Wurly and Curly thread!!!

[Witchy]

Glad I looked at the picture... you're talking about your DRY hair being frizzy -- when you said "immediately after a shower" I was thinking you had frizz when you hair was soaking wet!!!
Oh I have that too ;)

1. Drying method: I *never* rub the towel through hair, will always wrap and squeeze a towel around hair until its not dripping, then will let it air dry. I don't touch it while its air drying. And of course, no brushing wet hair and no blowfrying.

2. Moisture: I had a long-time problem with dry hair, shampooing is too drying, and CO was creating too much build-up, so WO is the only thing that keeps my hair from getting crispy. I've started preening and using coconut oil to keep my hair well-moisturized between showers.

[GRU]

1. Drying method: I *never* rub the towel through hair, will always wrap and squeeze a towel around hair until its not dripping, then will let it air dry. I don't touch it while its air drying. And of course, no brushing wet hair and no blowfrying.

No brushing/combing dry hair, either?




2. Moisture: I had a long-time problem with dry hair, shampooing is too drying, and CO was creating too much build-up, so WO is the only thing that keeps my hair from getting crispy. I've started preening and using coconut oil to keep my hair well-moisturized between showers.

What kind of build-up were you getting from CO?

Have you tried adding a cone-free conditioner just from the ears down?

Or putting a squirt of conditioner in a spray-bottle of water and using that as a mist-on leave-in?

Do you ever do a DT?

Do you ever comb your hair when it's soaking wet in the shower? I find that by combing my hair (mine is full of conditioner) before I get out of the shower, it's kind of like aligning the tires on a car -- by getting all the individuals lined up identically, the tresses clump together better, without so many "going rogue" on me.


Plain and simple, though, you're either going to have to find some way to get moisture into your hair, or else just embrace your frizz.

[LadyJennifer]

I also comb while wet. It = much smoother hair on me!

[CTH3989]

I think I'm losing length. In January, my hair was 28 inches, over the past few months, I noticed that my hair doesn't hang as long as it used to. I measured today (the same as I always do) and my hair is 25 inches long. I know I haven't been taking care of my hair as well as I should but losing 3 inches!? Has this ever happened to anyone?

[TiltedHal0]

I posted this in another thread, but thought I would post it here too...just sharing my conditioner that I use and love for those of us with waves/curls.


I have 2b hair and iii thickness...I know exactly how you feel. I have been a hairdresser for 18 years now and have tried everything to get the look/feel I want. The conditioner I have been using for a few years now, I swear by.

It's called Paul Sebastian Potion 9. http://www.beso.com/buy-sebastian-po.../search?rf=bys (http://www.beso.com/buy-sebastian-potion-9/search?rf=bys)

It comes in a tub or tube or you can buy a spray version that is lighter/watered down. You can use both on dry or wet hair.
I usually buy the tub...it's super concentrated so I can use it like a hair gel although it is a leave in conditioner.

My hair right now length wise is just above my bum...I use it when my hair is wet. I use about a quarter size in my hand(3 squirts), rub together in hands, flip hair upside down and scrunch it in(only on the ends), flip hair back up, scrunch the rest in. I will let it dry naturally...

When it drys, it holds the shape of my waves/curls and it isn't sticky or hard. I can run my hands through my hair later in the day and it is so soft!!! I started buying the light/spray version as well and use that when my hair is dry and I need a little freshener. I always get compliments on how great my hair smells too and sometimes it's from total strangers!!! lol

My 16 yr old daughter uses it now in her hair, although she has very fine hair and it tends to get oily fast...but she wanted me to perm her hair, so she uses a very little bit in her hair and only on the ends. It really defines the curl for her. She's liking it too, but the first time, she used too much and told me it made her hair oily. For thick/medium hair that is wavy, it is great though!!!

I swear by this stuff...hope you try it and like it!
I have 2b hair and iii thickness...I know exactly how you feel. I have been a hairdresser for 18 years now and have tried everything to get the look/feel I want. The conditioner I have been using for a few years now, I swear by.

It's called Paul Sebastian Potion 9. http://www.beso.com/buy-sebastian-po.../search?rf=bys (http://www.beso.com/buy-sebastian-potion-9/search?rf=bys)

It comes in a tub or tube or you can buy a spray version that is lighter/watered down. You can use both on dry or wet hair.
I usually buy the tub...it's super concentrated so I can use it like a hair gel although it is a leave in conditioner.

My hair right now length wise is just above my bum...I use it when my hair is wet. I use about a quarter size in my hand(3 squirts), rub together in hands, flip hair upside down and scrunch it in(only on the ends), flip hair back up, scrunch the rest in. I will let it dry naturally...

When it drys, it holds the shape of my waves/curls and it isn't sticky or hard. I can run my hands through my hair later in the day and it is so soft!!! I started buying the light/spray version as well and use that when my hair is dry and I need a little freshener. I always get compliments on how great my hair smells too and sometimes it's from total strangers!!! lol

My 16 yr old daughter uses it now in her hair, although she has very fine hair and it tends to get oily fast...but she wanted me to perm her hair, so she uses a very little bit in her hair and only on the ends. It really defines the curl for her. She's liking it too, but the first time, she used too much and told me it made her hair oily. For thick/medium hair that is wavy, it is great though!!!

I swear by this stuff...hope you try it and like it!
http://forums.longhaircommunity.com/images/statusicon/user_online.gif http://forums.longhaircommunity.com/images/buttons/report.gif (http://forums.longhaircommunity.com/report.php?p=1164914)

[Curlsgirl]

My hair has been falling out BAD!!!! I had a hormone imbalance and it is corrected now I believe so it is slowing down. Plus I have started taking 7500 mg of Biotin a day. I am thinking about getting a nice trim though of several inches to help get it looking bouncier and healthier again. Just sharing my thought. My one length hair is getting boring so I might get some LONG layers mixed in. I'll be sure to share pics if I do this.

Okay carry on!

[Curlsgirl]

I think I'm losing length. In January, my hair was 28 inches, over the past few months, I noticed that my hair doesn't hang as long as it used to. I measured today (the same as I always do) and my hair is 25 inches long. I know I haven't been taking care of my hair as well as I should but losing 3 inches!? Has this ever happened to anyone?

My guess is that you probably measured wrong to start with. There would be no way to lose three inches like that unless you cut. It is very hard to measure consistently, that's why I stopped doing it.

[prbysasha]

<a href="http://s1046.photobucket.com/albums/b469/LongHairedGirl/?action=view&current=July2010134.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1046.photobucket.com/albums/b469/LongHairedGirl/July2010134.jpg" border="0" alt="front"></a>

[prbysasha]

Sorry about the last nonpic post.... I am new to this. I will try again. Here are my very most recent pictures. Just washed and still wet. Curly it's to my waist and straight its just under my butt cheeks.
http://i1046.photobucket.com/albums/b469/LongHairedGirl/July2010134.jpg
http://i1046.photobucket.com/albums/b469/LongHairedGirl/July2010137.jpg

[Curlsgirl]

Sorry about the last nonpic post.... I am new to this. I will try again. Here are my very most recent pictures. Just washed and still wet. Curly it's to my waist and straight its just under my butt cheeks.
http://i1046.photobucket.com/albums/b469/LongHairedGirl/July2010134.jpg
http://i1046.photobucket.com/albums/b469/LongHairedGirl/July2010137.jpg

Wow! Just gorgeous!!! :thud:

[prbysasha]

Wow! Just gorgeous!!! :thud:
Thank you!! I love love love my hair, I am just upset that until I found this site I have been abusing it by not loving it ENOUGH!! Thank you ladies for your wealth of information!!

[Oksana]

Hi everyone im a newbie finally enbracing and leaning how to look after my curls (pre LHC I used to brush them and wonder why i looked like i had been struck by lightening)

I previously had hair between bsl and waist but had an accident with some birthday candles which singed me up to apl. My short term goal is back to my original length, with my ultimate goal at between waist and hip.

My hair has become curlier since it is shorter so would anyone be lovely enough to help me classify my curls? This picture is my hair left to dry with no combing but i do have a little coconut oil to tame some frizzies :o

http://www.freeimagehosting.net/uploads/d8e00fbdeb.jpg (http://www.freeimagehosting.net/)

[GlassEyes]

I'd say 3a.

That's with only coocnut oil? They look like they came from a curling iron...

[Oksana]

I'd say 3a.

That's with only coocnut oil? They look like they came from a curling iron...

Thanks GlassEyes but no curling iron! have to add that the top of my hair is clipped back so it looks deceivingly curlier than it is, that considered maybe 2c?

[OperaTeacherMom]

Thanks GlassEyes but no curling iron! have to add that the top of my hair is clipped back so it looks deceivingly curlier than it is, that considered maybe 2c?

No I'd say you're definitely a 3a! The difference between 2 and 3 is HOW the hair curls, type 2 hair is an s-shaped curve/wave, type 3 hair goes around in a full spiral. Yours is definitely spirals! I hope my 3a hair is as gorgeous as yours when it gets longer!

[GRU]

I'll ditto the 3a vote.

[GlassEyes]

Thanks GlassEyes but no curling iron! have to add that the top of my hair is clipped back so it looks deceivingly curlier than it is, that considered maybe 2c?
Oh, I'm sorry! I just re-read what I wrote--I didn't mean to imply you used one, just that they LOOK like curling iron curls. They just look that perfect.*facepalm*

[Oksana]

Oh, I'm sorry! I just re-read what I wrote--I didn't mean to imply you used one, just that they LOOK like curling iron curls. They just look that perfect.*facepalm*

No worries, thankyou for the hair compliment. I wish i could make my hair look like that everyday!

[rachelily]

Oksana, you just became my hair idol. Seriously, beyond gorgeous. I'd also say 3a.

[Curlsgirl]

I gave myself a good 4 inch trim maybe a bit more this afternoon. I am back to a little past BSL curly. I REALLY like it. It was getting where it was so heavy it wouldn't curl nicely at ALL. The ends look nice and thick again and it's MUCH better! It was sort of hard to let go of the length but I am thinking I may keep it this length. I don't like losing the curl for the sake of being longer.

[CTH3989]

My guess is that you probably measured wrong to start with. There would be no way to lose three inches like that unless you cut. It is very hard to measure consistently, that's why I stopped doing it.

It wasn't just the measuring. When I stretched my hair, it didn't reach as far down my back as it used to. :confused:

[LadyJennifer]

Sorry about the last nonpic post.... I am new to this. I will try again. Here are my very most recent pictures. Just washed and still wet. Curly it's to my waist and straight its just under my butt cheeks.
http://i1046.photobucket.com/albums/b469/LongHairedGirl/July2010134.jpg
http://i1046.photobucket.com/albums/b469/LongHairedGirl/July2010137.jpg

So beautiful!

[Oksana]

Oksana, you just became my hair idol. Seriously, beyond gorgeous. I'd also say 3a.

Thankyou :) You also have gorgeous hair, i love the colour! I'm actually a light blonde so my colour never looks as rich as yours, plus my hair is growing so fast recently i seem to have constant blonde roots and blonde baby hairs framing my face...not a good look!

[Curlsgirl]

It wasn't just the measuring. When I stretched my hair, it didn't reach as far down my back as it used to. :confused:

Well have you done anything bad to your hair that could have caused it to break off? Other than that honestly it has to be a mistake, hair can't actually get shorter. :flower: I wouldn't worry about it. I used to worry about length a LOT, now I just concentrate on the condition and protection and I am much happier.

[curlylocks85]

prbysasha - Your hair is so beautiful. I hope I can acheive your health and beauty at that length.


Oksana - You have lovely curls. I do agree that they look perfect.


Curlsgirl - You are going to post some pics, right? ;)

[Curlsgirl]

prbysasha - Your hair is so beautiful. I hope I can acheive your health and beauty at that length.


Oksana - You have lovely curls. I do agree that they look perfect.


Curlsgirl - You are going to post some pics, right? ;)

Okay but they might be kind of boring just one length and like it used to be when it was curlier. :D

[curlylocks85]

Okay but they might be kind of boring just one length and like it used to be when it was curlier. :D

I don't think one length hair is boring. I have always admired your hair. :)

[Curlsgirl]

I don't think one length hair is boring. I have always admired your hair. :)

Awwww thanks! :flowers:

[09robiha]

hi girls and guys....just dropping in to day hi. Hair has been kinda blah at the moment..its in desperate need of some protein but I cant afford my favorite conditoner so the curl is slowly going and going :( it makes me so sad!

On good news though I bought a denman and wow apparently denman = great clumpage!!

