Hi, fellow curlies! Long time lurker, but I created a separate account to show off my 3a/3b work in progress! I’ve divided this up into sections because it’s definitely of TL;DR length, so skip right to the routine part if that’s what you’re after.


HAIR STATS

Mostly very strong 3a, but there’s a good chunk of something approaching 3b at the crown.

Really thick, I can’t use small hair clips or ties, even with it being shorter. It feels like it’s become a tad less thick, maybe due to age (I’m in my 30s).

Last cut in March (8 months ago), it’s a shorter curly cut that’s growing out but still looks decent.

Highlights and color applied at last cut. The highlights were subtle, the color was close to my natural hair color to help cover the whites coming in.

No flat iron/high heat for the last 4+ years. Most heat I’ve used is a dryer on low with bursts of cold air.

No “bad” products for the last 4+ years. It’s only been curly approved products with no traditional shampoo! Only No Poo with the occasional clarifying shampoo.

Very dry climate. So dry here I have a sinus moisturizing gel I shove up my nose before bed to avoid nosebleeds. I know most curlies hate the humidity but I wish I had a little bit, I think my hair would benefit.

Hair washed once weekly, twice weekly at most. More often during the week if I’m exercising (which I haven’t done much of lately, hah), but coarse/dryer hair + very dry climate = fewer washings. I do a lazy pineapple to pin it up when I do quick body-only showers.


HAIR HISTORY

It’s a story that’s all too familiar here: My hair was NOT cool as a kid— the 90s were not nice to big hair, and I was also one of the only “ethnic” people in super white schools. When in its natural state, it was almost nothing but fuzz and it almost looked like I had an afro. Stylists had no clue what to do with my hair, so the cuts never helped.

I first heard about the curly method in 2009 or 2010. Even though that wasn’t THAT long ago, the spectrum of products we have available now versus then is night and day. With my limited hair understanding, I took the plunge and went natural, but it didn’t look so great. I stuck with it, though, mostly out of laziness because life got really busy and stressful. Straightening my hair literally takes hours, so laziness won. Used to use DevaCurl No Poo and One Condition in the shower before crunching in the DevaCurl Light Defining Gel. Never experimented with other stuff because, again, I was lazy and busy.

Recently, my hair was going limp and was feeling greasy no matter what I did, so I started reading through the links in this subreddit and experimenting with newer products now that my life has slowed down. I bought a few new products based on recommendations here, and what I outline below is after playing around with a few different things for the last couple of months.


NEW "ROUTINE"

“Routine” is in quotations because routine suggests I do this with regularity when this is the first time I’ve done this whole “routine” as outlined below.

I realized I last clarified my hair when my hairdresser cut it several months ago, so I figured it was time to clarify. The pics are from last night, a couple of hours after washing.

1. Clarify with Kinky Curly Come Clean Natural Moisturizing Shampoo. I really spent my time massaging it into my scalp, and I liberally applied to my hair and worked it until it had the “squeaky clean” feel. I used a rake comb to help detangle and make sure the shampoo was applied evenly throughout. I NEVER, EVER tug at any tangles, I take my time gently combing them out.
   
   (I really love how my hair turned out, I’m not sure if I’m going to just clarify every time I wash my hair. I wash it so infrequently and it has so much product applied to it each time that I think I’ll be fine, but I’ll edit this post if it turns out to be a bad idea.)
   
   
2. Crunch out excess water.
   
   
3. Condition with Kinky Curly Knot Today Leave-In Conditioner. I applied liberally, massaging it into scalp and crunching it up into my hair until my hair felt smooth/soft. I crunched by leaning my hair to the side (and switching sides periodically) and making sure the crunch action reaches my scalp to ensure that the product it applied throughout.
   
   NB: Don’t over-apply to the point that the conditioner is dripping out of your hair, it’s wasteful and doesn’t add anything more to your hair apart from making it feel too greasy later.
   
   
4. Crunch out excess water. Crunching will be your life for the next 20-30 minutes.
   
   
5. Crunch gently with a towel. I just used my regular bath towel. Same crunch method as detailed in #3. I crunch until the dripping mostly stops.
   
   
6. Apply Miss Jessie’s Multicultural Curls. I squeezed out a generous palmful, tilted my head to the side, and crunched it up into my hair. Same crunch method as detailed in #3. I crunched until I felt I’d crunched it up evenly throughout and my hands weren’t covered in product.
   
   
7. Apply Miss Jessie’s Pillow Soft Curls. Same directions as in #6.
   
   
8. Get a handheld hair dryer, remove whatever piece is at the head of it so the airflow isn’t concentrated in any particular way. I have a Che hairdryer I bought 10+ years ago that works well. (I had a diffuser, can’t find it, if I find it/use it I’ll edit this post. If anyone has any diffuser recs for someone with 3a/3b hair, let me know, I may have gotten rid of mine accidentally, oops.)
   
   
9. Tilt your head upside-down, and dry with the hairdryer on low heat setting with one kept a a few inches away while your other hand continues to crunch. Occasionally shift your hair to either side of your head and back to upside-down.
   
   
10. If your hair dryer has a cold burst setting, use it for 20 seconds every 60 seconds or so. If not, just remove the heat for a few seconds as you continue crunching. CRUNCHING IS LIFE, IT IS THE ONLY LIFE YOU NOW KNOW.
    
    
11. Dry your hair until it feels dry, never stop crunching. Your hands shouldn’t be damp or wet. I always used to rush through this part and the curls aren’t the same, the more time I spend with any low kind of heat (either with this hair dryer or using the helmet dryer at the salon), the better for me.
    
    
12. Finish your hair with a small amount of shine serum. I plopped my head upright and scrunched in a small palmful of serum, focusing on the hair at the crown, the most coarse/fuzzy. I have some old DevaCurl MirrorCurls Serum lying around. I don’t like the smell, I’m open to trying something else.
    
    
13. Fin. Maybe now is a good time to go gather the hair from the drain trap before your spouse yells at you for secretly threatening him with tribbles.
    
    
    GOALS
    
    I’m happy with my hair, but I have some things to work on:
    
    
14. Fuzz. It’s still a little fuzzy at the crown, way better than before, maybe I need to make peace with it? Maybe a diffuser would help.
    
    
15. Length. I haven’t had long hair in years, I’d like to continue growing it out and seeing how much more the thickness/length of the hair will weigh it down and make it less bouncy.
    
    
16. Finding these products in bulk. It seems impossible, but I won’t give up hope. I would be willing to spend more money upfront for this stuff if it meant it was cheaper per ounce.
    
    
17. Figuring out how to keep it looking good through the week. I do the pineapple at night with a giant, silky scarf and then cover the top with a night cap, but it still looks fuzzier/less awesome the next day. What do you recommend? This climate is WAY TOO DRY for me to do this this whole routine any more than twice/thrice weekly.
    
    
    Wow, that was a novella. Thanks for reading, and best of curls to you all!

Hi! Don't feel bad about all those years of shampooing and not conditioning. I was raised female, and still made that mistake. I'm 29 and didn't start conditioning until April of this year. I thought I was too greasy for conditioner!

On to your questions!

1. Nizoral is the bomb! I have scalp issues too-- my scalp gets super greasy, and I have eczema. Grease + sweat and dirt and debris = major issues with scalp eczema. If you want to pick it up at a store local to you, I find it's usually in the Beauty section. It's the only shampoo that's helped with my scalp issues, and the one sulfate in it is low on the list. Before I went mod CG, I loved the way my hair felt after washing with Nizoral, and hadn't had that kind of luck with a shampoo in a long time, despite trying all the usual dandruff shampoos (and some odd ones).
   
   If you want to totally ditch sulfates but still take care of your dandruff, you can experiment with Trader Joe's Tea Tree Tingle, Giovanni Tea Tree Triple Treat, or Shea Moisture African Black Soap Deep Cleansing Shampoo. I'm pretty sure there are more CG options I'm forgetting, but those are the ones that I remember off the top of my head. I've been experimenting with the Giovanni TTTT, and I'm still not sure how I feel about it. It seems fine with my hair, but my scalp seems to have issues in general with every tea tree product I try. It's often paired with mint/mentholatum, which is a skin irritant.
   
   
2. You can dry your hair with an old t-shirt (the softer it is, the more absorbent it seems, to me). You can scrunch your hair with the towel, and Curly Penny gives a pretty decent demo of this. You can also use a hair dryer, and the general consensus seems to be: use a finger diffuser (also called a bowl diffuser), use low speed/air, and low-medium heat and don't dry all the way with a blow dryer. You can also use a microfiber towel (the ones in the automotive section are cheaper, although they're smaller). Experiment to figure out which method works best not just for your hair, but for keeping your routine manageable.
   
   I get the best results with using a t-shirt to get my hair just dry enough not to drip, and then air-drying. But if I need my hair to be dry for some reason, I do break out the diffuser.
   
