Think your curls are untameable and rebellious? Can’t seem to get that bouncy definition? Think again! With the perfect routine, you could uncover your greatest asset!
Like many of you, I have spent ages hating on my hair, frying it pin-straight and desperately searching on social media to find ways to make it presentable.
This inevitably lead to damaged hair; a result of the impossible beauty standard of sleek, straight hair imposed on so many women today.
According to a survey conducted in May 2017 by Statista, about 40 percent of women worldwide claimed to use a hair straightener.
An increase in globalisation and lack of representation in media has only exacerbated this pressure to comply.
The Princess Diaries is a great example of this. Those who have watched this classic will remember how Mia Thermopolis’ transformation included ditching her curls for straight hair. I found myself vulnerable to the stereotype that this is what was needed to be beautiful.
I vividly recall brushing my hair and wondering why it would turn into a lion’s mane instead of silky like the hair of my peers.
Thankfully, an effective curl routine has taught me to care for, enhance and fall in love with my curls.
After lots of trial and error and honestly a journey of self-love and acceptance, I believe I can safely say my curly hair routine is the perfect way to define and maintain those gorgeous ringlets.
Firstly, never forget that water is your best friend!
A common mistake that I often made was not using enough water throughout my routine. If your hair isn’t dripping wet and making a squelching sound, you’re doing it wrong! I recommend getting a cheap spray bottle from any local drugstore!
Next, say hello to shine by combing your hair throughly with a dollop of curl cream. My personal favourites are the John Frieda dream curl or OUAI curl cream (the latter is more pricey). Remember to apply this generously! Pair this with a mousse for even more airy, voluminous hair!
Lock in the moisture with gel! Scrunch a handful of this in and use a Denman brush if you can to define individual pieces! My go-to is the OGX gel which is perfect on a budget!
My sister who has only recently rejuvenated her curls told me “ I always thought hair gel was for slicking back hair or for men but ever since I started using it, my curls have never looked so defined.”
Finally, get the effortless look by air-drying or diffusing your curls! A cost-effective hack is using a pasta strainer and a hairdryer if you don’t have a diffuser- you get the same results!
Something I find so remarkable about curls is the individuality of each clump; it is so unique and something to be celebrated.
Every journey is different but whether you have 3A hair or 4C hair, celebrate your texture and natural beauty- let it be a reflection of your individual, vibrant personality!