[09robiha]

So beautiful!


Oh good god you have nice hair!!

[GRU]

hi girls and guys....just dropping in to day hi. Hair has been kinda blah at the moment..its in desperate need of some protein but I cant afford my favorite conditoner so the curl is slowly going and going :( it makes me so sad!

You probably need moisture more than protein right now. Do you have any honey or molasses in the house?

[09robiha]

You probably need moisture more than protein right now. Do you have any honey or molasses in the house?

why would I need more moisture right now?? the weather???

hmm yeah theres some honey at the back of the cupboard!

[GRU]

why would I need more moisture right now?? the weather???

hmm yeah theres some honey at the back of the cupboard!

Moisture = curls.

Dry = droops.

Honey = humectant.

:D

[Curlsgirl]

Moisture = curls.

Dry = droops.

Honey = humectant.

:D

Yep that's especially true with 2c hair. (Only my hair doesn't like honey and glycerin for some reason)

[09robiha]

Moisture = curls.

Dry = droops.

Honey = humectant.

:D

ahhhh ok, my hair feels really really soft though. Like cotton candy soft which is why i think my curls are all droopy and in need of protein

[GRU]

ahhhh ok, my hair feels really really soft though. Like cotton candy soft which is why i think my curls are all droopy and in need of protein

Or maybe clarifying? Buildup could weigh down your curls.

[Curlsgirl]

Or maybe clarifying? Buildup could weigh down your curls.

Definitely or over-conditioning.

[09robiha]

thanks guys, I'll give it a clarifying wash tomorrow and re-asses :)

[LadyJennifer]

If I don't give my hair enough protein, it goes blah

[OperaTeacherMom]

My hair gets droopy if I don't get protein too, I am overconditioned so easily! If it does turn out to be a protein need, do you have soy sauce in your house? What about eggs, mayonnaise? Eggs are a great easy protein treatment, add a little soy sauce and mayonnaise and you have a pretty heavy duty PT.

[curlylocks85]

why would I need more moisture right now?? the weather???

For my hair the weather does not matter, it always can use some moisture.


hmm yeah theres some honey at the back of the cupboard!

Honey makes my hair feel sticky and like there are little pebbles in my hair.

[SlightlySoprano]

So I henna'd my hair today and it definitely seemed to dry on the 2c rather than the 3a side...

Has anybody else experienced this?

[GRU]

So I henna'd my hair today and it definitely seemed to dry on the 2c rather than the 3a side...

Has anybody else experienced this?

I have the opposite -- my curls usually look their best right after henna, but I think it's a moisture thing. I always figure that my hair gets so much mechanical stress from the hennaing process that it needs some TLC, so I moisturize the heck out of it.

Did you follow up with an SMT or something similar?

[PurpleAshes]

I recently discovered that combing my hair with gel while it's still soaked gives me the awesomest curls! I always thought that would ruin the patterns but it just sets it, and gives more definition to the sections that are 3c.

[SlightlySoprano]

I have the opposite -- my curls usually look their best right after henna, but I think it's a moisture thing. I always figure that my hair gets so much mechanical stress from the hennaing process that it needs some TLC, so I moisturize the heck out of it.

Did you follow up with an SMT or something similar?

I conditioned the heck out of it, then left the last coat of conditioner in, so yes, its been conditioned to Timbuktu and back!

[GRU]

I recently discovered that combing my hair with gel while it's still soaked gives me the awesomest curls! I always thought that would ruin the patterns but it just sets it, and gives more definition to the sections that are 3c.

PA -- If you want, you can also put the fingers of one hand on the back end of the comb as you pull it through your hair... the comb will "line up" the curls together in tiny clumps, and then your fingers will make the tiny clumps fuse together into larger clumps. Doing this REALLY cuts down on my frizz, I've noticed.

Not sure if it makes sense the way I said it, but here's my sorry attempt at a visual:

Strands that come out of the comb alone:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |

Strands that come out of the comb and fingers combination:
|||||.......|||||........|||||.......|||||
|||||.......|||||........|||||.......|||||
|||||.......|||||........|||||.......|||||

(yeah, I know I don't have skills in the art department! LOL)



I conditioned the heck out of it, then left the last coat of conditioner in, so yes, its been conditioned to Timbuktu and back!

Hmmmm, maybe it's just pissed off at all the manipulation? :confused: Hennaing is not a gentle treatment, that's for sure. Hopefully it bounces back for you soon!

[SlightlySoprano]

Hmmmm, maybe it's just pissed off at all the manipulation? :confused: Hennaing is not a gentle treatment, that's for sure. Hopefully it bounces back for you soon!

I wouldn't be surprised. My hair has a mind of its own!

[rachelily]

I had a particularly good hair day today, and I tend to achieve these when I avoid scrunching and just let my hair be completely soaked and allow it to tighten up on its own as it dries. The spirals look so much better, softer, and shinier.

http://i25.tinypic.com/zxmvqf.jpg

Does anyone else do better when they don't scrunch?

[masa_inn]

So I henna'd my hair today and it definitely seemed to dry on the 2c rather than the 3a side...

Has anybody else experienced this?

Yep.
Wait a little (I'd say, about a week) - they'll bounce right back!

[GRU]

I wouldn't be surprised. My hair has a mind of its own!
Join the club! :lol:

I had to clarify mine (after a stupid 'cone screw-up) this week, and it was PISSED OFF http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b23/ImaHockeyMom/boards/emoticons/th_angryfire.gif?t=1279160552 at me!!!! I've been soooooo gentle with it for the past nine months, CO-washing only, oiling, SMTing, etc., and it went :taz: on me first from the 'cone thing, and then again from the clarifying to try to get rid of the 'cone. I want my hair back!!!!! http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b23/ImaHockeyMom/boards/emoticons/th_crybaby-1.gif?t=1279160526

[Gilraen]

Funny, my hair gets droopy with more moisture. Still need the stuff though, otherwise my hair gets really tangled and brittle.
I used a ton of brown sugar in my conditioner, quite a few drops of honey, and a whole lot of aloe gel yesterday. Got my dry scalp and hair back into shape after having a long, hard weekend (and few days). God bless honey.

[squiggyflop]

just wondering if you all think i belong here.. view this thread (http://forums.longhaircommunity.com/showthread.php?t=51856) to see my curl.. not curls just one gaint curl..

do any of you all have this big of a curl pattern that it all forms one gigantic (3-4 inch diameter) curl?..

still not sure if i belong here as my hair doesnt hold the curl well and straghtens out easily

[ooo]

I like your spiral! I think you belong here. Maybe you have to change something in your hair drying routine to get more curls.

[Cleopatra18]

I dont know if it's because my hair is damaged but my curls are completely weird :( I think i might have two textures or something.
i really cant figure out how to "embrace" my curls or anything.the only imagination i have of wearing my hair down will be after straightening it.
does anyone have some tips or something? I dont like complicated regimens.

[Amelia]

Washed the 'monster' yesterday and it curled so much i went from BSL to Shoulder length. Inspired by my sudden 'lost' of hair I did a 1940's hair do for today :D I look like my grandmother in her twenties :crush:

[squiggyflop]

I like your spiral! I think you belong here. Maybe you have to change something in your hair drying routine to get more curls.
change something like what?
conditioning it weighs it down more straight and when i just clarify my hair and dont condition the weight of the hair still pulls most of the hair straight.. i still dont understand why the curl has such a big diameter.. it doesnt make sense.. and why doesnt my hair look like any of the hair in the visual hairtyping guide?.. how am i supposed to classify myself if none of the pictures have BIG loose curls.. when you get to the 3's all the curls are tight.. at the ends of the 2's they are also tighter patterns than mine.. and all of those people have curls all the way up.. why doesnt their hair get weighed down straight?... *frustrated grumble*.. i wish i could write something like 1c-2c because i just cant figure it out..

[hairg33k]

With my first CO or just a normal wash my hair is pretty curly/wurly still. But after the 2nd CO my curls don't curl as much and my hair just kinda looks blah. I've finally figured out how to not make my scalp look greasy, but my hair just doesn't curl the same afterwards. Frustrations!

[rachelily]

just wondering if you all think i belong here.. view this thread (http://forums.longhaircommunity.com/showthread.php?t=51856) to see my curl.. not curls just one gaint curl..

do any of you all have this big of a curl pattern that it all forms one gigantic (3-4 inch diameter) curl?..

still not sure if i belong here as my hair doesnt hold the curl well and straghtens out easily

I think you do, my hair dries in several big curls (but not one) but I think that's because they aren't long enough to all morph into one curl. I separate them with my fingers, because brushing can make them too small, and then I have fairy-tale ringlets all over :)

Do you brush your hair out? Maybe try finger-separating the curl into a couple smaller ones? I think you have beautiful hair, btw :)

[squiggyflop]

I think you do, my hair dries in several big curls (but not one) but I think that's because they aren't long enough to all morph into one curl. I separate them with my fingers, because brushing can make them too small, and then I have fairy-tale ringlets all over :)

Do you brush your hair out? Maybe try finger-separating the curl into a couple smaller ones? I think you have beautiful hair, btw :)
i have to detangle constantly in order for my hair not to dread.. it always wants to dread.. 2 days without detangling results in dreads that take 3 hours to get out.. so if i have my hair down i have to detangle maybe 4 times per day to not have dreads..

[rachelily]

i have to detangle constantly in order for my hair not to dread.. it always wants to dread.. 2 days without detangling results in dreads that take 3 hours to get out.. so if i have my hair down i have to detangle maybe 4 times per day to not have dreads..

Oh dear! Well, it looks great brushed the way it is in your siggie (I am assuming that is how you did it), the before and after is so astonishing with the single curl!

[Amelia]

I need help! Curly ladies/gentlemen please give me some input! TIA!

I have been wanting to do a french rope braid, actually two, one in each side of my head. Problem is, it just won't work! I have the 'mechanics' of it down, i can rope braid, BUT when i'm adding pieces of hair to it, my hair gets all tangled! The videos on youtube have people with shorter and straighter hair than me.

Can anyone give me pointers how to separate better? My curls kind of hook themselves to each other, and i end up frustrated and angry :oops: Maybe it's a braid that won't work for curlie hair?:shrug:

[Ruce]

Compared to the rest of you, I'm a rather boring 2a... but I still love my waves. :D

Up until recently my hair was short enough to be considered straight, because waves didn't have enough length to develop in. But after I gave up straightening my hair gained a lot of body and it's made me very happy to see!

I remember I used to know a girl back in primary school (I was about 7 years old) who had curly hair - must have been a 3b or 3a - and I used to love pulling her hair and then seeing it ping back into a curly shape again. For some reason I expected it to stay straight if I stretched it out!

[GlassEyes]

i have to detangle constantly in order for my hair not to dread.. it always wants to dread.. 2 days without detangling results in dreads that take 3 hours to get out.. so if i have my hair down i have to detangle maybe 4 times per day to not have dreads..
Sounds like it might be wanting to curl more. I don't think this is the first time I've heard of straighter-haired people complaining that their hair is locking together and "tangling". If your hair is actually curly/wavier than you think, oftentimes, combing out curls is a painful process. Your hair may look straighter because of it's length. What was it like shorter? Was it frizzy? Maybe got too big throughout the day?

If so, you might have curly hair. Possibly 2c or higher.

[squiggyflop]

Sounds like it might be wanting to curl more. I don't think this is the first time I've heard of straighter-haired people complaining that their hair is locking together and "tangling". If your hair is actually curly/wavier than you think, oftentimes, combing out curls is a painful process. Your hair may look straighter because of it's length. What was it like shorter? Was it frizzy? Maybe got too big throughout the day?

If so, you might have curly hair. Possibly 2c or higher.
my hair has tangled all my life.. even when it was 1a as a child (with puberty my hair got wavier and went from F to F-M) when it went from F to F-M it tangled less.. so i think its my fine hairs not being happy..
when my hair was very short (pixicut) it had big flippy ends..
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v512/kidmol/try2sept2006.jpg
september 2006 growing out my pixicut that i had done in june-ish 2006.. this is airdried with no combing of brushing because i was painting that day (no conditioner either).. and no i dont really look like that.. i edited my face incase a troll comes by.. please ignore the 3 different colors of manic panic in my hair.. (blue, pink, and fire engine red i believe fading out to yucky colors) oh man it looked so awful.. this is why i dont go to salons.. because this is what they do to you when you say 'even it out a bit'.. apparently thats salon people speak for ugly pixy that looks like a mullet growing out.. its weird how my roots are so puffed up when there isnt anything weighing them down.. its like the hair is trying to stand on end

[talecon]

I just bought some foam rollers for my hair because I want bigger curls throughout the summer. I'm not very good at putting them in so my curls end up kinda messed up - still learning. I don't know if I'm supposed to put it in while my hair is wet, damp, or dry. has anyone here ever tried those things?