   
3. A lot of people swear by using a wide-tooth comb, with their head upside down, in the shower, with their hair full of conditioner. The conditioner does help, by providing slip so tangles come out easily and gently instead of causing hair to break or rip when you detangle. A wide-tooth comb reduces the likelihood of breakage as well.
   
   A Denman brush is this. As near as I can tell, it just means the bristles are spaced further apart, again to help prevent breakage and further tangling when you detangle-- but bear in mind that I don't really understand the Denman brush thing, either. It just looks like a brush to me. A wide-tooth comb has the bristles or tines spaced further apart as opposed to a fine tooth comb. I like a comb that has the tines almost chopstick-width apart. You can also just comb your hair in the shower with your fingers and your conditioner-- I like using a comb better because it feels more effective, to me.
   
   The other reason we don't comb after showering is because it breaks up clumps-- you want clumps if you want strong curls and good definition. Otherwise it can look stringy. I recently read someone talking about curly haircuts saying "ends need friends"-- and so they do, for curls to look right.
   
   I think this stuff is hard, and a lot of us just don't get good info on hair or skincare. Good luck to you.

I have a hard time taking good photos of my hair, but I noticed that it looked pretty nice here so I'm taking the time to share my routine with you guys!

Shea Moisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Shampoo

Tresemme Naturals Nourishing Moisture Conditioner (rinse out)

Then when I get out of the shower I use the L.O.C. Method with these products followed by squishing my hair in the sink with a few hand-cup-fulls of warm water. I found that raking them in and then squishing my hair with a little water afterwords eliminated the frizz that I got when I did S2C and also made my curls clump together more neatly since the products add a bit of slip. It also removes any excess product and doesn't make my hair feel greasy and weighed down as it did with S2C.

Shea Moisture Raw Shea Butter Restorative Conditioner (leave-in)

Una Designing Oil Non Oil (dime sized amount on each side of my head)

Tresemme Naturals Nourishing Moisture Conditioner (only on the bottom 1/2 of my hair)

This is when I squish with the water and then I grab my Eco Styler Olive Oil Gel and rub a good amount into my palms. I run my fingers gently through my now clumped and dripping wet curls, and then squish from the bottom which gets rid of the excess water and allows the gel to form a cast around the curls. I do this on both sides of my head, and then squish any dripping water away with a cotton t-shirt.

I then diffuse my hair on a medium heat setting until it is about 40% dry, and then I transfer over to my space heater. The reason I do this is because diffusing gives me good volume, but if I diffuse all the way my hair gets too much volume and ends up looking 1/2 the length it is and my curls begin to warp in to wonky directions. By switching to my space heater, the slow warm air flow doesn't disrupt my pattern and makes my hair dry extra soft and bouncy. I don't like air drying because it takes way too long, and from me moving around I get a lot of frizz. I also noticed that it feels more like the products are just sitting on my hair rather than drying to become soft and flowy.

I am now able to pineapple my hair at night (I prefer using these scrunchies over traditional hair ties because they stay in place 100x better and also just slide off of my hair without giving me snagged curls, frizz, or any sort of kink) without even using a satin pillowcase, and come out the next day with what I could call almost better than day 1 second day curls! The pineapple gives me even more volume without taking away length and I just go in with a little bit of water on my fingers to smooth out any out of place curls. I give full credit to the Eco Styler Gel for allowing me this luxury. It didn't work for me with my previous routine, but now that I have converted to the L.O.C. Method I couldn't be more pleased and in love with my hair!

Sidenote: I also dyed my hair with Garnier Nutrisse Nourishing Color Cream #63 Brown Sugar to get rid of my roots and lighten my hair a very very slight bit, and I came out with ZERO damage, ZERO difference in texture, and ZERO split ends. My hair is so healthy now, I am beyond amazed.

Thank you to the moon and back to all of you here for helping me figure out how to take good care of my curls and allowing them to reach their full potential. I am forever grateful! <3

Can't speak for the blow dryer itself, just the weird hand diffuser that I use with my BaByliss Pro Rapido. I recently picked up the devafuser because I felt my regular diffuser wasn't quite doing enough - my ends were drying but my mid-shaft and roots were still damp even after a long while. I was 75% sure I would try it once and return it after reading reviews, people seem to either enjoy it or hate it.

I have fine hair that needs a lot of help getting definition and the devafuser does such a good job for me! It cups against my scalp better which makes it easier for my clumps to stay formed while drying. Also, unlike my regular round diffuser the Deva one has "fingers" that can be positioned right at my roots (just like if you were to stick your hand along your scalp). Doing this makes getting root volume SO much easier! It is a bit more difficult to work with big chunks of hair as they're more likely to slip off compared to a regular bowl shaped diffuser so for thick hair I feel like it would be easier to something like this. But all in all I think it does a better job getting my hair dry faster and with more volume.

I also will say like the others that investing in a quality dryer makes a huge difference. There are lots of guides and reviews out there - and don't be afraid to try something out and return it if it's not for you!

creme does not hold up as well as gel does, but i think it looks nicer, on my hair at least.

Maybe you could find a picture of what you want your hair to look like to give me an idea? Like what is your goal, what would you want your hair to look like.

It sounds like you might want more...volume? Your hair seems more on the fine side and like a 3B/3C. I follow the curly girl method, you can learn more about that on the sidebar. I use Yes to Carrots Conditioner, but I'll be stopping that when the new formula makes it to the local grocery stores (they just started adding silicones, but old formula, which is still available near me, doesn't have that in it). And I use Curls Goddess Curls for gel. For creme, I use whatever I find on sale that fits curly girl friendly.

Gel is great for humidity, it also is lighter and helps curls curl better. Cream is heavier, better for dryer conditions because it adds moisture, but it's heavier and will loosen curls.

And you have to find the right balance of conditioner so your hair isn't too weighed down, but also isn't frizzy. For your hair, I'd think a poker chip size amount of conditioner would do and then half of that for the styling product.

First of all, your hair is beautiful! Love the curls.

My only suggestion would be to add layers. It looks like you may have some in the back but they should be trimmed up a bit. That'll help a little with volume.

My hair is alot like yours. To get the volume I want, I use gel and scrunch the living heck out of it. Add the gel when your hair is soaking wet and scrunch upside down. Make sure you use enough as all the water dilutes it. You'll have to play around with this to find the right amount.

I also use a diffuser with long teeth (does this make sense?) and use it to lift my top layers for added volume. Diffuse on low/hot setting. I alternate diffusing by lifting and by putting my hair upside down. LOTS of volume. Also, when my hair is almost dry, I scrunch in additional gel. It gives me better curl formation. If your curls come out crunchy you can scrunch out the crunch. It'll all depend on the gel you use.

Don't worry about using Deva products. There are others just as good and 1/4 the price. Also, what other others may recommend for styling products may not work for you. I use Kinky curling custard
https://www.amazon.com/Kinky-Curly-Original-Curling-Custard/dp/B00KJSAT86
and others swear by Eco Style Gel-Olive https://www.amazon.com/ECOCO-Eco-Style-Olive-Ounce/dp/B003E7UNE4/ref=pd_lpo_vtph_194_lp_t_4?_encoding=UTF8&refRID=TJ18SNCBJKDZD98F22B3&th=1

The curling custard is expensive and I use it when I want my curls to look spectacular. Otherwise, I go for a good strong hold gel.

Look at Youtube videos too. There are a bunch out there on getting volume for curly hair.

Looking for product advice from fellow fine haired folk!

My hair: Fine, high-normal porosity (I think just high rn from heat damage), wavy, but sometimes get ringlets here and there, definitely mixes of diff curl patterns.

Routine: low poo w/ TJs Tea Tree Tingle shamp, STC w/ Sauve Coconut cond, rinse out cond, leave-in cond L'Oreal Elvive Protein Recharge, Herbal Essences totally twisted mousse, plop for 10-20 min, then diffuse to 80%ish with xtava Black Orchid diffuser.

What's working: My hair is the healthiest it's been in a long time just after following tips from y'all! Low poo is definitely working for me, and the diffuser I have is AMAZING (shoutout to someone on here who recommended it).

What's NOT working: I think I need to find a different product to put in after leave-in conditioner. I used gel on day 1 and I think it weighs down sections of my hair too much so I think I need a mousse, but the HE one made my hair look pretty shiny/made it really obvious there was product in it. Also having a hard time getting the ends of some strands to have wave.

Hair Journey: Recently moved to Seattle after being in a dry climate with hard water for 2 years. Knew that trying to straighten my hair/what I'd been doing was not going to work well for me/bring back epic hair struggles, and luckily I found this sub to help me out. While living in dry climate past 2 years, I had been straightening my hair or using a curling wand 2-5 times a week, so my hair was super damaged/always too dry from hard water and overuse of heat. I always struggled to find a way to do my hair that I actually liked growing up, and when I started using heat tools daily in high school it started to get damaged. I went to college in Seattle and the humidity here helped my hair get healthier but I spent a lot of time straightening it only to go outside and have it completely ruined in 5 minutes flat. Really hoping that CG method works for me and excited to have healthy hair for the first time in memory!!

