Reset: Curly Hair Care Routine
I know it’s been far too long since I’ve updated this blog, and for the one person that may be reading this, hello! Since my last post, my hair has undergone somewhat of a transformation. Nothing drastic, I just reduced the usage of heat and my curls could not be more grateful for it. Because we’re in the thick of winter right now, I thought it would be a good opportunity to hit the reset button on my hair and skincare routines. I’ve tried many different products and combinations with the hopes of finding a holy grail method. While I have yet to reach that point, I have found a few goodies that I wanted to share with those of you with natural hair that may be suffering from dryness or lack of curl definition.
When looking for a good shampoo and conditioner, I focus on ingredients that will leave my curls feeling hydrated and moisturized. I was at ULTA a few days ago and picked up SheaMoisture Raw Shea & Cupuacu Frizz Defense Shampoo & Conditioner. I typically use the Raw Shea Butter line from the same brand but I was willing to try something new. I shampooed twice and then rinsed. I was pleased to find that the shampoo did not strip my hair at all! It was left feeling soft and hydrated. Next, I parted my hair into four sections and applied two pumps of the conditioner to each section. Not only was detangling a breeze, but the results? If I had the disposable income of a Kardashian, I would stock up on 500 bottles of this stuff. It’s that good.
After rinsing the conditioner, I applied ORS Monoi Oil Anti-Breakage Leave-In Conditioning Creme. This is a thick leave-in and a little goes a long way. Despite coconut oil being one of the main ingredients, it does not leave my hair feeling hard or dry. It keeps it moisturized and can be used as a styling aid to refresh curls in between wash days.
Once the leave-in has been applied, I will stretch my hair using a blow dryer. This is optional but considering my hair usually shrinks, I find this is the best way to combat it without damaging my hair. After sectioning off my hair again with clips, I use Silk Elements MegaSilk Olive Heat Protection Spray as a heat protectant and Hot Tools Helen of Troy Tourmaline Turbo Ionic Dryer (not pictured) to smooth the roots. I don’t bother drying my entire head as I am not going for a blowout effect.
Now it’s time to braid. While my hair is still slightly damp, I apply a dime-sized amount of Shea Moisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie and Cantu Moisturizing Twist & Lock Gel to each section. After braiding, I throw a satin bonnet on and relax with Netflix and a matcha latte. In the morning, I undo the braids, gently separate my locks and throw my hair up into a bun to protect my ends.
For daily moisturizing, I spritz my hair with distilled water and re-apply the Curl Enhancing Smoothie and Twist & Lock Gel at night before re-braiding.
To anyone struggling with thick, curly, coarse hair, I hope this routine helps! If you use any of these products or have any other recommendations, please let me know!
