How To Care For Coily Hair

Step 1: Know Your Hair Type

Knowing your hair type is essential for achieving healthy coily hair. Coily hair is the most fragile of all hair types, so it needs extra care and attention. The first step in caring for coily hair is to identify your hair type. Curly hair is classified into four categories: Type 2A, Type 2B, Type 2C, and Type 3A. Each type has its own unique characteristics and requires different care. To determine your hair type, look at the shape and curl pattern of your hair. If your hair is wavy and has a slight curl, then it is Type 2A. If your hair is wavy with a visible curl pattern, then it is Type 2B. If your hair is thicker, with a tight curl pattern, then it is Type 2C. If your hair is thick and has a loose curl pattern, then it is Type 3A. Once you identify your hair type, you can determine the best way to care for your coily hair.

Step 2: Wash and Condition Your Hair

Washing and conditioning your hair is essential for keeping it healthy and looking its best. When washing your coily hair, use a shampoo that is free from sulfates and other harsh chemicals. These ingredients can strip the hair of its natural oils and leave it feeling dry and brittle. After shampooing, use a conditioner that is designed for your hair type. This will help to keep the hair hydrated and replenish any lost moisture. When conditioning, focus on the ends of your hair as this is where the most damage occurs. Leave the conditioner in your hair for at least five minutes before rinsing out. This will give the conditioner time to penetrate the hair shaft and nourish it from the inside out.

Step 3: Use Heat Protectant

Heat styling can be damaging to coily hair, so it’s important to use a heat protectant before styling. Heat protectants help to protect the hair from the damaging effects of heat styling tools such as curling irons and flat irons. A good heat protectant will also help to keep the hair hydrated and nourished. Apply a generous amount of the heat protectant to your hair before using any heat styling tools and make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. This will help to ensure that your hair is protected from the damaging effects of heat styling.

Step 4: Use Oils and Butters

Using natural oils and butters is a great way to keep your coily hair healthy and hydrated. Oils and butters help to lock in moisture and protect the hair from environmental damage. Coconut oil, jojoba oil, and avocado oil are all great choices for coily hair. These oils can be used to seal in moisture after washing and conditioning your hair. You can also use natural butters such as shea butter or cocoa butter to nourish your hair and protect it from damage. Apply a small amount of the oil or butter to your hair and massage it in from root to tip. This will help to keep your hair healthy and looking its best.

Step 5: Use a Wide-Tooth Comb

Using a wide-tooth comb is essential for detangling coily hair. Traditional brushes can cause damage to coily hair, so it’s important to use a wide-tooth comb instead. Start at the ends of your hair and work your way up to the roots. This will help to gently detangle the hair without causing any damage. Once your hair is detangled, you can use a leave-in conditioner to keep it hydrated and protect it from damage. This will help to keep your hair looking its best.