How to style curly hair has been one of the most popular posts on Hair Romance, and certainly the most commented. A lovely reader posed a question in the comments that I am often asked so I thought I’d share the answer here. I know many of you want to know how to get your curl back after years of straightening and Tammy asks:
I used to have long spiral curly hair. Over the years of coloring, straightening I have lost the “good curl” that use to be in my hair how do I get it back? Have been reading what you do and have figured out some great ideas. When I try to wear it curly it’s just not a “good curl” anymore. It will curl just not pretty, kinda frizzy. Your curls are beautiful and what I am striving for instead of all the work in straightening. Don’t have the time for all that work! Thank you for any insight you can give!
Thanks for you lovely comment and question Tammy, and I have gone through the same problem so I have a few tips on how to find your curls again.
How to bring your curls back to life
After you’ve singed and straightened your hair for a long time (as I did) it’s hard for your hair to remember the curls that were once there. It takes a few steps to rescue your curls and bring them back to life.
1. Get a haircut
If the ends of your hair aren’t curly and you’ve been straightening for a while you may need a chop. Curly hair is also cut quite differently to straight hair, and a few layers will help your hair spring back into curls. Here are more tips on getting a great curly haircut. Not sure your hairdresser is great with curly hair? Here are ways to find a good hairdresser.
2. Treat your hair
While you’re in the salon getting a fresh hair cut, I recommend asking for a deep conditioning treatment. Curly hair is naturally drier than straight hair, and needs moisture to stop it looking frizzy. Plus, who doesn’t love a hair treatment? You may also want to give your hair a weekly deep condition at home.
3. Change up your routine
Your curly hair will need a new washing and styling routine. Check the labels on your current hair products and switch to sulphate-free products. Sulphates are essentially detergents that cause products to foam. While this feels “clean”, it’s actually stripping all the oils from your hair, which can aggravate your scalp and make your hair frizzy.
Choose a moisturising shampoo and conditioner for curly hair, and a curl cream or gel to shape your curls. It will take some trial and error to find the routine that works for your curls. Here are my tips for styling curly hair and there are great product tips in the comments of that post if you’re looking for more recommendations.
Good luck rediscovering your curls Tammy! I know they’re still there, and every time you wear them curly they will look better than the time before.
Have you brought your curls back to life after years of straightening? What’s you tip for reviving curly hair?
I use to have such pretty spiraled curls. My hair was RAZORED in the front about 3 years ago and HAS NOT curled since, the rest of my hair still does so. It totally string and when i try to curl it with the diffuser it just goes wavy. I recently made “the big chop” and NOTHING. HELP!!! I miss my curly hair 🙁
Hi, my hair has gone straight and frizzy on the sides at the front, the rest is curly, how can i get that part curly again. At some point i couldnt comb it while it was wet, it felt dry. Ive tried a mayonaisse mask which is great for the rest of my hair but doing nothing for the sides. Tried coconut oil and moisteriser spray but nothing, what else is there?
Hi Vass, it depends on what caused it to change. When did it start to happen? Are you wearing your hair pulled back tightly? Or using a new styling product or tool? All the tips above will help but it takes time to get your hair to recover. Good luck x
I don’t no if this is any good to use but I was searching about mayyonaise treatment for my cousin as she has the same problem , I seen a lady on the tv apply it to her curly hair and the search results sound really good , supose to condition the hair and adding vinigar or oil to mayyonaise is even better , also would having a perm and conditioning it a lot not help keep the curls ?
I have naturally curly hair but I always straighten my bangs now they seem like they arent growing back..what can I use to get the top part of my hair to grow again?
Hi Neeka, probably stop straightening your hair, but also realise it takes time for hair to grow. It can feel like it’s taking forever then before you know it your hair has grown. Good luck x
My hair travesty update…
I went to a salon to search for products, and found a sweet girl fresh out of cosmetology school..jackpot! I told her what happened, and she suggested I cut it, and get a keratin treatment. She also introduced me to a really amazing product called Argen Oil I think? It is from the Big Sexy Hair soy product line and it really seems to rev my hair up..not to where it originally was, but a huge improvement. I wash, condition, style product at night so I can wake up and pretty much go. I know it was the color, since it was an immediate curl destruction. She said I would have to just wait for it to grow to get back to normal, but in the meantime I’ve got to get on with my life and add more time to my hair now. When I go out at night, I’ve been using Caruso curls and they look great!! Granted the only last a few hours, but it has been really fun to try new styles. I would just like to share my lesson that if you have very long hair, think twice before you experiment with chemicals! I colored my hair ( on my own) maybe 3x in one year and it did this
Hi Everyone:)
I am so excitied to find this site. I have always had natural curly hair and have never had a problem until this year. I’ve always kept it natural, but as I’ve been getting older, I want to cover up the grey. I color my own hair since I am in school and just do not have the extra time or money. Do you think it is that im getting older and my hair is losing its curl, or I just left the color in too long? My hair is reall long, and I don’t want to wait years and years to get my old hair back. Someone told me the hair shaft is shaped differently for curly hair, so did I do pernanent damage? I’ve been putting deep conditioning treatments, but it doesn’t seem to help. I have always let my hair dry naturally, no products, etc. So this totally sucks! I want my old hair back:( Is there any hope? Like, in the next few years until it all replaces itself? Or, is it just my age that is doing this? I need a hair angel to fix it:)
i have done permanent straighting i miss my original curles and i want them back as they wer naturally or by any treatment
Depending on the straightening treatment you’ll have to wait for it to grow out or wear off. It could take 3-12 months to go back to your natural curls.
