You’ve embraced your curls, took them for a spin around town, and now you want more, don’t we all?
The best thing about starting off with curly hair, is just that - its the perfect base. The first step of most styles is to curl the hair. It adds more volume for up-style’s, more texture for hold, and creates a more interesting canvas for color.
Most of the time us curly girls think that once we get the perfect au-natural look, we have to leave it alone. That’s because we are used to not touching our hair. Unless you’re going for an “Avant Garde” look or deep conditioning (which you should be doing about once a week) we rarely touch a comb outside the shower, ask anyone. I practically shutter anytime someone wants to touch my curly hair when not fully dry, my finely textured curls will bite you back if you pet them before its time… However there are a few exceptions to that rule, but they require special attention.
For a touch of extra volume, and to avoid that dreaded “bell look” most curly haired cuties seem to talk about, try switching up your part throughout the day. Pro Tip: Avoid combing through your curls with your fingers and make sure whenever placing hands into the hair, to always bring them out the same way they went in. Moving the section from side to side will ensure your tresses don’t fall limp. Occasionally I will flip my strands while they are still damp so they don’t dry flat in one direction. Adding a mousse like our Foaming Volumizer to wet hair will aid in achieving volume where it is needed most. If you’re new to the mousse concept: Dispense and egg-size amount in palm and distribute mousse throughout your hair, you can even give it a little boost from the blow dryer (using low air on high heat) and if you have a diffuser this will also aid in keeping your hair frizz-free.
Once you’ve got the perfect drying technique down pat - try out a few of these styles meant to compliment those curls:
Take them for a twist! If you have a few curls that just didn’t make it or you simply want to your hair out of your face, twist a few tendrils and bobby pin them to the sides or meeting at the back of the head, reminiscent of a “half-up/half-down”. Try out a french twist, there’s nothing cuter than a twist with some curl. Follow the same steps as a traditional french twist but allow the curls to pop out the top, all the regular twists will be jealous.
Pop in an accessory: Adding a scarf, ribbon, or a headband can break the curl pattern up to accentuate your features and your curls. If you’re hair is long enough you can even braid or weave a scarf into your hair for a fun festival inspired look - place a scarf around your curls as if you’re making a low pony and begin softly braiding with the rest of your hair… trés boho-chic! Try a structured headband to secure down some of your hair, whether down or pulled into a pony, adds an extra kick and can tame baby hairs or fly-aways.
To the left.. to the left… (or the right): Go for a deep part and sweep your hair over to one side, secure the sweep with a few bobby pins at the nape of the neck and suddenly you’ve got drama - the good kind. You can also secure this style with a short braid at the nape - leaving the ends free to be.
Don’t go chasing waterfalls… except when its a waterfall braid. It is the perfect amount of control while keeping those curls intact and fully flowing. This one can be a bit tricky at first but once you get the hang of it, we’re sure you’ll be in love. Or switch it up with a crown braid, it’s like your very own, built-in headband.
Don’t be afraid to get messy! I love the wild look, and curly haired girls can easily execute it. Break all the rules by pinning, braiding, and (carefully) flipping to your hearts desire. Picking the perfect product for the style you wish to achieve will make your life that much easier. If you want a softer, romantic vibe; start out with Taming Curl Cream on wet hair to define curls. Then mess it up (when dry) with some Flex Hold Shaping Spray , or even a little Tousled Texture Finishing Spray - Work dry sections by gently separating strands before and after sprays.
If you’re in the mood for a cleaner curl look, make sure you are using the proper shampoo and conditioner for sleekness and shine. Healthy hair is the biggest factor in fighting that frizz. Since curly hair tends to be more delicate when playing with it, properly conditioning is key! Aside from regular conditioning it is very important to deep condition at least once a week, I live and breathe by the Nourishing Moisture Mask . When you’re out of the shower, follow up with the Nourishing Moisture Oil Treatment to strengthen and tame that mane.
Embrace your nature and break all the rules, because you and your hair will have more fun if you play together!
Be sure to STALK Macadamia Professional on Bangstyle to see the latest and greatest options for your hair!
