How to Style Curly Hair

Embracing the Beauty and Challenges of Curly Hair

Curly hair is a unique and beautiful hair type that requires a specialized approach for both cutting and styling. Unlike straight hair, curly hair has its own set of challenges, such as frizz, uneven texture, and dryness. However, with the right techniques and products, curly hair can be transformed into stunning, defined curls. Calgary salons are equipped with professionals who understand the intricacies of curly hair and can provide expert care to bring out the best in every curl.

Understanding Curly Hair

Curly hair comes in a variety of types, ranging from loose waves to tight coils. Each type has specific needs:

1. Wavy Hair (Type 2): Loose waves that need lightweight products to avoid weighing down the hair.

2. Curly Hair (Type 3): Defined curls that require moisture and definition without frizz.

3. Coily Hair (Type 4): Tight curls or coils that need heavy moisturization and protective styles to prevent breakage.

Please reference the chart to find your which type of curl you fall under. By learning what type of curl you have, this will help determine the kind of products and style that would best suit your hair. Curly hair demands different cutting techniques compared to straight hair. These techniques help maintain the shape, bounce, and health of the curls.

Cutting Techniques for Curly Hair

When cutting curly hair, the goal is to enhance the natural texture and shape. Here are some best practices:

1. Dry Cutting: Cutting curly hair while it's dry allows the stylist to see how the curls will fall naturally. This method helps in achieving a more accurate shape and length.

2. Curl-by-Curl Cutting: This involves cutting each curl individually to ensure that the hair's natural pattern is respected and enhanced.

In Calgary, several salons specialize in curly haircuts, including Honey Salon, Curl Perfection, and Hedkandi Salon. These salons have trained stylists who use techniques specifically designed for curly hair.

Essential Styling Tips for Curly Hair

Styling curly hair involves a few critical steps to ensure your curls look their best:

1. Washing: Use a sulfate-free shampoo and a hydrating conditioner. Avoid washing your hair too frequently to prevent dryness.

2. Drying: Pat your hair dry with a microfiber towel or a cotton t-shirt to reduce frizz. Avoid rubbing your hair harshly.

3. Styling: Apply a leave-in conditioner, followed by a curl cream or gel while your hair is still damp. Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to distribute the product evenly.

4. Drying: Let your hair air dry or use a diffuser on a low heat setting to enhance your curls without causing frizz. When using a diffuser, it is better work in smaller sections to ensure even distribution of the heat. Plus the less movement with the diffuser the less frizz you will create. 

Choosing the right products is crucial. Look for products that are designed for curly hair, such as curl creams and gels that enhance your curls without weighing them down.

Daily and Long-Term Care for Curly Hair

Maintaining curly hair requires a consistent routine:

1. Daily Routine: Keep your hair hydrated by using a leave-in conditioner and a moisturizing curl cream. Protect your curls at night by using a satin pillowcase or a hair bonnet.

2. Long-Term Care: Regular trims every 6-8 weeks help prevent split ends and keep your curls healthy. Deep conditioning treatments once a week provide the necessary hydration and repair.

Common Curly Hair Styling Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes people make when styling curly hair and how to avoid them:

1. Using the Wrong Products: Heavy products can weigh down curls. Use lightweight, curl-specific products instead. Using straight coconut oil or olive oil that we cook with is not as beneficial as you think it may be. It may seem at first that it looks great, adds shine and feels good, but over time it will cause build up, weighing down your curls. Most professional recommended products have extracted the oils in it to give you the best results. Oribe Curl Gloss or Kevin Murphy Killer.Twirls, these products will help you define your curl while not leaving it feeling silky and light.

2. Over-Washing: Washing curly hair too often can strip it of its natural oils. Stick to washing your hair 1-2 times a week.

3. Heat Damage: Excessive use of heat tools can damage curls. Always use a heat protectant and keep the heat settings low.

Experts recommend understanding your hair type and choosing products and techniques that suit your specific needs.

Understanding and properly caring for curly hair is essential to maintaining its health and beauty. By using the right techniques and products, you can achieve gorgeous, defined curls. If you're in Calgary, consider visiting a salon that specializes in curly hair to get professional advice and styling that will bring out the best in your curls.

To find out more visit www.rootbar.ca

Text or call 403-703-1315 or 587-224-8664 for any questions or inquiries.