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Curls can be hard to figure out.
But as I recently learned, it doesnt have to be that complicated.
What is the Curly Girl Method?
Curly hair spans a diverse range of textures, from loose 2A waves to tight, springy 4C coils.
My curls before the Curly Girl Method
Due to its anatomical structure, curly hair has a hard time holding onto hydration.
Below are the methods guiding principles.
Instead, it calls for co-washing, or using a conditioning shampoo.
Conditioner washing (co-washing) is washing yourhairwith a specialty formulated conditioner, says hairstylistKristan Serafino.
Curly girls should trade their regular shampoo for a sulfate-free formula.
There are a few different options on the market that fit the bill.
Sulfates are just one of the stripping ingredients that the Curly Girl Method requires you to stay away from.
Double down on moisture.
Heat can take a toll on all hair types, but curly hair is especially vulnerable to damage.
My curls before the Curly Girl Method
Letting your curls dry naturally helps maintain their health, definition, and bounce.
Never dry, says Chong.
And if heat is absolutely needed, use a diffuser, she stresses.
Even without heat in the equation, you still want to air-dry with care to avoid damage.
I let my curls air-dry so I could have a baseline and see my curls pre-CGM.
I was…less than impressed.
Ive cycled through three washes with the method, mixing things up slightly every time.
One thing I know for sure, though?
It will take time for curls to be at their best, so be patient, says Chong.
Though it can be tempting to play with your newly bouncy curls, dont do it.
Touching your curls throughout the day will mess with their integrityand thats especially true when theyre still wet.
Use or get consistent restructuring treatments that have protein in them, says Smith.
Curly hair can lack strength, so these are essential for maintaining and improving the health of curly hair.
But it really depends on your lifestyle and your hormones.
Your hairs texture and thickness also play a role in how often it needs a real lather and rinse.
That said, there are a few stylist-approved rules you may want to keep in mind.
In the battle of gel versus mousse versus cream, theres no clear winner.
Some prefer more volume and a fluffed-out end style; some prefer more control.
My hair after the Curly Girl Method
The beauty of this is to play around and find what feels most true to yourself.
Creams are the best option for curly girls who are looking for moisture over definition.
Cream formulas tend to be rich and heavy, so they may weigh down finer textures.
The CGMs conditioner step is sort of a choose your own adventure situation.
Really, its up to youjust verify youre doing something.
Should you brush curly hair?
Never brush curly hairwet, or especially when drybecause this can cause breakage and frizz, says Chong.
Additionally, you’re free to opt for a pre-poo treatment to help with knots.
