.
How To Scrunch Out The crunch On Curly Or Wavy Hair
Even though a gel cast is good, nobody wants crunchy hard hair. Curly and wavy girls want to achieve long-lasting, soft, and bouncy curls.
To achieve this, you want to gently scrunch out the crunch when your curls are fully dried. This will help to reduce the change of frizzing when you sotc.
So let’s look at some ways to Scrunch Out the Crunch
Diffusing To SOTC
Sealing Oil to scrunch out the crunch
Scrunch Out The Crunch Without Oil
Use Leave In Conditioner
Sleep on Your Curls
1. Srunch Out The Crunch – Diffusing Curly Hair
Scrunching out the crunch by diffusing your curly hair requires a gentle approach and quite a bit of patience.
Diffusing is a popular method to dry curly hair that enhances curl definition while minimizing frizz.
The process involves using a hairdryer with a diffuser attachment, which is designed to spread the airflow over a larger surface area, mimicking the air-drying process.
To scrunch out the crunch effectively, follow these steps once your gel cast is fully formed:
Start by setting your hairdryer to a low or medium heat setting and a low speed. This will help prevent overheating and protect your hair from damage.
Flip your head upside down or tilt it to one side, and gently place a section of your curls into the diffuser bowl.
Hold the diffuser close to your scalp and allow the warm air to surround your curls.
Avoid moving the diffuser around excessively or touching your hair, as this can disturb the gel cast and cause frizz.
Continue this process for each section of your hair, working your way around your head until your curls are about 80-90% dry.
Once your curls are almost dry, it’s time to scrunch out the crunch:
Turn off the hairdryer and allow your curls to cool for a few minutes.
Apply a small amount of sealing oil or a lightweight serum to your hands and gently scrunch your hair, focusing on breaking the gel cast and releasing the soft, bouncy curls beneath.
Be mindful not to tug or squeeze your hair too hard, as this can lead to frizz and disrupt your curl pattern.
Continue gently scrunching until your curls feel soft and touchable
By combining diffusing with the scrunch out the crunch technique, you’ll be left with beautifully defined, frizz-free curls that last all day.
2. Scrunch Out The Crunch with Sealing Oil
Sealing oil can be your best friend when it comes to scrunching out the crunch and revealing soft, touchable curls.
This simple technique can make all the difference in your curly hair routine, transforming your gel cast into bouncy, frizz-free curls that last all day.
Follow these steps to scrunch out the crunch using a sealing oil:
Choose the right sealing oil for your hair
Selecting the right sealing oil is essential to maximize its benefits.
Look for lightweight oils like argan, jojoba, or grapeseed oil, which help lock in moisture and provide a smooth, frizz-free finish without weighing your hair down.
These oils will not only help break the gel cast but also add shine and nourishment to your curls.
Try these oils and serums to scrunch out the crunch:
Remember that it’s crucial to ensure your hair is fully dry and the gel cast has formed before scrunching out the crunch.
Touch your hair gently to check if it feels hard and crunchy, indicating that the gel cast has set.
If your hair is still damp or soft, give it more time to air-dry.
Warm the sealing oil in your hands
Dispense a small amount of sealing oil into the palm of your hands.
Rub your hands together to warm the oil and help it spread evenly across your fingers and palms.
This will ensure smooth application and prevent any tugging or breakage when scrunching your hair.
Gently scrunch out the crunch of your curls
Now that your hands are coated with oil, start scrunching your hair gently, working in sections if needed.
Make sure to cup your curls in your palms and squeeze gently to break the gel cast.
Be mindful not to pull or tug at your hair, as this can cause frizz and disrupt your curl pattern.
Continue scrunching until you achieve your desired level of softness and definition.
By incorporating sealing oil into your scrunch out the crunch routine, you’ll unlock soft, defined, and frizz-free curls that feel as good as they look.
3. How To Scrunch Out The Crunch Without Oil
A great way to scrunch out the crunch without oil is to use a cotton tshirt or microfiber towel.
When your curls have completely dried, use a cotton tshirt or microfiber towel instead of using your hands directly on your hair, to scrunch out the crunch.
A cotton tshirt or microfiber towel are fantastic for gently scrunching out the crunch without introducing frizz.
These materials are gentle on hair, absorbing excess moisture and product without causing breakage or damage.
Once your hair is fully dry and the gel cast has formed, grab a clean microfiber towel or cotton tshirt and gently scrunch your curls, focusing on breaking the cast and releasing your soft curls.
4. Scrunch Out The Crunch With Leave In Conditioner
Scrunching out the crunch with a leave-in conditioner can be an excellent alternative for curly girls who want to achieve soft, defined curls without the use of oils.
Leave-in conditioners provide extra hydration, nourishment, and protection, making them an ideal choice for individuals with dry or damaged curls.
To scrunch out the crunch using a leave-in conditioner, follow these simple steps once your gel cast has formed and your hair is completely dry:
Begin by choosing a lightweight, moisturizing leave-in conditioner that works well with your hair type.
Dispense a small amount of the product into your hands and rub them together to ensure even distribution.
Then, gently scrunch your curls, taking care to cup your hands around your hair and squeeze softly to break the gel cast.
Work your way around your head, focusing on each section of hair until you’ve achieved your desired level of softness and definition.
5. Sleep On Your Curls
If you’re not going anywhere, a good way to sotc is by not scrunching it at all.
Sleeping on your curls can be an effortless way to break the gel cast, especially for curly girls who prefer a low-maintenance approach to their curly hair routine.
Sleeping on your curls offers a convenient and low-effort way to break the gel cast, making it an attractive option for those who prefer a minimalist approach to hair care.
