Curly hair ranges in texture, from barely there waves to tight coils. Different curl types need different care, depending on where they fall within the spectrum. If your hair is in the curly range, you'll likely want to care for your curls a bit differently than for tightly coiled curls or loose waves.

Do you know where your texture falls on the curl meter? 

Defined by their springy shape, curly strands loop back on themselves, growing in a spiral shape. They range from loose loops to tighter corkscrews. Those with curly hair often have a combination of several curl types. 

3a: Looser, larger loops with approximately the diameter of a Loonie. 

3b: Tighter corkscrew curls with the diameter of a thick marker. 

3c: Springy, corkscrew curls with the approximate diameter of a pencil. 

If your hair has these characteristics, read on for styling tips and care! If you think you may fall under a different curl type, click here.

Caring for Curly Hair

Curly hair tends to be on the dry side. And where there's dryness, there's a higher chance of frizz. Look for gentle moisturizing shampoos and conditioners that won't strip your hair of natural oils. Use richer treatments when your hair is really in need of a boost with curls that are dry and frizzy.

Ones to try:

Ouidad Ultra-Nourishing Cleansing Oil Shampoo

Keep curls bouncy, supple and healthy with this blend of nutrient-rich fatty acids.

Ouidad Advanced Climate Control Conditioner

Lock in moisture and and lock out humidity for soft, hydrated, frizz-free curls.

DevaCurl Melt Into Moisture Treatment Mask

This rich moisture blend helps encourage curl shapes while deeply hydrating.

Styling Naturally Curly Hair

There are lots of curly methods to achieve your best curl day. It may take some trial and error when styling your natural curls to determine which products work best for you to get your desired curly look. If you're aiming for a softer curl, a curl styling cream that has lots of hydration and a bit of hold may be your best bet. If you are wanting more defined curls, a gel may be your ultimate go-to. A cocktail of both a styling cream and gel can also be a great option to give your hair all-day hydration and definition, while keeping frizz at bay.

Apply your styling cream, gel or both while hair is wet (not damp) from the shower. Apply by either raking the product through with your fingers (and giving it a shake near the ends to allow curls to "shake" back into place) or by using "prayer hands" (sandwich a section of hair between your two palms and run the product down the section from root to tip). Finish by scrunching your hair from tip to root, and either air dry or use a diffuser attachment on your hairdryer.

Ones to try:

DevaCurl Styling Cream 

This silicone-free styler has a good balance of moisture and hold to keep curls touchable and soft.

Ouidad Advanced Climate Control Heat and Humidity Gel 

This gel not only defines curls, but also seals the cuticle to lock moisture in while keeping humidity out. Also available in a stronger hold for curl types needing a bit more staying power.

Looking for more products to wow your curls? Shop all curly hair products here!