Curly hair has a personality of its own—full of texture, volume, and bounce. But what if your natural curls aren’t as tight or defined as you’d like them to be? You might have tried various products, techniques, or even different haircuts to bring out the best of your curls. If you’re looking to enhance and make your naturally curly hair curlier, there are several methods and approaches that can help you achieve more defined, voluminous curls that last longer.
In this article, we will guide you through various techniques, product recommendations, and styling methods that are designed to enhance and encourage curl definition. We will provide you with professional tips and advice on how to care for your curls and ensure they reach their fullest potential.
How to Make Naturally Curly Hair Curlier?
Before diving into techniques, it’s important to understand your natural curl pattern. Curly hair comes in different types, ranging from loose waves to tight ringlets, and each curl type may require different care.
The Andre Walker Hair Typing System is often used to classify hair into categories based on texture:
- Type 1: Straight hair
- Type 2: Wavy hair
- Type 3: curly hair
- Type 4: Coily or kinky hair
If you have Type 3 curly hair (ranging from loose curls to tight ringlets), you can easily enhance your curls with the right approach. The key to making your curly hair curlier is to boost your natural texture without causing damage.
Moisture is Key for Curl Definition
One of the main factors in achieving curlier hair is moisture. Curly hair tends to be drier than straight hair, as the natural oils have a harder time traveling down the twists and turns of the hair strand. If your curls feel limp or undefined, the issue may be a lack of moisture.
Use a Moisturizing Shampoo and Conditioner
Choose a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner that is specifically designed for curly hair. Sulfates can strip natural oils from your hair, leading to dryness and frizz. Opt for formulas that contain natural oils like argan oil, jojoba oil, or shea butter. These ingredients provide essential moisture and nourishment, making your curls bouncier and more defined.
Deep Conditioning Treatments
A weekly deep conditioning treatment is essential for curly hair. It helps replenish moisture and ensures your curls are hydrated. Look for products with rich moisturizing ingredients like avocado oil or coconut oil. Apply the treatment generously to your hair, focusing on the ends, and leave it in for at least 15-20 minutes before rinsing.
Applying Curl-Enhancing Products
After washing your hair, applying the right styling products can make a significant difference in how curly your hair looks. These products work by adding moisture, defining curls, and providing hold.
Curl Creams
Curl creams are formulated to define and enhance your natural curl pattern. Look for a curl cream that provides definition without weighing your hair down. Apply the product to damp hair, working it through evenly with your fingers or a wide-toothed comb. A good curl cream will enhance your curls without leaving them crunchy or sticky.
Mousse for Volume
If you want more volume and bounce, consider using a mousse. Mousse helps to add lightness to your curls and lift them from the roots, making them appear curlier and fuller. Mousse is a great option for those who have fine or medium curly hair and want to achieve a more voluminous look.
Curl Gels
Curl gels provide stronger hold, perfect for keeping curls defined all day. While gels can sometimes leave curls feeling crunchy, choosing a lightweight, alcohol-free gel can help you avoid that issue. Apply the gel to damp hair and use the “scrunching” technique to encourage curls.
Leave-In Conditioners
Leave-in conditioners provide additional moisture throughout the day. They help to maintain your curl pattern and prevent frizz. Look for a leave-in conditioner with ingredients like glycerin or aloe vera, which will help define curls without making them greasy.
Techniques to Enhance Curl Definition
Once you’ve applied the necessary products, the way you dry your hair plays a crucial role in enhancing your natural curls. Certain techniques are designed to enhance curl definition and prevent frizz.
Plopping
Plopping is a method where you wrap your damp curls in a cotton T-shirt or microfiber towel after applying product. This technique helps to reduce frizz and maintain curl definition while drying. The T-shirt absorbs moisture without disrupting your curl pattern, and the shape it creates helps define tighter curls. Leave your hair wrapped for about 20 minutes to allow curls to set.
Diffusing with a Blow Dryer
If you prefer to use heat, a diffuser attachment on your blow dryer can help enhance your curls without causing frizz. The diffuser disperses the air, reducing direct heat exposure to your hair, which can cause heat damage. Use the diffuser on a low heat setting and avoid touching your hair too much while it dries. Scrunch your curls gently with your fingers to encourage more curl formation.
Air Drying
Air drying is a gentle way to let your curls form naturally. After applying your products, avoid your touching hair too much to prevent frizz. You can use a lightweight mousse or leave-in conditioner to keep curls hydrated and defined while they air dry. For those with tighter curls, air drying might take longer, but the results are often softer curls that hold their shape.
Finger-Coiling
For tighter and more defined curls, finger-coiling can help you achieve more defined spirals. Simply take a small section of hair and wrap it around your finger to form a curl. This technique can be time-consuming, but it can give you more control over the curl definition and results in tighter, well-formed curls.
The Curling Iron Method
If you have naturally wavy or loose curls but want tighter, more defined ringlets, using a curling iron can help. Choose a curling iron with a smaller barrel to create tighter curls. Wrap small sections of hair around the barrel, hold for a few seconds, and then release. Once all the sections are curled, use your fingers to gently break up the curls for a natural, voluminous look.
Trim and Shape Your Curls
Regular trims are essential to maintain the health and shape of your curls. Split ends can cause curls to look frizzy and limp. A well-maintained curly haircut will allow your curls to spring into shape and enhance their natural texture.
Layered Haircuts
Layered haircuts are ideal for curly hair because they help distribute volume and reduce the weight that can make curls look limp. Layers also create more bounce, giving your curls more movement and definition. Talk to your stylist about cutting your curls in a way that enhances their natural shape.
The DevaCut
The DevaCut is a specific haircut technique for curly hair that is cut curl-by-curl to enhance the curl pattern. This method helps prevent the hair from looking too bulky or heavy, making your curls look more defined and less weighted down.
Avoiding Damage to Curly Hair
Damage can break down the curl pattern and prevent your hair from reaching its full potential. To maintain curl definition and keep your hair healthy, avoid certain habits that can harm your curls.
Avoid Over-Washing
Washing curly hair too often strips it of essential oils. Curly hair thrives on moisture, so try to wash it only 2-3 times per week. On non-wash days, refresh your curls with a leave-in conditioner or curl refresher spray.
Use a Wide-Toothed Comb
Curly hair can be prone to tangling, but using a fine-toothed comb can cause breakage. Instead, use a wide-toothed comb or your fingers to gently detangle your curls, especially when your hair is wet.
Sleep on Silk or Satin
Cotton pillowcases can cause friction and frizz, which can disturb your curl pattern. Switch to a silk or satin pillowcase, or wrap your hair in a satin scarf to reduce friction and keep curls intact overnight.
Conclusion
Making naturally curly hair curlier is all about understanding your curl pattern, providing the right moisture, using the best curl-enhancing products, and applying techniques that define and enhance your natural texture. With the right care and styling, you can achieve curls that are bouncy, defined, and full of life. Remember, curly hair is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. Experiment with different techniques to find what works best for your curls, and enjoy the process of enhancing your natural beauty!