I have straigntened my hair very frequently throught these 2 yrs but mostly this year. and my hair curls at the tips but it is wavy on top. Im very anxious to get my curls back because I love curly hair and my hair was very pretty. but because i was young and none of the girls in my family have curly hair i did not know how to treat it. is there hope for my curls? do you guys have any suggestions for me. i sleep with satin pillows and a satin cap, use a micro fiber towel out of the shower, sulfate free products, and i dont have much of a routine for my “deep conditioning” my hair is very frizzy and lacks in moisture.
Hi Sarah, I’d definitely add a moisturising treatment in between shampoo and conditioner once a week and try to stop straightening your hair. It can take a while for your curls to “remember” how to curl. A fresh haircut can help reactivate them too. Good luck x
Naturally i have a curly hair,I’ve straightened it twice & lost all my volume..Now my hair which it grows from root is curly and straightened remains same..I’m doing straightning daily like patch up, I know i shudn’t but i don hav options.Will my hair go worser than now or can u give me some remedy for that plz :((
I had naturally curly/ wavy hair only a few months ago, but after a particular haircut, my hair became alot flatter with much less volume. My hair used to be perfect with washing only once a week, but now it seems to need washing more often. I have never done anything to my hair except get a hair cut & blow-dry it straight. It seems that my hair is straighter when short and curlier when long. I’ve finally changed my shampoo/ conditioner after about a year & adding coconut cream which gives my hair more volume after washing. But looking back on my old photos is really saddening. I was born with pin straight hair which started changing about eight years ago and I fear that it might turn back?! What am I doing wrong..? It’s the only thing that makes me different from everyone else at school 🙁
Hi Eli, I don’t think you’re doing anything wrong. Sounds like the haircut is the difference. They layering can really change how your hair sits. At your next appointment take in a photo of your hair the way you liked it before and ask for the same haircut. I love that you love your curls x
I’ve been panicking over my loss of curly hair over the past few months. I used to have such thick curly natural hair and suddenly one day I noticed it stringy, wavy, and thin 🙁 I don’t know what to do. I’ve only ever dyed my hair once in my life (I’m 25) and I’m not a frequent straightener or even blow dryer. I’m praying that it’s not the theory that hair goes through 7year cycles because if that’s the case I’ve lost my curls forever 🙁
Don’t worry Sara, hair changes all the time. It often reflects how we’re feeling and the state of our health. Did you notice that you were losing a lot of hair? Have you recently changed products? Could it be hormonal? So many things can affect our hair and if you’re concerned you can talk to your doctor about it. Good luck x
I had naturally curly hair…a few months ago I straightened my hair( Rebonded) and now I regret it. I want my old hair back. How is that possible ? :-((
Hi Natasha, unfortunately you need to wait for it to grow out and it will fade after a while. You can still curl it but be careful not ot heat style too often as your hair will be more fragile since the straightening x
I have had the same issue with over-processing my hair and losing the curl. There is a miracle out there. LUSH cosmetics has a few products that will help. Hsuan Wen Hua or Roots hair mask are wonderful for an at home leave in conditioning treatment. Also try out either Curly Wurly or Blousey shampoo to revive moisture, bounce, shine and life. After if you have super dry hair try the Retread or American Cream conditioner. and when you’re out of the shower, for styling use R&B leave in conditioner with a little bit of Dirty Styling Cream for hold. You’ll be amazed at how this helps. AND it’s for the most part really natural and not tested on animals. Check it out.