This method can be particularly effective when combined with the right sleep accessories, such as a silk or satin pillowcase and bonnet which helps reduce friction and prevent frizz.
To make the most of this overnight technique:
First ensure your gel cast is fully formed before going to bed.
Then, prepare your sleeping environment by using a silk or satin pillowcase, which will minimize frizz and hair breakage.
Additionally, you can protect your curls by gathering them into a loose pineapple or using a silk or satin sleep cap to maintain their shape.
As you sleep, the gentle pressure and movement of your head against the pillowcase will gradually break the gel cast, releasing softer, more natural-looking curls.
In the morning, simply shake out your curls and give them a gentle scrunch if needed, to further soften any remaining cast and enhance your curl definition.
Now you have a few great techniques to turn those crunchy curls that the gel cast creates, into soft, voluminous curls that will last for a few days.
With various methods available, from using a diffuser to sealing oil or simply sleeping on your curls, there’s a way for every curly girl to easily scrunch out the crunch for soft, bouncy curls.
As you experiment with different techniques, remember to always ensure your hair is fully dry and the gel cast has formed before attempting to scrunch out the crunch.
By doing so, you’ll minimize frizz, maintain your curl pattern, and ensure that your defined curls last for days.
No matter which approach you choose, scrunching out the crunch will elevate your curly hair routine and help you embrace your natural texture with confidence.
Say goodbye to crunchy curls and hello to the soft, bouncy, and defined hair that you’ve always dreamed of!
Before You Go, You Will Love These Other Posts For Curly Hair:
How To Fix Protein Overload Hair – Best Curly Girl Products To Use
Protein overload is when your hair has too much exposure to protein.
As a curly girl, you need protein to strengthen your curls but protein overload can leave your hair brittle and easy to break. Protein is needed to strengthen your hair and helps to maintain moisture in your hair.
This means that a protein – moisture balance is essential for healthy, defined curls and waves.
Affiliate Disclosure: “This post contains affiliate links, which means I receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase using this link.”
How To Tell If Your Hair Has Too Much Protein
Your may have too much protein in your hair if:
feels hard and stiff, like straw
looks and feels dry & brittle
breaks easily
tangles a lot
doesn’t stretch easy
Causes Of Protein Overload
Protein overload is caused when your hair gets too much protein and not enough moisture. It’s a sign that your hair does not have the necessary moisture-protein balance.
Hair is made up of a protein called keratin, however over time, the proteins in your hair break down and get damaged so it needs some help from proteins in products.
But, even though your hair needs protein, too much protein will cause protein overload.
Causes of protein overload :
Using products that contain proteins for every step of your curly routine
Protein ingredients are high on your curly girl product
Your hair is protein sensitive and you’re using protein too often
Moisture Overload vs Protein Overload
If you’re wondering whether you’re experiencing a protein overload. Assess your current curly girl products – if most or all of your products contain protein, you may be adding too much protein to your curls.
This table can also help you figure out whether you are experiencing a moisture or a protein overload.
Moisture Overload Signs
Protein Overload Signs
Hair strands stretch with no bounce back
Hair strands have little to no stretch & break easily
Hair is too elastic
Low elasticity strands
Limp hair
Dull hair
Dry, brittle hair
Hair tangles easily
Hair feels soft & mushy
Hair feels rough & stiff
Loose, undefined curls
Stringy, undefined curls
Frizzy hair
Moisture Overload vs Protein Overload Signs
How To Fix Protein Overload
To fix the issue of too much protein in your hair, you have to use less protein-rich ingredients. To fix protein overload, the balance between moisture and protein is key.
It may seem overwhelming at first, but over time, you will get the best cocktail of curly girl products for your hair, and maintaining the moisture – protein balance in your hair will be easier.
1. Stop Using Curly Girl Products That Contain Protein
The first thing you want to do to fix your protein overload issue is to go through your current products and determine which ones contain protein. Stop using these products while you restore the balance between moisture and protein.
Some keywords to look out for to figure out if your curly girl product contains protein:
Stengthen
Rebuild
Protein ingredients like:
Keratin
Collagen
Amino Acids
Quinoa Seed
Biotin
Hydrolyzed proteins like, wheat, rice, soy, silk (hydrolyzed means that the protein is broken down small enough to penetrate the hair shaft)
You can also check the ingredients of your product on sites like, Curlscan?
2. Use Protein Free Curly Girl Products
Next, temporarily switch out your protein products for protein free, moisturizing products.
Look for water, fatty alcohols, oils, and other moisturizers close to the top of your product’s ingredient list. Keywords like, moisturizing or hydrating can help you identify a moisturizing curly girl product.
To purchase on Amazon, just click on any of the products above.
Protein – Moisture Balance
Once you’ve restored the moisture – protein balance to your hair, feel free to start back adding some protein to your curly hair routine, after carefully assessing what your hair needs.
Remember to check the order of your products’ ingredients to see whether it’s higher in moisture or protein.
To maintain the moisture-protein balance on your hair, try to use a good mix of both in your curly hair routine – your wash days and your refresh days.
For example, use a moisturizing curl cream and then a protein gel to style. Using both, helps to keep your hair balanced.
If you prefer protein stylers and you’ve used a lot of protein throughout the week, be sure to use a deep conditioning hair mask on your next wash day. This will help to balance the protein when you add moisture.
I really hope this information helps you if you’re experiencing a protein overload and you know what you should do next. If you have any other tips, please leave them below! I’d love to hear from you.
Before you go, check out these other curly girl posts:
Signs Of Curly Hair Moisture Overload, Hygral Fatigue + How To Fix It
Moisture overload and hygral fatigue are nightmares for some curly girls.