First, I'm sorry depression has been rough for you lately but you're doing awesome to try and do some self care where you can!

Cowashing simply means you use conditioner to wash your hair instead of shampoo. Just like you do right now where you scrub your head/ hair with shampoo, you use conditioner instead. That doesn't work for everyone. More so if you have dandruff.

I do cowash and I use a shampoo brush every wash day, about once a week, which definitely helps with flakes. I used to have some mild dandruff but incorporating that in my routine helps slough off the dead/ dry skin. This what I use: Hair Scalp Massager Shampoo Brush, MAXSOFT Scalp Care Brush https://www.amazon.com/dp/B074ZDXFL6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_cwD8BbAGVAY43

I definitely advise you to start with the quickstart routine in the Community Info. It's less than $15 USD. As your hair gets healthier you hair will curl more. As far as those pieces around your face I'd just pin curl them until they cooperate. https://youtu.be/Y1zvrsWqY38

I hope this helps you get started!

I know, the number of Shea Moisture products is overwhelming. I did a bunch of research before I bought their products. I'd say that the internet's favorite styling products are these:

• The Curl Enhancing Smoothie. This is more like a leave-in than a gel. It's a nice and heavy product, which I really like. It has some protein in it. My hair is protein sensitive and it's too much for regular use.
  
• Moisture retention conditioner. This is super moisturizing and protein free. It's a bit lighter than the smoothie. The advantage of this product is that you can use it as a leave-in or rinse out or deep conditioner. I've gotten great results from using it as a leave-in. I'm using it less lately because I think it made my hair over-moisturized. Like it feels too soft now.
  
• Jamaican Black Castor Oil Reparative Leave-In Conditioner. I've never tried this but it's well loved. It has a lot of protein which some people like.
  
• If you want something lighter, the new Fruit Fusion Mousse is well liked. (Not to be confused with the 10 in 1 super fruit line.) I've never used this product either but I want to try it.

I have read here / seen on YouTube that a lot of curlies have success with this diffuser which can attach to this dryer. I think depending on shipping / any discounts you'd be right around $50 maybe a lil over. I think you can technically attach the diffuser to other hair dryers but may have to do some handiwork to get it secure. :-)

I got this one years ago (before I started CG) and it came with the diffuser pictured, it's still going strong all these years later and for the way I diffuse it is perfect. Gotta love the $25 price and the cold shot button.

I hope this helps! :-)

Edit: forgot words

>I don’t blow dry my hair. I should start.

not necessarily, you can just air dry. diffusing will speed up your drying time and also prevent the weight of wet hair from weighing your curls down, but you don't need it

>What blow dryer do you have? Does it even matter?

honestly, the kind of blow dryer doesn't really matter. i just bought one that would fit my diffuser. i do like that mine can do medium and cold air though, and not just hot

>I don’t have a diffuser. I lost that part... lol.

i see some people here pooling their hair in a strainer/sieve and then just pointing the blowdryer at it, so maybe that could work lmao

>Do you wear protective hair styles? If so what do you do to protect your hair?

personally, not really, although i wear my hair in a high ponytail on top of my head when i go to sleep so i don't smush my curls flat. i also sleep on a satin pillowcase

>How often do you wash your hair?

i wash mine once a week but this will be different for anyone you ask. everyone's hair is different; some people's hair needs to be washed every day. so this is for you to figure out

>How do you know if it’s “approved” it doesn’t have silicones or anything like that in it.

run the ingredient lists through curlsbot and/or isitcg

Looks SO great! Gold medal to your stylist, for giving you great advice. She's a keeper.

I, like you, shower etc. at night. Now that I CGM, I try to make sure I do all this business pretty soon after dinner, so that I have a good 2-3 hours dry time. Also, do you have a diffuser that attaches to your blow dryer? If so, use it. If you don't, or don't like the one you have, the xtava black orchid diffuser was a game changer for me!!!

https://www.amazon.com/xtava-Black-Orchid-Diffuser-Natural/dp/B00VJ06PG8/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1541634265&sr=1-1&keywords=xtava+black+orchid+diffuser&dpID=41NlimuE%252BHL&preST=_SY300_QL70_&dpSrc=srch

Diffusing upside down will give your hair, esp w/your short, layered haircut, lots of volume.

I sleep in my crunch, and when I wake up, there are usually only a few curls/waves in the front that need sotc.

hth!

I have 2b-2c fine hair as well! For me, putting the gel in when my hair is still dripping wet then plopping really helps. Only scrunching it in, no raking. I also use pins to get my roots to have some volume and follow up with diffusion, but that's a project every time I do it. I've had much better results like that.

For nice simple waves I just scrunch in a small amount of gel at the ends of my hair and then plop in the same way, Waaaay less work but doesn't look quite as nice.

Also, for me the cheap LA looks blue gel works better than the deva curl ultra defining (stronger hold), but that's something to play with!

I don't follow CG method but I use certain products to come up with my own routine.

Hair Wash Day-

Step 1: I comb through and massage my scalp and hair with Avocado Oil and use the Vanity Planet Scalp Massage and let it soak in for an hour. I specially use more oil on the ends.

Step 2: I use a hot towel to steam my hair a few times by the end of the hour

Step 3: Use OGX Biotin and Collagen Shampoo to wash off the oil.

Step 4:Condition with Cantu Hydrating Cream Conditioner

Step 5: Use a microfiber head wrap or a tshirt to remove excess water

Step 6: I then use a couple of dollops of Miss. Jessie's Pillow Soft Curl Cream and scrunch my hair .

Step 7, for the top of my head hair I use Frizz Ease serum and comb through and make it sit in place with Bobby pins(This makes the top part straight without me having to use heat at all)

Step 8: I let it dry naturally

​

Days following the wash:

--Post-Workout Care: I workout a lot and sweat in the scalp like cray-cray so I always wet my hair completely after the workout and use the already existing products in the hair to set it back, letting it dry naturally.

--Days after wash morning routine: I braid my hair at night and when I wake up the curls are almost always intact. But I do use a spray bottle already mixed with a few drops of Curl cream and re-scrunch the curls and let dry naturally.

--Next wash Schedule? -- I usually wash on day 3 with just Cantu's scalp rinse and use the conditioner. But like today if I don't have the time, I wet my hair completely by spraying water all over in sections and follow Step 6,7 and 8.

​

I do the deep oil conditioning atleast once a week. That is the only time I use the shampoo. For every following wash after the oil conditioning I use Palmer's Coconut Oil Formula Conditioner instead of regular conditioners.

Oh my god you are fabulous, thank you so much for the information.

I have been buying products at Bleu Libellule and MGC Beauté, (their websites don't list ingredients, it pisses me off), and there are hundreds of pharmacies throughout Paris that carry a lot of beauty products that you won't find in a typical supermarket (Avène, Klorane, La Roche-Posay, René Furterer, Vichy, Bioderma, etc.).

I found the styling gel on Amazon.fr! I found the As I Am products, but they are very expensive (25-37 euros, as opposed to 8.99 USD at Walgreens). The can of Herbal Essences mousse is 46 euros, haha.

I think I will try Aubrey Organics GPB (I found it on French Amazon, too) and a silicone-free conditioner called Timotei here in France. I have a curly-haired friend that has had luck with it.

Thanks so much for your input, that is so nice!

Same situation as you - thought I had straightish hair most of my life and turns out it is 2B (2A if I don't take good care of it). Here's my routine and products:

• Wash with Shea Moisture shampoo - sulfate free and very gentle. Leaves the natural oils in my hair so it's shiny and moisturized, but clean looking.
  
  
• Work DevaCurl One Condition into my hair and comb through tangles with my fingers. Then I do the "squish to condish" method to get all the conditioner into my hair and let it sit while I do the rest of my shower stuff. :) The DevaCurl conditioner is pretty expensive, but very worth it to me. It's just so moisturizing and does wonders for my waves.
  
  
• Rinse out with cool water, flip my head upside down and scrunch up my soaking wet hair to get it to form its curls.
  
  
• Scrunch L.A. Looks Gel into my hair, then plop in a t-shirt.
  
  
• Either let my hair air dry or use the pixiecurl method with a diffuser (there are videos of how to do this on youtube). The pixiecurl method can be a bit tedious and give me a bit more frizz, but it also gives my curls way more definition and volume than if I air dry.
  
  Note that the L.A. Looks gel does make hair feel crunchy when it is drying (which I hate the look and feel of), but once it's dry I release the gel hold by scrunching my hair and tossing it around a bit and it looks completely soft and natural. I used to be totally gel-phobic because I hated the crunchy gel look - then I learned you can scrunch the gel hold out of your hair! You get the nice definition that gel gives you and the natural look of something softer like a serum.

