The Definitive Guide to Nurturing Curly Hair: Embracing Those Beautiful Curls

Curls are not just a hairstyle—they're a unique feature glimmering with individuality, a signature look that stands out in any crowd. Yet, for those blessed with these enviable locks, there's often a tale of both love and struggle somewhere in the equation.

Many curly-haired individuals can testify that managing these gorgeous locks can leave one with mixed feelings. Some days, they cascade down like the ripples of a waterfall, while on others, they might resemble a challenging bird's nest that you want no part in dealing with. This duality—the beauty and challenge of managing curly hair—underscores the importance of the proper hair care routine (and knowledge).

Navigating the complex world of curly hair can be daunting, but you're not alone on this journey. With the guidance of seasoned experts who truly understand the intricacies of curly locks, our aim is clear—to change those challenging days into rare occurrences, bringing you more days of obsessing over your ringlets. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about caring for your curly hair and improving your relationship with your mane once and for all.

Before diving into styling curly hair, you need to understand your curl type to better understand your hair needs. LA-based celebrity hair stylist, natural hair YouTuber, and founder of Deeper Than Hair, Annagjid 'Kee' Taylor explains, 'The best way to identify your curl type and pattern is easily determined when your hair is wet.'

When trying to figure out your true hair type, it's best to start with wet hair simply because this is when textured hair specifically has its truest definition.

Each person's hair is a blend of characteristics, creating a unique curl fingerprint. However, Sabrina Ahmed, an Aveda Institute-trained hairstylist, and curlista in her own right says that curl type is only a part of the equation—it's also important to consider things such as porosity. 'To keep your curly hair healthy, make sure to keep it moisturized and trim any dead ends.'

Just as you have a skincare routine, curly hair demands a ritual. Crafting a routine for your curls ensures they remain hydrated, defined, and, most importantly, healthy. According to our experts, here are the basics of building a manageable curly hair care routine.

Ahmed and Taylor both stress the importance of hydration at every step. Like flowers, curls need consistent hydration to bloom fully. Additionally, it's important to note that not all products promising to hydrate, moisturize, or be curl-friendly are created equally—make it a habit to glance at the ingredient label before purchasing. Ahmed also warns against products laden with parabens, sulfates, and alcohol, as they can strip your hair of natural oils.

Every curly-haired individual has tales of battling frizz or waking up to undefined curls. Taylor believes that these challenges often arise from a combination of the products used and simply needing to be more gentle with your curls. Ahmed concurs, adding that product buildup and inappropriate hair techniques can exacerbate these issues.

Both experts swear by regular deep conditioning sessions to give thirsty curls the hydration they crave. Ahmed also advocates for techniques like the 'praying hands' method, which involves smoothing products over your hair as if you're praying and gently scrunching to boost curl definition.

One true misconception about curly hair is that it's hard or nearly impossible to style—both experts agree that this is a myth and recommend bonding with your curls by trying different styles.

'With curls, my favorite thing to do is to give yourself a tease,' says Taylor. 'Not only will teasing your hair give you more volume and definition of the curls, but it is also an effortlessly stunning look for any occasion. I also love adding accessories and braids in the mix to change the look from day to night; just find what works best for you and your needs.'

Embracing curls is also about exploring various styles. Below are some other suggestions that Ahmed cites as go-to styles for curly-headed folks to try every now and then.

Both experts emphasize the importance of the right products and ingredients. Taylor suggests looking for hydrating ingredients like aloe, shea butter, and appropriate hair oils for your hair type and concerns. Below are some favorites from our experts:

NatureLab. Tokyo Perfect 2-in-1 Scalp Scrub and Clarifying Shampoo (Buy It, $19)

As mentioned, starting with clean curls is essential to help your ringlets thrive. Taylor is a fan of NatureLab Tokyo Perfect 2-in-1 Scalp Scrub and Clarifying Shampoo. Its gentle formulation detoxes your scalp and hair without stripping the natural, protective oils.

Andrew Fitzsimons Fantasy Curls Conditioner (Buy It, $16)

Infused with a blend of jojoba and castor oil, Taylor suggests this conditioner for its ability to nourish and hydrate, turning each curl into a soft, bouncy masterpiece. Unlock the magic of perfectly defined curls with this curl-friendly conditioner. 

Garnier Fructis Triple Nutrition Curl Nourish Butter Cream Leave-In Treatment (Buy It, $7)

If there are two things that experts and folks with curly hair around the world can agree on, it's the importance of a good leave-in for styling and definition—and that building a curly hair routine doesn't have to cost a ton of money. Ahmed highly recommends Garnier Fructis Triple Nutrition Curl Nourish Butter Cream Leave-In Treatment as it's an affordable solution for frizz-free curls when air drying. Featuring ingredients like plant protein and coconut oil, this leave-in will serve as your sidekick for nourishing and styling your curls. 

Salwa Curly Hair Chebe Ritual (Buy It, $85)

Finding the perfect curly hair routine takes time, patience, and, inevitably, trial and error. However, Taylor assures us that it doesn't have to be super costly. Opting for a curly kit, like her personal fave from Salwa Curly Hair Chebe Ritual, is a great way to give a curly hair routine a try without committing to full-sized bottles of products. Created by Salwa Peterson, this haircare line uses Chébé seed—an ancient ingredient that has a rich history linked to promoting healthy hair (and is only grown in Chad in Central Africa). 

While it may seem daunting, the quest for flawless curls is a rewarding one. Ahmed's parting advice is to 'Be patient with your curls, enjoy the process, and love them at every stage.' Armed with these expert insights, you can now better navigate the curly hair landscape. Remember, each curl is a work of art; together, they make a masterpiece.