Hydration, water, and moisturizing curly hair products are a curly girl’s best friend but, as with everything in life, too much of something good can end up being bad.
If you’re experiencing moisture overload or looking for ways to prevent it from happening, this post should help you understand what happens when your hair has too much moisture and what you can do to restore the moisture protein balance.
Affiliate Disclosure: “This post contains affiliate links, which means I receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase using this link.”
What Is Moisture Overload & What Does It Look Like
Moisture overload is simply when your curls are too moisturized. It means that your hair does not have moisture – protein balance, which is important for healthy, defined curls.
To tell if you’re experiencing over hydration, look for these signs or symptoms of moisture overload and hygral fatigue:
hair feels too soft when wet
lymp hair
frizzy hair
undefined and loose curls
weak hair
dryness
What Causes Moisture Overload
Curly hair is known to be prone to dryness and in an effort to ensure that your curls are hydrated and well moisturized, you can actually add too much moisture to your hair.
Moisture overload can be caused by:
Using only moisture-rich products
Not using hair strengthening protein products
Overnight deep conditioning
Deep conditioning for longer than is recommended
Using the wrong curly girl products for you hair’s porosity
What is Hygral Fatigue
Even though hygral fatigue and moisture overload are used interchangeably, there’s a difference.
Moisture overload actually leads to hygral fatigue.
Hygral fatigue is different from moisture overload, because it happens over time. When your hair goes from wet to dry too often, your follicles become more exposed to swelling and shrinking. Over time, your hair becomes fatigued. So, over moisturizing your hair makes you more likely to experience hygral fatigue.
Hygral fatigue is damage to your hair follicles caused by swelling from excessive moisture.
When your hair follicles are exposed to moisture (water or moisture rich hair products), they swell and when the follicles dry, they shrink. So, hygral fatigue is damage caused by your hair’s over-exposure to moisture and the constant swelling and shrinking of your hair follicles.
How To Fix Moisture Overload
The key to is to prevent moisture overload before hygral fatigue kicks in.
To fix moisture overload give your curly hair the moisture it needs and not more than it needs. Using products that contain moisturizing and protein ingredients will help keep your hair balanced.
To determine how much moisture your hair needs, it’s important to evaluate & assess your hair’s:
Porosity – size of your hair cuticle and how moisture is absorbed and retained
Elasticity – how much your hair strands will stretch, which is determined by the moisture of your hair.
With too much moisture and not enough protein, your hair strands will stretch too much and lose definition. However, you can prevent and minimize moisture overload and hygral fatigue from happening.
Steps to fix moisture overload:
Wash Hair with a pre poo treatment
Add curly girl products with protein
Do not wet your curly hair too often
1. Wash Hair With Pre Poo Treatment
Pre poo treatments involve the use of oils, like coconut oil, on your dry hair before shampooing. This helps to reduce protein loss, prevent breakage, hygral fatigue and make detangling easier. For best results, pre poo treatments can be applied from a few hours before you wash your hair to the night before.
2. Add Curly Products With Protein
To fix moisture overload, adding products with protein ingredients to your curly girl routine will help to create moisture-protein balance.
How to tell if a curly girl product has protein is to look for some keywords like:
Repair
Strengthen
Rebuild
Enhancing
Popular and easy to spot protein ingredients in curly girl products:
Keratin
Biotin
Collagen
Amino Acids
Quinoa seed
Hydrolyzed wheat protein
Hydrolyzed rice protein
Hydrolyzed soy protein
Hydrolyzed silk protein
As you can see, some of these protein ingredients contain the word “protein”, as well as hydrolyzed.Hydrolyzed basically means that the protein is broken down until it’s small enough to penetrate into your hair shaft to repair any damage.
If this is still too much and you’re unsure of a hair product you want to try, put the product or the ingredients into a site like “Curlscan” and it will quickly let you know if your product is curly girl approved and the types of protein ingredients included.
Use Less Moisture rich Curly Girl Products
If you’re experiencing moisture overload or hygral fatigue, it’s time to change your hair products. If all of the products you use are over hydrating your hair, then switch to minimize the amount of moisture you’re applying to your curls.
So, if you’re looking to add less moisture to your curly girl routine, it’s a good idea to know what the moisturizing ingredients are so that you can limit your use. If these ingredients are high up on the list of product ingredients, then you know that it’s a moisture-rich product.
Moisturizing ingredients in curly hair products:
water
glycerin
aloe
honey
panthenol
cetearyl alcohol
cetyl alcohol
3. Stop Wetting Hair Too Much
Wetting your hair too often will lead to the issue of constant swelling and shrinking of your hair follicles.
So try to wash your hair less often and stick to refreshing your curls on the days following your wash day instead of having to completely wet and restyle your hair daily.
Follow A Balanced Protein-Moisture Curly Girl Routine
To fix a moisture overload problem, add more protein into your curly girl routine.
Just be careful and avoid using protein rich products at each stage of your curly hair routine as you will run the risk of protein overload.
Instead, select a few curly girl products that contain protein to include in your curly girl routine:
Pre Poo Treatment
Sulphate Free Shampoo
Strengthening Deep conditioning mask or treatment
Leave in conditioner
Curl Cream
Gel or mousse
The best way to find out exactly what your hair responds to is to experiment. Try out different curly girl products with proteins to see how your hair reacts.
Curly Girl Method Protein Products
These curly girl approved products contain protein ingredients and are incredible for your hair. To purchase on Amazon, just click the product 🙂
Sometimes, it’s hard to tell if you’re experiencing a moisture or a protein overload. The first way you can tell is to assess your current curly girl routine:
Are you washing your hair too often?
