Calling All Curls

Curly Hair Q&A

Have you ever been to a salon and felt like the stylist was actually afraid of your hair? We get it, natural texture can be intimidating if the experience and knowledge aren’t there. People might even assume that just because you have curly hair, you are born with some innate knowledge of all things curls. But curls are complicated, and so you inevitably find yourself on YouTube or Instagram trying to learn anything you can about different methods or products for curls. 

Our expert stylists are here to help. Here are answers to just a few of the most frequently asked questions we get about curly hair. 

Why does every haircut I get look fine when my hair is wet, but always ends up drying to an uneven mess? 

First of all, it is absolutely vital to understand that different types of curl patterns can exist on the same head.  When a stylist fails to take that into consideration, they also often do not allow for the “shrink” that occurs when your hair dries naturally. That’s why it is important to approach a haircut when the hair is dry and the curls have not been stretched out by being tied up or pulled back. Here’s a quick overview of different curl identification systems.

Even if I squeeze out a whole handful of conditioner, my hair always seems to be too dry. What can I do?

Cleansing curly hair properly is more difficult than many realize. Yes, naturally curly hair is going to be drier because the natural oils from the scalp have to wind their way down the hair shaft. That means that curly hair needs moisture in the form of WATER. Make sure you are completely saturating your hair before applying anything. When you think you need more product, you actually need more water. Keep adding water! Detangle in the shower with conditioner, and remember, when you think you need more conditioner, add more WATER!

The many different products for different hair types are overwhelming. Does it really matter what products I use? 

Actually, the type of products DO matter. Shampoos, conditioners, and styling products that are designed for curly hair aren’t just a marketing gimmick. These products are specially formulated to optimally deliver WATER to the hair. Stay away from products with waxes and silicones. Many of the more inexpensive product lines will use these as fillers. Your hair may feel great after the first couple of uses, but over time they build up on the hair shaft and scalp, creating a barrier between your hair and the water it so desperately wants and needs. All of our products here at Williams & Roy are carefully vetted to ensure the best performance and cleanest ingredients.

What is the deal with FRIZZ? 

Let’s talk about frizz for a minute. Frizz is the bane of every curl’s existence. But what is frizz? Frizz is when the outer layers of the hair shaft, the cuticle, start to lift. Water will naturally cause the hair shaft to swell and the cuticle layers to open slightly. Think about what happens when you spend time blow drying and flat ironing only to walk outside and your hair seemingly explodes. This can also happen if the hair is dry and trying to get moisture into the hair shaft. Essentially, frizz is just dry hair trying to open up and drink all the water (humidity)  that’s in the air. FInding the right hair care routine is essential to optimally deliver moisture to hydrate the hair shaft, smooth the outer cuticle layer and eliminate frizz.

What is the best routine for taking care of my curly hair? 

1. When cleansing your hair, concentrate the scrubbing at the scalp, that’s where the product and oils build up. Let the shampoo gently wash down the strands.
2. Try keeping your styling products in the shower and apply before towel drying while the hair is VERY wet. Applying styling aids this way allows your curl/wave pattern to form with the cuticle completely sealed down and optimally hydrated. Think back to what we just talked about regarding frizz and why it happens. Again, when you think you need more product, add more water!
3. Use a microfiber hair wrap or tshirt to remove excess water. The smooth texture helps keep the hair from getting “roughed up”. The nubs or weave of a traditional towel can start lifting the cuticle and that’s all frizz is.
4. When it comes to styling, everyone needs to find their own groove. Some of you might do better air drying to keep it tame while others love to diffuse to get big bouncy hair. Try it all and see what works for you.

We believe naturally textured hair is magical, but don’t forget that there’s a science to helping curls live their best life! If you have more questions, feel free to contactus@williamsroysalon.com or book online at williamsroysalon.com/book-online