Photo: Pixland/Pixland/Getty Images
Curly hair has its own set of rules when it comes to dealing with frizzy, damaged strands. Unlike straight hair, curls have trouble holding onto their natural oils -- which explains the annual arrival of summer frizz. A conditioner will help combat that dryness, but not just any conditioner will do.
Conditioning Basics
Curly hair requires heavy moisture. Why? Because unlike straight hair, your hair’s natural oil, called sebum, does not stick to the follicle as long or as well. You need to turn up the moisture by using conditioners formulated for curly hair. These are created specifically to moisturize curly hair and keep it from looking coarse and brittle. Conditioners with rice protein are especially helpful for damaged curly locks.
Deep Conditioners
Curly-hair conditioners will help restore some moisture, but they are not the only conditioner a curly-haired girl needs. Curly hair needs a deep-conditioning treatment at least once per week to keep hair looking shiny and smooth -- instead of looking like hay.
Maintain That Moisture
You’ve done all that moisturizing, but it is pointless if you don’t maintain it. Wash your hair only as often as necessary, likely no more than a couple of times per week. This will prevent shampoos from stripping the oils that keep your curly hair moisturized and from adding further damage.
Protecting Your Curls
Even though your hair is curly, it still needs to be styled, but unlike with straight hair, just a little heat damage can cause curly hair to go from shiny to dull and brittle. So before using heat or styling tools, protect those curls with heat protectant creams and sprays. Ready to brush your hair? Not so fast. If it’s still wet, brushing will create further damage -- just more for your conditioners to keep up with.