Are you wetting and drenching your hair daily?
Do you use conditioner too often ?
Do you leave your conditioner on your hair longer than recommended ?
Check your current curly girl products to see if your routine is too moisture rich
In addition to answering those questions, this table can help you determine whether you are experiencing a moisture or protein overload.
Moisture Overload Signs
Protein Overload Signs
Hair strands stretch with no bounce back
Hair strands have little to no stretch & break easily
Hair is too elastic
Low elasticity strands
Limp hair
Dull hair
Dry, brittle hair
Hair tangles easily
Hair feels soft & mushy
Hair feels rough & stiff
Loose, undefined curls
Stringy, undefined curls
Frizzy hair
Moisture Overload vs Protein Overload Signs
Knowing what your hair needs is the first step in restoring the moisture, protein balance so that you can get back your defined, bouncy curls. I hope that you’re gained a lot of insight from this post to help you!
Knowing how to refresh curls in the morning after sleeping is a necessity for every curly girl.
You want your defined curls to last all week without much effort but does your curly hair have second day frizz or third or fourth day limp curls?
Try the steps in this post to help you learn how to refresh your curly or wavy hair so that your hair still looks gorgeous long after wash day.
Affiliate Disclosure: “This post contains affiliate links, which means I receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase using this link.”
Refreshing second day curly hair and curls throughout the week can take just a few minutes each morning.
As the week progresses, you may find that your curly hair gets more volume and has the potential to look fabulous with little effort from you.
Refreshing your curls throughout the week starts before refreshing steps even starts.
Follow these curly girl tips before you even get to refreshing your hair throughout the week:
1. Have a good wash day
The first thing you need to ensure to make refreshing curly hair a breeze is to have a good curly girl wash day routine that will give you long-lasting results.
2. Use water activated curly girl styling products
Using styling products that have water as the first ingredient means that it’s activated when you apply water. So, to refresh second day curly hair, sometimes all you need to do is use water to reactivate the product, redefine your curls by finger coiling unruly curly strands, or by scrunching and dry.
How you sleep with your curly hair determines how difficult your refresh routine has to be.
The less your curls and waves are disturbed while you sleep, the less frizz you have in the morning, the easier it will be to refresh your curls in the morning.
Curly Girl Refresh Routine
Now let’s jump into the actual curly hair refresh steps. Here’s how I refresh 2nd day curly hair and the rest of the week, after sleeping on it to get the best results.
Dampen curls with water
Apply curly girl styling product
Define frizzy or undefined curls
Scrunch for maximum curl definition
Dry
Apply serum
Dampen your curls with water
Start refreshing your curls by dampening with water. You can do this by using a misting spray bottle all over your hair.
At this point, if your curls just needed a little water to reactivate the products you used on wash day, simply skip the next step and jump to step 3.
Apply Curly Girl Products
If your hair needs more hydration and/or hold, then apply a small amount of your product at this point.
Using the praying hands technique, smooth your preferred curly girl hair product over your unruly curls to tame the frizz.
You don’t want to rake your fingers through your curls to mess with the curl pattern you’ve already created.
Define your curls
If you have any loose or undefined curls, you can finger coil those curl clumps to redefine them and remove frizz.
Scrunch
Scrunch your curls to achieve maximum definition and move on to the final step.
Dry your refreshed curls
Dry your hair with your preferred method – diffuse or airdry your refreshed curls.
Finish with serum or oil
If your hair needs a little extra shine, to finish your curly hair refresh, you can gently smooth a small amount of your favorite serum or hair oil.
Adding a serum or oil, will also help to soften your curls if you added gel in step 2.
How To Refresh Curls In The Morning Without Water
Using water to refresh your curls is not necessary for all curly and wavy girls. In fact, some curls and waves react badly when water is added on refresh days.
Some curls and waves just need a little oil or serum to refresh second day curls.
If you’re one of those, all you need to do is rub some serum or oil in the palm of your hands and gently smooth it over curls to refresh them. Give your waves or curls a scrunch and that’s it!
This should instantly tame any frizzy curly hair and add shine.
How To Refresh Wavy Hair In The Morning
Refreshing 2a 2b 2c hair is similar to refreshing curlier hair.
The main difference I’ve noticed is that wavy hair doesn’t need to be dampened in the same way as curlier hair.
Most wavy girls get the best refresh results with using little to no water at all.
If needed, apply some dry shampoo to your crown to get more volume
Apply a curl refresher spray like Aussie’s Curl Refresher or a serum oil
Scrunch
Air dry or diffuse if you used water
How To Refresh Curls After A Workout
The great news for curly girls is that you don’t have to wash your hair after each workout.
A good routine to refresh your curly hair after a workout will save you from having to wash your hair too often. Dry shampoo is your best option to cleanse and refresh.
Before we talk about an after workout hair routine, let’s think about your wavy or curly hair before working out. It’s best to secure your curls or waves in a high ponytail or loose curly bun to preserve your curls.
If your hair is too short to go in a pony tail is to just use a hair band to keep your hair out of your face.
Try these tips after your workout to refresh your curls or waves:
Take your hair out of your ponytail or curly bun and gently fluff your roots
Spray some water on your curls
Apply a root refresher or dry shampoo
Next, if your wash day products aren’t activated by water or if you curls need more product, apply your preferred curly girl product, like a leave-in conditioner or curly girl gel.
Finger curl any loose curls that lost definition
Scrunch
Dry as usual – air dry or diffuse
Refresh Day Curly Hair Products
Most curly girls will need different products depending on the refresh day. For instance:
Day 2 Products for second day curls
To refresh your second day curls, you may not need to add any product. Dampening your hair with just a little water to reactivate your curls will do the trick.