Fab tips Corin! Thanks for sharing xx
Hi! Aashna this side im an indian and I have beautiful ringlets the day I wash them but the next day they get wavy tomorrow im going for a keratin smoothening therapy coz I need a change I have had these hair since the past 20 years the only thing im worried abot is will I be able to get back my natural ringlets again? Please reply ASAP
Hi Aashna, talk to your hairdresser as it’s impossible for me to say. There are so many treatments and every curl reacts differently x
I had straight hair until puberty, then it turned curly, but only on the top layer, at the crown, the hair underneath is kind of wavy but straighter.
I’ve lost most of my curls after giving birth a year and a half ago, no my hair is frizzy and wavy-er, the “curls” last a single day at the most after a wash. I blow dry with the diffusor. I’m still breastfeeding (worth mentioning since I’ve read the loss of curls could be hormonal and related to the thyroid function). My doctor recommended Biotin supplements, but I can’t take them while breastfeeding. Thank you so much for your posting on what to do the second day with the curling wand! I got one yesterday and worked wonders for me 🙂 I’d appreciate if you have any other tips on how to get my curls back.
Hi Mirela, yes hormones can really mess with your curls. I’d focus on controlling the frizz with a moisturising conditioning treatment and using a hair oil. Coconut oil treatments are also great for your hair (and cheap). Put coconut oil on your hair and leave for 10-30 mins then shampoo and condition your hair. Keeping your hair in good condition is the best thing you can do to bring your curls back x
Thank you for the tips, I’ll try the coconut oil. I actually have this in my kitchen and use it for cooking most of the time, as it seems to be healthy.
Also, I found a spray that I love:
http://www.organicbeautytalk.com/shea-moisture-organic-coconut-hibiscus-hold-shine-moisture-mist-for-thick-curly-hair-review/
the smell is great but not too heavy and the hold is very very light, more like adding a little texture / body.
You might also like it I hope 🙂
Thanks Mirela! I’ll check it out x
Hi! Two days ago I tried to get back to my natural brown color so I dyed it. However, it came out black and also pulled out all of my curls. I have pretty curly hair and it’s a little past my shoulders I’ve noticed as it gets longer my curls are more weighed down. Besides getting a hair cut how can I get my curls back after the damage from my coloring job. Lol I miss them already!!
Hi Lauren, give your hair a couple of moisturising treatments. The colour deposits in your hair are probably weighing down your curls and as the colour fades you will need to keep moisturising your hair to keep it soft. Your curls will come back x
Hello,
I wanted to know if using the leave in conditioner called “It’s a 10” will take the curl out of my perm. It has been 4-days since I got the perm. My hair is long and goes to about the middle of my back.
My hair is not naturally curly. It was dyed once about 1 year ago. Could not find anything on this product, even by going to their website, and they did not give you a “contact us” prompt anywhere, only if you were a company. 🙁
Thank you for any help you can give.
Andrea
Hi Andrea, I’ve never used this product but I can’t see how a leave in conditioner could affect your perm. Now that your hair is permed it will need more moisture and conditioners will help xx
I straighten my hair only 3-4 times per YEAR and I use the curly girl method (so no sulfate damage either). Over the past year or two I’ve lost all my curls! My hair is straight now when it used to be extremely curly. I didn’t lose my curls because of damage (my hair is in great condition). Does anyone have any idea why this happened? Stress, hormones? …
Sorry to hear Crystal, and yes stress and hormones have a huge impact on your hair. It’s also said that around every 7 years your hair changes.
I have been trying to get my curls back since I was 16…I have destroyed my hair from constantly using a hair straightener/dryer, and dyeing it since I was twelve. I’m 23 now and have just gotten it cut and am using a sulfate free product line by Loreal called Evercurl. I’m not too happy with it though, with the cleansing conditioner it says to use 10-15 pumps for my hair type (which is very thick) but I wind up having to use 20-25 pumps and then the shampoo dries up all the moisture and then the conditioner adds it back in but makes it feel heavy. the only thing I like really is the spray that makes your hair not feel crunchy from the hair gel. I don’t know what other products I can try. Any suggestions?
A lot of readers swear by Devacurl but I haven’t tried it yet. I like Original & Mineral, Unite and Aveda’s be curly. Try and get a sample and see which one works best in your hair xx
My hair has been naturally curly all my life…a few months ago I got a haircut and ever since my curls are now just barely wavy. What should I do? I straighten my hair everyday now because it’s all I can do with it since it won’t curl.
Hi Jesssica, the more you straighten, the less curl you’ll have. It’s hard but you’ll have to put down the stylers for a while to get your natural curl back. Try some twist & pin hairstyles to get you through. Good luck x
Hi,
I have naturally thick, curly hair that I love and straighten once every six months or so for a change of pace. Well, last Thursday I straightened it, kept it that way all weekend using a new dry shampoo, and have washed it three times since. It has not bounced back to its usual curl, and that is highly unusual as each previous time I’d straightened my hair it would be back to curly after the first washing. Please help! It is currently a weird mix of curly and straight and is not at all attractive.
