If you had told me ten years ago that I’d be writing a post about curly hair care, I might not have believed you. My hair wasn’t always curly. It started as more of a wavy texture. Then it gradually transformed into the coarse, thick, and long 2C curls I have today. It’s been a journey. I’ll be the first to admit I didn’t always know what to do with my hair. But in the past five years, I’ve finally figured out how to manage and style it in a way that works for me.
I’ve gotten so many questions over the years. They include questions about what products I use and how to enhance natural curls. Two years ago, I wrote a post sharing my routine, but since then, I’ve refined my method and discovered a few new tips and products that have made a big difference. Today, I’m excited to share an updated version of my curly hair routine to answer all those questions and help others on their own curly hair journeys.
1. Wash Routine
I think it’s important to touch on wash routine. I wash my hair twice a week. Curly hair tends to be dry so it’s important not to strip the natural oils. Although I do wet my hair, I simply recondition the ends before styling. Curly hair is best when it is moisturized. To help eliminate product build-up I use a scalp scrubber in between washes.
2. Curly Hair Spray
To avoid the dreaded frizz, I begin my routine almost immediately after my shower with VERY wet hair. By applying product to very wet hair, the clumps of hair form. Eventually, they will dry into pretty curls. I apply hair products from thinnest to thickest in consistency. First I use a curl activator spray like John Frieda Dream Curls. Others work, but this is my favorite. I use 15-20 sprays on my hair.
Right afterwards I apply curling mousse. Again, the brand isn’t as important as the product type. I’ve used DevaCurl, Ouidad, Aussie, Herbal Essences, and Garnier. It all seems to work out well. Application method and the product type is more important. I used about 2 hand fulls of mousse. Yes, it’s a lot of product. And yes, it really helps keep the frizz at bay.
Sometimes I put a bit of curling cream in at this point. But for my hair, it isn’t necessary.
3. Section and Curl Train/Scrunch
Many times curly hair has different curl texture throughout. It’s important to learn what parts of your head have better curl than others. Curl training is how to enhance natural curls and add definition. This is great for to areas that don’t curl as well.
Because I have a lot of hair, I section it and move from bottom to top. I got a Denman brush that really helps define curls and use it when styling my hair. First, I brush though a 1-2 inch section then as I brush I twist the brush so the section is wrapped around the brush. As I pull it loose, it creates a beautiful spiral curl.
After that I move to the middle section. Since the back of my hair doesn’t have as much definition, I normally use this curl training technique for the back of my hair. For the sides and top of my head, I simply brush each section with the Denman, shake it to create an S shaped wave and scrunch a bit.
I don’t normally use this method on my whole head, but wanted a good picture of the results at this point of the process.
4. Gel and Scrunch!
After I’ve gone through section by section with a Denman brush, I add gel to help define and set my curls. I like a strong hold curling gel. Using 2-3 cherry-sized dollops, I rub the gel between my palms and scrunch it into my hair. To avoid disrupting the curl pattern, I carefully scrunch while keeping the hair in my hands, repeating the motion a few times. At this stage, my hair is still very wet and makes a satisfying squishy noise, which is a good sign that the product is evenly distributed.
Learning how to enhance natural curls means focusing on how your hair dries. By ensuring it dries in clumps with other hair strands, you encourage more defined curls and reduce the chance of frizz. Controlling the drying process is key to achieving those smooth, beautiful curls.
5. Diffuse Dry
If my hair is still dripping, I use a microfiber towel to scrunch some of the water out and decrease the drying time. Don’t rub your hair with it though. That will make it frizz and disrupt those curls! A diffuser is very important. Since not all hair dryers have a diffuser, I bought a universal one. It’s so handy when traveling because it can clip onto most dryers. I dry my hair at least 80% of the way or all the way if I have time. Drying it upside down or on each side helps add volume.
half way dry
6. Scrunch the Crunch
That much gel creates a hard cast around each curl. It helps with definition, but doesn’t look cute. To fix that, add a bit of hair oil to palms and scrunch for your hair. It breaks the cast, adds moisture, and adds shine.
I know this process seems excessive. But brushing out my hair and adding the products only takes 10-15 minutes once you get the hang of it. Then another 20 minutes to dry my hair. So it isn’t as time intensive as it looks!
Sometimes I separate some of the bigger spiral curls out to add extra volume.
Conclusion
Learning how to enhance natural curls has been a game-changer for me, transforming my hair care routine and helping me embrace my thick, coarse, 2C curls. From understanding the importance of moisture in a wash routine to mastering the art of curl training with tools like the Denman brush, every step plays a crucial role in achieving defined, frizz-free curls. The right products and techniques, like applying gel to wet hair and using a diffuser for controlled drying, make all the difference in bringing out the natural beauty of curls.
Whether you’re just starting your curly hair journey or refining your own routine, I hope this updated guide helps you feel more confident in styling your curls. With patience, the right methods, and a little experimentation, you can make your curls look their absolute best—naturally!
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Last week’s favorite post was from Lizzie at Lizzie in Lace. While I loved her beautiful dress, her 2025 goals are even better!
P.S. Are you following me on LTK? I post a lot of my daily looks that don’t make it onto the blog. I have been woefully inept at promoting this, but there are many workwear looks for inspiration on there!
LINKING UP WITH WALKING IN MEMPHIS IN HIGH HEELS AND FASHION CANVAS, STYLE WITH A SMILE, TURNING HEADS TUESDAY, CURATED BY JENNIFER, WOW ON WEDNESDAY
