Tired of frizz and tangles? Here’s how to manage and nourish your curly hair

How to manage curly hair: Unlike straight hair, thick curls don’t require daily or even weekly washing. Instead, cleanse your hair every 2–3 weeks to maintain scalp health while preserving moisture (Image: Canva)

Managing curly hair is never easy. It tends to get dry, frizzy, and tangled easily, making it harder to style. Also, humidity can make it puff up, while overwashing can strip away moisture, leaving it dull and brittle. Finding the right balance of hydration, gentle care, and styling techniques is key to keeping curls healthy and defined.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, caring for naturally curly or coily hair can sometimes feel challenging. This hair type tends to be drier and more fragile than straight hair, making it more prone to breakage and frizz.

Also read | Easy curly hair care routine: Gentle cleansing, conditioning and styling for defined, frizz-free curls

However, with the right approach—using proper techniques and nourishing products—you can keep your curls strong, hydrated, and beautifully defined.

Washing curly hair: Overwashing curly hair can strip away natural oils, leaving it dry and prone to frizz. Unlike straight hair, thick curls don’t require daily or even weekly washing. Instead, cleanse your hair every 2–3 weeks to maintain scalp health while preserving moisture. If your hair is long or dense, wash it in sections to prevent excessive tangling.

Use the right shampoo: Choose a hydrating shampoo designed specifically for curly hair. If you frequently use styling products like gels, creams, or oils, consider starting with a clarifying shampoo before applying a moisturizing formula. To prolong the freshness of your hair between washes, wear a shower cap while bathing.

Condition your hair: Curly hair tends to be naturally drier than other textures, so deep hydration is key. Always condition from root to tip, not just the ends. After shampooing, apply a rich conditioner, then follow up with a leave-in treatment or hair oil to lock in moisture. Ingredients like argan oil, glycerin, and fatty alcohols (such as cetyl or stearyl alcohol) work well to maintain hydration and softness.

Care for your scalp: If you go too long without washing, excess oil buildup can lead to dandruff. However, harsh anti-dandruff shampoos can be drying. To balance scalp health, apply dandruff shampoo only to the scalp and let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing. Follow up with a moisturising shampoo for the rest of your hair. If dandruff persists, consult a dermatologist for targeted treatment.

Also read | Healthy hair: Tight coils or loose waves, here's how to maintain curly, bouncy hair with ease

Detangle with care: Curly hair tangles easily, so detangling requires a gentle approach. Before styling, dampen your hair and apply a leave-in conditioner to make the process smoother. Use your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to work through knots in sections. Avoid brushing dry curls, as this can cause breakage and frizz. It’s also helpful to detangle while conditioning in the shower.

Beware of sun-damage: Excessive sun exposure can dry out curly hair, making it brittle and prone to breakage. To protect your locks, wear a wide-brimmed hat or a scarf when outdoors and ensure your hair remains well-moisturised to combat the drying effects of UV rays.

Sleep with care: Nighttime friction can lead to frizz and breakage, so protecting your curls while you sleep is essential. Try loosely tying your hair or braiding it before bed. Sleeping on a satin or silk pillowcase can also help reduce friction and maintain curl definition

Adjust your routine: No two curls are the same, so finding the perfect hair care routine requires experimentation. If a product or technique doesn’t work for your hair type, don’t be discouraged, keep testing different approaches until you find what suits your curls best.

Limit heat styling: Excessive heat can weaken curls over time. If you need to use heat tools, always apply a heat protectant spray and keep the temperature at a moderate level to prevent damage. Whenever possible, opt for air drying or diffusing at a low heat setting.

Disclaimer: This article only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific diagnosis.