>On to your questions!

>1) Nizoral is the bomb! I have scalp issues too-- my scalp gets super greasy, and I have eczema. Grease + sweat and dirt and debris = major issues with scalp eczema. If you want to pick it up at a store local to you, I find it's usually in the Beauty section. It's the only shampoo that's helped with my scalp issues, and the one sulfate in it is low on the list.

That's a pretty ringing endorsement. Okay then!

>If you want to totally ditch sulfates

I've never heard of sulfates until now. I'm not bothered by them.

>2) You can dry your hair with an old t-shirt (the softer it is, the more absorbent it seems, to me). You can scrunch your hair with the towel, and Curly Penny gives a pretty decent demo of this. You can also use a hair dryer, and the general consensus seems to be: use a finger diffuser (also called a bowl diffuser), use low speed/air, and low-medium heat and don't dry all the way with a blow dryer.

Okay then. I'll have to look into that. Thank you.

>You can also use a microfiber towel (the ones in the automotive section are cheaper, although they're smaller).

Good to know!

>3) A lot of people swear by using a wide-tooth comb, with their head upside down, in the shower, with their hair full of conditioner.

Another question about conditioner: How do I apply it, anyway? Does it get rubbed into the scalp like shampoo, or just sort of slathered onto the ends of the hair? I remember reading on Reddit in another thread "Shampoo is for the scalp, conditioner is for the hair."

>You can also just comb your hair in the shower with your fingers and your conditioner-- I like using a comb better because it feels more effective, to me.

>The other reason we don't comb after showering

Okay, so...combing in the shower is okay with the conditioner, but combing after isn't?

>I think this stuff is hard, and a lot of us just don't get good info on hair or skincare. Good luck to you.

Thanks. I'm kind of intimidated. Part of me want to get a crewcut again and be done with it...:P.

EDIT: Is that why the downvotes? My dumb joke?

True! Okay so i use OGX coconut milk sulfate free shampoo (when I need it) and conditioner, which I've never had a problem with before. And if I just use those, I'm okay. I use this sometimes, which before I had long hair was okay -Curls Goddess Curl Gel but sometimes I use Not Your Mother's Sea Salt Spray if my curls are more relaxed into a wave. I'm anywhere from a 2b to a 3a, just depends on what it's feeling hahaha. My curls get heavy really easily, so I try not to weigh them down besides the obvious of growing them out. I put either product in after I get out and lightly pat dry my hair, and kinda scrunch or whatever plopping motion that is to lightly distribute the product. I try to stay away from the hair under by my neck and by the edges of my face to avoid breakouts, but here we are. Haha. That's about it. They're fairly low maintenance curls/waves.

If you're getting buildup, dollars to donuts you're using silicones. What is your "normal" shampoo? After looking at your shampoo & conditioner, I notice that the SheaMoisture is very heavy on wax - I wonder if this is causing "build up"? (The spray gel contains sulfates, FWIW.) What are you allergic to in the DevaCurl line? What is your hair "profile" as far as texture, porosity, density? From the pics, it looks like your hair is definitely weighed down.

I would recommend stopping shampooing all together. You're going to have a transition period - this is a given. What you can do to lessen the "intensity" of the transition is, after a final wash with a clarifying shampoo (to remove all the silicones from your hair), is to co-wash or no-poo cleanse every day, and slowly go to every two days, and every three days if possible. Look into getting a copy, from your library if possible, of Lorraine Massey's Curly Girl Handbook - it's a wonderful resource. :)

My hair is very fine, and is sensitive to weights of conditioners (I suspect your hair is both of those, too!). The Tresemme Naturals line has been a blessing for my hair - it's not heavy, non-greasy, rinses clean and gets my hair cleaner than anything else I've ever tried while still leaving it soft and springy. :) I can't use anything that's heavy - that Shea Moisture conditioner would be murder on my curls.

If you haven't tried it yet, Shea Moisture has an African Black Soap line for dandruff that worked really well for me. I've also had decent luck with this sulfate-free dandruff shampoo, but it was still pretty harsh on my hair and gave it that squeaky clean feel that isn't good at all. To help, I coated the length of my hair in conditioner before shampooing.

Another thing that might help, regardless if the issue is product buildup, dandruff or just not scrubbing enough is a [scalp brush](https://smile.amazon.com/Scalpmaster-SC20-Shampoo-Brush-Purple/dp/B000NJG82W/ref=sr_1_3_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1495466861&sr=8-3&keywords=shampoo+brush
)! I have them and love them and give them to friends.

You're going to get a bunch of different opinions on that DevaCurl dryer. It is a reputable and well-loved brand for sure, but it has a very nontraditional diffuser (the green thing on the end) that some people love and some people hate.

Personally, I use this hairdryer and absolutely love it, along with this diffuser, and am really happy with it.

Honestly, I do not think the dryer really matters as long as it's a decent brand. There really aren't any dryers that I've found that are specific to curly hair, the difference is all in the diffuser for me personally.

Here are few I found:


Traditional Shampoo (These will remove oils from your hair, but also dry it out. Use a lot of conditioner if you're going to use these, or a deep conditioner like this.)

Eden Bodyworks Peppermint Tea Tree Shampoo - This is clarifying so use it rarely when you need a "Reset" with your hair.

Kinky Curly Come Clean - This also has a sulfate, so it will remove oil from your hair, good and bad.


Non-sulfate Shampoo (Great if you don't need to get every last bit of oil out of your hair)

Maple Holistics Argan Oil Shampoo - Probably one of the more gentle ones.

Shea Moisture Baobob Low Porosity Shampoo - Great if you have low porosity hair.


Co-Wash (You can use these daily if you wish as they don't strip the hair of many oils. These are also conditioners)

As I Am Coconut CoWash - Thick and great for high porosity hair, but on low porosity, it can build up.

DevaCurl Original No-Poo Cleanser - Pricey, though I do think they ship to Canada.

Two tips for curly hair and updo's: try out spin pins, they're bun pins for curly hair. I find them super comfortable. My hair is about belly button length.

Another idea for keeping it in place is to literally sew it. A super blunt needle (I use big plastic ones) and some yarn. There's someone on the /r/weddingplanning sub just today who's hair was done like this.

If your hair is braid-able, you can braid a circlet on the top of your head to keep things looking pretty and under control. Like this

Edit: I forgot to add my favourite updo/bun method: use chopsticks!

I see the pics but not sure which brand of brushes those are. But I can vouch for the strength of the Tangle Teezer Ultimate, designed for thick and curly hair. I use this when my (4a) hair is too matted for my fingers to handle.

If that still isn't enough, you could try a denman brush. No chance she'll be breaking it, it's extremely sturdy. In fact the only I reason I don't recommend it first is because it's almost too sturdy, so it doesn't detangle as gently because it doesn't bend as much. Still, some people love it and it does clump curls nicely.

Just checking here - are you detangling while the hair is wet and slick with conditioner? And are you making sure to go section by section, starting from the very ends and working your way up to the roots? Never try to brush from the roots down.

As for the baby hairs in the front....if you can't catch them with a braid because they're too wispy, I would just leave them be or slap a soft head band on the front. They look like baby hairs /edges rather than breakage to me.

I'm a big proponent of plopping into a turban. When my hair was really long it was a huge help in the morning, plus it does nice things for the lift at the roots.

Do yourself a favor, though, and skip the cheap Walgreens ones. The Turbie Twist has a rougher microfiber that creates frizz and doesn't absorb much moisture. Not so curl-friendly.

Spring for the the Aquis. It's made of the nice, smooth, highly-absorbent type of microfiber. It's also very generously-sized- way deeper than the Turbie Twist. My method is to plop right into the top of the turban (just like you'd do with the tshirt), and wrap kind of loosely (without doing the button). Then, I take a regular cheap Turbie Twist and put that on top, more tightly to secure it. That stays on for about 20-30 minutes.

Jason is a great CG friendly Antidandruff it’s serious stuff (has a strong smell but it works!) and it’s affordable. It treats dandruff, scalp dermatitis and mild psoriasis. I was using head and shoulder,not CG Friendly, on only my scalp and when I switched to this my hair was a lot happier.

Jason Dandruff Relief Treatment Shampoo 12 oz https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000FGDIAS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_QwrRDbQR7VN15

La looks and deva curl doesn’t work for me. I use either SM momongo gel, the eco styler flax seed or SM gel with the pink label. The SM curl enhancing smoothie too.

CG approved styling foam includes creme of nature styling foam, and there’s one by styleID I LOVE bc you can use heat (I diffuse with med heat idc idc)

I use twisty Bobby pins like this and hair clips like this puff cuff like i said, great when I need a pony without the headache.

