If you have wavy, curly, or coily hair, you know that getting your texture to cooperate can feel like a full-time job. Frizz, dryness, or flat waves can all get in the way of the look you want. The good news is that with the right routine and clean, moisture-loving products, your natural texture can truly shine.
Understanding Curly and Wavy Hair Types
Before you build your routine, start by identifying your curl pattern. Wavy hair is typically Type 2, curls fall under Type 3, and coils are Type 4. Each type has its own needs when it comes to moisture, hold, and styling.
- Type 2A: Soft, fine waves that are mostly straight at the roots.
- Type 2B: Defined S-shaped waves that can frizz easily.
- Type 2C: Thick, voluminous waves with a curlier texture at the ends.
- Type 3A: Loose, defined curls with a smooth texture and lots of movement.
- Type 3B: Tighter, springy curls with medium thickness and more volume.
- Type 3C: Dense, corkscrew-shaped curls that need deep hydration and definition.
- Type 4A: Small, well-defined coils that require rich moisture and gentle handling.
- Type 4B: Tightly coiled hair with a Z-shape pattern that benefits from protective styling and deep conditioning.
- Type 4C: The tightest curl pattern, often delicate and prone to shrinkage, needing consistent hydration and minimal manipulation.
Knowing your type helps you choose products that add moisture and hold without weighing hair down.
Step 1: Cleanse Gently
Start your routine with a hydrating shampoo that removes buildup without stripping your natural oils. Use a formula made for curls, like The Truly Unruly Shampoo. Massage it into your scalp with your fingertips to boost circulation and lift away excess oil, then rinse thoroughly.
If you have thick or dry hair, you can skip shampoo every other wash and refresh with a co-wash or a light rinse instead.
Step 2: Condition for Definition
Curly and wavy hair thrives on hydration. After shampooing, apply a rich conditioner like the Mighty Curls Hair Masque. Comb it through with your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to distribute evenly, then let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing with cool water to lock in moisture and shine.
For Type 3C through 4C textures, consider layering conditioner under a shower cap for 10–15 minutes to let moisture fully absorb.
Step 3: Moisturize and Protect
For an extra boost of softness, use a leave-in conditioner like The Mighty Cream Leave-In Conditioner. Apply to damp hair, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends. This helps seal hydration, reduce frizz, and protect your curls from humidity and heat styling.
Curly and coily hair benefits from the LOC or LCO method (leave-in, oil, cream or leave-in, cream, oil) to help retain moisture longer.
Step 4: How to Get Bigger Curl Clumps
Curl clumps are the secret to bouncy, defined curls that hold their shape. To achieve them:
- Apply your leave-in and styling products while hair is soaking wet.
- Use a curl clumping brush or your fingers to gently group curls together as you scrunch.
- Avoid raking or rough towel-drying, which can separate clumps and create frizz.
- Let your hair air dry or use a diffuser on low heat to maintain volume and definition.
If your curls are tight or lose shape easily, rehydrate them with a mist of water and a few drops of lightweight oil or serum between wash days. For coily hair, twist or finger coil sections while damp to encourage curl definition and reduce shrinkage.
Step 5: Style and Maintain
Once your hair is dry, gently separate and fluff curls for volume. For added shine and smoothness, apply a small amount of The Mighty Cream Leave-In Conditioner as a finishing cream or use a light oil like Endless Hair Glow to minimize frizz.
At night, protect your curls with a silk pillowcase or wrap them in a satin bonnet or scarf. Pineappling your hair into a loose bun also helps preserve curl definition overnight.
Step 6: Refresh Between Washes
Curly and wavy hair often looks its best a day or two after washing. To refresh, lightly mist with water, apply a small amount of leave-in conditioner, and scrunch upward to revive curl definition. For tighter curls, reapply a bit of styling cream or oil to keep moisture locked in.
The Final Takeaway
Building a curly hair routine is all about balance. Cleanse without stripping, hydrate without heaviness, and protect your curl pattern with gentle, nourishing products.
With clean, vegan formulas from Raw Sugar’s Curly Hair Collection and Shampoo Collection, you can create a personalized routine that keeps your curls and waves soft, defined, and full of life every day.
