Welcome to the ultimate guide on how to make your African American hair naturally curly! If you're tired of using heat tools and chemical treatments to achieve curls, you're in the right place. In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about how to make your hair curly naturally. From how to prep your hair to the best products to use, we have got you covered.
Table of Contents
Prepping Your Hair
The first step to making your African American hair naturally curly is prepping your hair. Start by washing your hair with a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner. Sulfates can strip your hair of its natural oils, leaving it dry and brittle, which can hinder curl formation.
After washing your hair, use a wide-tooth comb to detangle your hair. Avoid using a brush, as it can cause breakage and frizz. Once your hair is detangled, apply a leave-in conditioner to help moisturize and protect your hair from heat damage.
Next, section your hair into small sections and apply a curling cream or mousse to each section. Make sure to evenly distribute the product throughout your hair. The curling cream or mousse will help define your curls and hold them in place.
Curling Techniques
There are many different techniques you can use to make your African American hair naturally curly. Here are three of our favorites:
Twist Out
Start by sectioning your hair into small sections. Twist each section of hair, making sure to twist tightly. Once all your hair is twisted, allow it to air dry or use a diffuser on low heat. Once your hair is completely dry, unravel the twists to reveal your curls.
Bantu Knots
To create Bantu knots, section your hair into small sections and twist each section tightly. Once twisted, wrap the hair around itself to create a small knot. Secure with a bobby pin or hair tie. Once all your hair is in knots, allow it to air dry or use a diffuser on low heat. Once your hair is completely dry, unravel the knots to reveal your curls.
Finger Coils
Start by sectioning your hair into small sections. Take a small section of hair and wrap it around your finger, making sure to wrap tightly. Once all your hair is coiled, allow it to air dry or use a diffuser on low heat. Once your hair is completely dry, gently separate the coils to reveal your curls.
Products to Use
Choosing the right products is essential when it comes to making your African American hair naturally curly. Here are some of our favorite products:
- Curling Cream
- Curling Mousse
- Leave-In Conditioner
- Coconut Oil
- Shea Butter
Make sure to choose products that are specifically designed for curly hair, as they will help define your curls and reduce frizz.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about making African American hair naturally curly:
Can I make my hair curly without heat?
Yes, you can make your hair curly without heat by using curling creams, mousses, or natural curling techniques like twist outs, Bantu knots, or finger coils.
How often should I wash my hair?
It's recommended to wash your hair once a week to avoid stripping it of its natural oils.
What should I do if my curls are frizzy?
If your curls are frizzy, try using a curling cream or mousse to help define your curls and reduce frizz. You can also try using a diffuser when drying your hair to help reduce frizz.
Hair Care Tips
Here are some hair care tips to help keep your curls looking their best:
- Avoid using heat tools, as they can cause damage and breakage.
- Protect your hair from the sun and harsh weather conditions by wearing a hat or scarf.
- Use a satin or silk pillowcase to help reduce friction and prevent breakage.
- Trim your hair regularly to prevent split ends.
Now that you know how to make your African American hair naturally curly, it's time to get started! Remember to be patient and experiment with different curling techniques and products until you find what works best for your hair.