Thanks!
That is weird Cat! I’d try washing again and maybe shampoo twice just to make sure you’ve removed all product from your hair. Use a conditioning mask and let your hair air dry and you should be back to normal xx
Oh my goodness – this has given me hope! Looking back at old photos I’d forgotten how curly my hair used to be! I’m a constant dyer but have been curling it artificially over the years. I know the heat is damaging, but was fed up with the frizz! I’m so going to start trying some of these tips. Thank you all for the help!!
Good luck Georgie! Hope you get your curl back x
I had naturally curly hair my entire life untilafter the birth of my child it has gone partially straight and has been 2 years. So I have to curl my hair every day. Do I have any chance of it going curly again?
Hi Amy, our hormones can have some crazy effects on our hair. I can’t say if it will curl again, but fingers crossed xx
Hi guys,
One tip you might try is Baking soda. Mix it with water and put it on you hair and let it soak in for about 5 minutes. Also a bit of Lemon or Lime Juice mixed with your conditioner works too. I know the Baking soda takes off the build but but it seems to add a little something too, I’m not sure what it does but My curls are happy when I do it. I usually do it every third washing , I’m a conditioner only girl. I have fairly dry thick 3b-c curls. Hope it helps!
great tips! I have heard baking soda is a great natural shampoo
I have long hair about half way down my back and I was wondering how much baking soda I need to use. And I’m a making a paste? Thx
Ok so this is weird! Please help!
I have naturally curly hair, except for a couple if years I’ve dyed and straightened. Now that I’m just letting my natural curls do it’s thing the bottom part of my hair and my bangs will NOT curl.
The reason for this is because once while my hair was straightened I decided to trim the tips of the bottom half of my hair and my bangs as well. From that day on I never saw my hair go curly after each shower and now that I want to leave it natural everything else is curly except those 2 parts! 🙁 please help! I use products and leave in treatments for natural curls, it does the work for my hair except on those 2 places! What can I do!
Hi Darla, it’s normal for different sections of your hair to have a different curl pattern. Maybe these sections need to grow a bit longer. in the meantime, I would use a small curling wand to touch up these curls to match the rest of your hair x
Hi, I was wondering is it true what they say about avoiding products with silicone? I always had the nicest, thickest spiral curls you’ve ever seen until lately. Now my curls have disappeared, and my hair is getting very thin. Some say that I should avoid products with silicone, could you agree with that? I haven’t colored in quite a while as well.
Hi Roth, silicone products coat the hair so while they smooth frizz, they stop your hair absorbing moisture. It’s ok to use some silicone products but don’t overdo it. You can try avoiding them and see if it makes a difference to your hair x
Hi,
I have a question, i had really pretty curly hair but after cut my into layeres my curls are gone and i want them back, what should I do? please help
Hi Sandra, perhaps your layers are too short to let your curls form. Do you have a soft, open curl in your hair? If so, once your hair grows a little longer the curls will be able to form. Good luck x
Hi Hair Romance! I have a question. I have straight hair, it just doesn’t do much. When I was a kid I used to have Shirley Temple curls. Is there any way I could get curls back? Could I start putting curly hair products in my hair? I have SUPER thick hair and perms just don’t stay! Please help me!
Hi Kourtney, it sounds like your hair has changed. You may be able to get some curl back but not like when you were a kid. It’s normal to go through a few hair changes, usually linked to hormones. You may find your hair goes back to curly as you get older. It could also be that because your hair is so thick, it’s just too heavy to hold a curl. I’d have a chat to a hairdresser to see if a different haircut could lighten your hair and encourage more curls x
Hi I have naturally curly hair but for the most part it’s underneath at the bottom. This front part of my hair just will not naturally curl and neither will the top part of my hair. What can I do?? I don’t like using heat on my hair and I just got it cut into long layers. But I can’t get the front and top to curl like the rest of my hair. Is there anything I can do??