However, if you need some extra moisture, you could apply your favorite curly girl leave in conditioner or your diy refresh spray. To make your own refresh spray, simply combine your favorite leave in conditioner with some water in a spray bottle and that’s it! You have your own curly girl spray to refresh your curls throughout the week.
Day 3 refresh products
Your day 3 curls may be getting a bit drier so using a curly girl cream styler may be best. If you also need some extra old, add a small amount of mousse or gel.
Day 4, 5 and 6 curly girl refresh products
From day 4, I typically always need water, leave in conditioner, and a little gel to refresh my curls and tame frizz. I also finger coil any loose, undefined curls.
Try these curly girl products for to refresh your curls. You can easily purchase any of these on Amazon by clicking on the link or you should be able to find them at your local drugstore.
Use products with water as the first ingredient so that on refresh days, adding a little water to your curls will reactivate the curly products you used on day 1 (your wash day).
Experiment with techniques and products until you get the refresh results that make you and your curls happy
I hope these curly and wavy hair refresh tips help you to have easier refresh days with better results.
Have you found a refresh day routine that your love? How do you refresh your curls throughout the week? And, what are your favorite curly or wavy hair refresh products?
Before you go, check out these other curly girl posts:
What Is Wet Frizz, Webbing Curly Hair – Causes & How To Fix It
As a curly girl, I’m sure you’ve experienced wet frizz, halo frizz or hair webbing after washing your hair or after applying your styling products.
And, I’m sure you’ve wondered if the wet frizz you see is normal for your curly hair.
Today, let’s learn about wet frizz – what is it, what causes it and how to handle unruly wet frizzy curly hair.
The truth is that a little wet frizz is totally normal and ok.
It’s pretty common among curly girls and doesn’t always mean that your hair is unhealthy.
In fact, a little frizz can even add to the beauty of your natural textured hair.
Affiliate Disclosure: “This post contains affiliate links, which means I receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase using this link.”
Wet frizz as the name suggests is when you experience frizz when your hair is still wet. Your curls don’t clump together and instead, you have strands of hair that dry faster and “fly away”.
The biggest issue with wet frizz is that it will be frizzy when it’s dry.
Wet frizz often occurs after washing, applying styling products and through the air drying process.
If you look at the picture of my wet curly hair below, you can see some of the strands aren’t clumped with the rest – this is what wet frizz looks like.
curly hair wet frizz – curlybunmom.com
The best way to reduce frizz while your hair is wet, is to ensure that you use the proper curly girl methods and products to maintain a healthy moisture/protein balance.
Is Wet Frizz Normal?
Yes, a small amount of wet frizz is totally normal and your hair will typically dry well, with minimum frizz.
If you have a lot of wet frizz, it is most probably a sign that your hair needs some moisture and some TLC.
What Is Halo Frizz
Halo frizz refers to frizz that only occurs on the crown of your head.
A very easy and quick fix for halo frizz is spray a little water or apply a water with your hands on the frizz.
This can reactivate the products you styled your curls with, or you can apply a little more gel and finger coil the frizzy curls.
What Is Hair Webbing
Hair webbing refers to the way your frizzy curly strands stick or web together when you try to separate them.
Hair webbing is ultimately a sign that your hair needs hydration.
What Causes Wet Frizz
The main cause of frizz is dry, dehydrated hair.
Dry hair tends to be brittle which causes split ends, breakage and of course, frizz.
Causes Of wet frizz:
damaged hair from heat or harsh chemicals
washing hair with harsh sulfates
product buildup
not following curly girl styling techniques (using a regular towel to dry hair, for instance)
not protecting your curls while you sleep
How Do You Get Rid Of Wet Frizz
So, how to fix wet frizz on curly hair?
The quickest way to fix wet frizz on your curly hair the first step is to hydrate your curls by adding more water to your hair before styling.
The easiest way to do this is by using your hands to smooth some water on your hair.
Your curls should clump together quickly and you should have little to no wet frizz.
If you’re still experiencing wet frizz, especially at the roots, after adding the water to your wet frizz, finger coil the unruly curly hair.
To fix wet frizz, it’s also crucial that you follow a moisturizing curly girl routine, filled with hair masks, treatments, leave-in conditioners, and curl girl creams.
Use curly hair products with moisturizing ingredients high up on the list, such as:
Apply hydrating styling products on wet or damp hair
Use styling brush to define curls
Plop hair before drying
Diffuse your hair on low – medium heat
Try the curly girl method
Try different curly girl products
Cleanse with a gentle, sulphate free shampoo
To fight wet frizz, choose a gentle sulfate free, low poo shampoo to cleanse your scalp and hair from buildup. Using a shampoo with sulfates may strip your already dry hair from the natural oils and moisture that it really needs.
If your hair and scalp has a lot of build up, you may need to clarify your hair with a clarifying shampoo.
Clarifying your hair is more of a deep cleanse to remove build up and residue from products that may be blocked moisutre from entering your hair’s shaft.
Deep conditioning, every week, with the right deep conditioner, changed my curly hair’s health the most.
Deep conditioning is one of the most important steps you can take to maintain healthy, curly hair.
By doing it every week, you ensure that your curls are hydrated and less prone to breakage.
Curly hair is naturally dryer than straight hair, so it needs all the hydration it can get.
Deep conditioning replenishes moisture levels, making curls softer and shinier.
Deep conditioning with a protein treatment will also help if your hair needs to be strengthened.
By fortifying your strands with a weekly treatment, you can keep your hair looking healthy and vibrant.
