Wavy and Curly Hair Care: Where to Start
Waves, curls or coils? Let’s find the care yours loves.
Waves, curls and coils all belong here. Curly hair tends to run drier than other hair types, so the lengths need extra moisture.
First, a Few Tips
- Not sure you’re wavy? Scrunch it upward in the shower while it’s wet. If waves show up, you’re in the right place.
- Detangle only with conditioner in. Fingers first, then a wide-tooth comb, from the bottom up.
- Once it’s dry, the brush can take the day off.
Your Routine, Step by Step
- Wash: gentle, at the scalp.
- Condition: plenty of slip, from the ears down.
- Leave in: a curl cream on wet hair, from the ears down. Gel on top if you want hold.
- Between washes: a refresh spray from the ears down, then scrunch.
- Dry: a diffuser on low, or squeeze with a t-shirt and leave it be.
Your curls have their own rules. Let’s find a routine that honors them.
Sources: American Academy of Dermatology, 6 curly hair tips from dermatologists (30 Jun 2022) · American Academy of Dermatology, Tips for healthy hair (updated 12 Aug 2024). Checked 17 Oct 2026.
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