Expert tips on styling curly hair
Curly hair is a beautiful and unique feature that deserves celebration, but styling curly hair can sometimes be challenging for stylists and clients when proper techniques or the right products are not in use.
Below are some tips on styling and caring for curly hair clients that will help them learn to embrace their natural texture and achieve gorgeous, defined curls.
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How to style curly hair? Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate!
Since curly hair tends to be dry and prone to frizz, moisture, and hydration are essential. Use sulfate-free shampoos, conditioners, and stylers specifically designed for curly hair. Deep condition the hair to provide intense hydration and nourishment. Apply a leave-in conditioner or curl cream to lock in moisture after each wash.
Incorporate a hydrating hair mask into their service and encourage them to deep condition at home at least once a week to keep curls healthy and moisturized.
Avoid shampooing too often
Long or short curly hair benefits from natural oils, so avoid overwashing to prevent dryness. Encourage clients to wash their hair weekly, bi-weekly, or as needed. To help curb the drying effects of shampooing, advise them to co-wash (using conditioner only) instead to refresh their curls between salon visits.
Co-washing helps retain moisture and prevent stripping natural oils from your hair.
Add definition for your clients’ curly hair style
Apply curl-enhancing products, like curl creams or gels, to damp hair to achieve well-defined curls. Work the product through the hair using your fingers to lock in the curl definition.
Avoid brushing or combing the hair when dry, as it can lead to frizz. Instead, use a wide-toothed comb or fingers to detangle gently while the hair is wet. Diffuse or allow the client to air-dry curls to maintain definition and minimize frizz.
Protecting curly hair styling at night
What clients do to their curls during the day is just as important as how they maintain the health of their hair while sleeping. Educate them about protecting and preserving their hair at night by implementing these protective nighttime hair care regimens.
- Sleeping on a silk or satin pillowcase minimizes friction and prevents frizz.
- Wrapping the hair in a silk or satin scarf or using a silk bonnet protects curls while sleeping.
- “Pineappling” involves gathering the hair on the top of the head with a loose scrunchie or hair-friendly elastic. It helps to protect the hair at night and reduce frizz. When the hair tie is released each morning curls, reappear refreshed and bouncy
Experiment with hairstyles
Embrace the versatility of styling curly hair by helping your clients experiment with different hairstyles. Half-up, half-down styles, loose buns, twist-outs, or top knots are easy styles they can try at home, too. Braids, twists, and bantu knots are great protective style alternatives that help create texture and define curls.
Styling curly hair doesn’t have to be a challenge. With the right products and techniques, you can enhance your client’s curls and help them embrace their natural texture.
Hydrate, define, protect, and experiment with hairstyles to showcase the beauty of curly hair. Help your clients embrace their unique texture as a source of confidence and self-expression.