Hi Mallory, it’s quite common to have a few different curl patterns on your head. I know mine is like yours. Often the underneath curls more easily as it’s shorter. Long hair can weigh your curls down into waves. Try a curl cream and root volumiser, but I would persist in wearing your hair curly as it often just takes time for your curls to find their form, especially if you normally wear them straight or pulled back x
I used to have long curly beautiful brown hair. But then I went to blonde and kept dying it lighter and lighter every other month. My curls completely dropped and dried out. Now I have stringy strands of straight frizzy hair. I’ve tried deep conditions every other day, hair masks, oils, and spent hundreds of dollars trying to find a good curling product and I have not found one yet. Can someone help me 🙁
Hi Amanda, sometimes a new haircut may be the only solution if your hair is really damaged. Also the first few times you wear your hair curly it won’t be perfect, but your curls will improve each time you wear them. Resist the urge to straighten your hair and let your curls slowly come back x
I use be cutout shampoo and.conditionrer. also be curly curly enhancer from aveda. It doesn’t do the trick. I used it before on my hair and it worked well.but it doesn’t work well anymore. Help me please!
Hi Jamie, it will take time for your curls to come back so don’t despair. A trim will help freshen up the ends which makes your hair look better x
Hi! I have the same problem. My hair used to curl beautifull i nice ringlets. But,I straighten my hair a lot, and my hair stylist messed up on my hair, so it has been dyed four times. It hasnt been the same since. It doesn’t curl very well, the ringlets straighten out at the ends and the top will not curl AT ALL. its quite annoying. I really do want my natural curls back. I was wondering what deep conditioning products should I use at home? Thank you!
Hi Jamie, your hair has been through a lot with the straightening and dyes. Any moisturising conditioner will help your hair, and try to ease up on the straighteners x
Am I in the same situation of straightening my hair, if I’m using curling irons and straightening irons which I understand can be stronger than dry blowers, and salon blowers? My whole life I’ve had strong gorgeous curls, and it’s now I’m realizing how bad I damaged them. Would these rules apply to me? I just want to bounce and curl back into my hair where it belongs.
Give them a try Yanice, if you had strong curls they’ll come back with a few deep conditioning treatments. Be prepared for a few fuzzy curl days in between but they will come back x
There’s so many amazing tips and tricks here. I stumbled across this site while searching for ways to “fix” my curls. I have super curly hair and have been straightening/ coloring it for years now. I currently do have it colored but am trying to get my natural curl back. The bottom of my hair curls perfect! no frizz, nice tight riglets which i piece apart to be a little more difined. but anyways the top of my hair DOES NOT curl for the life if it no matter what i do. i’ve stayed away from straighthening it for about two months now and it just waves.. its like i have two different types of curls in my hair. so yea just wondering if i could get any tips to get the top to curl like the bottom. any help would be much apperciated >.< thnx!
Thanks Stephanie! How long is your hair? Often the weight of your hair causes it to hang in waves at the top but it can curl freely at the ends. Depending on your hair & curl type, maybe some layers will give the impression of more curls on top? Otherwise I also love styling powder to give a lift at the root x
Stephanie and Hair Romance! I have the same problem!! Have you found a solution??? I use DevaCurl products but the top of my hair is still frizzy, fluffy, and pretty much straight. While underneath, I have perfect ringlets without frizz. I have shoulder length hair and I get trimmed regularly and haven’t colored it in over a year and stopped doing keratin treatments over 2 years ago. I don’t know what to do!!! I live in South Florida so humidity is a HUGE problem!!! When its not humid, my hair is better and I prefer it straight then. Any advice?? Thanks!
Hi Grace, not sure if Stephanie has a solution. Humidity is the worst! I’m not sure what else to suggest. Sometimes our curls are just really different. I have very different curl patterns in my hair and they have changed over time too. Good luck xx
My hair use to be curly when i was younger now when i brush it it become straighe and frizzt but i dont know how to keep my curly without turning it frizzy!!!!!!
Hi Kat, probably dont brush your hair as brushing curly hair makes it frizz. Check out my tips for how to style curly hair here x
Hi, I have natural curly hair, but after my second child my hair will not curly. Can you please help me??????
Hi Tammy, hormones can do crazy things and they can change your hair. Wait a little while and see if it changes back x
Hello ladies!
i been reading everyone’s comment and i been trying differen tips, but i still diddn’t find a solution to my frizzy hair. I been coloring my curly hair for 13 yrs and now it’s really taking away my beautiful curls and giving me lots of frizzy. I just orded the deva curl products. Does anyone use? Did it work for you? Thanks.
Hi Claudia, lots of readers are fans but I haven’t tried those products yet. Good luck and let us know how you go x
Advice on growing my hair too
Thankyou x
Heyah guys, ive been straightening my hair for over three years, I have naturaly curley hair and I hated it, im really down about my hair asI want it back natural I m only 15years old and needs to start doing something sbout it my hair is reallyshort what shall I doo helpppp!!!!
