When it comes to hair care, curly hair is in its own separate universe. It always feels like there are so many products out there, yet so little that truly prioritize what our curls need to look their best. Plus, all the different tips and tricks people have advised us with on how to manage and care for our curls make it hard to tell what the "best" options are.
Meet the experts: Candace Witherspoon is a curly hair specialist and the owner of Candace Witherspoon Salon in NYC; Justice Rivera is a hairstylist and Deva Certified curl specialist
Whether you've been rocking your curls for as long as you can remember, you're in a transition phrase, or just beginning your curly hair journey, familiarizing yourself with the Curly Girl Method is a helpful place start.
The Curly Girl Method was originally created by Lorraine Massey in her book Curly Girl: The Handbook, published in 2010. Since hitting the mainstream, it became a rule of thumb approach for stylists, hair experts, and tons of people with curly and wavy hair. Curious to know more? Read on for everything you need to know.
What is the Curly Girl Method?
In a nutshell, the Curly Girl Method is used to improve and maintain your curls using a regimen that's free of unnatural ingredients. The general rule of thumb is to stay clear of sulfates, parabens, and silicones. A few specific things to look out for include excessive fragrance, sulfates, and formaldehyde, says curl specialist Candace Witherspoon.
"The benefits are healthier, more defined curls with reduced frizz, increased shine, and hydration," says Deva Certified curl specialist Justice Rivera. Plus, when your curls are healthy, hydrated, and defined, the styling process becomes much easier.
Additionally, when following this method, you should try to limit your use of heat tools (blow dryer included) in order for your hair to be less susceptible to heat damage. If you need to dry your hair, Rivera suggests air drying or using a blow dryer with a diffuser attachment. She also recommends using your fingers to detangle your hair as opposed to a comb. Doing so will maintain your curl pattern and avoid excessive breakage.
Note: Because all curl patterns are different, the results of this type of styling may vary. For example, if you have tighter curls, it may be best to use a comb and detangle curls from tip to root.
In terms of products, ideally, you want to stick to hydrating shampoos and conditioners, protein treatments, hydrating hair masks, and lots of water. You might be a bit confused why water is so high on the list of essentials, but it's actually the bread and butter to achieving the look you're after.
"Curls have to be fully saturated [in water] for products to be absorbed into the hair without causing white flakes," says Witherspoon. Other green light ingredients include aloe, apple fruit extract, baobab, flaxseed oil, honey, and lavender.
Does the Curly Girl Method work on all hair?
No matter your pattern or texture, the Curly Girl Method can be used on all hair types. It's more about what you want for your curls and the kind of results you want to see.
"The Curly Girl Method is ideal for most curly girls wanting to embrace their natural curls and are looking for healthier alternatives for more lively curls, with a simplified routine," says Rivera.
Not sure what brands to add to your cart? Check out some of our expert's recommended products below:
Innersense Organic Beauty I Create Hold
adwoa beauty Baomint™ Moisturizing Shampoo
ECRU New York Curl Perfect Anti-Frizz Conditioner
What are the benefits of the Curly Girl Method?
Because everyone has their own unique pattern, results will vary the longer you implement the Curly Girl Method into your routine. And let's just say there are some major pros.
"If you’ve never used the CGM, it will be a huge eye-opener," says Witherspoon. "Your curls will start to flourish. It’s a huge learning experience. Depending on where you’re at in your journey, you will experience growth, better definition, longer-lasting holds in-between wash days, and also more shine and elasticity to your curls."
What about the cons?
Rivera explains that the process of cleansing, conditioning, and styling is a good hair care practice in general. But if you're someone that tends to use a co-wash, you'll have to make some adjustments.
"Exclusive use of conditioner to perform both cleansing and conditioning can yield product build-up on the hair and scalp, which can cause some scalp irritation and a barrier to hydration for your curls," says Rivera. "So I'd recommend using a sulfate-free shampoo as part of this routine."
No matter what your routine looks like, the most important thing is to listen to your curls and figure out what works best for you. Remember, everyone is different, and what works on your hair might not work for someone else's. Stay open to switching up your products, or you can even consult your local specialist.
"Find a curl specialist in your city, and schedule an in-person consultation," says Witherspoon. "It truly takes time to understand your curls, so be patient, and practice makes perfect."
Sabrina is an editorial assistant for Women’s Health. When she’s not writing, you can find her running, training in mixed martial arts, or reading.