Finally, deep conditioning gives your curls a boost of definition and helps to tame frizz, including wet frizz. If you want your curls to look their best, make sure you’re deep conditioning on a regular basis!
For your curly hair to be healthy and less dry and frizzy, protein moisture balance is critical and the prodcuts you choose for your hair will help to create and maintain this balance.
Before choosing your deep conditioner, assess your hair to determine if it needs a protein treatment or a hydrating deep conditioner.
Drying your hair with your bath towel is a great way to ensure that you get wet frizz and damage your hair.
The friction from your hair rubbing against the towel’s material can lead to damaged, frizzy curls.
Instead, after rinsing your deep conditioner, gently wrap your curls using a cotton tshirt or microfiber towel. These materials are much gentler ont he hair shaft, therefore reducing wet frizz.
Apply Styling Products On Wet Or Damp Hair
Applying your curly girl products while your hair is wet or damp helps to lock in moisture and minimize wet frizz.
Some curly girls get best results when they apply products to soaking wet hair and others, like me, get the best results when applying styling products to damp hair.
If you encounter some wet frizz while applying your styling products, simply dampen your hair before applying your products.
Another styling tip to reduce wet frizz is to always use a gel or mousse to form a gel cast over your defined curls.
Switching your products may be all that you need to do to reduce the wet frizz that you’re experiencing.
Using more moisturizing products and a stronger hold gel may do the trick. Or, using products that are free from harsh sulfates, parabens and silicones may be best for you.
Perhaps, you just need to add a clarifying shampoo to your curly routine to reset your hair.
Assess your hair and current products and try experimenting with different products.
These are my favorite curly girl products for wet frizz that help to tame my unruly hair every time. You can easily purchase any of these products on Amazon by clicking on the links 🙂
Olaplex Number 0 and Number 3
One of the best products to help damaged curly hair is the build the bond treatment from Olapex.
At the end of the day, some frizz is expected, especially if you’re a curly girl. The key is to ensure that you’re using the best products to fight frizzy and using curly girl techniques to apply and treat your curls.
Try the curly girl method to improve the health of your curly hair and always experiment with curly girl approved products to find the best for your curls.
Before you go, check out these other curly girl posts:
How To Define Your Curls – Make Your Curls More Defined & Tighter
You’ve landed here because you’re looking for tips to make your curls more defined and tighter? Maybe you’re even looking for ways to make your hair curlier.
In this curly hair post, find out how to define your curls in 7 easy steps. Achieving maximum curl definition is a goal for every curly girl I know and if you’re not getting frizz free, defined curls then it’s time to make that dream a reality.
Affiliate Disclosure: “This post contains affiliate links, which means I receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase using this link.”
Why Your Curls Are Not Defined & Tighter
Maybe you’ve been trying some curly hair routines and you just aren’t getting your desired results. This is probably leaving you to wonder “why are my curls not defined?”
There are a few reasons your curls are not defined, you don’t know:
Try these curly girl tips to get defined, frizz free curls every time!
Cleanse your hair with sulfate free curly girl hair shampoo
Condition and deep condition every week
Use a curl friendly towel or cotton t shirt to dry your curly hair
Style your curly hair wet or damp
Style with curl defining or curl enhancing products
Use curly girl styling techniques that encourage defined curls
Do not touch or manipulate your curls while it’s drying
Cleanse With Sulfate Free Curly Girl Shampoo
Use a shampoo that gently cleanses your hair. Shampoo that is sulfate free will gently cleanse your scalp and clarify your curls from products without damaging or drying out your curls.
This helps with curl definition because your curly hair will be more hydrated which is necessary for defined curls.
For Defined Curls, Condition & Deep Condition Every Week
Condition your curls with a product that is hydrating and provides sufficient slip for detangling.
Regardless of your curly hair type or hair porosity, you should aim to deep condition your curls every week.
Use A Curl Friendly Towel To Dry Curls
After rinsing, gently squeeze out excess water and wrap your curls in a microfiber towel or cotton tshirt. This reduces frizz and breakage which will help with curl definition.
For Curlier Hair, Style Your Hair Damp or Wet
While your hair is still wet or damp, apply curly girl products that are designed to provide curl definition.
While some curly girls get more defined curls by applying curl defining products to damp hair, some get better results by applying to very wet hair – even styling while still in the shower!
Experimenting is the best way to find what will work best to define your curly hair.
I’ve found that I get best results by applying my curl defining products on damp hair for the most part, but my curls near the crown of my head respond better when I apply products when they’re wet.
Style With Curl Defining Products
The curl defining product you use will vary depending on your curly type and health of your hair.
Some curly girls, like me, need to layer products to achieve defined, frizz free curls. While other curl girls can apply one curl defining products to achieve defined curls.
The best tip for getting defined curls is to use products that provide a cast on your hair. Casts are awesome for curl definition and it’s very easy to break the cast so that your end results are soft, frizz free, defined curls.
Again, experimenting is your best option here.
Curly Girl Styling Techniques To Define Your Curls
The styling technique that you use is very important if you want to make your curls more defined and tighter. Let’s briefly talk about them.
Finger coiling
Prayer hands
Denman brush
Scrunching
Plopping
Diffusing
Finger Coil To Make Your Hair Curlier
Finger coiling is my favorite way to train your curls, get more curl definition and make your hair curlier.
To finger coil, with a curl defining product in your hair, take small sections of your hair and twist the section around your finger to encourage your hair to curl and form ringlets.
To encourage volume, try to hold and twist the sections upright.
It takes some time to finger coil all of your hair but the results are worth it!
Over time, you will train your curls to fall into that curl pattern on their own and you may no longer need to do this when styling.