Hi Ellie, don’t get down, remember it’s only hair! You’re young and it will grow back before you know it. Eat well, a diet high in protein helps, and exercise regularly to improve your metabolism as this ill also make your hair grow faster. Also, don’t stress as this can slow your hair growth too. Good luck xx
Have you heard of people cutting long curly hair and the resulting cut is straight or far less curly? I can’t tell if it’s my haircut or the drastic change in length… Either way I keep looking at old pictures of previous short curly bobs and my current short wavy bob and I feel so sad.
Hi Avalon, it’s hard to say but if your hair waas really long and it’s now short, it may take a little time for your curl to return. Avoid straightening your hair and give it a week or two and see if you notice your hair changing. Good luck xx
I realize this is an old post – but I’m experiencing exactly the same thing right now. Like you I can’t tell if it’s the haircut that’s the problem. I am
really curious to know how you got your curls back?
Hiya, I also realise that this is a super old post but I found something out about my hair that I never really noticed before. I recently just put my hair up in a cotton t-shirt to dry slightly, and I found that a small section of my hair (I think just a few strands) was out of the t-shirt – but it was also all curled up! I don’t believe it – have I got curly hair?! I finger combed through it and it went really frizzy and I twirled it around my finger again, and it just went back to a normal curl again. However, as soon as I put the rest of my hair down to naturally dry, my hair was simply straight and a little wavy, no curls no more. I have no idea what’s happening to my hair and am I getting curly hair? It is likely (my mom has slightly curly hair), but I’m only 16: is it possible to just get curly hair like that?!
Hi Evelyn, yes your hair can change and my hair went from straight to curly as a teenager. Check out this post for more advice and tips – https://www.hairromance.com/2014/07/curls-week-why-did-my-hair-change-from-straight-to-curly.html xx
I was just wondering for the “how to get your curl back” picture, what process you used -like if you diffused it, or air dried it and what product you used. Thanks!
Hi Kendall, yes I used a diffuser and I use a few different curl products. I like Aveda, Unite and evo. I wrote about my curly hair styling process here https://www.hairromance.com/2012/11/how-to-style-curly-hair.html and here too https://www.hairromance.com/2011/11/love-your-hair.html. Hope this helps!
I do most of what you suggested and still get rather frizzy curls, but I do have fine, colored hair so that might be why. I decided to try one trip I could do for free ad then see about adding more. This morning I didn’t rub my hair dry, I just sprayed in my leave-in, and wrapped it up for a few mins then added mousse.
Can not even believe the difference that one step made. My curls are much more defined, and not frizzy waves. I may start looking into a defuser and curl enhancer at this point.
That’s great Heather! It’s probably better to let your hair air dry, but I never have the time so I love my diffuser.
Well,I used to do my hair scene,though i never died it.Now when it drips drys it goes slightly curly but if i dry it with a diffuser it goes super straight unless i use LOADS of mousse,so i put loads in,then blow dry with my diffuser and then i come to come through the individule curls to ger ridd of the chunky mousse.I hate doing this because it so much hassle but it seems to be the only way my hair will curl nicely. Someone help me please xx
Have you tried a different hair cut? It makes a huge difference to how my curls sit. That and a treatment can do wonders for my curls. Good luck x
I love this article!
I’ve been straightening my hair for a month straight and I noticed recently how my hair has lost its curly “oomph” And I was struggling with trying to make it healthy again.
Thank you so much for this & everyone else’s tips!
Thanks Icela! Hope it helps get your curls back xx
As you’re doing all the other great stuff suggested here to re-condition your hair, you also might try encouraging the curl you want. My old hair-dresser taught me this trick – you basically just twirl in curls when your hair is damp, with whatever product already in it (e.g. leave-in conditioner). I start in the back and then work my way to the front on one side, then repeat on the other. I can usually see which bits of hair want to form a “curl clump” and I twirl all those together, in whichever direction they naturally want to go.
It looks kind of weird while it’s drying, but after it’s maybe 90-95% dry I run my fingers through *one time* to gently separate the curls and suddenly I have well-behaved spirals. I think how well this will work probably depends on the type of curl you have, but in general I’ve found that my hair is easier to manage if I “train” it, and when I decided to go back to curls this is how I did it.
That is a great tip Marisa! Thanks for sharing xx
I must say, as a curly headed lady who fought he natural hair for years, that quitting shampoo and conditioner for apple cider vinegar has been a revelation for me! I use about half a cup of apple cider vinegar mixed with about 300 mls water whenever I need to wash my hair, and it is never oily or frizzy, my curls have great definition, no styling products or blow dry necessary. This has been a huge game changer for my curls!