As someone who has grown out curly hair from quite short, there's definitely an awkward phase. I highly recommend getting a few cute headbands or hats, they can help make you look a little more put together during the awkward in between lengths. Get the back trimmed every 6-8 weeks, the hair on the nape of the neck gets long fast and regular trims help to avoid a mullet look. Once the hair on the sides of your head reaches your chin (when it's dry and curled) you can have it cut so the longest part is even all around your head and then start styling it as a short bob, like this. I also like a slight inverted bob, which is where you have it cut so the front is longer than the back.

This sub advocates the Curly Girl method, based on this book. It's sort of an alternative approach to hair care with curls in mind. The common way that most women take care of their hair is shampooing with a sulfate shampoo and then conditioning with a silicone containing conditioner every day. The CG method is based on removing those two ingredients (sulfates and silicones) from your routine and instead using only a light conditioner to cleanse the hair for each wash. There are a lot of variations and different techniques for this routine, poke around this sub and check out the resources in the sidebar for more info.

OMG I had the same issue when I first started CG and I've only just found the solution.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B074ZDXFL6/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
This has been a game changer for my oily roots. When I lo-poo or cowash I use this. I rake my product in to make sure I get coverage everywhere (sometimes separating and clipping parts of my hair up to make sure I really get in there), then I use this tool and do the tiniest circular motion over and over all over my head to get it in to the roots. This isn't a brush, so don't use it like one. Just massage all over. I'll spend like 5 minutes doing this and it feels sooooo good. But I found it helped break up my worst spots (back of the head especially) where water/product wasn't necessarily coming in or going out. I didn't even realize I was missing that part of my head before! I just thought I just had weird spots on my head that would get more greasy than others. So I'd end up doing a clarifying shampoo like once every two weeks which was helping with the grease, but not the frizz and left my hair lifeless and dry. Not anymore :)

So after I massage in the lo-poo or cowash with this thing, I'll put in some leave-in conditioner, again parting/clipping up pieces of my hair and making sure I get even coverage everywhere, and IMMEDIATELY put in my products sopping wet. Agreed with some of the others, frizz means needs more moisture, but the oily bits are just not rinsing out. You have to start with an even baseline to really get consistency everywhere.

Good luck!

this is my routine and what works for me :

Put a mixture of Coconut oil + castor oil all over your hair the night before you wash wash it (I wash my hair every 2-3 days, I run so it gets all sweaty and oily). You don't have to use castor oil if you're not interested in growing it.


Then, I wash with organic tea tree oil castor soap, it's literally just oils.

Then I use Trader Joe's Organic Tea Tree conditioner and do the squish to condish but I use A LOT! I'm running out so I'm looking for new conditioner and I'm pretty sure [I'll use this!](http://www.amazon.com/Acure-Organics-Conditioner-Moroccan-Argan/dp/B005Z49N86/ref=sr_1_5? s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1396453832&sr=). I've used it before and it works amazingly.

Now my magical products to hold my curls are:


MIXED CHICKS CONDITIONER AND Diva curl Gel. Together work amaziiingly. I suggest putting more conditioner than gel. Squish, squish! Then dry with a diffuser. And Bam! Amazing curls.

I use a Shea moisture one, which I buy online as it isn't available here. That one is sulphate free. I'm sure there are sulphate free ones in the UK, but i can't use them due to my scalp stuff.
You want to find a sulphate free shampoo (if you decide to shampoo at all) because sulphates are super drying, and unnecessary if you aren't using silicones in your conditioner/styling products

Edit: I use this one, but probably only once or twice a month at most (I actually can't remember the last time I used shampoo). I mainly wash my hair using conditioner.

Ugh, yes - it can be so tough! But I finally got a few budget-friendly products. In case you're interested, here it is:

• Shampoo: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0038U4TQU/ref=oh_aui_frsh_dp?ie=UTF8&fpw=fresh
  
  
• Conditioner: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06XWFS2KM/ref=oh_aui_frsh_dp?ie=UTF8&fpw=fresh
  
  
• Leave In: Same as conditioner plus olive oil (or oil of choice)
  
  
• Products:
  https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008Y9Y7UI/ref=oh_aui_frsh_dp?ie=UTF8&fpw=fresh
  https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01EVQ39X8/ref=oh_aui_frsh_dp?ie=UTF8&fpw=fresh
  
  Everything is CG approved! This link has been probably the most helpful thing in helping me choose my products: http://isitcg.herokuapp.com/
  
  As for that haircut, I have an appointment on Saturday! Woo!

I used to use head and shoulder's every day too. I never really gave my shampoo any thought and I wish I had.

The problem that curly girl tries to address, is that there's this vicious cycle of sulfates and silicones. You use shampoo with harsh detergents (sulfates) to strip all the build up out of your hair. Then, you follow it up with conditioner full of silicones to replenish your hair's moisture, but the silicones cause build up and then you NEED to shampoo.

It takes time, but you follow the curly girl(/guy) method, your hair will find it's natural balance and not be so greasy. No-poo and co-washing are still too unnerving for me. So, I use a low-poo "Shea Moisture African Black Soap Deep Cleansing Shampoo Sulfate Free" and use a shampoo brush every 3 days. That shampoo and the shampoo brush help deal with dandruff.

I pin my bangs back the first day because my skin is oily and it greases up my bangs very quickly. Day 3 isn't my favourite (in terms of hair oil), but it's manageable and slowly becoming better.


Shampoo: https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B0038U4TQU

Shampoo Brush: https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B00XUUKDXG

Video (CurlyPenny on Causes + Fixes to a Flaky Scalp):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iY4427Ojt1w

I would definitely recommend this book (http://www.amazon.com/Curly-Girl-Handbook-Michele-Bender/dp/076115678X ...it's what all this "CG" stuff is based on) and I'm pretty confident it's fine for a 12 year old reading level too. I think just sending them into this sub might be a bit overwhelming esp. if she hasn't used reddit. The book has mostly the same info, and may be available at your public library (mine has it).

Also from right of the bat from what you've told us, I would say definitely to ditch brushing and instead try a wide tooth comb, and never use while dry.

I am just always interested in seeing everyone's routines. (Plus I think it's in the rules to post routine? Either way, it is helpful all around.)

I'm still trying to learn my hair myself. But something I know that helps a lot of people is clipping your roots for volume. (If volume is something you like anyway.)

Denman brushes are also popular for brushing in the shower. Supposed to help with curl definition. (I'm still learning so mine is trial & error..)

This stuff is the best:

https://www.amazon.com/Cantu-Refresh-Rinse-Apple-Vinegar/dp/B01LTIAU5Q/ref=sr_1_53?keywords=cantu&qid=1549786667&s=gateway&sr=8-53

​

I add some tea tree oil (like 8 drops) to it and it really helps. Works well without additions too. Plus the applicator top is just right for getting to your scalp.

​

If you have rosemary, you can brew a tea with that, peppermint tea is also good, add honey and 5 drops of tea tree oil and apply. This is messier than the Cantu treatment but works well with ingredients you might have on hand.

yes of cours!! here is the brush (i use 7 rows) and here is the styling cream. rizos curls is a latina brand that's pretty new so i believe it's only found online. it has a powerful, tropical scent. my hair LOVES it.

The Deva Curl diffusers DO look like a creepy hand! LOL

My favorite diffuser for my fine, medium density 2B-3A waves/curls is the Black Orchid. The DC type diffusers are great for the roots, but the rest of my hair does better piled into the Black Orchid for pixie diffusing.

Hi there! Whilst my hair is currently doing okay moisture-wise, I also struggle with a dry scalp/dandruff and flakiness. My scalp is also sensitive and and gets itchy when overloaded with products so I have to be careful of that. At the moment, my way of managing it is to low-poo (not CG-friendly) once a week and co-wash (also not CG-friendly) every 3 or so days. I always focus the low-poo on my scalp and roots. This eliminates 98%~ of my flakiness at the moment, and until I can afford a proper CG-friendly medicated shampoo, this is what I'm going to stick with.

I've also seen that Cantu has a couple of products that show potential, namely the Refresh Root Relief with Apple Cider Vinegar and Peppermint Oil and the Refresh Root Rinse With Apple Cider Vinegar and Tea Tree Oil, but I haven't had chance to try either out.

I have used the Cantu Shea Butter Tea Tree & Jojoba Hair & Scalp Oil, but I haven't used it directly on my scalp enough to definitively say whether it helped with my dandruff. However, I do occasionally mix it in either with my hair mask or my leave-in conditioner when I feel my hair is extra-dry and it does make a difference. If you aren't currently using any hair oils, perhaps looking for one would be a good place to start to help your dry curls?

If you want to look for a CG-friendly medicated shampoo, I would start with this list from the Science-y Hair Blog.

I'm sorry I cannot be more helpful but I hope this has at least given you a few ideas on where to start.

Routine:

Co-wash with Tresemme Botanique Nourish + Replenish with Coconut Milk and Aloe Vera . I apply enough to be able to get a medium comb through it while showering and remove the stragglers (my hair is super thick, so my wall is usually plastered with fallen hair after I finish). I let the conditioner sit while I finish bathing and rinse completely with cold water.