[talecon]

I just bought some foam rollers for my hair because I want bigger curls throughout the summer. I'm not very good at putting them in so my curls end up kinda messed up - still learning. I don't know if I'm supposed to put it in while my hair is wet, damp, or dry. has anyone here ever tried those things?

[bunzfan]

can a wavy join?? my hair is between curly and wavy the longer it gets the curlier it gets, now i am cwc and stopping with the cones i still struggle with slight frizz do any of you put conditioner on towel dried hair? i read the curly girl book and feel leaving conditioner in works better for me even though she doesn't recommend that for wavy girls confused.com

[Curlsgirl]

can a wavy join?? my hair is between curly and wavy the longer it gets the curlier it gets, now i am cwc and stopping with the cones i still struggle with slight frizz do any of you put conditioner on towel dried hair? i read the curly girl book and feel leaving conditioner in works better for me even though she doesn't recommend that for wavy girls confused.com

If your hair does better then do it. Her guide is just a "general" guide for different types of hair. If you are a 2C you can go either way so just do what your own hair likes! I always use a leave-in conditioner. Oh and WELCOME!!!

[GRU]

Welcome aboard, bunzfan!

My routine is a modified version of Curly Girl and Tightly Curly (http://www.tightlycurly.com/technique/curlyprimer/). I recommend experimenting with different techniques and products to find what YOUR hair likes -- I used the CG and TC methods as guidelines to give me ideas on what might work with my hair, and then I tweaked it from there.

For example, I don't normally CO-wash and then condition also -- I use the same conditioner application for both functions, because it works for my hair. I also don't apply my leave-in (which is just my regular conditioner applied again after the rinse) to sopping wet hair like the CG method, and I don't typically use any kind of gel or other setting product.


To give you an idea, this is what my morning routine looks like:


Drink caffeine. <NOT a morning person here!>
Remove night braid/bun.
Strip. :D
Get in shower.
Wet hair.
Apply conditioner.
CO-wash and finger-comb the big tangles WITH CONDITIONER COATING EVERY HAIR.
Use wide-tooth shower comb to detangle the medium tangles, starting at the bottom and working my way up.
Use wet-styling comb (http://www.walmart.com/ip/Styling-Essentials-Wet-Styling-93565-Comb/14654069) to detangle the smallest tangles, starting at the bottom and working my way up.
Comb from hairline to ends, making sure all tangles are really gone.
Rinse with water.
Apply ACV rinse.
Squeegee excess water out with my hands.
Apply more conditioner, lightly on the crown and heavier from the ears down. (*see below for more descriptive version)
Run wet-styling comb through from top to bottom, distributing the conditioner evenly and aligning my curls.
Rinse off conditioner drips from shower floor. (trust me, it will be SLIPPERY the next day if you don't!!!)
Modified plop into a Turbie-Twist.
Get dressed. :D
Remove Turbie-Twist, shake my head, and walk out the door for work.






*My leave-in routine:

When my hair and body are rinsed off and I've done my ACV rinse, I take conditioner again and apply it first to my crown, which is still dripping wet from the ACV rinse (the excess water helps keep the conditioner from being too heavy, and aids in even distribution). I work the conditioner through with my fingers, and then "squeegee" the excess water (and conditioner) back from my hairline towards the back of my head.

I continue squeegeeing the excess moisture down the back of my head and down my length and off my ends. Then I apply more conditioner to the back of my head (to my nape) and work it through with my fingers. Then I squeegee the excess moisture again, hairline to ends (as it "settles" there is always more excess to drain off). Finally I apply conditioner to my length from my nape to my ends. Then I go through my hair again with the wet-styling comb to make sure everything's still hunky-dory, and check again for excess water/conditioner.

Doing it this way, I end up with the lightest application of conditioner at my roots (which would be weighed down) and the heaviest application at my ends (which are the most damaged and most need the extra moisture). It also means that I'm not sporting SOPPING wet hair -- it's wetter than towel-dried, but not so wet that it actually drips. And combing my hair one last time after applying all the leave-in has the effect of aligning my curls all together. Since frizz is caused by individual hairs not clumping in with their neighbors, combing it this way reduces frizz because it forces the hairs to clump together.

[MsEvans]

Hey curly girls! My hair gets really frizzy. I am thinking about using henna. What has worked for you to keep the frizz to a min. I use oils on my hair and I am looking for a good cream. Please help before fall gets here and I am dry and fluffy.:(

[TrudieCat]

To give you an idea, this is what my morning routine looks like:

Drink caffeine. <NOT a morning person here!>
Remove night braid/bun.
Strip. :D


GRU, I'm so glad you are here.... :D


can a wavy join?? my hair is between curly and wavy the longer it gets the curlier it gets, now i am cwc and stopping with the cones i still struggle with slight frizz do any of you put conditioner on towel dried hair? i read the curly girl book and feel leaving conditioner in works better for me even though she doesn't recommend that for wavy girls confused.com

I'm definitely a wavy, not a curly, and I also use a modified combination of CG and Tightly Curly techniques, including a mondo palmful of regular conditioner as a leave-in. It's the only way I can substantially reduce frizziness. Even gel doesn't work as well as a ton of conditioner for me.

[TrudieCat]

Sorry, double post! My bad. :)

[GRU]

GRU, I'm so glad you are here.... :D

:lol: Some mornings, I almost need a note pinned up on my bathroom mirror to remind me to do that before I step into the shower.... I am NOT awake first thing (or even second, third, or fourth thing, for that matter) in the morning!

[OperaTeacherMom]

GRU, thanks so much for posting your routine! I may have to try it out to see how it does in fine, less curly hair :) So you don't use a rinse out conditioner other than your co-wash? What conditioners do you use for your co-wash and leave in?

[GRU]

GRU, thanks so much for posting your routine!

You're welcome!



I may have to try it out to see how it does in fine, less curly hair :)

I really think that the combing makes a huge difference in frizz-formation. If I want larger, clumpier curls, I'll put my fingers, spaced about a centimeter apart, on the back side of the comb as I drag it through on the last round -- this causes the mini-clumps that come out of the comb to stick together into bigger clumps.



So you don't use a rinse out conditioner other than your co-wash?

Nope, not usually. Maybe once or twice a week I'll use something different as the conditioning part, mainly to try to use up my huge stash. But if need be, I could get along forever with just my one conditioner.



What conditioners do you use for your co-wash and leave in?

See lower right corner of signature. ;)

[OperaTeacherMom]

Wow I must be blind, I totally thought I had looked at your siggy and didn't see your products. If it was a snake it would have bit me :cool:

I use the same thing most of the time, it is fabulous stuff :) I tried your routine today, with some changes to suit my hair, and so far it seems to be good! I don't know why I hadn't considered doing the ACV rinse before, I did it while I was no-pooing, but not when co washing. I think I had been doing it wrong too, I was rinsing after the ACV, but this time I just did the ACV, leave in, gel, and scrunched
with a towel (plopping seems to mess up my curl pattern). Not dry yet, but wet it's looking pretty good!

[GRU]

Some people rinse with water after the ACV and some don't.... my hair seems to like the leftover acid (maybe due to my hair's porosity?) so I just leave it on.

Glad that the whole thing was helpful for you (and yes, SNTC is awesome stuff.... and CHEAP!!!! :cheese:)!

[LadyJennifer]

I LOVE ACV rinses! (and so does my hair, lol)
Plopping seems to mess up my curl pattern too, OperaTeacherMom. I thought maybe I was just doing it wrong.

[LadyJennifer]

I need some hair typing help. When I first joined my hair was pretty frizzy and I was pretty sure I was a 2C. As it's gotten longer, it's gotten curlier. It seems to have tighter spirals on top that get looser on the way down - which may have to do with chemical dyes..?(Above the ears is chemical dye-free hair, below has been dyed)
Here are a couple of pictures where you can see the spirals pretty well
in the top pic my hair is not completely dry
http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y128/zionchild/DSCN0050.jpg
http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y128/zionchild/DSC_0138.jpg
What do you guys think?

[TrudieCat]

I think your hair is simply beautiful! What amazing shine!! :)

Oh yeah, I'm not too good with typing. Maybe 2c/3a? Eh, don't trust what I say about that though - others will be more helpful. I just wanted to tell you how much I like your hair. :D

[GRU]

I'd say 2c with tendencies toward 3a.

Do you CO-wash? Leave-in conditioner? You may get more spirals with a more Curly-Girl-ish routine...

[LadyJennifer]

I'd say 2c with tendencies toward 3a.

Do you CO-wash? Leave-in conditioner? You may get more spirals with a more Curly-Girl-ish routine...

I CO wash and use a leave-in. No cones, no SLS, as few chemicals as possible.


I think your hair is simply beautiful! What amazing shine!! :)

Oh yeah, I'm not too good with typing. Maybe 2c/3a? Eh, don't trust what I say about that though - others will be more helpful. I just wanted to tell you how much I like your hair. :D

Thanks! :D

[Twil]

I wore my hair down yesterday at work, and everyone was sproinging me! :D

[DotDotDot]

Hey everyone, I have a question. Does anyone here have layers and like them? A lot of people say that curly hair needs it because of triangle head, blah blah blah, but I also know that most people on LHC hate layers and many curly girls here have lovely unlayered hair. I also kind of shrugged it off because I figured that since my hair is about classic, it weighs itself down and I won't get triangle head. However, I saw some recent pictures of myself with my hair down that dispelled that theory! I definitely have some triangle head going on, and I am not a fan at all. Would layers solve this problem, or does anyone else have any suggestions?

[Curlsgirl]

Hey everyone, I have a question. Does anyone here have layers and like them? A lot of people say that curly hair needs it because of triangle head, blah blah blah, but I also know that most people on LHC hate layers and many curly girls here have lovely unlayered hair. I also kind of shrugged it off because I figured that since my hair is about classic, it weighs itself down and I won't get triangle head. However, I saw some recent pictures of myself with my hair down that dispelled that theory! I definitely have some triangle head going on, and I am not a fan at all. Would layers solve this problem, or does anyone else have any suggestions?

Funny you should post this TODAY. I have not had layers in a long time and I am getting them cut in tomorrow! I already cut several inches above waist to help with the curl because the length was pulling it out, not really triangle head issues though. It helped a LOT but I want something different. I am going to get some long layers to hopefully lighten it up a little and give it some "shape". I don't have triangle head though unless it's several inches shorter than it is now. I am scared because I like to do braids some and I know layers aren't good for that. I am going to try it anyway though, it will always grow back out!

[GlassEyes]

Layers can solve the problem, but sometimes volume can too.

Actually, correction--GOOD layers can solve it. Bad layers can make it worse. You have to be very careful. Also, proper product distribution and usage are big factors too--if you cake your roots with gel ( my problem) you aren't going to have volume at the root, thus caking down the top while the bottom poofs out and...well, it's just a lovely, beautiful mess.

I'm not sure if it'll work at classic, but you might want to look into plopping (or plunking) and clipping. Plopping tends to give more root volume depending on where you twist, and clipping can give root volume. Both have youtube videos explaining them.

There's also some Curly Hair Solution...things that can be used for clipping purposes, but I've never used them. Also, both techniques can be used with layers--again, not sure how it'd work with classic length curly hair, but worth a shot before you risk layers.

[tabby28]

Hullo, I'm a new curly head - can I join this lovely curly congress?

[Curlsgirl]

Hullo, I'm a new curly head - can I join this lovely curly congress?

Of course!!!! Welcome!!!!

[Curlsgirl]

Okay any tips on what kind of layers I DO or DON'T want so I can tell my stylist tomorrow?

[DotDotDot]

Layers can solve the problem, but sometimes volume can too.

Actually, correction--GOOD layers can solve it. Bad layers can make it worse. You have to be very careful. Also, proper product distribution and usage are big factors too--if you cake your roots with gel ( my problem) you aren't going to have volume at the root, thus caking down the top while the bottom poofs out and...well, it's just a lovely, beautiful mess.

I'm not sure if it'll work at classic, but you might want to look into plopping (or plunking) and clipping. Plopping tends to give more root volume depending on where you twist, and clipping can give root volume. Both have youtube videos explaining them.

