Are you struggling to curl your thick curly hair? Do your curls often fall flat or not hold their shape? Don't worry, you're not alone! In this article, we'll walk you through a step-by-step guide on how to curl thick curly hair, including tips and tricks for keeping your curls looking their best.
Table of Contents
How to Curl Thick Curly Hair
Curling thick curly hair can be a challenge, but with the right tools and techniques, you can achieve beautiful, bouncy curls that last all day. Here are the basic steps to follow:
1. Prep Your Hair
Start by washing and conditioning your hair with products designed for curly hair. Apply a leave-in conditioner or curl cream to help define your curls and reduce frizz.
2. Blow-Dry Your Hair
Using a diffuser attachment on your blow dryer, dry your hair on low heat, scrunching your curls as you go. This will help enhance your natural curl pattern and prevent frizz.
3. Section Your Hair
Divide your hair into sections, starting at the nape of your neck and working your way up. Use hair clips to secure each section as you go.
4. Choose Your Curling Iron
For best results, use a curling iron with a barrel size of 1 inch or smaller. This will help create tighter, more defined curls that last longer.
5. Apply Heat Protectant
Before curling each section, apply a heat protectant spray or cream to prevent damage to your hair.
6. Curl Your Hair
Starting at the roots, wrap a small section of hair around the curling iron barrel, holding for 10-15 seconds. Release the curl and let it cool in your hand before moving on to the next section.
7. Finish with Hairspray
Once you've curled all of your hair, use a light hairspray to hold your curls in place without weighing them down.
Step-by-Step Guide
Here's a more detailed look at each step:
1. Prep Your Hair
Before you start curling, it's important to prep your hair properly. Start by washing and conditioning with products specifically designed for curly hair. Apply a leave-in conditioner or curl cream to help define your curls and reduce frizz.
2. Blow-Dry Your Hair
Using a diffuser attachment on your blow dryer, dry your hair on low heat, scrunching your curls as you go. This will help enhance your natural curl pattern and prevent frizz.
3. Section Your Hair
Divide your hair into sections, starting at the nape of your neck and working your way up. Use hair clips to secure each section as you go.
4. Choose Your Curling Iron
For best results, use a curling iron with a barrel size of 1 inch or smaller. This will help create tighter, more defined curls that last longer.
5. Apply Heat Protectant
Before curling each section, apply a heat protectant spray or cream to prevent damage to your hair.
6. Curl Your Hair
Starting at the roots, wrap a small section of hair around the curling iron barrel, holding for 10-15 seconds. Release the curl and let it cool in your hand before moving on to the next section. Repeat this process for each section of hair, working your way up from the nape of your neck to the crown of your head.
7. Finish with Hairspray
Once you've curled all of your hair, use a light hairspray to hold your curls in place without weighing them down.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some additional tips and tricks to help you achieve the perfect curls:
- Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to detangle your hair before styling.
- Don't overdo it with the heat. Too much heat can damage your hair and cause your curls to fall flat.
- Experiment with different curling techniques, such as twisting the hair around the barrel or using a wand instead of a traditional curling iron.
- Try sleeping with your hair in a pineapple or high ponytail to help preserve your curls overnight.
FAQs
Q: How often should I wash my curly hair?
A: It depends on your hair type and personal preference, but many people with curly hair find that washing every 2-3 days is sufficient.
Q: Can I use a flat iron to curl my hair?
A: Yes, you can use a flat iron to curl your hair, but it may take some practice to get the technique right.
Hair Care for Thick Curly Hair
Finally, it's important to take good care of your thick curly hair to keep it healthy and beautiful. Here are some tips:
- Use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner designed for curly hair.
- Avoid brushing your hair when it's dry, as this can cause frizz and breakage. Instead, use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to detangle while your hair is wet.
- Consider getting regular trims to keep your hair healthy and prevent split ends.
- Use a deep conditioning treatment once a week to help nourish your hair and reduce frizz.
With these tips and techniques, you'll be able to curl your thick curly hair with ease and confidence. Remember to take good care of your hair to keep it looking its best!
