According to recent studies, curly-haired gals make up over half the population. 65% of American ladies have natural curl, wave, or coil, so it's no wonder more and more goddesses are embracing their natural locks.
Of course, maintaining healthy curls isn't as easy as one may think. With problems like frizzy hair and perpetually dry ends, navigating the masses of curly hair products can be a challenge.
So how are women pulling off these gorgeous, defined curls? Follow along to discover 10 of our favorite tips for healthy curls and start rocking your luscious locks.
1. You Are What You Eat
We hate to be the ones to break it to you, but it all comes back to your diet. Don't get us wrong, we believe in treating yourself once in a while too, however, eating snacks such as potato chips, candy, and processed foods on a regular basis can really wreak havoc on your strands.
If you're noticing your hair is dry, brittle, and prone to shedding, it could be time to change up your eating habits.
Enriching your diet with nutrient-dense foods such as vegetables, beans, and leafy greens can deliver much-needed vitamins to your strands. Beyond this, foods that are rich in omega 3 fatty acids such as salmon, nuts, and seeds can deliver a boost of hydration and strength to your curly or wavy hair.
Can't seem to fit all of these nutrients in? Try taking a vitamin supplement daily and notice the changes not only in your hair, but in your skin, mood, and energy!
2. Cut Back
Is your cabinet packed full of curly hair products? Do your strands (and your wallet) a favor by slashing your product use.
Instead of layering masses of mouse, gel, definer, and whatever else has a curly-haired girl on the package, find one or two products that work for you and stick to them.
The problem with layering products or 'switching it up' frequently is that the build-up left behind from your styling products can weigh down your curls and leave them distressed. Give them some air by giving them a 'reset rinse' with apple cider vinegar and start over simpler.
3. Ditch the Harmful Chemicals
While we're on the subject of curly hair products, let's talk about the elephant in the room. That's right, the chemical concoction.
If you turn your curly hair product over, we're willing to bet you'll find things like sulfate, silicone, wax, or even mineral oil in the ingredients list. Now that you know these terms, avoid them at all costs.
The reason these chemicals are so harmful is that they leave deposits or 'build-up' on the hair that can actually strip away your natural oils. While their mission is to add shine and definition, the product actually works in reverse for the long term.
4. Deep Condition
Curly or wavy hair has a tendency to be much drier than other hair types. This is why you often notice frizzy hair among your curly peers. So how do we avoid these over-dried locks? Adopt a deep conditioning routine and use it often.
In fact, you may even find you can skip harsh shampoos altogether and use a cleansing conditioner to wash. Follow it up with your deep conditioning treatment and you're halfway to the trendy curly girl method!
For best results, leave a small amount of conditioner behind when rinsing and always use cold water to seal up your hair cuticle.
5. Beat the Heat
We're sure it comes as no surprise to hear that heat styling is terrible for your hair health. In fact, constant use of hairdryers, curling irons, and even heat treatment spray is like suicide for your healthy curls.
Whenever possible, let your locks dry without the use of heat. This will allow them to retain more of their natural moisture while forming more defined curls.
6. Towel Overhaul
You know how skincare experts tell you not to rub your face with your rough towel? Well, we're here to tell you the same principle applies to your hair.
The towel you use to dry your body is not the same one you should be using to dry your hair. In fact, rubbing and squeezing the water from your curls with your regular towel is causing dryness, breakage, and split ends.
Instead, invest in a cotton or microfiber hair towel and gently wrap your curls. These products will help your hair dry faster, keep it up while you get ready, and foster healthy curls as you've never seen before.
7. Scrunch Scrunch Scrunch
But how will you possibly get your wavy hair to cooperate without your hairdryer and diffuser? Simple. It's time to learn the scrunch technique.
Instead of brushing out your curls after the shower, flip your head over and give your wet hair a scrunch! Use your fingers to encourage curls, and then tuck them into your new and improved hair towel to dry just the way you like.
No heat, no damage, no problem.
8. Let it Be
Once your curly hair is styled, follow the advice of Mr. John Lennon himself and let it be. Running your hands through your hair, re-scrunching through the day, and even wrapping your curls around your finger is the perfect recipe for dry, frizzy hair and sad styles.
Keep your hair looking fresh and fierce all day long by keeping your hands, pen, and any other fidgeting habit out of there.
9. Give it a Trim
Getting your curly hair cut can be a pain in the butt, but the more you go, the more it'll grow! If you're on a mission for healthy, luscious curls, find yourself a great salon and visit often.
If you aren't up for losing length every visit, ask your stylist about dusting. This is a technique used to take off split ends without sacrificing your hard-earned length.
10. Smooth While You Sleep
Last but not least, it's time to nurture healthy curls around the clock. That's right, even when you are sleeping, your hair can be thriving.
If you're the poster child for frizzy hair in the mornings, it's time to trade in your drying cotton pillowcase for a smoothing satin one. Satin pillowcases are proven to decrease breakage, boost shine, and leave curls looking healthy and beautiful for days on end!
With results like this, you can skip the wash and enjoy soft, defined curls all week long.
Healthy Curls for Beautiful Girls
Now that you know these 10 secrets for healthy curls, you too can enjoy beautiful locks every day of the year. Boost your confidence and rock your hydrated, split-end-free waves, curls, or coils.
Want to get your hands on the curly hair-approved duo that's changing the game? Pick up your Turbie Twist and satin pillowcase today to nurture, hydrate, and smooth your hair into the best hair days ever.