When you’ve finger coiled all of your hair, end with gently scrunching your hair.
Apply products with “Prayer Hands”
Applying hair products with prayer hands is a great way to smooth your curl-defining products in your curls. This helps to minimize frizz and get you more defined curls.
To apply, with product in the palms of your hands gently press and glide your hands over the length of a section of your hair (from top to bottom).
Use the same technique until all of your curls have product.
Style Using A Denman Brush
A curly girl favorite styling technique is using the Denman brush. It ensures the products are distributed evenly and smoothly throughout your hair. It also defines your curls by clumping them together in smaller sections.
Working in sections, after applying your curl defining product, brush each section to smooth the product and achieve curl definition.
To get more volume with your Denman brush, brush your curls away from your scalp.
Scrunch Your Curly Hair
Scrunching has to be the most popular styling technique for any curly girl. I don’t know any curly girl who doesn’t scrunch to style and to scrunch out the crunch. When you scrunch your curls, you encourage them to curl more and become more defined.
Plop your curls
Plopping is also popular with curly girls to get defined curls.
After applying your curly girl products, lay an old cotton t shirt flat on your bed or chair with the neck and sleeves closest to you. Next, flip your hair over so that your curls are upside down.
Gently place your curls and head over the cotton t-shirt. Roll the neck of the t-shirt so that it’s on your forehead.
Then, secure your hair by folding the end of the tshirt to reach your neck and using the sleeves tye it around your head.
Diffuse to get more defined curls
Drying your curly hair with a diffuser is a game-changer when you’re looking for more defined curls. There are many youtube videos to show the best way to diffuse for maximum volume and curl definition.
Don’t Touch Your Defined Curls
If you’re anything like me, you love to play with your curls. I’m obsessed. But it’s a bad habit when you want to maintain your defined curls.
The more your touch your hair, the more your curls will frizz.
This is especially true while your hair is air drying and before the cast is set. It will encourage frizz and your curls may even lose defintion.
Even after you’ve dried your hair, try to touch and manipulate your hair as little as possible to maintain your curly definition.
Curly Girl Products To Make Curls Defined & Tighter
To get defined curls, use curly girl products that are designed to enhance curls.
These products are usually labeled as “curl activating”, curl defining or curl enhancing. They work well by providing slip for curl formation.
They also create a cast on your curls to preserve your frizz free, defined curls longer.
Some key ingredients to look out for in your curly hair products for defined curls are:
Aloe Vera
Flaxseed
Hydrolyzed rice protein
Hydrolyzed wheat protein
To get started, try my favorite curly girl approved drugstore products for definition. You can click on any of these to purchase from Amazon.
I hope you use these tips to make your curls defined, tighter andd get maximum curl definition every time. Bookmark this post so that you can reference it until these curly hair practices become part of your curly hairstyling routine.
Let me know in the comments below if these tips worked and if you have any secrets to getting defined curls. 🙂
Before you go, check out these other curly girl posts:
The Curly Girl Method: Easy Steps & Routine For Beginners
The curly girl method is a process of caring for natural hair types (wavy, curly, coily). It involves healthy hair care practices that work well to repair and improve the health of your curls.
In this post, I’m going to share with you:
the curly girl method steps
affordable curly girl method approved products
an easy, no fuss, curly girl hair routine
If you’ve landed here, you already know that this method may be just what your hair needs.
So, bookmark this page to refer to it as often as you need on your curly hair journey.
Please note, however, that this is not a full or detailed overview of the cg method. If you’d like to know everything, you can get the CGM book written by Lorraine Massey.
Affiliate Disclosure: “This post contains affiliate links, which means I receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase using this link.”
The curly girl method is a simple, but effective method that aims to prevent damage to the hair shaft and to promote healthy natural curls for those with textured hair.
The method focuses on gentle cleansing, conditioning, and styling your hair with products that contain certain ingredients specifically designed to protect and enhance the health of naturally curly and wavy hair.
When you follow the curly girl method, the main change is probably that you’ll be ditching many products that contain harsh and damaging ingredients with better, curly girl method-approved products.
By following these steps (outlined below), you can prevent your hair from becoming dry and frizzy, and achieve the sleek, bouncy texture that you desire.
For reference, the curly girl method is also referred to as cg method or CGM.
Curly Girl Method Steps: How To Start The CG Method
To start the curly girl method, there are a few steps we first need to take:
It’s also important to find out your curly type, porosity, and overall health of your hair. Knowing your curl type and porosity will ultimately drive your curly hair product choice and styling technique.
If you’re not sure if your hair is damaged, perform the following simple test:
Run your fingers through your hair. If it feels dry and straw-like, there’s a good chance that it is damaged.
Another telltale sign of damage is when your hair breaks easily or has split ends.
If you have any of these symptoms, it’s time to start a new hair routine that will help to repair and strengthen your hair.
2. Use Only Curly Girl Method Approved Products
Next, it’s time to get rid of your curly hair products that are not CGM approved and replace them with approved products.
When shopping for curly girl method approved products, it’s important to read the ingredient list to make sure the product is free of harsh chemicals mentioned below in this post.
If you’re unsure that the product you want to use is cg approved, just enter it on a site like Curlscan to check.
Be sure to grab a few of the recommended cg products below to get started as well as check out the links below this article for more curly girl approved product options.
3. Ditch Your Heat Styling Tools
When following the CGM, your flat iron and curling iron are useless!
The high heat from hair dryers, curling irons and straighteners can cause significant damage to your curls, leading to frizz, split ends and even hair loss.
Give your hair a break and let it air dry as often as possible to allow it to regain its natural curl pattern.
