Best Hair Care Routine for Curly Hair Beginners

BY PETER BARNES February 6, 2025 7:16 AM GMT+0000

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Curly hair is stunning, but it comes with its own set of challenges. If you’re new to caring for curls, you might feel overwhelmed by the sheer amount of information out there. Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered! In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best hair care routine for curly hair beginners, so you can embrace your natural curls and keep them healthy, defined, and frizz-free.

Understanding Curly Hair

Curly hair is naturally drier than straight hair because the natural oils produced by the scalp have a harder time traveling down the twists and turns of curls. This makes moisture a top priority. Additionally, curly hair can range from loose waves (Type 2) to tight coils (Type 4), and each type has its own unique needs.

Type 2: Wavy Hair – Loose, S-shaped curls that can range from fine to coarse.
Type 3: Curly Hair – Defined, springy curls that form ringlets.
Type 4: Coily Hair – Tight, zigzag curls that are densely packed.

Understanding your curl type is the first step to creating a personalized hair care routine.

Step-by-Step Hair Care Routine for Curly Hair Beginners

Cleansing – Curly hair tends to be dry, so it’s important to cleanse gently to avoid stripping away natural oils.

Use a Sulfate-Free Shampoo or Co-Wash: Sulfates can be harsh and drying, so opt for a sulfate-free shampoo or a co-wash (cleansing conditioner) that cleanses without stripping moisture.

How Often to Wash: Most curly-haired individuals only need to wash their hair 1-2 times a week. Over-washing can lead to dryness and frizz.

Example Product: SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Shampoo is a great sulfate-free option that cleanses while adding moisture.

Conditioning – Conditioning is crucial for curly hair because it helps restore moisture, reduce frizz, and define curls.

Deep Conditioning: Use a deep conditioning mask once a week to provide intense hydration. Look for ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, or aloe vera.

Leave-In Conditioner: After rinsing out your conditioner, apply a leave-in conditioner to lock in moisture and protect your curls throughout the day.

How to Apply: Use a wide-tooth comb to distribute the conditioner evenly from roots to ends. This helps detangle your hair and ensures every strand is hydrated.

Example Product: Maui Moisture Heal & Hydrate + Shea Butter Mask is a deeply nourishing treatment for curly hair.

Styling – Styling products help define your curls and keep them looking their best.

Curl-Defining Products: Use gels, creams, or mousses to enhance your natural curl pattern. These products provide hold and reduce frizz.

Application Techniques:

Scrunching: Apply product to soaking wet hair, then scrunch upward to encourage curl formation.
Praying Hands: Smooth the product over your hair using flat hands to distribute it evenly.
Raking: Use your fingers to rake the product through your hair for even coverage.

Example Product: Eco Styler Olive Oil Styling Gel is a budget-friendly option that provides strong hold without crunchiness.

Drying – How you dry your hair can make a big difference in how your curls look.

Air-Drying: Let your hair dry naturally for a soft, defined look. Avoid touching your hair while it dries to prevent frizz.

Diffusing: If you’re short on time, use a diffuser attachment on your blow dryer. Set it to low heat and low speed to avoid disrupting your curl pattern.

Microfiber Towel or Cotton T-Shirt: Instead of rubbing your hair with a regular towel, gently scrunch out excess water with a microfiber towel or cotton T-shirt. This reduces friction and prevents frizz.

Maintaining – Maintaining your curls between washes is key to keeping them looking fresh and defined.

Nighttime Routine: Protect your curls while you sleep by using the pineapple method (gathering your hair into a loose, high ponytail) or wearing a satin bonnet. Satin pillowcases also help reduce friction and prevent frizz.

Refreshing Curls: On non-wash days, refresh your curls with a water-based spray or a light application of leave-in conditioner. Scrunch your hair to revive your curls and add a bit of product if needed.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Over-Washing: Washing curly hair too often can strip away natural oils, leading to dryness and frizz. Stick to 1-2 times a week.

Using Harsh Products: Avoid shampoos and styling products that contain sulfates and silicones, as they can dry out your hair and cause buildup.

Brushing Dry Hair: Brushing curly hair when it’s dry can cause breakage and frizz. Always detangle your hair when it’s wet and conditioned.

Conclusion

Caring for curly hair doesn’t have to be complicated. With this beginner-friendly hair care routine, you can keep your curls healthy, defined, and beautiful. Remember, every curl is unique, so don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you. Embrace your natural texture, and let your curls shine!

Curly Hair FAQs

How often should I wash my curly hair?

Curly hair tends to be dry, so washing 1-2 times a week with a sulfate-free shampoo or co-wash is ideal. Over-washing can strip natural oils and cause dryness.

What’s the best way to define curls?

Use curl-defining products like gels or creams and apply them using techniques like scrunching or the praying hands method. Diffusing or air-drying can also help enhance curl definition.

Can I brush my curly hair?

Avoid brushing curly hair when it’s dry, as this can cause frizz and breakage. Instead, use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to detangle while your hair is wet and conditioned.

How do I prevent frizz in curly hair?

Use a leave-in conditioner, avoid touching your hair too much while it dries, and sleep on a satin pillowcase or use a satin bonnet to reduce friction.

What’s the pineapple method?

The pineapple method involves gathering your curls into a loose, high ponytail on top of your head before bed. This helps preserve curl definition and reduce frizz overnight.