If you have curly hair, chances are, you’ve struggled with figuring out your ideal haircare routine, at least at some point in your life. Let’s begin with the basics of haircare, which is curating a hair wash routine that leaves your hair and scalp feeling refreshed, cleansed and hydrated while ensuring that no damage is done to your tresses.
Curly hair, with its unique texture and structure, requires special care to maintain its health and bounce. A proper hair wash routine is essential to keep your curls in their optimum health. Below, find our comprehensive guide to the ultimate curly hair wash day routine, replete with a pre-shampoo treatment to post-wash care.
Pre-wash hydation
Before diving into the cleansing process, consider incorporating a pre-wash treatment into your routine. This step is crucial for hydrating and preparing your curls for the wash. Begin by applying a nourishing hair oil or mask, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends. Oils like coconut, argan, or jojoba are excellent choices for curly hair due to their moisturizing properties. Leave the treatment on for at least 30 minutes or, for a more intense dose of moisture, leave it on overnight. This pre-wash ritual helps to minimize frizz, adds moisture, and makes detangling easier during the wash.
Tira Recommends: Olaplex No.8 Bond Intense Moisture Mask
Cleanse + rinse
Choosing the right shampoo is crucial for curly hair care. Opt for hydrating shampoos that cleanse without stripping your hair of its natural oils. If your curls feel particularly dry lately, you may even benefit from a sulphate-free shampoo.
Apply a small amount of shampoo to your scalp and focus on massaging the roots to eliminate product buildup, dirt and excess oil. Gently work the suds down the length of your hair, allowing the natural flow of water to cleanse the rest. Remember, less is more; you don't want to over-cleanse and strip your hair of its natural oils.
Tira Recommends: Kevin Murphy Hydrate-Me Wash Shampoo
Condition
Conditioning is non-negotiable for healthy, hydrated hair, especially if your hair happens to be curly hair. Pick a conditioner that’s specifically formulated for curly or dry hair. Apply it generously, concentrating on the mid-lengths and ends where moisture is needed the most. Leave the conditioner on for a few minutes to allow the hair to absorb the nourishing ingredients. This step not only hydrates your strands but also aids in defining curls and reducing frizz.
Tira Recommends: Re'equil Babassu AntiFrizz And Smoothening Hair Conditioner
Detangle
Detangling curly hair can be a daunting task, but it's a crucial step in the hair wash routine. After applying conditioner, use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to gently detangle your curls. Start from the ends and work your way up to the roots, carefully removing knots and preventing breakage. The conditioner provides slip, making the detangling process smoother and less damaging. If you encounter stubborn knots, apply more conditioner or use a detangling spray to ease the process. Patience is key here; rushing through detangling can lead to hair breakage and put unnecessary stress on your curls.
Tira Recommends: Vega Shampoo Comb
Finishing touches
Once you've rinsed out the conditioner, it's time for the final finishing touch – a leave-in conditioner. This step is essential for locking in moisture, defining curls, and providing an extra layer of protection. Choose a lightweight, leave-in conditioner that won't weigh down your curls. Apply a small amount, evenly distributing it through your damp hair. This not only enhances the natural curl pattern but also acts as a shield against environmental stressors. If you prefer, you can also use a styling cream or gel at this stage to further define and hold your curls in place, and you’re all set to go!
Tira Recommends: Arata Advanced Curl Care Leave-In Conditioner
