HOW TO CARE FOR CURLY HAIR
We’ve created a guide dedicated to men’s curly hair to answer your most common questions!
Our barbers reveal their secrets on how to take care of curly hair in men. When properly cared for, curls can become one of your most striking features. If you have curly hair and struggle to keep it natural and tidy, there’s no need for drastic cuts—just a few simple adjustments can help you avoid frizz or an unkempt look.
1. Why Is Hair Curly?
Before diving into curly hair care, let’s start with an intriguing question: why is hair curly?
The difference between straight and curly hair lies in the speed of cell division in the dermal papilla, a part of the hair follicle. These cells constantly divide to generate new ones, pushing them outward and causing hair growth.
- Straight Hair: When all cells divide at the same speed, hair grows straight.
- Curly Hair: If some cells divide faster than others, one side of the hair grows quicker, creating a curl.
If your hair has changed from curly to straight or vice versa over the years, it could be due to spontaneous DNA mutations, hormonal changes, or certain medical treatments.
2. When to Wash Curly Hair?
Curly hair requires special attention during washing. Overwashing can strip its natural elasticity, making it frizzy.
- Frequency: Shampoo twice a week to retain natural oils and keep curls hydrated.
- Hydration: Use moisturizing products tailored for curly hair.
- Alternative Wash: For very dirty hair, try a co-wash (washing with conditioner only) occasionally to avoid over-cleansing.
3. How to Dry Curly Hair for Men?
Drying is a crucial step in maintaining natural, defined curls.
- Air-Dry: Let curls dry naturally whenever possible.
- Use a Diffuser: If air-drying isn’t an option, use a diffuser attachment on your blow dryer. Always dry your hair upside down to enhance natural volume.
- Pre-Drying Tips: Pat your hair gently with a microfiber towel or cotton cloth to remove excess water before styling.
4. How and When to Comb Curly Hair?
Combing curly hair requires the right approach to avoid disrupting its natural pattern.
- Avoid Dry Combing: Refrain from combing dry hair to prevent frizz.
- Wet Comb: Comb your curls when they’re wet, preferably with a wide-tooth comb.
- Finger-Style: Use your fingers to shape curls strand by strand for a natural look.
5. How to Style Curly Hair?
Styling products play a significant role in managing curly hair.
- Avoid Heavy Products: Steer clear of gels or heavy pastes that flatten curls.
- Hydration First: Use a conditioner during washing, then apply a curl-enhancing cream to shape the curls.
- Choose the Right Products: For daily styling, use mousse or lightweight creams designed for curly hair to add volume and vitality.
The essence of curls lies in their movement—avoid products that stiffen or weigh them down.
6. Maintaining Curly Hair
Curly hair requires maintenance to preserve its shape and vitality between washes.
- Daily Care: Carry a curl spray or leave-in cream for quick touch-ups. Choose a lightweight formula to avoid buildup.
- Hands Off: Minimize touching your hair to prevent frizz and dirt.
- Silk Pillowcase: Sleep on a silk pillowcase to reduce friction, prevent breakage, and maintain curl definition overnight.
Every curly head is unique, and finding the right routine might require some experimentation with products and techniques. Don’t get discouraged—with a bit of daily care and patience, you can achieve and manage stunning curls that showcase your personality!
Take the time to embrace your curls, and they’ll become one of your most defining and attractive features.