HI Marianne
I’ve grown into curls from straight hair! I’m loving it ( at 52) but am having a hard time “styling” it. I want to look creative not frumpy!Over the last few years I used some natural soap shampoo and rinsed with vinegar. That worked quite well although the shampoo was drying. Now that you mention it, I reckon I might just try apple cider vinaegar on it’s own. Thanks for the tip.
Love to know how you go with the apple cider vingear Linda
My hair use to be very curly and beautiful and i use to straighten my hair a lot and only the back of my hair is curly but not the front what can I use to bring back my curly hair
Hi Naomi, try not to straighten your hair and do a conditioning treatment. Remember every time you wear your hair curly, your curls will look better x
That’s amazing Marianne! I must start using apple cider vinegar regularly x
Hi. Marianne.
I would like to try the apple cider vinegar and water wash, but I need more details. How do you apply it – pour it on, work it in, …? Do you use this to clean your scalp as well, or just on the length of your hair? Is this the way you clean your hair every time? Nothing has worked for me lately. My hair is fairly long and curly in the same way as Christina’ s is. Mine is about half gray so I dye the roots every 4 weeks. My main frizzy is in this root area and so I’m thinking that your method may help better than products as products tend to flatten that area, cause it to itch, and do not deliver results for me.
Thank you!
I use appall cider vinegar . I’ve also dropped shampoo. Every four days, or whenever I feel my hair needs it, I use soap nuts and apple cider vinegar. It leaves your hair feeling dry and Rough after a wash … But once it’s dry your curls feel so amazing and soft!! I’ve even noticed that there’s less frizz. I also do an egg and oil treatment once or twice a week, depending on how lazy I feel. This was the best for poor mistreated hair though.
It’s been a year now and my hair feels amazing. I still use products, I stay away from sulfates and silicones. I’ve found I use less than I used to. I mainly use the deva curl B’leave in Gel for volume and a small amount of Argan oil for shine and a little added moisture
And yes … I can’t have big hair without my blow dryer , but on days where I can live without big hair I manage. 😉
Apple cider vinegar * oops !
To keep my curly hair looking healthy and curly (rather than frizzy), I have stopped using straighteners and stopped colouring it too. I also use sulfate free shampoo and use a deep conditioner once a week.
But I did also have to have a few inches cut off as the ends were literally snapping off, it was worth it as my hair looks great now.
That’s great to hear Lis! Thanks for sharing your tips x
My hair is still naturally dry but in much better condition since I stopped colouring it. I also use a deep conditioning treatment weekly when I wash it & sulfate free shampoo!
Thanks Elle! Yes, colouring is damaging to hair and I’m guilty of that! I do extra treatments to make up for it 😉
I’ve always had curly/wavy hair but always thought it was just unruly and frizzy. I’ve always tried to take good care of my hair, however I straightened and coloured my hair (I tried most colours at some point or another) throughout my school days. It was only a few years ago that I thought I would try see if i could worq
(sorry my dog decide to sit on my laptop to get my attention) **work with my natural hair instead of against it. I stared using different techniques of styling, sulfate free shampoos, lots of conditioner, and protein. Although I am still on the look out for the next best thing for my hair, I pretty much have consistency with my hair.
Sounds like you’ve got a great routine and I love that you love your curls Xx
I straightened my hair daily for about three years and absolutely destroyed it.I finally stopped straightening it all together. To get my hair healthy again, I used “It’s a 10 miracle leave-in product.” (It really is a miracle). I also stopped putting my hair into ponytails, as the elastics pull on the curl and cause breakage. After several years of patience, my natural curls have grown out and are finally healthy again 🙂
That’s great Pam! I love the name of the product, I’ll have to give it a try x
i recently started to lose mu curls and i’m trying to figure out how to get them back. any tips?
Where could I find this product? And how long does it take to get your curls back in general?
I have naturally curly hair / spirals.. was never taught to love them , so over many years and perms destroyed my curls. My daughters (4) taught me to love them and how to take care of them and they have BEAUTIFUL hair ! So , I took the chance and now am happy as ever and FREE !! Never again do I have to worry about how I look , or if my hair is “perfect” or about the wheather. I’m free to love what God gave me .
That’s wonderful Chevy! Thanks for commenting x
Wow I can so relate to your comment.
I wasn’t taught toove then either. I spent years trying to change them. My teachers use to call mariah Carey. I’m biracial as well so I had the long light brown blondish curl. From the age of 13 I dyed it, bleached it so many times. I’m now 25 and absolutely regret it. When my daughter was born she came out with gorgeous corkscrew curls. It’s so beautiful. Dnt I feel stupid now. I just wish there was a way to have it back.
Yes love the hair you have!!