After showering, I wrap it all in a towel turban and dry for 15-30 minutes. When my hair is fairly damp, but not dry, I apply a generous amount of SheaMoisture Coconut and Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie and work gently through from tips to root.

Immediately after, I apply DevaCurl Ultra Defining Gel (or Garnier Fructis Style Pure Clean Styling Gel) and let my hair air dry.

Once it’s all finally dried completely, I gently scrunch out the gel and style my hair as necessary.

Your hair is beautiful and I really love the color with your rosy skin. You look like the quintessential English girl. 😊

Since your hair likes olive oil, have you ever tried Eco gel?
https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/aw/d/B003E7UNE4/ref=mp_s_a_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1505972741&sr=8-1&keywords=eco+gel&dpPl=1&dpID=51nq7Go2JqL&ref=plSrch

Start with a small amount, and build up from there to see what your hair can take. I really like mop top but it's superexpensive in the UK.

Hello there! This is the brush I use: https://smile.amazon.de/Denman-Haarbürste-D3-schwarzer-Gummikissen/dp/B00197623M/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?keywords=denman+brush&qid=1567353795&s=gateway&sprefix=denmna&sr=8-3
Hope it helps and I am glad to hear that you are breaking up with those tools, you don't need that kind of negativity in your life lol!
It's in german though, but you can see the exact same brush I use. Good luck!

Hey, what are your thoughts on shea moisture honey and manuka deep conditioner?

I got some from walgreens and tried it..it seemed to make my hair really soft the first night but by the next day my curls were already going back to frizz and feeling dry. I did use devacurl light defining gel too, but it doesn't seem to do much tbh.

I'm currently waiting for Kinky Curly Come Clean Natural Moisturizing Shampoo to see if it can help remove hard water minerals. Do you think my issue is the gel or maybe the deep conditioner isn't right?

Also for volume, have you tried clipping your roots? these or something like it are helpful. Sometimes when I’m in a rush I’ll clip my roots, blow dry said roots, then drive to work and when I park I’ll take the clips out & SOTC. Good luck!

Apparently the Aquis microfiber turban. i just looked on Amazon for something under $20 and with good reviews. I don't prefer my curls untwisted, so I kind of put them in loosely and then twist the towel only once halfway so I can button it. It holds my curls on top of my head without twisting them, and I love that I don't have to clip it or worry about balancing it. It was a great buy for me.

Eco Style Gel is pretty good about not going crunchy. You have to way too much on for it to crunch and even if you do just spray some water on it and scrunch it a bit and it will soften. I love this gel :)

Thanks! It’s a styling brush that’s become quite popular for curlies

Amazon Link Here

I picked it up at a drug store, it’s pretty easy to find.

As for my twisting method, I brush through sections with the Denman brush, curving as I get to the end, the. scrunching/shaking out each section for a good uniform curl. That gives me shrinkage more than anything. Then, starting at the top of my hair, I take a section, fairy small, about 3-5 curls, put the brush in at my roots, and then brush down the hair, twisting as I go.

Today I did it with my fingers, which is essentially the same thing, just taking 3-5 curls and twisting them (fairly tightly but loose enough that as they dry they poof out to about double the diameter) down to the ends.
Tutorial Here

I do mine tighter than the girl in the video but that is the technique. As I said in my routine, then I air dried but I can diffuse these twists too.

Hope this helped! :)

My old diffuser that came with my hair dryer is there for comparison. I learned about this diffuser from a couple of CG YouTubers and I've been eyeing it for awhile. It was only $12.99 on Amazon https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00VJ06PG8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_qL2TBbT47FCGE

I used it this morning and it definitely dried my hair more quickly and I think helped some with frizz

Fyi, it's marketed as only fitting on a 6" diameter, but it has a inner ring that is very easy to remove (which is what I did to fit it on my Revlon 1875).

Mine where so damaged for so long I forgot that my hair could look as healthy as what people post here.

I think what helped the most was frequent moisturizing. They’ve gained some of the shine and definition from years before I allowed salt water to destroy them.

I also found experimenting was essential into finding the perfect technique that somewhat worked for me.

In the end, what I think helped the most for me was a descent big bowled diffuser along with additional moisturizing with jocoba oil.

This is the diffuser that changed everything!
https://www.amazon.ca/gp/aw/d/B00VJ06PG8?psc=1&ref=ppx_pop_mob_b_asin_image

All that being said, you are beautiful.

I had straight/"poofy" hair as a preteen and then bam, all the sudden a hair dresser told 13-year-old me that I actually had curly hair and had no clue what to do. We happened to be walking around Barnes & Noble later that week and ran into this book which was an absolute GODSEND.

So no, I never really had any curly hair knowledge passed down, but I really don't think this knowledge is the default. Until the last decade or so, it seems like tactics to "deal with" curly hair have been the default and so many of us grew up clueless. But trust us, you can learn ;)

Long time lurker here. I enjoy all the success pics.

I decided a while back to stop fighting my curls with gel and short haircuts. It's been going well and get compliments and surprise from friends and family. Those who haven't seen me in a while are totally confused and have asked if I've gotten a perm!!! I guess I have two questions

First: I'd like to go for the Jon Snow look if possible. I've been letting my hair grow and grow and grow. Now it feels like an afro-mullet combo. How should this hair be cut while it's still growing out? I get frustrated with stylists/barber/etc as I want an expert or at least someone with experience to guide me through this instead of asking what I want. "I don't know... that's why I'm asking you..." I don't want my hair ruined by someone guessing or going off of my unqualified instruction.

---

Second: At the end of the day, it gets frizzy/puffy (see the last pic in the album). I've tried not showering and it ends up looking greasy. How do you get smooth curls that aren't greasy or crunch due to gel?

---

Daily Routine:

1. Warm/hot shower with Shampoo and Conditioner from Costco.
   
2. Dry with a cotton t-shirt while hanging my head upside down
   
3. I'll apply Shea Curl Enhancing Smooth or Shea Curl & Style Milk
   
   

Cowashing with a silicone free conditioner actually does clean your scalp, but gently. The conditioner on your scalp breaks down oil, and I use a silicone scrubbing brush like this to exfoliate dead skin. I even leave a tiny bit of conditioner in my hair to keep it moisturized. In the beginning my hair was dry on the ends and oily on the top because it was being stripped of oil from harsh sulfates. After a few weeks it stops overproducing oil and it has become extremely soft

Good luck!

That’s the Xtava Black Orchid.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00VJ06PG8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_JvPDDb9H5WXWJ

It’s awesome! Day 2 of diffusing and loving it so far.

So, you use no product, and you hair just looks like that? Very nice. Also, for you dandruff, may I suggest the AMAZING product, Nizoral. http://www.amazon.com/Nizoral-AntiDandruff-Shampoo-7-Ounce-Bottles/dp/B00AINMFAC/ref=sr_1_3?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1425628128&sr=1-3&keywords=dandruff+shampoo

I use a microfibre towel turban (something like this but much cheaper, I find them at the dollar store or big box stores). I keep it in my hair for 10-15 minutes, while I'm getting ready for the day. I find the microfibre really helps to absorb a lot of the water and it does dry my hair faster.

I just had to message you again and tell you thank you! I got the peace rose and the knot today and wow! Also I got the hibiscus and cocunut curl and style milk and curl enhancing smoothie and they are just all so amazing!!!! So to repay the favor I suggest this diffuser if you ever want one
https://www.amazon.com/xtava-Black-Orchid-Large-Diffuser/dp/B00VJ06PG8/ref=zg_bs_11058111_11?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=B63X9HFH8V3E7APFCGFS

I even got the hair dryer to go with and first off the packaging is just amazing but the products are even better!!!! Here are my curls
With the products plus diffuser http://imgur.com/mMT6q8A

It's a game changer my curls
Are curlier with it no doubt and have more volume so happy holidays and thanks again

that just seems to be the drawback with gels... gets all crunchy and looks like dandruff when it breaks apart and of course you gotta wash it off with something like shampoo which is a huge no-no. I've only used a few gels but this one gave a softer appearance without too much crunch ECCO. You can find them at Sally's beauty supply also, and it has to be the olive oil one. I tried one that was clear and it sucked.

ok, high porosity makes sense if it's color treated. So, I use either the Hask Keratin protein mask or the Shea Moisture Manuka Honey and Mafura Oil deep conditioners, and both of them work really well. In fact, I was having issues just last week because I had moved climates and my hair was getting REALLY dry... so I did an extra-long treatment with the Shea Moisture one (left it in for about 45 minutes) and my hair is MUCH better again. Now, I don't recommend doing that, it risks protein overload, but a good 20 minute treatment might be what you need.


I have to do a mask about once a week to keep mine looking good.