There's also some Curly Hair Solution...things that can be used for clipping purposes, but I've never used them. Also, both techniques can be used with layers--again, not sure how it'd work with classic length curly hair, but worth a shot before you risk layers.

I plop and clip already! It helps some, but there isn't a ton it can do since the roots are weighed down by the weight of the length. I feel kind of the same way about a new product, like Curly Hair Solutions... Can it really help that much with hair this long?

[GlassEyes]

Yeah, I doubt it too. I've never seen them used in hair beyond BSL. :shrug:

Well, if you do get layers, you may not have to lose any total length--they could lighten it enough that you can get rid of triangle head. Losing the weight of the layers that sit higher would allow it to be bypassed--if done correctly.

[SlightlySoprano]

When do you guys comb your hair? Yesterday I was over my friends apt and she didn't have a wide toothed comb for me to use so I ended up just NOT touching my hair, wet or dry, and it came out curlier than ever! (back to a solid 3a, when I really thought I was a 2c from henna)

Does anybody just, NOT comb?

I may crosspost this on the wurly and wavy thread.

[Curlsgirl]

You mean never comb? My hair would literally be a rat's nest LOL! I comb after a shower to distribute product and get my shed hair out. That's usually the only time.

[DotDotDot]

Yeah, I doubt it too. I've never seen them used in hair beyond BSL. :shrug:

Well, if you do get layers, you may not have to lose any total length--they could lighten it enough that you can get rid of triangle head. Losing the weight of the layers that sit higher would allow it to be bypassed--if done correctly.

That's what I was hoping to do. I really don't want to lose any length.


When do you guys comb your hair? Yesterday I was over my friends apt and she didn't have a wide toothed comb for me to use so I ended up just NOT touching my hair, wet or dry, and it came out curlier than ever! (back to a solid 3a, when I really thought I was a 2c from henna)

Does anybody just, NOT comb?

I may crosspost this on the wurly and wavy thread.

I finger comb in the shower when my hair is saturated with conditioner. That's it!

[TrudieCat]

Layers can solve the problem, but sometimes volume can too.

Actually, correction--GOOD layers can solve it. Bad layers can make it worse. You have to be very careful.

Ummm, this. Times 100.

Here (http://www.naturallycurly.com/curltalk/showthread.php?t=76806) is some info from NC.com, from Tiffany of LiveCurlyLiveFree, about the sorts of layers she suggests for curls. Info about layers in first post on that thread. I don't have personal experience asking a stylist for this type of cut, though, so I can't really say if it works.

I don't have curls, but I am still going to ask for this sort of thing next time I get my layers touched up. My emphasis will be on LONG layers and NO thinning shears are allowed to come near my head. I am growing out a disaster of a layering job with major frizz due to overuse of thinning shears. My shortest layers are at earlobe length, and my longest are at APL. I got my current cut in April and I'm only now able to wear it down without having my hair looking like a mushroom.

[bumblebums]

When do you guys comb your hair? Yesterday I was over my friends apt and she didn't have a wide toothed comb for me to use so I ended up just NOT touching my hair, wet or dry, and it came out curlier than ever! (back to a solid 3a, when I really thought I was a 2c from henna)

Does anybody just, NOT comb?

I may crosspost this on the wurly and wavy thread.

I don't comb wet or dry when I wear my hair down.

[angel007]

I'm a new curly girl with major frizz issues. Yesterday, I decided to leave in some conditioner (normally I rinse out) and that helped smooth things out a little. Just a little. Also, my ends became corkscrew-like and normally I am wavy. I suspect I'm curlier than I think I am, and will continue to leave in more conditioner. We'll see what happens!

[Curlsgirl]

I'm a new curly girl with major frizz issues. Yesterday, I decided to leave in some conditioner (normally I rinse out) and that helped smooth things out a little. Just a little. Also, my ends became corkscrew-like and normally I am wavy. I suspect I'm curlier than I think I am, and will continue to leave in more conditioner. We'll see what happens!

My hair honestly cannot seem to get too much leave-in conditioner! It takes longer to dry with more but it's much less frizzy and moisturized looking!

[BattahZ]

Chiming in re: layers - as others said, the key is to have GOOD layers done. In my experience, part of that means only cutting layers into the very top portion of your hair and having them fade into the bottom evenly, so you don't get a chunk of short hair from your crown, followed by long hair at the ends. You want it all to blend together, but also because curly hair can be so full, the shorter layers should only be a bit of your hair, leaving the bulk at the bottom.

Does that make sense?

[Curlsgirl]

Chiming in re: layers - as others said, the key is to have GOOD layers done. In my experience, part of that means only cutting layers into the very top portion of your hair and having them fade into the bottom evenly, so you don't get a chunk of short hair from your crown, followed by long hair at the ends. You want it all to blend together, but also because curly hair can be so full, the shorter layers should only be a bit of your hair, leaving the bulk at the bottom.

Does that make sense?

I think so. LOL

[DotDotDot]

Ummm, this. Times 100.

Here (http://www.naturallycurly.com/curltalk/showthread.php?t=76806) is some info from NC.com, from Tiffany of LiveCurlyLiveFree, about the sorts of layers she suggests for curls. Info about layers in first post on that thread. I don't have personal experience asking a stylist for this type of cut, though, so I can't really say if it works.

I don't have curls, but I am still going to ask for this sort of thing next time I get my layers touched up. My emphasis will be on LONG layers and NO thinning shears are allowed to come near my head. I am growing out a disaster of a layering job with major frizz due to overuse of thinning shears. My shortest layers are at earlobe length, and my longest are at APL. I got my current cut in April and I'm only now able to wear it down without having my hair looking like a mushroom.

Thanks a bunch for that link! It was very helpful.

I think I am going to try first to see if I can't solve the problem without layers. I have been wondering, "How will I ever figure out what to do? I don't know any curlies with hair longer than mine!" And then it occurred to me: our own wonderlywroughte! :D Her hair was so gorgeous and curly when it was knee-length (and still is, of course)! So hopefully I'll find a way.

[MsEvans]

Another curly checking back in!

I had a change of living arrangements right after Thanksgiving that left my computerless. When I got back online, the site was down, lol.

I had a lovely 3 inch cut in January that was so helpful to my curls. My ends needed it, and my curls perked up a bit.

It made me rethink my length goals as I don't want to sacrifice curl for length.

This winter has been pretty good for my hair - nothing like last winter. I give credit to a product/routine line that works for me.

I'm glad to be back seeing the other wavies/curlies.

What is the routine and product that worked for your hair?

[Quixii]

I also kind of shrugged it off because I figured that since my hair is about classic, it weighs itself down and I won't get triangle head. However, I saw some recent pictures of myself with my hair down that dispelled that theory! I definitely have some triangle head going on, and I am not a fan at all.
Wait, how do you have hair as long as it is and have triangle head? :confused: Maybe I misunderstand what triangle head is.

[Athena's Owl]

yeah my triangle head thing solved itself once i got to about APL... now that i'm between hip and tailbone i kinda wish I had more fullness!

[DotDotDot]

Wait, how do you have hair as long as it is and have triangle head? :confused: Maybe I misunderstand what triangle head is.

Just my luck? I dunno, that's kind of what I thought too, but not so. It's really not triangle shaped, but it does puff out at the ends. I think it's just because it doesn't really curl until the last foot or so, so the ends are curly and have volume and the rest is flat and doesn't.

[GlassEyes]

Well, that isn't necessarily bad, you know. I think that can look quite nice.

But yeah, Layers would probably help that by relieving the weight that holds them down, but it doesn't sound that bad...

[Quixii]

Just my luck? I dunno, that's kind of what I thought too, but not so. It's really not triangle shaped, but it does puff out at the ends. I think it's just because it doesn't really curl until the last foot or so, so the ends are curly and have volume and the rest is flat and doesn't.
Ah. I guess my ends fairy tale enough that they don't do that. (Sounds to me like our hair is similar in length.)

[Naturel]

Visiting the wurly/curly thread, checking for more tips.

[Curlsgirl]

Okay I finally got my layers cut in! It feels SO much lighter! I THINK she did a good job, only did slight layers starting way below my chin around my face and then VERY long only on the top layer of the rest of my hair. She blew it dry so I can't tell yet how it will look curly. It is shorter than it has been in a long time because she took another inch off the length. I couldn't watch hee hee. I'll get a pic when I let it dry curly which will be in a few more days. That will be the real test.

[LadyJennifer]

When do you guys comb your hair? Yesterday I was over my friends apt and she didn't have a wide toothed comb for me to use so I ended up just NOT touching my hair, wet or dry, and it came out curlier than ever! (back to a solid 3a, when I really thought I was a 2c from henna)

Does anybody just, NOT comb?

I may crosspost this on the wurly and wavy thread.

I was just going to post about my experience with this! :)
I looked up curly girl routine because I did not know what all it entailed besides CO. She suggests to only comb in the shower with tons of condish, but not once you're out. I have been combing after I get out once my hair has been blotted with a t-shirt. I followed the suggestion and only combed in shower. My hair was a good bit curlier! I did not realise it would make such a difference!

[hairg33k]

When do you guys comb your hair? Yesterday I was over my friends apt and she didn't have a wide toothed comb for me to use so I ended up just NOT touching my hair, wet or dry, and it came out curlier than ever! (back to a solid 3a, when I really thought I was a 2c from henna)

Does anybody just, NOT comb?

I may crosspost this on the wurly and wavy thread.

I never comb after a shower. My hair curls SO much better when I don't comb that I've just given up on combing - except before I shower I comb my hair out gently so it never gets tangly.

Because my hair is more wurly than curly, if I comb my hair while it's wet it takes out a lot of the natural curl and my hair ends up jus wavy. Whereas, if I don't comb it then it curls beautifully. No combing for me :)

[ghost]

I wish I could get away with not combing. I tried it for a bit, and my hair looks much curlier when it isn't combed, but it also looks much frizzier and is more prone to tangle. Going CO (normally I CWC) and using coconut oil and/or gel on the frizzies only helped so much.
I don't particularly want to sacrifice the random, pretty spiral curls that turn up in my waves, but I prefer my hair to look smooth and not frizzy. Help?

[09robiha]

I comb with condish in it, in the shower. When im done I finger comb/rake through a leave in and give it a scrunch up. Voila!! Nice detangled hair, however a denman might be a good choice to.

[Curlsgirl]

Well I got my layers! I am not sure what to think yet. It curls MUCH better, back to mostly 3a for sure. BUT the shorter pieces around my face are a bit too short even though they are chin length once they curl up. I also have more frizz from the shorter layers. She didn't add a lot of them though. Mostly I miss my length I think. I had already cut probably 5 inches in the last 6 months or so and then she cut about another inch off the length and it's shorter than it has been in a long time. I am trying not to cry about that, trying to appreciate the new curl and volume I have. I think I'll have to go back to the way I was doing it when it was shorter and it's hard to remember what I did. I think I used more coconut oil leave-in for one thing. Just thinking out loud..carry on!

[kitschy]

I'm a full fledged curly. This is my this morning picture - still damp except for my canopy.

http://c2.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images02/142/l_efb12b96a2a84c5aafa6356ded330531.jpg

[Curlsgirl]

I'm a full fledged curly. This is my this morning picture - still damp except for my canopy.

http://c2.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images02/142/l_efb12b96a2a84c5aafa6356ded330531.jpg

VERY PRETTY!!!

[kitschy]

Thanks curlsgirl. I'm going to try for waist length but with all my shrinkage it might take a lifetime....and then I'll have to grow out these layers.

[Curlsgirl]

Thanks curlsgirl. I'm going to try for waist length but with all my shrinkage it might take a lifetime....and then I'll have to grow out these layers.

I grew out my layers and was waist and then just recently cut back to BSL and had layers cut in again! It's fun having different lengths and styles. Enjoy!!!

[kitschy]

I'd love to see a picture of your new curly cut and style.

[Curlsgirl]

I'd love to see a picture of your new curly cut and style.

I am TERRIBLE about posting pictures. I admit it! I'll TRY to get some this weekend though, really I will!!! :o

[goldenoak]

I wish I could get away with not combing. I tried it for a bit, and my hair looks much curlier when it isn't combed, but it also looks much frizzier and is more prone to tangle. Going CO (normally I CWC) and using coconut oil and/or gel on the frizzies only helped so much.
I don't particularly want to sacrifice the random, pretty spiral curls that turn up in my waves, but I prefer my hair to look smooth and not frizzy. Help?

I don't know if this would work for you, but could you keep a wide-toothed comb in the shower and comb it out under the water as you're doing a final rinse? Everything sort of put-into-place before the water goes off, so that you get the max natural curl from sopping-wet.

