Curly hair can be a blessing and a curse. While it is beautiful and unique, it can also be difficult to style. Messy curly hair can be especially tricky, as it can look messy and unkempt if not styled correctly. In this guide, we will give you tips on how to style messy curly hair, step-by-step instructions, and hair care advice to keep your curls looking healthy and beautiful.
Table of Contents
- How to Style Messy Curly Hair
- Step-by-Step Instructions
- Tips for Styling Messy Curly Hair
- FAQs
- Hair Care Advice for Curly Hair
How to Style Messy Curly Hair
When it comes to styling messy curly hair, less is often more. You want to embrace the natural texture and movement of your curls, rather than trying to tame them into submission. Here are some tips to help you style your messy curly hair:
1. Start with clean, conditioned hair
Before styling your hair, make sure it is clean and conditioned. Use a sulfate-free shampoo and a moisturizing conditioner to keep your curls hydrated and healthy.
2. Apply a leave-in conditioner
After washing your hair, apply a leave-in conditioner to help detangle your curls and add moisture. This will help your curls look defined and bouncy.
3. Use a curl-enhancing product
For messy curly hair, you want to use a product that will enhance your curls without weighing them down. A curl-enhancing cream or gel can help define your curls and add volume.
4. Scrunch your hair
To create a messy, undone look, scrunch your hair with your hands as it dries. This will help enhance your curls and create volume.
5. Use a diffuser
If you want to speed up the drying process while still maintaining your curls' shape, use a diffuser attachment on your hair dryer. This will help distribute the heat evenly and prevent frizz.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here is a step-by-step guide to styling your messy curly hair:
Step 1: Start with clean, conditioned hair
Wash your hair with a sulfate-free shampoo and a moisturizing conditioner. Rinse thoroughly.
Step 2: Apply a leave-in conditioner
Apply a leave-in conditioner to your hair, focusing on the ends. Comb through with a wide-toothed comb to help detangle your curls.
Step 3: Use a curl-enhancing product
Apply a curl-enhancing cream or gel to your hair, starting at the roots and working your way down to the ends. Scrunch your hair with your hands to help enhance your curls.
Step 4: Let your hair air dry or use a diffuser
Let your hair air dry or use a diffuser attachment on your hair dryer. Hold the diffuser close to your head and move it around your scalp to help distribute the heat evenly.
Step 5: Scrunch your hair again
Once your hair is dry, scrunch it again with your hands to help create volume and enhance your curls.
Tips for Styling Messy Curly Hair
Here are some additional tips to help you style your messy curly hair:
1. Avoid brushing your hair
Brushing your curly hair can cause frizz and breakage. Instead, use your fingers or a wide-toothed comb to detangle your curls.
2. Sleep on a silk pillowcase
Silk pillowcases can help reduce frizz and prevent breakage while you sleep. They also help retain moisture in your hair.
3. Use a deep conditioning treatment
Once a week, use a deep conditioning treatment to help nourish and hydrate your curls. This will help keep them healthy and prevent damage.
FAQs
Q: How often should I wash my curly hair?
A: It depends on your hair type and how oily your scalp is. Some people with curly hair can go a week or more without washing, while others need to wash every other day. Experiment to find what works best for you.
Q: Can I straighten my curly hair?
A: Yes, you can straighten your curly hair, but it is important to use a heat protectant and avoid using heat tools too often. Straightening your hair too frequently can cause damage and breakage.
Q: How can I prevent frizz?
A: To prevent frizz, avoid touching your hair too much, use a silk pillowcase, and avoid using towels to dry your hair. Instead, use a microfiber towel or an old t-shirt to gently blot your hair.
Hair Care Advice for Curly Hair
In addition to styling tips, here are some hair care tips to help keep your curly hair healthy and beautiful:
1. Use a sulfate-free shampoo
Sulfates can strip your hair of natural oils and cause dryness. Use a sulfate-free shampoo to keep your curls hydrated and healthy.
2. Avoid using heat tools too often
Heat tools can cause damage and breakage, so avoid using them too often. If you do use heat tools, always use a heat protectant.
3. Trim your hair regularly
To prevent split ends and breakage, get regular trims. Aim to get a trim every 6-8 weeks.
By following these tips and using the right products, you can embrace your messy curly hair and create a beautiful, natural look.