Personally I just use some little butterfly clips that I had lying around, but these ones are the actual recommended style: https://www.amazon.ca/Diane-Double-Prong-Clips-Count/dp/B00143WQI6/ref=pd_cp_194_1?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B00143WQI6&pd_rd_r=b003856c-baf3-11e8-a904-6bfe9a9fef2d&pd_rd_w=Wx9zp&pd_rd_wg=CEFcc&pf_rd_i=desktop-dp-sims&pf_rd_m=A3DWYIK6Y9EEQB&pf_rd_p=95448740-5917-4df8-bb6a-086a0d0bb079&pf_rd_r=0ZCG00FMHRGEFESYRHZR&pf_rd_s=desktop-dp-sims&pf_rd_t=40701&psc=1&refRID=0ZCG00FMHRGEFESYRHZR

​

(note that is the Canadian Amazon site!)

Honestly I rarely brush my hair. I use a scalp massaging brush in the shower like this one. Don't bother with the vibrating ones that are about $20...total waste of money.

​

I use my fingers to detangle and finger coil after I've put product in my soaking wet hair (dab excess moisture with a microfiber towel) OR use a wide tooth comb if you really want to 'brush' your hair and get it all in the same direction before scrunching and coiling.

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I highly recommend finger coiling, not only does it dry beautifully, this will get your beaten down hair to reshape into curls until they do it themselves naturally again! So long story short, I never brush my dry hair.

Ooh! For a comfy bun- Goody makes these spin pins that have saved my life! I love the shorter ones cause my hair is thin and makes a tiny bun.

1. On washing: when I switched over, it took about 2-3 weeks for my hair to stop feeling extra oily. I'm now on month 3 and on day 4 hair today (my sewer line is backed up again, so avoiding the shower; I normally wash every 2-3 days) and my hair feels like my day 2 hair used to before CGM. So it's a process. But as others have said, as long as you're using a CG-approved shampoo and conditioner, it's okay to wash every day! You could also do just water washes, if you think that doing too much cleanser will hurt your hair.
   
   ​
   
   You might also include a shampoo brush in your routine (I just bought this: https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B074ZDXFL6/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1). It can possibly give a deeper massage and leave you feeling cleaner longer (it has for me!)
   
   ​
   
   I also don't like hair touching my face on general principal. Even on day 1 hair, I pin my hair back. But for later days (like today), I just bought these: https://smile.amazon.com/Kitsch-Bungee-Elastics-Ponytails-Unruly/dp/B07981M4VG/ref=sr_1_7_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1543520611&sr=1-7&keywords=bungee%2Bhair&th=1. Less damage on my hair and I don't have to deal with the limp curls going everywhere.
   
   ​
   
   
2. On sleeping: So, I've got long hair. Like mid-back length. Just mentioning in case your hair is shorter. I do a pineapple bun with satin sleep cap for sleeping. The bun is the basic pineapple method, but I don't pull my hair all the way through the scrunchy. I also use a little Argan Oil (I may be switching to something for more moisture since this doesn't seem to be working for me on containing frizz like it said) on my hair as I put it up.
   
   ​
   
   Then, in the morning, I spray my hair with a mix of warm water and Shea Moisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl Milk and Curl Smoothie. I basically spray until damp, S2C, and I've started diffusing since it's so cold now. I don't bother with this if I'm just going to do a bun or ponytail though.

I have 2A/2B type hair and I have gotten good, non-crunchy results from Curls Goddess Curl Gel. Haven't really bothered to try anything else because this one works great.

One of my friends has extremely curly hair and she maintains it beautifully. She uses the curly girl method and swears by it. It can be overwhelming at first but she said she wishes she would’ve known how to care for her hair sooner. Also, when she gets a hair cut make sure you find a stylist who knows how to cut curly hair.

One thing to consider is that you need to rinse out the NoPoo really well. Also, now that I'm using the NoPoo I use a handheld silicone head scrubber thingy. Someone else on this sub mentioned it and it really helps!

It's like this: https://www.amazon.com/Scalp-Massager-Shampoo-Brush-MAXSOFT/dp/B074ZDXFL6?th=1

I was using Fairy Tales Lifeguard shampoo, which IsItCG lists as having one sulfate. However, I just did some digging and found Zealios Swim and Sport and IsItCG marks it as CG safe with caution. For a budget-friendly option, that might be as close as I can get. I'll try it and see if it helps. If not, I'll go back to what I was using since my hair has been a lot less dry after using it.

​

Thank you for the advice!

I agree with /u/HaxtesR, something to style your hair would be most beneficial. But the DevaCurl products are quite expensive over here so you might wanna experiment with different types of stylers before you spend so much money on it in case your hair doesn't like it. Or see if you can find one of their travel kits.

Some cheap things to experiment with are:

Boots Curl Creme

Umberto Gianni Scrunching Jelly

EcoStyler Gel -There are smaller and bigger sizes of this available.

Also have a look on http://shop.britishcurlies.co.uk/ to see if theres anything you think better suit your needs. They carry quite a few brands.

The best product for dandruff is Nizoral. It's expensive, but it truly works, and if you want proof, [check out the reviews on Amazon:] (https://www.amazon.com/Nizoral-AntiDandruff-Shampoo-7-Ounce-Bottles/dp/B00AINMFAC/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1468665209&sr=1-1&keywords=Nizoral#customerReviews)

Hi! My hair is mostly 3A as well, and I live in the Southern US, which is extremely humid, especially in the summer.

I use gel as my styler. They do have the potential to be stiff/sticky when they dry. However, if you layer your gel on top of a leave in conditioner, that will solve the problem. My routine is cowash, S2C, apply my leave in (which can either be a small amount of your normal conditioner or an actual leave-in), apply a frizz serum (I use KY liquid because I can't afford Curl Keeper), and then apply my gel, which is the LA Looks Extreme Sport Gel. This is a high-hold gel, and it does get hard as it dries. But once it's dry, I flip my hair over and scrunch it until all the crunch comes out. I am left with soft, bouncy, well-defined curls that will usually last me about 3 days before I have to cowash again.

I personally have not tried any creams because they weigh my fine hair down and make it feel greasy. I would at least try a gel and see how you like it - just be sure to use a leave-in underneath!

*Edited to add a picture of my wash day hair!

>Let me know if you have more questions!

Lets say I have these 5 items here:

• Microfiber hair towel
  
  
• Wide tooth comb
  
  
• La Looks Gel #10
  
  
• TRESemmé conditioner
  
  
• V05 Clarifying shampoo
  
  Do I need any more items?
  
  If no, for the first wash using these items, what do I do?
  
  
  I know you don't use the V05 shampoo for anything except the first wash, but what do I do for the first wash? After I get the first wash down, the only thing I need to do is remove the use of V05 clarifying shampoo right?
  
  
  Let's say I get into the shower. Turn the water on and wash my hair and make it wet. Do I need a specific temperature of water? Let's say I add the TRESemmé conditioner. How much do I add for my amount of hair? What do I do with it? I add a certain amount to my hair, do I just let it sit there, do I massage it in, do I "scrunch it"? How long do I keep the conditioner in? Do I use the comb while in the shower working with the conditioner or during a different time? How do I use it?
  
  
  In the styling portion of the beginner-routine it states that you take a large amount of gel and scrunch it into your hair. For my volume of hair, would a handful of gel be too much? What does it mean to "scrunch it in"?
  
  
  In the drying portion it says to scrunch your hair with a microfiber towel, is this a different type of scrunching than the one in the styling portion? What's "plopping"? What does "scrunching out the crunch" mean?
  
  Thanks. Sorry for so many questions.
  
  
  
  

Yay! Then maybe if your hair needs clarifying from the water you could buy that other shampoo you found.

Last time I was in real humidity for an extended period of time I used this one. It was pretty good, but I was really on the go so I wasn't being super critical of my hair, so I can't give it a full review.

I was in a slightly humid place and bought the DevaCurl gel and it worked great! But it was more so drizzly rather than wicked humid.

I'd lean toward the conditioner (that's what it would be with me). If you have medium to long hair just don't apply conditioner to your roots — just mids to ends. If you have short hair or can't avoid getting conditioner on your roots make sure you're massaging well — really well — especially when rinsing. And consider getting a scalp massager (the massager is the only way I can even consider a cowash).

I love this

These things. I love them. Of course, right now I can't find any of mine, but…

Xtava black orchid diffuser https://www.amazon.com/xtava-Black-Orchid-Diffuser-Natural/dp/B00VJ06PG8/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?hasWorkingJavascript=1&keywords=xtava+black+orchid+hair+diffuser&qid=1568518144&sprefix=xtava&sr=8-1

And the xtava dryer https://www.amazon.com/Xtava-1875-Watt-Hair-Dryer/dp/B07HYB7374/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?hasWorkingJavascript=1&keywords=xtava+black+orchid+hair+diffuser&qid=1568518215&sprefix=xtava&sr=8-2

These are amazing and together will only set you back $50.