I've had good results with that in the past, although right now the leave-in I use after showering requires finger-combing after scrunching it to "towel dry". I haven't figured out how to do that without separating some curls that wanted to stay together, though.

[Curlsgirl]

I wish I could get away with not combing. I tried it for a bit, and my hair looks much curlier when it isn't combed, but it also looks much frizzier and is more prone to tangle. Going CO (normally I CWC) and using coconut oil and/or gel on the frizzies only helped so much.
I don't particularly want to sacrifice the random, pretty spiral curls that turn up in my waves, but I prefer my hair to look smooth and not frizzy. Help?

I have to use a cream like AG re:coil or Boot's to keep mine from frizzing. I layer it over conditioner and under gel if I want extra hold.

[30isthenewblack]

As my hair is growing longer, I'm finding it much easier to hold the second day curl. I had a personal best last week of going 4 days without washing my hair!!!

[GlassEyes]

DotDotDot started me thinking that maybe I should consider layers. I have slight triangle head now, but I don't clip, so maybe I should try that first...

Also, I'm currently using Eco-Crystal Styling Gel, and the rumors were right--it works a LOT like KCCC, except with protein in it. My hair flip-flops with hating protein--it's only once freaked out with this gel, and it was because I was using a conditioner with protein in it too (Suave Tropical Coconut). Now that I'm using Aussie again, it's perfectly fine.

Also, I have second day hair right now. It's a bit looser, kind of fuzzy, but it's soft and I like it. I'd go out like this--too bad my hair is so porous that by the afternoon it'll probably descend into a frizzy mess without more product or something. I'm just glad I found something with a hold like KCCC for abotu...$28 less. XD I may still buy it again though, I haven't decided yet.

[09robiha]

still here :poot:, still growing!!

[sugarmagnolia94]

Hello, all. I'm brand new and happy to be here. Had curly hair since the age of 14 but I still can't figure it out. It will behave for a period of weeks or months, and then it will look horrible for seemingly years at a time. I've been straightening it regularly for a while now, but since I'm now trying to grow it out, I'm going to give up the flat iron (sob) and blow dryer, stop washing and brushing it so much, etc. and see if I can keep what I already have relatively healthy.

The problem with wearing my hair curly is that it's very unpredictable and the curl patterns are totally different all over my head. The top layers are mostly corkscrew-like waves (except for the front left section which is all loose waves and limp pieces) but the bottom layer is thin and relatively straight. It doesn't look right from the back unless its straightened. I've thought about just evening it all up, but then I feel like I might get a christmas tree effect. Some days I will have soft curls, and other days its a crispy, frizzy mess without warning. It's also quite damaged from all of the ironing and pretty weak. On the thin side, but it looks thicker when wavy. I'm really ready to do something about it but I'm not sure where to start. I've already started the CO method...it helps of course with the frizz but it feels weighted down on top of my head. I'd actually rather relax the curl a bit somehow and just try for loose waves all over because I think that would be easier...

So...sorry for the long introduction! I am truly a blank slate when it comes to hair. If anyone has any insights, I'd be terribly appreciative. I have always cut and styled it myself just out of frugality and not caring, so I've had very little "hair support" in the past. But I'm here and I'm ready to learn! :D

Here's my hair air dried after 2 days of CO:

http://i36.tinypic.com/ofn0wp.jpg

And here it is washed and straightened:

http://i36.tinypic.com/fay2pv.jpg

[hairg33k]

Hello, all. I'm brand new and happy to be here. Had curly hair since the age of 14 but I still can't figure it out. It will behave for a period of weeks or months, and then it will look horrible for seemingly years at a time. I've been straightening it regularly for a while now, but since I'm now trying to grow it out, I'm going to give up the flat iron (sob) and blow dryer, stop washing and brushing it so much, etc. and see if I can keep what I already have relatively healthy.

The problem with wearing my hair curly is that it's very unpredictable and the curl patterns are totally different all over my head. The top layers are mostly corkscrew-like waves (except for the front left section which is all loose waves and limp pieces) but the bottom layer is thin and relatively straight. It doesn't look right from the back unless its straightened. I've thought about just evening it all up, but then I feel like I might get a christmas tree effect. Some days I will have soft curls, and other days its a crispy, frizzy mess without warning. It's also quite damaged from all of the ironing and pretty weak. On the thin side, but it looks thicker when wavy. I'm really ready to do something about it but I'm not sure where to start. I've already started the CO method...it helps of course with the frizz but it feels weighted down on top of my head. I'd actually rather relax the curl a bit somehow and just try for loose waves all over because I think that would be easier...

So...sorry for the long introduction! I am truly a blank slate when it comes to hair. If anyone has any insights, I'd be terribly appreciative. I have always cut and styled it myself just out of frugality and not caring, so I've had very little "hair support" in the past. But I'm here and I'm ready to learn! :D

Welcome to LHC :). I just have some words of encouragement for you. I know it's really hard to put the flat iron down, I used it daily for years and it totally killed my hair. But once I got used to having wurly/curly hair it was a lot easier to not use my flat iron. You just have to experiment a LOT and decide what works for your hair! I think I'm still experimenting! One thing that really helps me though with the curls that are all random and what-the-heck-are-you-doing kind of thing is half-up hair styles. Hairstyles like pulling my hair in a half-up ponytail, doing braids or twists and pinning them back (bobby pins), doing a pouf or a french braid with my bangs too. All of that really helps giving my hair a style, and distracting from the crazy curls that I get on top and showing off the gorgeous curls I get underneath. Hopefully this helped :)

[GlassEyes]

Sugar magnolia--your hair looks great. o-o I see nothing wrong with either version. I wouldn't mess with what's working. xD

[manderly]

Hey all, I'll be going to Illinois next week and thought I'd try a Deva cut at a salon in St. Louis. Have any of you been to any of the Deva curl salons there? For the most part they get good reviews online, and then an occasional BLAMMO! review that makes me nervous. I haven't let a stylist cut my hair since 2005.

Any of you ever get a Deva cut?

[Curlsgirl]

Hey all, I'll be going to Illinois next week and thought I'd try a Deva cut at a salon in St. Louis. Have any of you been to any of the Deva curl salons there? For the most part they get good reviews online, and then an occasional BLAMMO! review that makes me nervous. I haven't let a stylist cut my hair since 2005.

Any of you ever get a Deva cut?

Oh I am SO jealous!!! I would love to get a deva cut! I understand about being nervous! I just had layers cut in my hair. I was just tired of it being all weighed down and not curling like it used to. I LOVE it. It took me a couple of weeks to get used to it. It is shorter too length-wise but boy did it help the curl! It FEELS so much lighter too and I can do cute ponytails and updos that I couldn't before because of the weight. What made me finally do it is that I decided I would never know unless I tried and that my hair will grow again if I don't like it. I like different "stages" of hair growth anyway (well except maybe shoulder length and above!) and am having fun doing things I couldn't do when my hair was at waist.

[curlycrown]

Hi all! I have 3c/4a hair and I am at about APL stretched. Im currently trying the WO technique and I am just going to read what you all post and occasionally put in my two cents. Good luck and HHG!!

[Curlsgirl]

Hi all! I have 3c/4a hair and I am at about APL stretched. Im currently trying the WO technique and I am just going to read what you all post and occasionally put in my two cents. Good luck and HHG!!

Welcome! Whose hair is that in your profile pic?

[goldenoak]

Hey all, I'll be going to Illinois next week and thought I'd try a Deva cut at a salon in St. Louis. Have any of you been to any of the Deva curl salons there? For the most part they get good reviews online, and then an occasional BLAMMO! review that makes me nervous. I haven't let a stylist cut my hair since 2005.

Any of you ever get a Deva cut?

I've had fantastic Deva cuts in Boston with Maria at Pure Hair Design. I don't know whether it's that she's great or that the Deva technique is great, or some synergy of the two, but I've never gotten out of her chair unhappy. She has long curly hair herself, which obviously isn't a requisite, but does mean that she understands curly challenges first-hand.

For what it's worth, something I appreciate about her is that at my first visit with her is that I wasn't interested in the Deva products because of my chemical sensitivities. Not only has she never tried to sell me the Deva products thereafter, but she was also really interested in hearing about what I use (home-made) and enthusiastic that I'd found something that works and doesn't set off my allergies. I really appreciate that she remembers and respects my no-thanks on the products. I never feel pressured or guilted, as I have with other salons selling other products. She just gives me a great haircut and sends me off with a smile. I think I'd have a lower opinion of her, the salon, and the Deva brand if I'd been pushed more on the product end.

Sorry, I know I'm gushing, but I've had so many bad haircuts in my life that finding an awesome stylist is noteworthy. ;)

[mariika]

wow, guys, never heard of Deva cuts before! I did actually cut my hair that way on my own, when it's dry I would just occasionally cut some curls individually to give them better shape. so it's called Deva then. now I know what salon to look for!

[GlassEyes]

: D BOSTON!? YOU MEAN THERE'S ONE NEARBY?

I'm totally looking this place up.

[curlycrown]

Welcome! Whose hair is that in your profile pic?

Thats a random model that I found from somewhere. She has the goal hair length that I want. LOL!

[goldenoak]

: D BOSTON!? YOU MEAN THERE'S ONE NEARBY?

I'm totally looking this place up.

http://www.purehairdesign.com/

Maria is awesome - tell her I sent you. :)

[GlassEyes]

http://www.purehairdesign.com/

Maria is awesome - tell her I sent you. :)
Yes, I'll totally tell her goldenoak from an online community sent me. :lol: :p

Nah, knowing me I would. Thanks!

[goldenoak]

Yes, I'll totally tell her goldenoak from an online community sent me. :lol: :p

Nah, knowing me I would. Thanks!

*laugh* I was joking, but go ahead. My email address has the same username, and she's got that on file if she ever wanted to look it up. ;)

Best of luck!

[Gamma Vector]

*raises hand* Add another to the curly roster. I always get so jealous of my sister (who has straight hair) and her ability to just brush her hair out in the morning and go. Mine looks terrible after I've combed it out and slept on it. Have to wear it up unless it's fresh out of the shower. Lucky thing I like wearing it up, eh?

[SlightlySoprano]

What do you guys do on second day hair? My hair is still short (a bit past shoulder) so I can't do too many updos. I wish I could wear my hair down on the second day, but its SO FLAT from me sleeping on it, there are almost no wurls left! Ideas?

[Gamma Vector]

What do you guys do on second day hair? My hair is still short (a bit past shoulder) so I can't do too many updos. I wish I could wear my hair down on the second day, but its SO FLAT from me sleeping on it, there are almost no wurls left! Ideas?

Go to Walmart and get yourself an el cheapo spray bottle. Fill that baby with water, and maybe the tiniest bit of whatever essential oil strikes your fancy. Then just spritz your day-two hair down (you don't need to get it thoroughly wet, just rather damp,) run your fingers through it and voila! Fabulousness is yours again.

Also works on helmet hair, hat hair, and just about any other my-hair-got-squished problem you can think of. 8D

If you try it once and find your hair comes out frizzy, try getting it a bit wetter next time and see if that doesn't do the trick.

(My hair's down to my hips and I still use this trick from time to time. Do it right, and nobody but nobody can even tell your hair's on its second day.)

[blctsyllwdg]

Yup, mist with water and leave in. I need half water, half leave in. Give a good shake, touch up fuzzy areas with aloe. I'm at inch past classic in a braid, but I am so curly, so my hair stays curly longer than I can stand not washing it.

[curlsgalore]

As a second day refresher I use a mix of Water, Aloe vera gel and lavendar essential oil. For some reason if I just use water, my hair gets frizzy.

[jackie_brown]

Hi all!
After washing my hair, i put on some flaxseeds gel and let them airdry...
On the second day after washing, i simply wet my hands and "scrunch" my curls with my head down.
I hope this would be useful :)

[09robiha]

eekkk....you hear thet crash in the distance, thats me falling off the wagon m fellow longhairs.

I just LOVE my diffuser too much!! I just feel like I have so many other thing to do with my life than wait for my damn hair to dry!!!....oh.. and I keep spending AGES looking at short hair cuts (from bobs to pixies)

[goldenoak]

eekkk....you hear thet crash in the distance, thats me falling off the wagon m fellow longhairs.

