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Sulfates are not a curly girl's friend. Sulfates are harsh and strip curly hair of much needed oil. Sulfates can cause curly hair to be frizzy and un-manageable. The good news is that your hair does not have to fall victim to the evil effects of sulfate. There are sulfate-free styling products that can help you have beautiful curls of silk.
The Problem With Sulfates
Marie France, owner of Madusalon in San Francisco, California, specializes in naturally curly hair from wavy to coarse. France says that sulfates are the worst thing that you can put in your hair. "As curly hair comes out of the follicle it removes the natural oil in the process," she says. Sulfates strip the hair and scalp of natural oils and deprive hair of hydration.
Throw Out Your Shampoo and Get Some Cream
France likes Deva Curls No Poo Cleanser, a lather-free cleansing cream that removes residue from the hair while it conditions. Grape seed oil and amino acids moisturize and protect hair while peppermint oil stimulates the scalp. France believes that conditioning is more important that shampooing. She believes that shampoo is too harsh and stripping. France says that if you must shampoo use a cleansing cream that conditions.
You Should Leave Some Things In
France emphasizes the importance of conditioning. Her exact words are "condition, condition, condition." To keep your curls hydrated, use a leave-in conditioner. Kinky Curly is an organic line designed specifically for curly hair. The line is free of paraben, sulfates, fragrance, and petroleum. Knot Today is a lightweight leave-in conditioner that has organic mango fruit extract to nourish and protect. Organic slipper elm and organic marshmallow root hydrate and smooth. Knot Today helps create smooth, shiny defined curls.
Make Jessie Your Friend
France is a big fan of Miss Jessie's Stretch Silkening Creme, which gives you long, silky curls with lots of volume. Amino acids help repair damage and protect hair while wheat proteins strengthen hair. Aloe vera creates a seal around the hair that helps it hold moisture and shine. Coconut oil hydrates and stimulates the scalp while rich jojoba and avocado oil condition. Apply the Silkening Creme to damp hair. Use your fingers to define curls. Allow curls to dry naturally or lightly dry with a diffuser. Then stretch curls with fingers for lengthened definition.
