Mastering Curl Definition for Naturally Wavy Hair

How to Define Curls On Naturally Wavy Hair

Whether your hair is naturally curly, wavy, or straight depends on the genes that you inherit. But you can style your hair to almost anything. However, if you’re naturally wavy, you might struggle to find your perfect curls and get the ideal results. Follow our tips and techniques, and find out how to define curls on wavy hair.

Sulfate-Free Shampoos

Wondering how to get more defined curls with wavy hair? It starts in the shower. Wavy hair is usually drier than naturally straight hair, so you want a moisturizing shampoo. That way, you avoid frizzing and dry ends. You also want to use a sulfate-free shampoo. This is because sulfates tend to strip hair from its natural oils, which can lead to dryness and breakage. That’s exactly what you don’t want when you’re trying to find your curls! That’s why our shampoo is moisturizing, gentle, and sulfate-free. It’s the perfect first step in defining your curls.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

• Wet your hair thoroughly with warm water.
• Apply a generous amount of sulfate-free shampoo to your scalp.
• Gently massage the shampoo into your scalp using your fingertips, creating a rich lather.
• Work the shampoo through the lengths of your hair, focusing on the roots and mid-lengths.
• Rinse your hair thoroughly with lukewarm water until all the shampoo is removed.

Deep Condition

Once you’ve shampooed, it’s time to condition. Using the right conditioner is one of the most important things that give you the curly hair you’re looking for. A good conditioner will smooth and seal hair cuticles. This reduces the friction between hair strands, creating frizz-free and glossy curls without weighing them down. Look for a rinse-out conditioner that is smoothing, nourishing, and moisturizing.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

• Squeeze out any excess water from your hair after shampooing.
• Apply a generous amount of conditioner to the lengths and ends of your hair.
• Use your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to distribute the conditioner evenly.
• Leave the conditioner on for the recommended time (usually 3-5 minutes).
• Rinse your hair thoroughly with cool water to seal the cuticles and enhance shine.

Time to Detangle

Now is the perfect time to detangle your hair. Remember, you never want to brush wavy or curly hair when it’s dry, as this might lead to hair breakage. Detangle your hair before you rinse out your conditioner or while you’re washing it out. It’s best to use your fingers, a wet detangling brush, or a wide-tooth comb to gently get through the tangles.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

• Start detangling from the ends of your hair and work your way up to the roots.
• Use your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to gently remove any knots or tangles.
• Be patient and take your time to avoid causing breakage or damage to your hair.
• If needed, apply a small amount of conditioner or detangling spray to help with the process.

Leave-in Conditioner and Hair Oil

To make the most of your curls, it’s time to use a leave-in conditioner and hair oil. Depending on your hair type, texture, and preference, you can use both or just one of these products. It’s best to experiment and see what works best for you. If you feel like a leave-in conditioner is too heavy for you, try a leave-in mist instead. This is the so-called LOC or LOG method, which seals in the added moisturizer and keeps your hair well-hydrated for days. Apply first water or a water-based product like a leave-in conditioner to hydrate the hair, this stands for the liquid (L), then seal in the added moisture with a hair oil by closing the hair cuticles (O) and finally apply a cream (C) or gel (G) for extra hold for the style. Often with wavy hair, a gel is a better option than a cream as it tends to be more lightweight. If you are not looking for extra hold and are going for a more casual everyday look, the leave-in conditioner and hair oil will be more than enough. This will lock in moisture and keep hair smooth and frizz-free.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

• After rinsing out the conditioner, gently squeeze out excess water from your hair.
• Apply a small amount of leave-in conditioner to the lengths and ends of your hair.
• Smooth the product through your hair using your fingers or a wide-tooth comb.
• Next, take a few drops of hair oil and distribute it evenly through your hair.
• Finger comb or scrunch your hair to encourage curl formation and enhance definition.

Dry and Define

You’re nearly there; it’s now time to dry and define those curls. There are a few ways to improve the definition of curly hair: towel drying, air drying, or using a diffuser.

Dry with a Microfiber Towel

If you want to avoid frizz, you should try drying your hair with a microfiber towel. Towel drying your hair with a normal towel can cause frizz, as it makes the hair cuticle rough. Microfiber texture is gentler for fragile curls than a terry cloth (used in regular towels) or even 100% cotton if you are plopping with a T-shirt. Using a microfiber towel absorbs water quickly, reduces frizz, and minimizes breakage. Use the towel to blot your hair without drying or disturbing your curls too much.

Air Drying

If you’re not sure how to style wavy hair, this is the simplest and easiest method. If you choose to air-dry your hair, try the ‘squish’ or ‘twist’ method to make your curls more defined. Turn your head upside down to add volume, and use your hands to ‘squish’ or ‘twist’ your hair. Your hair should start to clump; strands of hair come together and look like one wave or curl (instead of lots of separate curls). Keep ‘squishing’ and ‘twisting’ until your curls have formed, and then leave them to dry. At this point, it’s best to touch your hair as little as possible to avoid frizz!

Using a Diffuser

If you want to add a bit more volume and definition, you can use a diffuser. This is a bell-shaped attachment that snaps onto your hairdryer. Divide your hair into different sections and rest each section on top of the diffuser to dry. Use a cool setting and keep the diffuser as still as you can. This method might take a little bit longer but will give you big and bouncy curls!

On a final note, remember that having wavy hair is a gift; you can do almost anything! Follow these tips – and check out the perfect products – to discover and define your curls.