I just LOVE my diffuser too much!! I just feel like I have so many other thing to do with my life than wait for my damn hair to dry!!!....oh.. and I keep spending AGES looking at short hair cuts (from bobs to pixies)

I might be a heretic, but if you really, really want to cut it, I say take the chance. Best case, you love it; worst case, you don't - but you can always grow it back. :)

I had long hair for about 15 years, from ages 13 to 28. At that point I found myself fantasizing about trying short hair but was sort of paralyzed by fear, because... my hair! I eventually decided that there was no point in clinging to the long hair if I really wanted to try it short. I've had six years of fun experimentation with different short lengths and styles, and now am growing out again, with no regrets at all. And I reserve the right to shear it all off again at some point in the future. :D So I say: if it's what you want, go for it!

[goldenoak]

So.... I have a curly-wurly hair typing question:

For the past several years I've had above-the-shoulder styles, and I'd thought my hair was a 3b, ringlet-y:
http://forums.longhaircommunity.com/picture.php?albumid=6033&pictureid=78804.jpg

Now I'm looking at photos from back when I had it all-one-length and longer, and it looks 3b at the bottom but more 2c-wavy at the top. My hair is fine, so the weight of all-same-length hair pulled out the curl from the top section as it air dried. (I didn't know about 'plopping' back then, so I wonder if I'd done that instead of drying it down if it would have made a difference?)

http://forums.longhaircommunity.com/picture.php?albumid=6090&pictureid=79553.jpg

Then, in a non-digital photo, I still have longish hair but it's layered, and the top shorter canopy is ringlet-y along with the long ends. Just not when it's all one length and long.

I'd thought a 'type' was the intrinsic curl quality of the hair itself, but my hair's curl behavior seems to be a function of both its length and its cut. Does this make any sense?

So I'm not sure how to type my hair. I'd guess that the natural curl factor is 3b and that the top section's reduction to waves was a byproduct of length-weight and fineness. Or do those factors mean that when I'm long I'm actually a 2c? Or 2c at the root and 3b at the end?

So confusing! Thanks for any input. :sun:

[LadyJennifer]

@goldenoak, I'd say 3a/3b:)

[Heidi_234]

goldenoak, my hair does the same - depends on how I air dry it, it can form anywhere from barely 2c on top and small 3b on the bottom, to 3a-ish with the roots curling. Hair typing curly hair the 'regular' hair doesn't make much sense, because air drying it without product doesn't make the 'true' curliness come out rather than a lot of frizz, and not manipulating (plopping and such) it makes the results depend on hair's length.

Mostly, I figured I'm 2c/3a by looking at others people's hair, and seeing if my hair can behave the same way. It's mostly "My hair is curlier than hers" and "His hair is far curlier than mine", but also some familiar feeling I can when I see fellow 2c/3a-ers, their hair texture looks so familiar I have no doubt in my mind. :)

[Heidi_234]

BTW, where did RCC go? I miss her and her beautiful curls dearly!

[09robiha]

BTW, where did RCC go? I miss her and her beautiful curls dearly!

I still see her post occasionally on NC.com. Shes currently experimenting with budget haircare and doing brilliantly!

[goldenoak]

Thanks for your feedback LadyJennifer and Heidi_234! :flower:

[dfotw]

I feel so frustrated right now... thanks to the weather and my new conditioner (the wonderful hair-butter from The Body Shop), my hair is curlier than ever, and less frizzy, which would be good...

... except my hair, air-dried and curly, reaches just a couple of inches past BSL... and it's almost past-tailbone when wet! :justy:

How much will I have to grow my hair so that it'll reach a good length in its natural state?! No wonder I've been feeling that it doesn't grow, since with the new-and-improved curls, the 'working' length it's actually shrinking...

I thought I'd made peace with my curls, but sometimes I really, really, really want straighter hair... :(

[Neddy]

SO. What are our favorite styling products these days? I've really been digging Knot Today under KCCC, but I want to know what's been working for y'all.

[birthmarkie]

KCKT is my favorite so far. I can't wait to get more of the leave-in. Is the custard pretty much the same? Can you use it as a rinse?

[Neddy]

KCKT is my favorite so far. I can't wait to get more of the leave-in. Is the custard pretty much the same? Can you use it as a rinse?

I've never used KT as a rinse out, but the custard is a completely different beast. It has this weird jelly texture that is much more of a styling product, rather than a conditioning one. I'd give it a try, but be warned there is a learning curve. But once I got it, it formed such pretty curls.

[birthmarkie]

yup, I was about to give up on KCKT as a leave-in and then read on the back that you can use it as a rinse-out (recommended for waves). I tried it and it's awesome! You don't have to wash all of it out either. I just wish it came in a larger bottle.

[09robiha]

I've never used KT as a rinse out, but the custard is a completely different beast. It has this weird jelly texture that is much more of a styling product, rather than a conditioning one. I'd give it a try, but be warned there is a learning curve. But once I got it, it formed such pretty curls.

I have been ithcing to try KCCC again. KT is a great detangler for me but I didnt have enough of a sample of the KCCC to experiment with and get the learning curve.

[LadyJennifer]

So what is the learning curve with KCCC? I have been using it for a few weeks now, with no problems... (at least I think I haven't had problems, maybe I have and have not realised?) What should I look for if I'm not (or am) using it properly?

[DuckyDot]

Hi Guys! I'm a 2c/3a and I'm a new member here. (I'm CurlyPolkaDot from NC.com)

I'm Dreading Winter. When My hair is drying and It drips It's Really Cold... :(
Also this will be my first full-winter Sulphate and Silicone Free, So I'm knida Nervous.

Does anyone here brush their hair? (I don't, i'm just wondering)

[Heidi_234]

Welcome DuckyDot! :waving:

From time to time I get tired of the curl so I brush my hair. Guilty. :o I also brush it before washing it when I apply the conditioner. :)

[09robiha]

So what is the learning curve with KCCC? I have been using it for a few weeks now, with no problems... (at least I think I haven't had problems, maybe I have and have not realised?) What should I look for if I'm not (or am) using it properly?

I think your one of the lucky ones that just got it. If it had gone wrong, belive with KCCC you would know lol

[09robiha]

Hi Guys! I'm a 2c/3a and I'm a new member here. (I'm CurlyPolkaDot from NC.com)

I'm Dreading Winter. When My hair is drying and It drips It's Really Cold... :(
Also this will be my first full-winter Sulphate and Silicone Free, So I'm knida Nervous.

Does anyone here brush their hair? (I don't, i'm just wondering)

Welcome :)

I dont really brush dry...ever but I do detangle with a denman

[DuckyDot]

Thanks all!

Do you guys wear your hair down More or Up More?
I wear mine down for now, but when It gets longer then I can start trying more up-do's.

Heidi: Do You have Red hair or are you a Brunette? I'm Confused what a 'Redhead Brunette' Means!! :D

[x0h_bother]

DuckyDot, I wear my hair down more.

Wave/curl plus long hair= awesome. Even though I am at BSL, I am embracing my wave/curl more than ever! It is sad to see how many of my generation hate their hair like I used to and aren't free. They have unruly, unmanageable waves and curls like I did when I flat ironed alllll the time. I am so free, I love it. A friend on facebook who has waves but flat irons a lot, in her pic she revealed her waves and said, "thanks to the monsoon we've experienced today, the natural hair showed up... yes, this is what it really looks like" and I thought- it's so sad how she feels! I wish she could see how others see her waves- as lifelike and intriguing not flat, dead, dull, dry, and split. As Manderly said in one post, God grants us the serenity to accept the things we cannot change..and I would add how we are wonderfully made!

[Heidi_234]

Heidi: Do You have Red hair or are you a Brunette? I'm Confused what a 'Redhead Brunette' Means!! :D

lol, my hair is naturally dark brown but I henna it. As a result it's dark rich reddish brown with an orange tingle (most of the time, henna is never one color :D), which confuses the heck out people; It looks like I'm a redhead, but on the other hand they've never really seen redhead this dark. :crazyq:

[goldenoak]

Hi DuckyDot! Your question made me chuckle, because I don't remember the last time I even *owned* a hairbrush. More than a decade? They destroyed my curl and made me look like I'd just been electrocuted. ;) I comb before washing, and use fingers to style when dry.

I like the look of long curly/wavy hair worn down or half-up. Updos are lovely, but it seems such a shame to bundle lovely curls away into an updo as a default! Show 'em off, I say. :D

[birthmarkie]

Can you use KCCC for a deep treatment and rinse out?

[DuckyDot]

Heidi : Oh. Ohhhh! That makes sense! Haha, Sorry for being a bit stupid :D

Thanks for all of your replies people :D

[09robiha]

Can you use KCCC for a deep treatment and rinse out?

Nooooooo! KCCC is definatly more of a styler/gel type product. Completly differant to conditoner.

[Heidi_234]

Heidi : Oh. Ohhhh! That makes sense! Haha, Sorry for being a bit stupid :D

Thanks for all of your replies people :D
Nothing stupid about that question :) I actually got the idea from the name of a the band Blond Redhead, and I like the slight inner contradiction in the phrase, so I adopted it ;)

[birthmarkie]

Nooooooo! KCCC is definatly more of a styler/gel type product. Completly differant to conditoner.

Thanks. So do you have to wash it out with shampoo or can you Co?

[09robiha]

Thanks. So do you have to wash it out with shampoo or can you Co?

I dont think you'll have any problems Coing it out. HOWEVER, its a tempermental product that dosent mix well with oils, bulid up etc so its recommed that you do shampoo even if its just sulphate free.

[birthmarkie]

I dont think you'll have any problems Coing it out. HOWEVER, its a tempermental product that dosent mix well with oils, bulid up etc so its recommed that you do shampoo even if its just sulphate free.

OK, thank you! :flower:

[LilyLu]

I've recently switched to a no sulfates CWC and stopped using products with alcohol on my curls..I'm currently using Loreal EverStrong Shampoo and conditioner, I then use John Frieda's anti frizz serum, tresemme flawless curls mousse and tresemme curls shaping milk. I scrunch and usually air dry (or diffuse partway). this had given me bouncier and fulller curls, which I LOVE but..my hair has frizz! which it rarely did when i was using alcohol based products..any suggestions to control my frizz??? thanks!

[Athena's Owl]

Er, the John Frieda anti frizz serum is chock full of silicone

So your non sulfate shampoo might be struggling to wash it out.

[x0h_bother]

LillyLu you may need more moisture, I am finding that is the case lately for me. Hair seems to be a fragile balance between moisture, slip, and protein...so if you think you have slip, it might be the moisture?

[Luna12345]

Hey curlies!...I have noticed that I have some medium curls, some tight curls , and some super tight curls on my head.....so I have like 3 different types of curls, Is this something common for people with curly hair...ARe any of you like that?...I've also noticed that every few months or so my hair changes, sometimes the curls shrink up and my hair suddenly looks shorter and sometimes the curls are looser...so my hair seems to change from time to time from 3b to 3c and to 3c/4a
I'm so confused about my hair type!...lol:(

[darkwaves]

i have to detangle constantly in order for my hair not to dread.. it always wants to dread.. 2 days without detangling results in dreads that take 3 hours to get out.. I've been scanning posts on this thread tonight, in awe of those who never comb. Thanks, squiggyflop! My hair loves you! (I've left my hair three or four days without detangling... What a mistake! Even after lots of conditioner, it has mega-knots that need scissors!)

To those who don't detangle daily: Doesn't your hair knot up? Or, do you accept those as part of its natural texture?

Thanks!

[PurpleAshes]

Oh, the life of a curly!
My hair just reached waist when stretched... AND ISN'T EVEN APL WHEN DRY!

Please someone tell me the shrinking ratio will decrease with time (and length) :'(

[goldenoak]

Oh, the life of a curly!
My hair just reached waist when stretched... AND ISN'T EVEN APL WHEN DRY!

Please someone tell me the shrinking ratio will decrease with time (and length) :'(

Congratulations on reaching WL, PurpleAshes, even if it doesn't show when it's dry. :) Your curls are beautiful, but I understand the frustration of feeling like it slows down your milestones.

My curl factor is less than yours, and my hair is pretty fine, but my experience is that yes, there reaches a point where the weight of the curl pulls down enough on the top part of the curl that it stretches a bit. The ends stay just as curly, but new growth at that point is in the "stretched" top area and so the shrink ratio goes down.

I don't know if there's a way to predict what length that starts happening for any particular person's hair, since we're all so different. I have a friend whose hair looks more like yours, and hers is almost waist-length dry. If I recall correctly, she does have some 'stretch' at the crown.

[LilyLu]

more moisture may be needed. any recommendations to help out with getting more moisture into my hair???

also..I sound like such a noob..but..what is "slip"??

thanks!

