Moisturize Your Curls And Coils With These Pro Tips

Having curly hair is having the best of both worlds. You can wear it sleek and straight or in its natural waves, ringlets, and coils. But while the advantages are plenty (style versatility, not having to run from a little rain or humidity, random strangers shouting “love your curls!” on the street), curly hair does require a little extra care when it comes to moisture.

Nutrients can more easily travel from roots to ends on straight hair than curly textures because the route is a straight path. Curly patterns have bends and turns which make it harder for moisturizing products to travel the whole hair shaft. But do not fret! We talked to textured hair experts Vernon François and Karen Miller about how to moisturize curly hair. Ahead, find the 6 tips they swear by.

Use Moisturizing Shampoo and Conditioner

When it comes to cleansing and conditioning textured hair, it’s essential to incorporate a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner. Cleansing the hair is a necessary but potentially stripping process. Because curly hair is already more prone to dryness, this foundational step can often result in even dryer strands.

If your hair has a lot of buildup, both experts suggest applying a detoxifying or clarifying shampoo first and then following up with a moisturizing shampoo to replenish hydration. François adds that using a deep conditioning treatment once a week can help boost hydration. For maximum benefits, Miller suggests sitting with a processing cap for the instructed time of the deep conditioner before rinsing it.

Apply Leave-In Treatments

Maintaining moisturized curls isn’t a one-and-done step and can require intention throughout the entire hair care process. After shampoo and conditioner and before style products, reach for a leave-in conditioner or treatment specifically formulated to combat dryness. This can help stretch the hydration of your curls until the next wash day.

Not only will this keep the hair soft and supple, but Miller says it can help make it “more manageable when detangling and also help protect hair from damage when styling.” The stylist recommends using either lightweight leave-in formulas that won’t weigh the hair down, or bond-repairing leave-ins that aid in keeping the hair healthy.

Be Ingredient Conscious

You should always be aware of the ingredients in your hair products and know their specific purpose and effects. But this is especially true if your goal is moisturized curls, as some common ingredients can cause severe dryness. Miller advises staying away from parabens, sulfates, and synthetic colors. Instead, look for natural, moisture-enhancing ingredients like coconut oil, sunflower oil, shea butter, and cocoa.

“Humectants like glycerin and honey attract moisture from the air into the hair. [Similarly], natural oils such as coconut oil, argan oil, and jojoba oil help seal in moisture, keeping hair hydrated for longer,” François adds. “Butters like shea butter and cocoa butter are excellent for locking in moisture and providing nourishment [as well]. Small amounts of hydrolyzed proteins can also help strengthen the hair, reducing moisture loss.”

Refresh Your Curls

Whether you’re wearing a wash-and-go or a braid-out, remember to refresh your curls in between washdays. You can use a curl refresh spray, or create your own by mixing leave-in conditioner and water in a spray bottle. This will help maintain the moisture in your hair and keep strands from drying out. Use your best judgment to determine when you need a refresh, but François says that two to three times per week is a good place to start. Miller adds that applying a serum mid-length through ends and finishing with a few drops of oil can help maintain moisture and add wear time to your curly styles.

Protect Your Hair While You Sleep

Even when you rest, ensure that your hair is moisturized and protected. François says, “Use a silk or satin pillowcase or wrap your hair in a silk scarf [or bonnet] to prevent moisture loss and reduce friction while you sleep.” The material is very important here. Silk and satin are much gentler on the hair, as opposed to other fabrics like cotton, which absorb moisture from hair and also cause a lot of friction.

Lead a Balanced Lifestyle

Keeping your curly hair healthy and moisturized is a lifestyle that “goes beyond just using the right products. It’s about embracing a lifestyle that nourishes your curls from within,” François says. “Hydration starts with drinking plenty of water and maintaining a balanced diet rich in vitamins and healthy fats, which support hair health.” The celebrity stylist is an advocate of regular physical exercise, which boosts circulation and scalp health, and stress management through mindfulness practices. “Stress can impact hair moisture and overall vitality,” he adds.

As for general best hair care practices, François encourages curly-haired people to “limit the use of heat styling tools, which can strip moisture from your curls.” Both of our experts also emphasize routine trims. “One tip I love to share is to stay on top of your trims. A lot of dryness stems from dead ends that need to be cut and can’t be repaired with products or treatments,” Miller tells Byrdie.

Final Takeaway

Curly hair is glorious and gorgeous for infinite reasons, but it does require specific care to maintain moisture and overall health. Moisturizing shampoo and conditioner formulas lay the foundation for hydrated strands. In the event you have to start with a clarifying shampoo to rid buildup, you should always finish with a replenishing moisture shampoo.

As for styling, keep your hair refreshed with products. No need to go overboard, as a light spritzing of curl refresher spray or leave-in conditioner and water mixture every other day will suffice. And remember that taking care of your hair is a lifestyle. Get routine trims, eat nutrient-rich foods, drink water, exercise, and wear a bonnet. Adopting healthy hair care and wellness practices will be critical to achieving your best curls!