Hydration, definition, and protection: these are the three pillars of a successful curly routine. Whether your curls are tight or loose, every step matters to maximize their beauty. Discover the essential actions and the best products for vibrant, healthy curls!
Well-defined curls, free of frizz and full of volume are possible… as long as you have a well-oiled routine! Too often, curly hair is mishandled by inappropriate products or harsh techniques. The secret? A 7-step key routine, with carefully selected products to nourish, hydrate, and shape the curls. Follow the guide!
1. Nourishing Shampoo and Cold Water Rinse
A good wash is the first essential step in a successful haircare routine. It helps remove impurities without drying out the hair fiber. The must-know tip? Use a silicone bristle brush to gently massage the scalp, stimulate blood circulation, and promote stronger growth.
Our favorite: Curl & Shine Nourishing Shampoo by Shea Moisture
Enriched with coconut oil and silk proteins, this shampoo deeply nourishes, maintains hydration, and leaves curls bouncy and soft.
Application advice:
- Apply a small amount to wet scalp.
- Gently massage with a silicone brush.
- Rinse thoroughly… but with cold water!
Why? Because cold water closes the hair cuticles, preserving hydration and enhancing shine.
2. Hydrating Mask: A Dose of Love for Curls
Curly hair is thirsty! An ultra-nourishing mask is essential to restore flexibility and elasticity.
The must-have: Intense Curl Manifesto Mask by Kérastase
With Manuka honey and ceramides, it hydrates deeply and strengthens the hair fiber.
Application:
- Generously apply to towel-dried hair.
- Leave on for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Rinse lightly to preserve a thin hydrating film.
3. The Bowl Technique: Deep Hydration
This method involves soaking your hair in a bowl of water and treatment to evenly distribute hydration and enhance curl formation.
How to do it?
- Fill a bowl with warm water.
- Submerge your lengths, then scrunch to help the treatment penetrate.
- Repeat 2 to 3 times for maximum hydration.
4. Hydrating Cream: To Nourish and Define Curls
After hydration, it’s time for nutrition! A hydrating styling cream will help maintain curl shape while preventing a fuzzy appearance.
Our favorite: Curl Enhancing Smoothie by Shea Moisture
Enriched with coconut oil and shea butter, it intensely nourishes and leaves curls soft and bouncy.
Application:
- Apply a small amount to damp hair.
- Scrunch to ensure full absorption.
- Do not rinse.
5. Styling Gel: For Long-Lasting Hold
To prevent curls from losing structure throughout the day, apply a styling gel or a curl cream in sections.
Curly girls’ favorite: Eco Styler Gel with Argan Oil
It maintains curl shape without a crunchy finish.
How to apply it?
- Divide your hair into 4 to 6 sections.
- Apply a small amount of gel to each section.
- Gently scrunch.
6. Volumizing Mousse: Boost Volume Without Weighing Down
Some mousses provide too strong of a hold, leaving curls rigid. The trick is to opt for a light mousse that adds volume while keeping things soft.
The must-have: Curl Construct Volume Mousse by Garnier Fructis
It adds volume while fixing curls without a sticky feel.
Application:
- Dispense a small amount into your hands.
- Apply by scrunching the lengths.
- Allow to air dry or use a diffuser.
7. Hair Oil: The Finishing Touch for Sublime Curls
Once your hair is dry, it’s time to eliminate the “crunch” effect and add shine with a light oil.
Our recommendation: Elixir Ultime Oil by Kérastase
Non-greasy, it nourishes and enhances curls without weighing them down.
Application:
- Warm a few drops between your hands.
- Gently apply to lengths.
- Scrunch lightly to revive curls.
Photo credit: @vaea.brazier
