Mainstream stereotypes have classified curly hair as problematic, rough, and lacklustre. These misconceptions were due to the market only offering relaxers and grease to deal with textured tresses. Heavy styling products were not water-soluble, and water was considered to be the enemy anyway. This huge mess of mistreatment has caused many curly heads to become fragile and unhealthy. It’s time to raise the standard.

Start with soaking wet hair. Your mane looks best when it’s full of hydration, so don’t towel dry. Plus, it’s easier to tame and style in a wet state. Take a quarter dollop of leave-in conditioner if your hair is long and a nickle-sized amount if your hair is shorter. Viscous creams work best for thicker and curlier manes, and sprays work best for thinner and wavier hair that’s weighed down easily. Keep adding a small amounts of the fixative until your hair is evenly coated from roots to ends. It’s easier to work with hair that’s flipped upside down so that the product stays on your hair. You don’t want it to accidentally come off onto your clothes or skin! Finger-comb after applying the leave-in. This helps to define your curls. If you have thick hair, use a wide-toothed shower comb to create more definition. Do not brush your wet hair!

To get rid of the excess water, the next step is to gently squeeze and scrunch the hair with your hands and/or a microfiber towel. Try to avoid bath towels and terry cloth turbans! They cause frizz. Plopping is another technique for longer hair. You can use a long-sleeved t-shirt if your microfiber towel isn’t large enough to cover your entire head. Bend over and lower your hair onto the towel or shirt and wrap it around your head. You can leave it on for as long as you want, even overnight. This is an alternative to hair dryers, and if the wrap is really absorbent then you can take it off after about 20 minutes. If your hair is crunchy, just scrunch it all over again until it softens to your liking.

In addition to your choice leave-in conditioner, you should add whichever natural botanical that addresses your current concerns and complaints. For example, you can customize your conditioner by adding jojoba oil, avocado oil, and aloe vera to combat hair loss; shea butter, castor oil, and apricot oil for dryness; witch hazel, eucalyptus, and lemon oil for oily scalp; papaya, coconut oil, and rose hip for roughness; and olive oil, tea tree oil, and garlic for dandruff.

Whatever you choose to do, keep it as simple and natural as possible. Nature’s way is the best way.