Top 10 Curly Hair Care Tips from My Pro Stylist (+ Best Products for Definition & Volume)
If you’ve got natural curls, there’s no better time to embrace them. With the right care, you can achieve definition, volume, and health like never before. After years of trial, error, and expert guidance, I'm sharing the top 10 curly hair tips I've learned from my professional stylist, plus the best curly hair products to help you fall in love with your curls. If you’ve got natural curls, there’s no better time to embrace them.
1. Use the Perfect Trifecta: Leave-In Conditioner + Curl Activator + Diffuser
This 3-step method is the holy grail for defining curls:
Step 1: Apply a nourishing leave-in conditioner on soaking wet hair to lock in moisture.
Step 2: Layer a curl activator to enhance and define your natural curl pattern.
Step 3: Gently dry your curls using a diffuser attachment on your blow dryer. Avoid touching your curls while drying to reduce frizz.
Try These: Leave-In, Curl Activator, Diffuser
2. Always Detangle with a Wide-Tooth Comb
Say goodbye to breakage and damage. Use a wide-tooth comb to gently detangle wet curls, starting from the ends and working your way up.
Pro Tip: Never detangle dry curls!
3. Define Curls with a Denman Brush
For curl clumping and enhanced definition, a Denman brush is your new best friend. Use it after applying styling products to evenly distribute product and define each coil.
4. Ditch Regular Towels for a Microfiber Towel
Traditional towels cause frizz. Switch to a microfiber towel or cotton t-shirt to gently dry your hair without disturbing the curl pattern.
Try This: Aquis Microfiber Hair Towel
5. Hydration is Everything
Curly hair is naturally dry, so moisture should be your best friend. Use hydrating shampoos, moisturizing conditioners, and deep conditioning masks regularly.
Look for Ingredients Like:
Aloe Vera
Shea Butter
Glycerin
Avoid: Sulfates, drying alcohols, and harsh surfactants
6. Deep Condition Weekly
Add a deep conditioning mask to your weekly routine. Leave it on for 20–45 minutes under a shower cap or heat cap to restore moisture and elasticity.
Recommended: Amika Conditioner
7. Use Lightweight, Water-Based Styling Products
Avoid heavy waxes, silicones, and mineral oils that cause buildup and weigh curls down. Opt for lightweight gels and curl creams.
Great Options: Not Your Mother's Curl Talk Mousse, Ouidad Curl Quencher Gel
8. Protect Your Curls While You Sleep
Friction is the enemy of curls. Use a silk or satin pillowcase, or wrap your hair in a satin bonnet to prevent frizz and breakage overnight.
9. Refresh Curls Between Wash Days
Use a curl refresher spray or make your own with water + leave-in conditioner. Lightly mist and scrunch to revive curls.
DIY Mix: 1 part leave-in conditioner, 2 parts water in a spray bottle
10. Pack Smart When Traveling
Different climates and water types affect your curls. Bring your essentials: travel-size leave-in, curl cream, microfiber towel, and Denman brush to stay consistent on the go.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best product to define curly hair?
A: Use a leave-in conditioner, followed by a curl activator or lightweight gel, and finish with a diffuser.
Q: How do I keep my curls hydrated all day?
A: Use moisture-rich products, seal with a curl cream, and refresh mid-day with a water-based spray.
Q: Should I use a diffuser on curly hair?
A: Yes! A diffuser dries curls gently, enhances definition, and reduces frizz without disrupting the curl pattern.
Here are some of my favorite tried-and-tested curly hair products!
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a commission if you purchase a product through them.