Curly Girl: The Handbook https://www.amazon.com/dp/076115678X/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_sibkDbBSTJKZP

This is the woman who founded the cgm. This book is a great place to start and understand the method.

Denman Cushion Brush Nylon Bristles, 7-Row https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00197623M/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_asU8BbMVG9AM0

It’s a customizable brush made specially for curly hair. You use it on wet hair to help distribute your product and it promotes clumping and curl definition.

I use Shea Moisture curl enhancing smoothie.

My hair is more like 2b but this stuff works really well for me. It's not at all crunchy and it keeps my hair curly through the whole day (before it got all frizzy a couple hours in). You really can't feel it at all, it's not heavy or greasy or anything.

How should I use SheaMoisture styling milk? I've never tried product on long hair before so I'm curious on how this goes. My routine is to scrunch for a bit, plop for 15 minutes, and then diffuse. Should I apply it during the scrunch, plop, or diffusion?

My other question is are these ingredients CG safe?

> Methylparaben, Tetrasodium EDTA, Diazolidinyl Urea, Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Methylisothiazolinone

These are ingredients that I found in LA Looks Sports Gel.

What is your current CG routine like? I might have a few ideas but don't want to give unhelpful advice if you're already doing it!

I'm guessing that you aren't doing anything wrong but that the CG method(s) simply take a bit of time (AND trial and error!). I have the Curly Girl book and somewhere in there Lorraine Massey talks about how your hair routine, at some point, might need to become a matter of priority (going either direction: more or less precedence).

I use about 5 pumps of gel, and I use clips like these to add extra volume when I diffuse! They really help control the curl and add some volume, especially on the front pieces.

I use a tangle teezer, but something like this one would work: https://www.amazon.com/Scalpmaster-SC20-Shampoo-Brush-Purple/dp/B000NJG82W?th=1 it basically exfoliates the scalp.

Here are some links for the product in the above comment for different countries:

Amazon Smile Link: MIXED CHICKS CONDITIONER


|Country|Link|
|:-----------|:------------|
|UK|amazon.co.uk|
|Spain|amazon.es|
|France|amazon.fr|
|Germany|amazon.de|
|Japan|amazon.co.jp|
|Canada|amazon.ca|
|Italy|amazon.it|




This bot is currently in testing so let me know what you think by voting (or commenting). The thread for feature requests can be found here.

Ok, so yes, I too used to hate plopping with a seething passion. Then one day I tried plopping with a turban instead of a tshirt or towel, and it changed EVERYTHING.

I lay the turban flat, like you would do with a tshirt, and I plop my hair in the area where your scalp is intended to go. Then I twist the long, thinner part (which has no hair in it) and fold it back over my head and secure it with either the button or elastic (I have two different kinds). It takes 30 seconds and could stay on my head through a Zumba workout -- seriously, rock solid.

I don't have advice on how to make it work because I have the exact same issue with plopping BUT last time I got my hair cut I asked my hairdresser what I could do to give my curls some more volume around the top of my head and she suggested getting clips like these and inserting them around the crown of my head with the tips pointing toward the top of my head. It holds the roots up while my curls set and then I can just pull them out whenever I want and I have the volume I am looking for. It doesn't in any way solve the problem of not being able to plop my curls so I've just lived without that but they hold up alright anyway. Sorry I can't help with your actual problem! Hope this helps someone at least!

This is what I got!

xtava Black Orchid Large Hair Diffuser For Curly and Natural Hair - Professional Blo... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00VJ06PG8/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_c_api_SY.VBb84FSNYH

I use spiral bobbypins to put my hair in a bun. No creases and you can make the bun as loose or tight as you need. I usually use 4 pins for a nice and secure bun (for top, bottom, and each side)
https://www.amazon.com/Goody-Simple-Styles-Assorted-Colors/dp/B003FVDNO6

Hi! Some of the people on here still brush their hair in the shower while conditioning. If you find the no-brush thing doesn't work out well for you, I'd recommend this brush, it's a CG cult-classic:

https://www.amazon.ca/Denman-Cushion-Brush-Nylon-Bristles/dp/B00197623M/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1493858226&sr=8-1&keywords=denman

Hi! I know this is a little late, but I just found Pillow Soft Curls for a decent price on amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Miss-Jessies-Pillow-Curls-Ounce/dp/B0094KPK70

We could help if you had specific questions, but you don't have specific questions.

If you want an overview and can't use the Internet then buy : the Curly Girl: The Handbook.

Link for your phone: http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/076115678X/ref=redir_mdp_mobile/176-4480119-1278117

Stick your head under the faucet. If you don't have enough time for that you could try a lavender spray.
This recipe is from Curly Girl The Handbook: Simmer 1/2 a gallon of water and 5 drops if lavender essential oil for an hour. Let it cool and put it into some spray bottles.

The Curly Girl Handbook by Lorraine Massie has lots of suggestions for wavy hair.

http://www.amazon.com/Curly-Girl-Handbook-Michele-Bender/dp/076115678X

If you look at any guide for curly hair, for example, the Curly Girl guide by Lorraine Massey, they tell you never to brush your hair when it is dry. The hair is too fragile.

Non-mobile: http://www.amazon.com/dp/076115678X/ref=redir_mdp_mobile/176-4480119-1278117

^That's ^why ^I'm ^here, ^I ^don't ^judge ^you. ^PM ^/u/xl0 ^if ^I'm ^causing ^any ^trouble. ^WUT?

It's based on this book: http://www.amazon.com/Curly-Girl-Handbook-Michele-Bender/dp/076115678X

Here's the gist of it: http://www.wikihow.com/Follow-the-Curly-Girl-Method-for-Curly-Hair

I use this shampoo once a week and it helped immensely. After shampooing I just put conditioner on the last few inches of my hair.

https://www.amazon.com/Mixed-Chicks-Defining-Eliminating-Conditioner/dp/B000G1MT2U/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?keywords=mixed+chicks+leave-in+conditioner&qid=1559262967&s=gateway&sprefix=mixed+&sr=8-3

I found them here five dollars for 80 as compared to only 8 deva clips for $17

This is the one I bought: Denman Classic Styling Brush 7 Rows - D3 - Hair Brush for Blow-Drying & Styling - Detangling, Separating, Shaping & Defining Curls for Women https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00197623M/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_CKomDb518YJAW

Wide toothed comb or denman brush

Here's a link --- ECOCO Eco Style Gel, Olive, 32 Ounce https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003E7UNE4/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_0yVyyb1JYNGVE

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00VJ06PG8/?ref=idea_lv_dp_ov_d the Xtava black orchid diffuser

with

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005Q9MXNC/?ref=idea_lv_dp_ov_d&th=1

or

https://www.amazon.com/BaBylissPRO-BABNT5548-Nano-Titanium-Dryer/dp/B001T0HHDS/ref=pd_sbs_510_5/137-7439543-8306716?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B001T0HHDS&pd_rd_r=444fc19f-a86b-4975-af6c-7919a599f9f5&pd_rd_w=Otpwl&pd_rd_wg=JagDy&pf_rd_p=d66372fe-68a6-48a3-90ec-41d7f64212be&pf_rd_r=X7G2R6YPTHWAA4TXXV04&psc=1&refRID=X7G2R6YPTHWAA4TXXV04

It's just the type/brand of diffuser!

A Denman brush! (Sorry for the crappy link, on mobile) https://www.amazon.com/Denman-Cushion-Brush-Nylon-Bristles/dp/B00197623M


You can pull the rubber base off the handle and remove rows to your liking. I bought a 7 row brush but have since modified it to 4 rows.

Definitely go see a dermatologist. You need to get psoriasis confirmed by a doctor, and they can give you a prescription strength product to use. I get psoriasis on my scalp pretty bad and I’m prescribed a clobetasol liquid solution that I put on my scalp 1-2 times a day when it’s bad, it’s not a rinse out thing. It works well at stopping the itching and bringing down the inflammation. When I’m in the shower I scrub my scalp really hard with either my finger nails or I have this little rubber pointy brush for your scalp to remove any dead skin build up.

No not a perm, I recently just applied Ors curls unleashed sample, but I’m probably going to switch to Shae Moisture. Do these have permanent effects?

You may want to look into getting a scalp brush for your dandruff shampoo - it really scrubs the flakes and dead skin off your scalp. It also allows you to scrub your scalp extremely thoroughly, section by section, without your hands getting tired

Here’s one on Amazon that I recommend ($7):

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B074ZDXFL6/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_c_api_i_MRTGDbX1378WZ

A "shampoo brush" cured my scalp condition I've had for years. This one. I have 3b-3c, so I use it while co-washing in a straight line pattern (circular motion would cause tangles.) I co-wash the top, rake it front to back, then flip my hair and co-wash the nape, raking the shampoo brush from nape to crown. I also use it a bit while I'm rinsing. Cured a very bad scalp (with open sores/ scale/ horrible itching& burning) within weeks of purchase.