If you must use heat styling tools, try to keep the temperature on the low or moderate setting and avoid using them every day.
Also, make sure to use a good quality heat protectant spray or serum to help shield your hair from damage.
4. Trim Straight Or Stringy Ends
Depending on the state of your hair, you can opt to get a trim before you jump into following the cg method. This will help you to start with the healthiest hair possible.
Some girls prefer to do a big chop and cut off the damaged length of their hair.
Of course, this will leave you with pretty short hair but the newer growth will be much healthier and curlier than the damaged parts.
This way you also don’t have to go through a transition phase and you don’t have to train your curls.
Instead, you will be following the cg method to ensure that your new growth is healthy and well defined.
5. Clarify Your Hair To Remove Build Up
It’s important to ensure tht you start off your cgm journey with a clean slate by using a clarifying shampoo to remove heavy product build-up.
This leaves your wavy hair or curly hair looking greasy, lymph, frizzy and can lead to scalp issues like dandruff or dryness.
CG approved clarifying shampoos are gentle enough to remove all the build-up without stripping away our natural oils.
Textured hair is prone to dryness and frizziness, so it’s important to give them a good deep conditioning treatment at least once a week.
After a deep conditioning treatment or mask your curls will get the moisture and protein it needs, resulting in incredibly soft and hydrated waves or curls.
For best resutls, be sure to always leave the product in your hair for the recommended time on the product’s instructions
Some people apply their styling products to soaking wet hair before getting out of the shower. Depending on your hair porosity, this may work well for you.
Personally, it has never worked well for me. Others, like myself, get better results by styling their curls damp.
Experiment to see what’s best for your curls.
Whether you style on soaking wet or damp hair, it’s important to evenly distribute your styling products.
You can achieve this by taking a sufficient amount of products into the palm of your hands and gently raking it through your hair or, smoothing it over your hair.
Lastly, gently scrunch your hair for definition.
Take away:
Styling Techniques To Avoid
When following the cg method you also need to avoid certain styling techniques that will damage your curls and cause frizz.
never brush dry curls
terry cotton towels
heat styling tools
Instead, Style Using CG Method Approved Techniques Like:
finger detangle, use detangling brush or wide tooth comb
After styling, you can plop your hair with a tshirt for about 20 minutes.
Then, air dry or diffuse your hair.
Air drying will take longer and typically results in less volume. The cg method does recommend root clipping to give lift and volume. If you’re starting with damaged hair, this is your best option.
For healthier curly hair, and once done right, diffusing your curly hair will leave you with defined, frizz-free, voluminous curls.
If you choose to diffuse, remember that this method recommends that you don’t use any heat. So don’t put your blow dryer settings on high heat, try cold air.
4. Scrunch Out The Crunch
Once your hair is dry, gently scrunch your curls to get rid of the gel cast.
This step will leave you with soft, defined curls.
Ingredients To Avoid In Your Curly Girl Method Products
If you want a more comprehensivelist of ingredients to avoid in your products, check this list.
One of the most important things you need to do to get started with the CG method is to become aware of the ingredients to avoid and the best products to use.
When you’re following this method, it’s important to avoid harsh ingredients in your hair products.
Harsh ingredients can strip your hair of its natural oils and moisture, leading to dry and damaged hair.
Some common harsh ingredients to avoid include sulfates, silicones, drying alcohols and mineral oils.
harsh sulfates – like Sodium Laureth Sulphate
drying alcohols – for example ethanol or propyl alcohol
non water soluble silicones – like dimethicone
Sulfates are harsh cleansers that strips the natural oils and moisture from your hair. They can leave your hair feeling “squeeky clean” and dry. Instead try any of the sulfate free shampoos below.
Drying alcohols can be found in gels and mousses and will damage your curly hair by causing it to be extra dry, frizzy and of course, brittle.
Silicones are found in conditioners and styling products and don’t damage your hair as the other ingredients do.
However, they can build up over time causing your hair to be frizzy and dry, leading to damage and breakage.
The CG method argues that you need a shampoo with sulfate to clarify your hair after using silicones.
There’s been a bit of discussion on whether all types of silicones require sulfate to wash it out or not – I think it’s best to experiment to see what’s best for your curly hair.
If your hair is damaged and you’re now starting out, it’s probably a great idea to stay away from the recommended ingredients until you’re hair is repaired and healthy.
Other Curly Girl Products You Must Try
To ensure that you’re equipped to give your curly hair the best care, pick up these products as well:
How Long Does It Take For The Curly Girl Method To Work
The length of time it takes for the curly girl method to work depends on the health of your hair when you start. However, most see results within six weeks.
If you’ve been using damaging products and heat styling for a very long time, it may take you longer than someone who had not been.
If you decide to try the CG method, it’s important to note that in the beginning, it’s very possible that your hair will look worse before it gets better.
The reason is that you’ll be trading in products with silicones and other ingredients that coat your hair with products that temporarily make your hair look good, with clean ingredients.
So, stick with it and take progress photos so that you can see the improvements as you go along.
Can Anyone Do The Curly Girl Method
Anyone with a textured hair type will benefit from following the curly girl method.
By giving up on damaging hair products and practices, girls with wavy hair and curly hair can see a remarkable improvement in the health and definition of their hair.
The good thing is that over time I’ve found the best products and practices for my curly hair that leaves me with healthy, defined curls, which is always the desired result.
My best advice to you is to experiment and find the best products and routines for your curly hair care and journey.
What about you? Will you try the curly girl method? If you’ve tried it, I’d love to hear your thoughts below.
Before You Go, You Will Love These Other Posts For Curly Hair:
