Thick coarse curly hair can be a challenge to care for, but with the right techniques and products, you can achieve healthy, beautiful curls. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about taking care of thick coarse curly hair, from daily maintenance to styling tips.
Table of Contents
- Daily Maintenance
- Washing
- Conditioning
- Deep Conditioning
- Drying
- Styling Products
- Styling Techniques
- Trimming
- FAQ
- Final Thoughts
Daily Maintenance
The key to keeping thick coarse curly hair healthy is to avoid over-washing and over-styling. Try to limit washing to once or twice a week, and use a wide-toothed comb or your fingers to detangle your hair. Avoid using heat-styling tools like straighteners or curling irons too often, as this can cause damage and breakage.
Brushing
When it comes to brushing thick coarse curly hair, less is more. Brushing too often can cause breakage and frizz, so it’s best to stick to detangling with a wide-toothed comb or your fingers. If you do use a brush, make sure it’s a boar bristle brush, as this will help distribute your scalp’s natural oils throughout your hair.
Sleeping
Sleeping with thick coarse curly hair can be a challenge, but there are a few things you can do to prevent tangles and breakage. Try sleeping on a satin pillowcase or using a satin hair wrap to protect your hair while you sleep. You can also loosely braid your hair before bed to prevent tangling.
Washing
When it comes to washing thick coarse curly hair, less is more. Try to limit washing to once or twice a week, as over-washing can strip your hair of its natural oils and cause dryness and breakage. Use lukewarm water and a sulfate-free shampoo to gently cleanse your scalp and hair.
Shampooing
When shampooing thick coarse curly hair, it’s important to focus on your scalp rather than your hair. Massage the shampoo into your scalp, using your fingertips to gently scrub away dirt and oil. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water, making sure to remove all the shampoo.
Co-Washing
Co-washing, or washing your hair with conditioner instead of shampoo, can be a great option for thick coarse curly hair. This method helps to cleanse your hair without stripping it of its natural oils, leaving it soft, moisturized, and easy to detangle. To co-wash, apply a generous amount of conditioner to your hair, focusing on the ends. Use your fingers or a wide-toothed comb to detangle your hair, then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
Conditioning
Conditioning is essential for keeping thick coarse curly hair soft, moisturized, and easy to manage. Use a conditioner that is specifically formulated for curly hair, and apply it generously to your hair after washing or co-washing. Leave the conditioner in for at least 5 minutes before rinsing thoroughly with lukewarm water.
Leave-In Conditioner
For an extra boost of moisture, you can also use a leave-in conditioner on your hair. This type of conditioner is designed to be left in your hair all day, providing continuous hydration and protection. Apply a small amount of leave-in conditioner to your hair, focusing on the ends, and then style your hair as usual.
Deep Conditioning
Deep conditioning is a great way to give your thick coarse curly hair an extra dose of moisture and nourishment. Use a deep conditioning treatment once a week, or as needed, to keep your hair healthy and strong. Apply the treatment to your hair, focusing on the ends, and leave it on for at least 20 minutes before rinsing thoroughly with lukewarm water.
DIY Deep Conditioning
You can also make your own deep conditioning treatment at home using natural ingredients like coconut oil, honey, and avocado. Mix together your chosen ingredients and apply the mixture to your hair, focusing on the ends. Leave it on for at least 20 minutes before rinsing thoroughly with lukewarm water.
Drying
Drying thick coarse curly hair can be a challenge, but there are a few techniques you can use to prevent frizz and breakage. Avoid using heat-styling tools like blow dryers or straighteners, as this can cause damage and breakage. Instead, try air-drying your hair or using a diffuser attachment on your blow dryer.
Air-Drying
To air-dry your hair, gently squeeze out excess water with a microfiber towel or an old t-shirt. Avoid rubbing your hair with a towel, as this can cause frizz and breakage. Once you’ve removed as much water as possible, let your hair air-dry naturally. If you’re short on time, you can also use a hair dryer on a low heat setting.
Diffusing
If you prefer to use a hair dryer, try using a diffuser attachment to prevent frizz and enhance your curls. Attach the diffuser to your hair dryer and set it to a low heat setting. Gently cup your curls in the diffuser and hold it close to your scalp, moving it around to dry your hair evenly.
Styling Products
Styling products can be a great way to enhance your thick coarse curly hair and keep it looking healthy and beautiful. Use products that are specifically formulated for curly hair, and avoid using products that contain alcohol or sulfates, as these can cause dryness and breakage.
Leave-In Conditioner
As mentioned earlier, leave-in conditioner can be a great way to keep your hair moisturized and easy to manage. Apply a small amount of leave-in conditioner to your hair, focusing on the ends, and then style your hair as usual.
Curl Cream
Curl cream is another great styling product for thick coarse curly hair. Apply a small amount of curl cream to your hair, focusing on the ends, and then use your fingers or a wide-toothed comb to define your curls. This will help keep your curls looking bouncy and defined throughout the day.
Styling Techniques
Styling techniques can also play a big role in keeping your thick coarse curly hair looking its best. Try these techniques to enhance your curls and prevent frizz and breakage.
Plopping
Plopping is a technique where you wrap your wet hair in a t-shirt or microfiber towel to help define your curls and prevent frizz. After washing your hair, flip your head upside down and place a t-shirt or microfiber towel on a flat surface. Lower your head onto the towel so that your curls fall onto it, then wrap the towel around your head, securing it at the back. Leave the towel on for at least 20 minutes, then remove it and let your hair air-dry or diffuse as usual.
Pineappling
Pineappling is a technique where you loosely gather your hair at the top of your head, like a pineapple, to prevent tangling and preserve your curls overnight. Before bed, flip your head upside down and gather your hair at the top of your head, securing it with a soft scrunchie. In the morning, remove the scrunchie and let your curls fall back into place.
Trimming
Regular trimming is essential for keeping thick coarse curly hair healthy and preventing split ends and breakage. Aim to get a trim every 8-12 weeks, or as needed, to keep your hair looking its best.
DIY Trimming
If you’re comfortable with scissors, you can also trim your own hair at home. Divide your hair into sections and use sharp scissors to trim off any split ends or damaged ends. Be sure to trim only a little bit at a time, and always cut straight across rather than at an angle.
FAQ
Q: What should I do if my hair is extremely dry?
A: If your hair is extremely dry, try using a deep conditioning treatment once a week, or as needed
