Curly Hair Care & Styling

Get defined, frizz-free curls with our go-to guide for wavy, curly and coily hair.

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We've Got Your Curl Needs Covered

Caring for curls doesn’t have to be complicated. Discover expert tips and trending techniques to style, define, and maintain gorgeous curls. Step one: identify your curl type.

Read on to discover whether your hair is wavy, curly, or coily, and explore the best curly hair products and treatments for your curl type to keep your hair healthy, bouncy, and beautifully defined.

How To Define Your Curls

Wavy Hair (Type 2)

Wavy hair forms loose to defined 'S' shapes and benefits from lightweight care that enhances bounce without weighing it down. To take care of wavy hair, use a shampoo and conditioner designed for wavy hair to gently cleanse while maintaining hydration. When styling, apply lightweight hair products for wavy hair, like a curl spray or mousse, into wet hair and scrunch to define waves and boost shine. Let hair air dry where possible and always apply a heat protectant if using heat tools to help minimise damage and keep waves soft, bouncy and healthy.

Curly Hair (Type 3)

Curly hair forms defined loops that spring back when stretched. Because curly hair needs moisture to stay soft and frizz-free, knowing how to look after curly hair is essential. Use a nourishing routine like curly hair shampoo and curly hair conditioner to keep your hair hydrated and healthy-looking. For styling curly hair textures, apply a curl cream or gel to wet hair to define shape and control frizz. Rake the product through with your fingers or a wide-tooth comb, scrunch to help curls form, then let your curls air dry. A lightweight leave-in conditioner can also help maintain curl definition and softness between washes.

Coily Hair (Type 4)

Coily hair features tight 'S' or 'Z' shaped curls and can range from fine to coarse textures. This hair type thrives on deep hydration, making coily hair products like rich leave-in conditioners or hair masks essential to combat dryness and maintain healthy coils. For a consistent coily hair routine, stretch out your washes to preserve hydration and allow your conditioning mask to soak in for at least 5 minutes before rinsing. Style the hair with a curly hair gel or curl cream and refresh moisture between washes with a rich leave-in conditioner.

FAQs

How often should you shampoo curly hair?

It's best not to shampoo daily to avoid drying out hair, as curly hair needs more hydration than straight hair. The ideal frequency will depend on your curl type. Wavy hair can be washed 2-3 times a week, while curly hair may only need shampooing once a week, and coily hair usually only needs to be washed every two or three weeks. If you follow a curly girl routine, opt for a gentle, sulphate-free shampoo to avoid stripping natural oils, and focus on hydration between washes. This supports healthy curl patterns and helps maintain definition and softness.

Do you need to brush curly hair?

If you’re learning how to look after curly hair, it's generally recommended to avoid brushing it when dry as this can disrupt curl definition and cause frizz. Instead, detangle gently with conditioner while hair is wet, using your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to work from the ends upwards. This helps to protect the curl pattern and supports a smoother curly hair styling routine.

Do you need a diffuser for curly hair?

A diffuser isn’t essential, but it can enhance curly hair styles by boosting definition and reducing frizz. Many people following a curly girl routine prefer diffusing on low heat to maintain volume and speed up drying time, while minimising heat damage. Air drying is a great low-effort option, giving a softer, looser curl look - just make sure not to touch your curls until they are fully dry to avoid disrupting curl clumps and causing frizz.

Does curly hair need moisture?

Yes, curly hair needs consistent hydration to stay defined and frizz-free, so hydration is key when learning how to look after curly hair properly. Boost hydration by:

Incorporate a deep conditioning hair mask into your routine once a week.
Refresh with a mist of water and leave in-conditioner, curl cream or hydrating curl spray between washes.
Apply a lightweight hair oil for added shine and softness - which can also help break any cast left over from styling products.