my tried-and-true curly hair products
I’m coming up on two years of embracing my curls! I’ve been using the same products most of that time, all of which are curly girl approved. The best part? They are some of the most inexpensive products I’ve ever used on my hair, and it’s never been longer, softer or healthier. Win-win!
Suave coconut conditioner: I use this as a shampoo and conditioner. So I use a lot, but it’s a big bottle and I only wash my hair once a week, so it lasts a long time. Costs less than $2!
Detangling comb: After I shampoo, I detangle my hair before conditioning. This is the only time I brush my hair! Any wide-tooth comb will work.
LA Looks blue gel: Yes, the same gel you used in high school. I use a lot, although it can get flaky if I use too much. It has great hold and I believe is one of the main reasons I can go a week between washes. I apply this generously in the shower and again after mousse.
Cotton T-shirt: I prefer a T-shirt to dry my hair instead of a towel because it takes out less moisture (curls love moisture, otherwise they become frizzy). Any old cotton T-shirt will do! I also use a T-shirt to “scrunch out the crunch” after my hair has completely air dried.
Not Your Mother’s Curl Talk Mousse: After 5-10 minutes of towel (T-shirt) drying, I take a handful of mousse and scrunch it into my hair.
Spiral hair ties: These hair ties are popular with curly girls because they don’t leave creases or damage your hair. I use them at night when I sleep — my hair goes up into a ponytail on top of my hair. Since writing this post, I have changed to the Goody Ouchless Forever. I would suggest these for anyone with thicker hair!
Satin or silk pillowcase: To eliminate frizz, I sleep on a satin pillowcase every night. Less friction = less breakage. You could also wear a silk hair scarf. Highly recommend!
Spray bottle: In the morning, I take down my ponytail and spray my hair with water. Any water bottle will work, but this continuous spray bottle reduces hand fatigue, plus it will spray whether it’s sideways or upside down.
Scalp massager: When my hair is dry, I love to use this tool to fluff my roots and add volume. You can also just use your fingers!
Dry shampoo: This is one of the only “curly girl approved” dry shampoos I know of. I don’t use it very often, but it’s nice to have on hand for days 5-7 if my scalp is getting oily. This $10 bottle will last me years!
Deep conditioner: Every other month, after I have my roots colored, I immediately come home and use this mask to replenish my hair’s moisture. Bonus: It smells amazing!
Curly Girl: The Handbook: If you’re new to the curly girl method, I suggest purchasing this book or reading this Reddit thread to get started. There are several YouTube videos and Instagrammers out there as well who will share their tips. You can follow my curly girl steps. I’m also more than happy to answer any questions you have!