While there’s nothing wrong with waves, sometimes you want your natural strands to have a tighter or more defined coil. While this natural texture is available to many, it also can be hard to accomplish. Here’s how to transform waves into curls. Give these suggestions a try, and see if you fall even more in love with your curls.
Start by identifying your curl type, so you know how to care for that specific type of strands. For example, if you have wavy hair, your curls may be a type 2. Therefore, you’re going to need to tailor your curl care routine to type 2 curls. Remember, if your curls are on the loose side, you’re going to need lightweight products in order not to weigh your strands down too much. You might need to swap products until you find a good fit.
When your curls are dry, do everything in your power to avoid brushing or combing them. It’s also best to try to keep your fingers out of your strands. When you touch delicate strands while they’re dry, you can disrupt your natural curl pattern. This can lead to your waves or curls falling flat, which really defeats the purpose of having your waves pop up into curls.
Make sure you’re moisturizing your curls. Fine curls, and wavy types tend to experience more dryness in their curls, so your strands are going to need an extra boost to make sure you’re getting the most out of your curls. However, you’ll need to make sure you aren’t overdoing it with your products. Products that are too heavy can weigh your curls down, and make build up a bigger problem.
Apply gel while your curls are still damp, creating a cast that will help your natural shape emerge. Scrunch upwards to evenly distribute the product while also helping your curls’ natural shape take hold. Allow your hair to air dry until it’s about 30% dry, and then use a diffuser to gently cup each curl, and finish drying it evenly. However, if you have time you can air dry it completely. Overnight, pile your curls up in a pineapple or loose ponytail on the top of your head.