Hi Pam, what is the name of the product that you used to rstore your curly har? And where can I purchase it, please?
My hair went from beautiful soft curls to needle straight and singed on the ends. I’m so sad…
I’ve been using a flatiron for about 15years, and this is the end results.
Thank you very muuch for your help. I greatly appreciate your help and advice.
Sincerely,
\Denise
Ogx product from Walmart white colored bottles shampoo conditioner and 3 x bonding treatment, totally awesome and will bring you hair
Back alive, conditioned and full of body and
Don’t bleach your hair stay with close to your
Color also darker shades will make the hair
Look so much more healthier, I learned my
Lesson, hope this helps. Also she’s moisture
Products are amazing, I use the leave in conditioner detangler. Love it, makes the hair
Also look shiny and healthy.
Shea Moisture Products
How many years? Because im 13 and my hair is loosing its curls really bad:(
Hey Maria! How long it takes really depends on the reason that your curl is loosening up. If you relax or chemically straighten your hair, or if you bleach or perm it, there really is no way to restore your curls other than cutting it pretty short and starting again! If you straighten with heat tools pretty regularly, chances are you’re best off doing the same (cut it and start again). If you don’t use chemical treatments or heat styling, your curls are probably loosening up because of over-washing (i.e using shampoo containing sulphates and/or washing too frequently), not having enough moisture in your hair, or the styles you wear, e.g. long plaits. To get your natural curl really popping: 1. Read the engredients list on your shampoo bottle. If you see “sodium laureth sulphate” or ANYTHING ending in “sulphate” or “sulphonate” – ditch it. If you can’t find/afford a sulphate free shampoo – go natural! It’s even better. Use about three tablespoons of honey in a cup of warm water. Section your hair so the mixture mostly gets on your scalp, then just rub and stuff, like normal. Rinse it well with warm water, then splash on about a quarter cup apple cider vinegar in a cup of water, or use a silicone-free conditioner (again, read the engredients on the bottle). Leave it in for a good 5 mins then rinse. Never use a towel to dry or wrap your hair up!! Use an old tshirt – really absorbant and doesn’t rub your hair up the wrong way, literally. Then, while its still wet, slop on more silicone-free conditioner, or a nice creamy leave-in conditioner (I really like Parnevu leave-in for extra dry hair.) Rub some olive oil in, or coconut oil (not too much!), then just gently put your hair up or let it dry naturally – no plaits or tight ponytails etc. Wash your hair as infrequently as possible – like, once a week? Be gentle and kind to your hair and use moisturing things, like honey and olive oil or your hair under a shower cap for a few hours, etc. The more moisture your get, and the less stress you out your hair through, the currier and happier it will be. 🙂 Hope this helps anyone as much as it helped me. After a year as a blonde and no curl at all, I “big-chopped” to get my naturally dark, spiral curly hair back. It’s taken me 18 months from very short, straight pixie to jaw-length ‘boing’ curls! Cant wait to get to long bob!
Toya,
Do you still wet your hair every day without actually washing it?
But really? How long does it takes? I’m 13 and curls are loosening. I’m becoming paranoid that they’ll be lost forever!
THe,my daughter destiny is13 as well and has been straighten her curls for a year or so.her hair is to the middle of her back,I’m not foresee but I feel if you treat your hair like you love it you may get what u desire of it with all natural products.wash 1xaweek.
About the bit where you mentioned how the styles you wear can affect curly hair, I have naturally curly hair but have been wearing long plaits for a very long time, my hair is also quite long but I too have been losing my curls and only now (after reading your reply) have I realised the reason why. My hair is quite long now for keeping it out, so what hairstyles can I do so that I keep my curls?
Hi, im 15 and i used to have curly hair when i was little but i now have damaged wavy/straight hair i dont know if its because i got older or its because i damaged my hair so bad i lost those curls, my mom has naturally curly hair and i would like to know if i can get those curls back from when i was little. Hopefully its possible because my friend tells me that i can get them back but im not for sure.
Same I’m 13 and I have been straightening my hair for about 6 months and I use to have ringlets and now i don’t know what to call it and I’m going to get my haircut and see what that does but I’m in desperate need to get them back I feel so bad for destroying them?
Same, I’m 13 too and last year I hated my curls, so I would wear my hair in a very tight bun with gel. I wore it like that for about 2 years, and now I have to wear it down and I love it now that I’ve seen it from a different point of view. Now the curls have loosened a lot and one side of my hair is practically straight but the other side is curly at the top and starts getting looser and looser towards the end.
I need help I use just for me texture softener system on my granddaughter hair just to relax the curly, but it’s more straight then curly. What can I use to bring in more of the curly.