From Frizz to Fab: My 3-Step Curly Hair Routine

A Curly Girl's Guide to a Brilliant Hair Care Routine

It's a rainy day in London, and you're popping round to Charlie's for a chat about all things curly hair care. You've got questions, and we've got answers – 38 years' worth of 'em! So let's have a little chin wag about how to create a curly hair routine that'll have your locks looking absolutely smashing.

Let's transform your hair! Photo by RDNE Stock project from Pexels

Our Testing Process

Now, in our experience at Charlie's Hair and Beauty, we've found that the key to cracking the curly hair code is understanding your unique curl pattern and porosity. That's why we always start by assessing our clients' hair in person at our Shepherds Bush shop. But don't worry if you can't pop by – we'll guide you through the basics here.

Cleansing and Pre-Shampoo Care

Let's start at the very beginning, Curly hair tends to be drier than other types, so you'll want to avoid washing it every day. We recommend cleansing just 2-3 times a week to keep your curls bouncy and hydrated.

Before you shampoo, try using a pre-poo shampoo like African Pride Moisture Miracle Aloe And Coconut Water Pre-Shampoo Work it through your curls to detangle and protect them from drying out in the shower. 

When it comes to shampoo, look for something gentle and sulphate-free. Curly girls rave about the As I Am Coconut Cowash, which cleanses without stripping. Follow up with a deeply hydrating conditioner, focusing on the ends of your hair.

Styling and Defining

Now for the fun part – styling! The key here is to define your curls while they're soaking wet. Apply your products in sections, using the "praying hands" method to smooth them over your curls.

Our hands-down favourite styling product is the BSSET Original Curl Cream. It's our #7 bestseller for a reason – the rich formula moisturises and defines curls without crunchiness. 

If you need a bit more hold, try layering a gel over your curl cream. The EcoStyler Curl & Wave Styling Gel is brilliant for locking in your style without drying out your curls. 

Drying and Protecting

Now that you've got your curls all defined and gorgeous, it's time to dry. If you've got the time, air drying is always best. Plop your curls in a microfibre towel or t-shirt for 10-15 minutes, then let them air dry the rest of the way.

If you're in a rush, you can diffuse your curls on low heat. Be sure to use a heat protectant first, like the Avlon Texture Release Thermal Protector.  it'll keep your curls safe from heat damage.

The Curly Girl Method can be a total game-changer for your hair, but it does have some downsides. On the plus side, you'll likely see a huge improvement in the health and definition of your curls. You may even be able to ditch the straighteners for good!

However, the CGM can be a bit tricky to get the hang of at first. It also requires a fair bit of trial and error to find the right products for your specific curl type. And if you're used to washing your hair daily, training it to last longer between washes can be a bit of an adjustment.

Our Verdict

Your hair can look this gorgeous too! Photo by cottonbro studio from Pexels

All in all, we're big fans of the Curly Girl Method here at Charlie's. We've seen it work wonders for our clients, and we love helping curlies embrace their natural texture.

If you're new to the CGM, start slow and be patient with yourself. It can take a few weeks for your hair to adjust, but stick with it – the results are so worth it. And remember, we're always here to help if you have any questions along the way.

Where to Buy

Ready to start your curly hair journey? We've got everything you need at Charlie's Hair And Beauty – both in-shop and online. Pop into our Shepherds Bush shop for a personalized consultation, or browse our online selection of CGM-approved products.

We offer free UK shipping on orders over £50, so it's easy to stock up on all your curl care essentials. And if you're not sure where to start, our team is always happy to make personalized recommendations based on your unique curl type and concerns.

FAQs

How often should I wash my curly hair?

We recommend washing curly hair just 2-3 times per week to avoid dryness and frizz. If your scalp gets oily in between washes, try refreshing with a dry shampoo or co-wash.

Can I still use heat styling tools on my curly hair?

If you're following the Curly Girl Method strictly, heat styling is a no-no. But if you do occasionally reach for the diffuser or straighteners, be sure to use a heat protectant spray first. We love the Avlon Texture Release Thermal Protector for keeping curls safe from damage.

What if my curls are still frizzy after following the CGM?

Frizz is often a sign of dryness or damage. Make sure you're using plenty of moisturizing products, and consider adding a weekly deep conditioning treatment to your routine. The Camille Rose Moroccan Pear Conditioning Custard is one of our favourites for quenching thirsty curls.

Can I colour my hair if I'm following the Curly Girl Method?

Yes, but opt for a gentle, ammonia-free colour to minimise damage. We love the Adore Semi Permanent Hair Colour range – it comes in tonnes of brilliant shades and actually improves the condition of your curls while it colours. Genius!

So there you have it – a foolproof guide to caring for your curly locks, straight from our experts at Charlie's Hair & Beauty. Remember, the key is to embrace your natural texture, keep your curls moisturized, and have a little patience as you nail down your perfect routine.

And if you ever need product recommendations or advice, you know where to find us – we're always chuffed to help our fellow curly girls! Feel free to pop round to our Shepherds Bush shop for advice and a curl chat anytime. Until then, keep calm and curl on!

There you have it! Come see us in store if you need any help finding the perfect products.