[birthmarkie]

I'm not sure about an official definition, but to me "slip" is the silky texture of some conditioners when they mix with water so as to make detangling extremely easy and almost automatic just by rinsing it through. Conditioners without "slip" are harder to work through hair and distribute and rinse.

[Heidi_234]

Getting moisture...hmm...
Coconut oil and shes butter help keep my hair soft and moisturized between washings.
Before I shower I apply conditioner on dry hair and detangle, apply some more and leave it in for an hour before washing out (sometimes I mix EVOO in the conditioner). I use heavy duty hair mask in the shower instead of a regular conditioner and thick conditioner as a leave in. I can't think of any way to make my routine even more moisturizing. :o

[RedheadMistress]

- Hey ^^
I'm a curly headed being here and new to LHC . . my curls seem to love CO washes, my scalp never bothers me, I'm such a lucky person ! :D

[growingmyhair]

hello, curly check in, guys, is it allowed here to discuss ways to turn curly into wavy? because I *HATE* my curly hair and what to make it wavy, is that too much to ask?..

[growingmyhair]

I've been scanning posts on this thread tonight, in awe of those who never comb.
I thought no one combs, how are you supposed to comb curly hair? it should be called frizzing not combing cause why use another word for the same process? I never comb for last about 4 years

[Curlsgirl]

I've been scanning posts on this thread tonight, in awe of those who never comb. Thanks, squiggyflop! My hair loves you! (I've left my hair three or four days without detangling... What a mistake! Even after lots of conditioner, it has mega-knots that need scissors!)

To those who don't detangle daily: Doesn't your hair knot up? Or, do you accept those as part of its natural texture?

Thanks!My sure does. I just recently had a hairdresser tell me it was fine!!! I never knew, always thought it was medium texture. Anyway, I think fine hair just does that. But no with conditioner mine does come out. As it got longer it was worse, just had a good trim and it is much better. I do not detangle except when I wash.

[growingmyhair]

To those who don't detangle daily: Doesn't your hair knot up?
no, I braid it for the night and wash usually once in two days but sometimes it turns into four days and I detangle in shower while I put conditioner on. but since I discovered my conditioner has 2 cones and how they dry my hair (which is naturally dry) I've decided not to use conditioner only shampoo (non-sls) so I don't know about detangling now. and no, I do not accept tangling as natural structure cause if I did in a month I'd have a head full of dreads

[Arianwen]

Mine tangles up a little bit but it's easily rectified with gobs of conditioner and my Mason Pearson rake.

[growingmyhair]

... except my hair, air-dried and curly, reaches just a couple of inches past BSL... and it's almost past-tailbone when wet! :justy:
GOD, I SO feel you here! my hair is past bsl and it ranges from shoulder to APL when dry!!! but that's not the real bad news. the real bad news are that my hair probably almost reached its terminal length.:justy::justy::justy:

[jeanniet]

Hello, fellow curlies! I asked for assistance in typing my hair in another thread, and consensus was that it's 3a. What do you think? The picture was taken after combing wet hair and letting it air dry. I've always thought I was a 2b and fought the curls (well, frizz), but with better care now realize my hair is much curlier than I thought. Now I'm in the process of rethinking my routine a bit to minimize frizz and accent the curls.


http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu150/edmjt63/IMG_0186-1.jpg

[LadyJennifer]

I would say 3a or 3b, your curls look pretty tight.

[RedButterfly]

Hi everyone. I am just checking in. I'm recently got my damaged ends trimmed so that it is just barely bra strap length. I miss the length but my hair is happy and tangles less.

What are some great ways to revive curls between washes and still keep the hair soft and shiny?

[goldenoak]

Hello, fellow curlies! I asked for assistance in typing my hair in another thread, and consensus was that it's 3a. What do you think? The picture was taken after combing wet hair and letting it air dry. I've always thought I was a 2b and fought the curls (well, frizz), but with better care now realize my hair is much curlier than I thought. Now I'm in the process of rethinking my routine a bit to minimize frizz and accent the curls.


http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu150/edmjt63/IMG_0186-1.jpg

It looks like you've got some ringlet action going on there, so I'd agree, 3a or 3b. :)

[He is]

I just joined. A few months ago my step mom gave me a texture softner and my hair has grown four inches. The crown is really curly but the end are loose curls and when i comb them they become straight. When my hair is dry the end are brittle, but My mom won't let me cut all the chemically processed hair off. any suggestions for a nice transtition.

[09robiha]

I just joined. A few months ago my step mom gave me a texture softner and my hair has grown four inches. The crown is really curly but the end are loose curls and when i comb them they become straight. When my hair is dry the end are brittle, but My mom won't let me cut all the chemically processed hair off. any suggestions for a nice transtition.

sorry to say this but the sooner those ends are gone the better!! Is there any particular reason your mum wont let you cut them off??

Twists, braids, bantu knots and loads of other styles are great for blending two textures together

[lorenaluo]

Our weather has been so weird around here of late, warm & sunny one day and cold & snowy the next. See my siggie pic? Notice the short sleeve T-shirt at sunset? It snowed the next day! I just want some sunshine!

[RedButterfly]

Hello, fellow curlies! I asked for assistance in typing my hair in another thread, and consensus was that it's 3a. What do you think? The picture was taken after combing wet hair and letting it air dry. I've always thought I was a 2b and fought the curls (well, frizz), but with better care now realize my hair is much curlier than I thought. Now I'm in the process of rethinking my routine a bit to minimize frizz and accent the curls.


http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu150/edmjt63/IMG_0186-1.jpg

I agree with others. I think you are a 3a or even a 3a/b. I am a 3a/b. I have loose curls, tight ringlets and waves. Some products can even make me closer to a 3b. You may also find that you can get a lot more curl following a curly girl type hair routine.

You hair is beautiful and looks healthy. :)

[MischiefsMuse]

Hi everyone. I am just checking in. I'm recently got my damaged ends trimmed so that it is just barely bra strap length. I miss the length but my hair is happy and tangles less.

What are some great ways to revive curls between washes and still keep the hair soft and shiny?
RedButterfly, I revive my curls by putting a pea sized drop of Deva Curl One Conditioner and some water on the palms of my hands and working it through from about jawline to ends. It helps me remove some of the tangles, refresh some of the moisture (I live in dry Colorado) and very slightly re-wetting my hair helps the curls reform without taking forever to dry. :)

[Tabula Rasa]

New curly! :)

Still trying to figure out my hair type and what-not, though. Very excited for the growth process!

[rachelily]

I am having one of the best hair days I've had in a while!!

http://i54.tinypic.com/3358msy.jpg
http://i52.tinypic.com/awtbu9.jpg

[manderly]

I am having one of the best hair days I've had in a while!!

http://i54.tinypic.com/3358msy.jpg
http://i52.tinypic.com/awtbu9.jpg



OH MY! Yes you are :D

[CurlyGirlCa]

Have any of you tried Extenzz from Curly Hair Solutions? Got the email from naturallycurly and watched the videos but don't know if it'd work on a 2c/3a or not.

[~BoHemiAngel~]

Hi everyone!

I'm new here and still trying to figure out what my hair type is- something in between wavy and curly, so I'm a wurly-girl, I guess! I have a really similar hair type to rachelily's in her pics above (you have beautiful hair, btw!) except hers is much more shiny! :) I'm working on it, though!

<3 ~BoHemiAngel~

[Heidi_234]

I am having one of the best hair days I've had in a while!!

Rachelily, this is stunning! I love the shine and the softness :inlove: Indeed a great hair day :D

[Atira]

I am having one of the best hair days I've had in a while!!


Looks beautiful!

This is a great link that has really helped me with getting clumps (I hope it's ok that I post this- I'm new to this forum. If not, please delete or whatever).
http://www.naturallycurly.com/curltalk/showthread.php?t=92240&highlight=consistently+awesome+hair+technique

[Heidi_234]

Whoa ain't she got amazing curls in there? I didn't understand what's the trick though. Is it the part where she applies KCCC mid-diffusing?

[rachelily]

Thanks everyone!

The shine is a little deceiving, it always looks shiny in pictures but not as much in real life :)

[09robiha]

That would be Smasters technique and yes its the bit where you apply kccc or gel mid way through that helps.

I am having sucky hair at the mo. The canopy and upper layers have suddely become very tangley and stringy :( Im not sure what to do.

[Heidi_234]

That KCCC stuff, I wish I could try it. *sigh*

[Tabula Rasa]

With mine, the top layer of hair isn't nearly as springy and curly as the underneath. Bought a curly hair handbook...we'll see! Very excited.

[rachelily]

That would be Smasters technique and yes its the bit where you apply kccc or gel mid way through that helps.

I am having sucky hair at the mo. The canopy and upper layers have suddely become very tangley and stringy :( Im not sure what to do.

I have this problem with my canopy on the right side only and it drives me crazy. Sometimes I love to brush out my waves and the left side looks all Sarah Jessica Parker on a good day (aka when she doesn't crimp it) and the left side fuzzes everywhere! I'm not sure what to do either.

Anyone else asymmetrical?

[LadyJennifer]

I am having one of the best hair days I've had in a while!!

http://i54.tinypic.com/3358msy.jpg
http://i52.tinypic.com/awtbu9.jpg
Wow! Very lovely!
I think our hair is quite similar!

[LadyJennifer]

I have this problem with my canopy on the right side only and it drives me crazy. Sometimes I love to brush out my waves and the left side looks all Sarah Jessica Parker on a good day (aka when she doesn't crimp it) and the left side fuzzes everywhere! I'm not sure what to do either.

Anyone else asymmetrical?

Mine is a little curlier on my right side, the left is more wavy most days, so if I brushed it (which I don't if I want to look presentable, lol) it would be frizzier on my right side.

[DifferentLex]

Hello, all. I'm brand new and happy to be here, just found out (well 2 months ago) i'm a wurly :D, always thought i had straight hair that puffs - washed my hair with regular shampoo full of cones and Sls, now i CO with Syoss Volume Lift Conditioner (0% silicone, and no SLS i think) i clarify with baking soda and then rinse with ACV my hair never felt so soft and curly.
I still have a problem with my canopy, it's really puffy and lacks waves and my bottom layer is curly i don't know what to do, i air dry most of the time, when wet my hair shrinks to ear level when dry it's just past SL and lacks volume (ah i love the volume when i blow fry my hair, but hate the puffiness). What do i do with the canopy? Condition it more? Oh and does the diffuser damage your hair, it's getting really cold here to let my hair air dry and i have to wait like 2 hours to fully dry?
So...sorry for the long introduction! Hope you guys have some insight for me.
Thanks.:)

[Curlsgirl]

Well it's official. Sort of. I don't like my layers. I like the way my hair is lighter feeling and takes a bit less time to dry but it makes my wurlies do weird things. At least I know now. I might try the curly girl method cut, found a place that does that here and see how that works next time I need a trim but no more regular layers for me! :(

[Schipperchow]

Hello fellow curlies! I still have to get through this thread but checking in as a long time lurker, new member:)

[Heidi_234]

Curlsgirl, I'm sorry you don't like your layers. :( I hear you, I feel like my tapered layered weird hemline makes my hair air dry in a more awkward way. It's like I feel a good cut could make it lay much nicer, but I'm not willing to lose length yet so I have no choice ATM. It was good you tried though, you never know if it works for you until try it out yourself.

[mariika]

I am having one of the best hair days I've had in a while!!

http://i54.tinypic.com/3358msy.jpg
http://i52.tinypic.com/awtbu9.jpg
this rocks!

[LadyJennifer]

Hello, all. I'm brand new and happy to be here, just found out (well 2 months ago) i'm a wurly :D, always thought i had straight hair that puffs - washed my hair with regular shampoo full of cones and Sls, now i CO with Syoss Volume Lift Conditioner (0% silicone, and no SLS i think) i clarify with baking soda and then rinse with ACV my hair never felt so soft and curly.
I still have a problem with my canopy, it's really puffy and lacks waves and my bottom layer is curly i don't know what to do, i air dry most of the time, when wet my hair shrinks to ear level when dry it's just past SL and lacks volume (ah i love the volume when i blow fry my hair, but hate the puffiness). What do i do with the canopy? Condition it more? Oh and does the diffuser damage your hair, it's getting really cold here to let my hair air dry and i have to wait like 2 hours to fully dry?
So...sorry for the long introduction! Hope you guys have some insight for me.
Thanks.:)
The baking soda might be too drying/damaging for your hair. How often do you do it? It might be okay very rarely to clarify, but too often can really hurt your hair cuticles.

