Have you struggled with seemingly unmanageable hair for most of your life? Many curly or wavy haired girls often mistake their locks for straight hair that simply refuses to behave. And of course it seems unmanageable – that’s because many ways of handling straight hair are actually inappropriate for wavy hair, resulting in a frizzy mess. Caring for naturally wavy hair actually requires a whole different routine! (Tips adapted from the Curly Girl method by Lorraine Massey)
Here are 5 tips to get started:
Figure out your hair’s porosity – and moisturize!
Most wavy haired girls have highly porous hair – this means hair cuticles are open and get easily dried out. This is why conditioning often, and using a leave-in condition every two weeks to a month is important – especially so for those who are often out in the sun or do any kind of water sports, or who have gotten their hair chemically treated in any way. (Don’t know how porous your hair is? Find out from this post here.)
Wash your hair upside down for volume
When in the shower, flip your hair upside down and do your shampoo and conditioning routine from there. This allows your curl pattern to start from the root, as gravity and the weight of the water pulling on your strands will not straighten your roots out as much.
Scrunch upwards while conditioning to help define natural waves
Then, with your hair flipped over, apply generous (read: palm full) amounts of conditioner to your hair. Leave it for a couple of minutes, before scrunching upwards. This upward scrunching motion will encourage hair to form its natural wave/curl pattern.
No brushing needed
Detangle your hair in the shower, using a wide-toothed comb, or simply your fingers. Do this while your hair is slick and slippery from the conditioner, which will minimize snagging. Brushing your hair when dry can cause flyaways or frizz.
Protect your waves while you sleep.
Are you a restless sleeper? lf you toss and turn in your sleep, your hair may get tangled and frizzy on a cotton pillowcase. Swap out your regular cotton pillowcase for a silk one. Silk is a much gentler fabric, which reduces friction and can help to prevent damage caused by pulling and snagging. You can also wrap your hair in a silk head scarf before bed to ensure that you wake up with tangle-free strands.
Avoid tight hairstyles like ponytails and buns as they can cause tension on your scalp. Instead, try sleeping in a loose French braid or fishtail braid. The braids will keep your hair out of your face while you’re getting some much-needed shut-eye and ensure you wake up with your waves still intact.
Looking for ways to style or cut your naturally wavy locks? Our stylists are trained to work with all hair types. For any enquiries, reach out to us or make an appointment with us today!