How to Get Curly Hair: Tips and Tricks for Every Hair Type

We’ve all dreamed of waking up with a head full of bouncy, beautiful curls, only to find our hair looking flat or frizzy. Luckily, with the right techniques and products, you can get the curly hair you’ve always wanted. In this guide, we’ll explore the best ways to get curly hair, whether you have straight hair, wavy hair, or naturally curly hair.

Understanding Your Hair Type

Before diving into curling methods, it’s essential to understand your hair type. Sometimes, it’s more about enhancing your natural curl pattern rather than forcing your hair into a shape that doesn’t suit it. Knowing your hair type helps you choose the most effective techniques and products for long-lasting curls.

• Straight Hair (Type 1): Naturally smooth, straight hair, requires more effort to hold curls and often needs strong styling products and heat.
• Wavy Hair (Type 2): This hair type has a natural S-shape, making it easier to curl, but frizz control is crucial for defined curls.
• Naturally Curly Hair (Type 3): Curls can be enhanced or reshaped with the right methods.
• Coily Hair (Type 4): Naturally tight curls or coils that need moisture and gentle to maintain definition.

Also read: What is my curl type?

How to Get Curly Hair Without Heat

If you prefer to avoid heat damage, these heat-free methods are perfect for getting beautiful curls while keeping your hair healthy. They work especially well for wavy hair and naturally curly hair types.

Braiding Overnight

• How to Do It:
  1. Wash and condition your hair.
  2. Let it air dry until it’s slightly damp.
  3. Divide hair into sections and create tight braids.
  4. Leave them in overnight and unbraid in the morning.
• Best For: Wavy hair and slightly curly hair types.
• Pro Tip: Apply a curl-enhancing mousse before braiding for longer-lasting curls.

Twist-Out Method

• How to Do It:
  1. Divide damp hair into sections.
  2. Twist each section tightly and secure with hairpins or small elastics.
  3. Leave overnight or until completely dry.
• Best For: Naturally curly hair and coily hair types.
• Pro Tip: Use a leave-in conditioner to reduce frizz and add shine.

Bantu Knots

• How to Do It:
  1. Start with damp hair.
  2. Section your hair and twist each section into a small knot.
  3. Secure with bobby pins or small elastics.
  4. Leave overnight and unravel in the morning for springy curls.
• Best For: All hair types.
• Pro Tip: The smaller the knot, the tighter the curl.

Roller Sets

• How to Do It:
  1. Apply a lightweight styling mousse to damp hair.
  2. Roll sections of hair onto foam or velcro rollers.
  3. Allow to air dry or use a hooded dryer for quicker results.
• Best For: Straight and wavy hair types.
• Pro Tip: Use different roller sizes for a more natural, varied curl pattern.

How to Get Curly Hair Using Heat Tools

Heat styling can give you long-lasting curls quickly, but always remember to use a heat protectant to avoid damage.

Curling Iron or Wand

• How to Do It:
  1. Start with dry hair.
  2. Wrap sections around the barrel, hold for a few seconds, and release.
  3. Let curls cool before touching them to set the shape.
• Best For: Straight hair and wavy hair types.
• Pro Tip: Alternate curling directions for a more natural look.

Flat Iron Curls

• How to Do It:
  1. Clamp a section of hair with the flat iron.
  2. Twist the iron while pulling down to create a curl.
  3. Continue this method until all hair is curled.
• Best For: Short to medium-length hair.
• Pro Tip: Use a 1-inch flat iron for more defined curls.

Curl Training: Enhance Your Natural Curl Pattern

Curl training is a technique that helps define your natural curl pattern, making curls more consistent and easier to manage. This technique is great for wavy hair or naturally curly hair that lacks definition.

How to Do Curl Training:

• Start on Wet Hair: Apply a leave-in conditioner or curl cream to wet hair to encourage curl formation.
• Finger Coiling: Wrap small sections of hair around your finger to shape the curls.
• Scrunching: Gently scrunch your hair upwards to enhance the curl pattern.
• Plopping Method: Use a cotton T-shirt or microfiber towel to wrap your hair, allowing curls to form without frizz.

Also read: Isabelle talks about curl training: the secret to beautifully defined curls

How Often Should You Do Curl Training?

Curl training can be done every wash day or once a week, depending on your hair type and how quickly your curls hold their shape. With consistency, you’ll notice more defined curls and improved curl retention.

How to Maintain Curly Hair

To keep your curls looking fresh, follow these basic tips:

• Avoid Over-Washing: Curly hair tends to be drier, so wash 2-3 times a week. Go for co washing instead.
• Use a Diffuser: When blow-drying, a diffuser can enhance curls and reduce frizz.
• Pineapple Method: Gather your hair at the crown with a scrunchie before bed to maintain curls.
• Satin Pillowcase: Reduces friction while sleeping to prevent frizz.

If you want to take your curls to the next level, the Curly Girl Method might be perfect for you. This method focuses on avoiding harmful products like sulfates, silicones, and heat styling tools. By using gentle, hydrating products and embracing natural drying techniques, you can bring out your hair’s natural curl pattern while keeping it healthy and vibrant.

Also read: The Curly Girl Method: steps for a successful curly hair routine

Common Mistakes to Avoid while trying to get curly hair

• Too Much Product: Can weigh down curls and make hair greasy.
• Skipping Heat Protectant: Leads to heat damage and frizz.
• Brushing Dry Hair: Causes frizz and disrupts the curl pattern.
• Using Rough Towels: Instead, dry with a microfiber towel or cotton T-shirt.

Conclusion

Now that you know how to get curly hair, it’s time to experiment and find what works best for your hair type. So go out en get those beachy waves, bouncy ringlets, or tight curls. With a little patience and the right products, you’ll be rocking beautiful curls in no time!