[Fairlight63]

HI,
Can I join your Wurly & Curly club?
My hair is so strange. It looks wurly but not really curly - more fine & thin & fuzzy. If I put some leave in cond. or jojoba oil on it & twist it & bun it, it gives it some control & takes out some of the "frizzies". When I try to comb it it is tangly & hard to separate, the strands stick to each other. It does have old hair dye about half way down on it, that may be causing some of the problems.
My natural hair is gray & I think that the texture has changed some. The hair by my ears is frizzy, if I put some gel on them & curl them around my finger it will give a twisty curl, that looks better than the fuzz sticking out.

Does any one out there have hair that sounds like that? What have you found that helps your hair?

[DifferentLex]

The baking soda might be too drying/damaging for your hair. How often do you do it? It might be okay very rarely to clarify, but too often can really hurt your hair cuticles.

Thanks for the reply LadyJennifer, once every 5 weeks or so, i use this to clarify because i didn't find a no cone clarifying shampoo over here - only Pantene Pro V Clarifying and i didn't get a chance to look at the ingredients ( i remember i used to wash my hair every 3 days with this one - talk about damage, that's long before joining LHC). I'm thinking can the puffiness be actually damage from the years of chemical dye? (new hair is so much softer than dyed hair - i've been growing my virgin hair since april 2010)

[manderly]

Hey curlies :D Just wanted to report that my Deva cut has been a success (I posted a thread) and my first at home wash and style with it (and all the deva products) has given me great results again.

I am also thrilled that she taught me how to properly clip my roots! Yay! :D

Curlsgirl, a deva cut is definitely a good choice, I'm very happy with mine :)

[LadyJennifer]

Thanks for the reply LadyJennifer, once every 5 weeks or so, i use this to clarify because i didn't find a no cone clarifying shampoo over here - only Pantene Pro V Clarifying and i didn't get a chance to look at the ingredients ( i remember i used to wash my hair every 3 days with this one - talk about damage, that's long before joining LHC). I'm thinking can the puffiness be actually damage from the years of chemical dye? (new hair is so much softer than dyed hair - i've been growing my virgin hair since april 2010)

That could very well be it. :)

[ktani]

I stretch my waves with my hands gently. That did not work as well when I steeped catnip too long as that increased my waves. I prefer a looser wave. Catnip releases more of something that coats the hair differently to what is released in an infusion steeped at just under 5 hours, for me, aside from what is absorbed into the hair, during a plastic wrapped, hour long treatment.

Looking at ideas for helping to loosen curls, I came across the usual, heavy producs and blow drying, not the most hair friendly and efficient methods. Blow drying hair on a cool setting is not that damaging and some products are not too heavy. I was looking for something else to help though.

Below this this paragraph, quoted and linked is an old post from 4 years ago on another website, replying to that question. It makes sense to me. I think using big braids on hair that has been very lightly oiled with an oil particularly known to help smooth cuticles, like camellia oil, may work, http://forums.longhaircommunity.com/showpost.php?p=12463&postcount=24. Mariika's lemon rinse could be used over the verly lightly oiled hair, to help combat frizz, rinsed out well. It has been reported to work well that way too, http://forums.longhaircommunity.com/showpost.php?p=1250343&postcount=231, and less of the lemon rinse coating would be on the hair to make the curls want to return to their natural shape.

"I have very tight curls. I've found that most straightening products SUCK at really straightening your hair (shampoos, gels, sprays). I'd try them, assuming they will fail and give you only 50&#37; results (they won't work and actually straighten your hair, but they'll relax it enough). Otherwise, large curlers work as they create softer, bigger curls/waves. Might sound silly but braiding your hair helps (big thick braids, not small tight ones)... when undone they leave hair with a nice wave. Good luck curly locks!"
http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20060927161052AAStBln

[Heidi_234]

Guess who bought hair gel? :D :D
Now I can't wait for my next wash to try it out and see if it helps my curls. I know some people try to avoid it, but I want the tightest, most wet looking curls that is humanly possible to achieve.

[Atira]

Hey curlies :D Just wanted to report that my Deva cut has been a success (I posted a thread) and my first at home wash and style with it (and all the deva products) has given me great results again.

I am also thrilled that she taught me how to properly clip my roots! Yay! :D

Curlsgirl, a deva cut is definitely a good choice, I'm very happy with mine :)

Yay! Can you teach us how to properly clip roots? I'm not sure I do it right? My roots can be SO flat.


Guess who bought hair gel? :D :D
Now I can't wait for my next wash to try it out and see if it helps my curls. I know some people try to avoid it, but I want the tightest, most wet looking curls that is humanly possible to achieve.

I love gel. It's how I get my hair to clump well.

[Heidi_234]

I love gel. It's how I get my hair to clump well.
Yup, you were actually the last to convince me to buy it already. I'm going to try it 'my' regular way, and then I'll try the over the sink soaking you told me about. :D

[rachelily]

I stretch my waves with my hands gently. That did not work as well when I steeped catnip too long as that increased my waves. I prefer a looser wave. Catnip releases more of something that coats the hair differently to what is released in an infusion steeped at just under 5 hours, for me, aside from what is absorbed into the hair, during a plastic wrapped, hour long treatment.

Looking at ideas for helping to loosen curls, I came across the usual, heavy producs and blow drying, not the most hair friendly and efficient methods. Blow drying hair on a cool setting is not that damaging and some products are not too heavy. I was looking for something else to help though.

Below this this paragraph, quoted and linked is an old post from 4 years ago on another website, replying to that question. It makes sense to me. I think using big braids on hair that has been very lightly oiled with an oil particularly known to help smooth cuticles, like camellia oil, may work, http://forums.longhaircommunity.com/showpost.php?p=12463&postcount=24. Mariika's lemon rinse could be used over the verly lightly oiled hair, to help combat frizz, rinsed out well. It has been reported to work well that way too, http://forums.longhaircommunity.com/showpost.php?p=1250343&postcount=231, and less of the lemon rinse coating would be on the hair to make the curls want to return to their natural shape.

"I have very tight curls. I've found that most straightening products SUCK at really straightening your hair (shampoos, gels, sprays). I'd try them, assuming they will fail and give you only 50&#37; results (they won't work and actually straighten your hair, but they'll relax it enough). Otherwise, large curlers work as they create softer, bigger curls/waves. Might sound silly but braiding your hair helps (big thick braids, not small tight ones)... when undone they leave hair with a nice wave. Good luck curly locks!"
http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20060927161052AAStBln

What works for me really well in terms of loosening curls is using the super-soaker method. My hair can get VERY curly if I diffuse or scrunch a huge amount, because it breaks up the clumps. But when I soak my hair, apply conditioner, scrunch only once or twice, and then apply gel, and then do not scrunch again until my hair is dry, I end up with large clumps and very loose waves because of the weight of the water, and that I leave my clumps alone when drying.

[mneh]

I am having sucky hair at the mo. The canopy and upper layers have suddely become very tangley and stringy :( Im not sure what to do.

As part of my henna touch up last week, I added 500g of low-fat (1%) yoghurt to the henna, and since then my hair, and my canopy in particular, has been much softer, much less tangly and stringy too. I attribute this to the yoghurt as my henna doesn't usually have this effect. This has lasted through 2 washes, so I'm giving serious thought to doing regular yoghurt hair masks but staying with low-fat yoghurt because my hair dislikes protein.


I have this problem with my canopy on the right side only and it drives me crazy...Anyone else asymmetrical?

Yup, my hair is much wurlier on the left side. My right-side canopy has a mind of its own most of the time and it can be difficult to encourage the wurls in it; my underneath-layers on my right-side have some cute wee ringlets sometimes but I've no idea how to make them appear consistently :confused:


My hair is so strange. It looks wurly but not really curly - more fine & thin & fuzzy. If I put some leave in cond. or jojoba oil on it & twist it & bun it, it gives it some control & takes out some of the "frizzies". When I try to comb it it is tangly & hard to separate, the strands stick to each other. It does have old hair dye about half way down on it, that may be causing some of the problems. My natural hair is gray & I think that the texture has changed some. The hair by my ears is frizzy, if I put some gel on them & curl them around my finger it will give a twisty curl, that looks better than the fuzz sticking out.

Does any one out there have hair that sounds like that? What have you found that helps your hair?

My hair has old hair dye about half-way down, and has a texture that can be difficult. Over the last few months I've learned that my hair doesn't like plopping or scrunching, or various other things that curly hair seems to like. I've worked out a routine that works for me:

I co-wash, or condtion-wash-condition, and, with the last lot of conditioner still in my hair, I detangle and part my hair with a wide tooth comb. Combing the hair before rinsing means I remove all the tangles which then allows my hair to form into natural clumps when it's rinsed, and I can later apply styling products without having to rake through my hair to remove tangles which again protects waves/ clumps that formed during rinsing. (I only comb my hair in the shower, or if I've oiled it just before washing, I don't comb/brush my hair when it's dry because it makes it bushy/frizzy).
After detangling, I rinse gently with my head vertical to keep the hair in place for styling.
A final rinse of ACV and cool water makes my hair shiny and more manageable.
Before I get out of the shower, I give the hair below my ears a gentle squeeze to remove excess water, I don't twist it or do anything that would break up the clumps. Then I put a towel around my shoulders and let the hair lie on it to drip dry for about 10-15 mins while I tidy up the bathroom etc. I use a microfibre towel rather than a terrycloth towel.
When my hair has dripped onto the towel for a bit, I use the towel to give the hair below my ears a gentle squeeze to remove water. If the hair at the top of my head is lying flat, I'll headbang once or twice to loosen it up while retaining the clumps that have formed.
My hair doesn't seem to like styling creams, so I use products of gel-consistency. The two products I use are AO Mandarin Magic Jelly, and AO B5 Styling Gel with added leave-in conditioner. My hair really likes these two products because they're light but they provide good hold and frizz control. A little bit of Aloe Vera Juice added to the styling products can help if the weather is humid.
I apply the Mandarin Jelly first, I put a good-sized blob in my hand, rub my hands together, and then smooth the gel over my hair - concentrating on the hair from my ears downwards. I don't rake it in because I don't want to break up clumps and waves, I just smooth it on the hair and lift up layers carefully to get product onto all of my hair. It takes a bit of patience but it's worth it. I then do the same with the B5 styling gel, but I use two of the blobs (one for each side of my hair).
When I've smoothed the gel over my hair, I take my hands and cup them together, tilt my head gently to the side and use the cupped hands to gently lift and fold the hair up to my scalp - this helps the waves to form and unlike scrunching it doesn't break up any of the clumps that have formed. I do that for both sides of my hair and then I leave it alone to settle for about 5 mins.
If I'm air drying the hair, I sometimes put clips along my parting to lift up the top layer of hair and prevent the weight of the wet hair giving me flat top. However, if I'm diffusing my hair, I don't bother with that because the hair dries quickly enough for the top not to go flat. Sitting in front an electric fan, on low speed with ioniser function, can speed up drying without causing frizz
When I'm diffusing my hair, I hold the diffuser horizontally against my hair to help my clumps/waves to set. I don't try holding the diffuser vertically until the gel in my hair has gone hard. Once the gel sets, I can tilt my head to the side and gently pile the hair into the diffuser and hold it to my scalp. I don't diffuse for more than about 10-15 mins as I don't want my hair to get frizzy.
When my hair's dry, I break up the gel-cast on the hair by putting some jojoba oil on my palms and then forming the hair into a ponytail with my hands. I gently squeeze the length of the ponytail with one hand while holding the hair with the other, and then swap them to make sure of even oil distribution - smoothing/squeezing the hair, instead of scrunching, keeps the clumps together.
When I don't have as much oil on my palms, I gently run my hands along the scalp hair, while still holding it in a ponytail with one hand, this breaks up the gel on the scalp hair but doesn't make it too oily.
Then I leave my hair alone for 10-15 minutes, to allow it to swell to its natural state and become less straggly-looking, and only then do I try to do any sort of half-ups or updos.


This is a bit of an information dump but I hope there's some useful information in there for you :D


@manderly I second the requests for instructions on how to properly clip up your roots :cheese: I've never managed to master the technique as well as I would like.


What works for me really well in terms of loosening curls is using the super-soaker method. My hair can get VERY curly if I diffuse or scrunch a huge amount, because it breaks up the clumps. But when I soak my hair, apply conditioner, scrunch only once or twice, and then apply gel, and then do not scrunch again until my hair is dry, I end up with large clumps and very loose waves because of the weight of the water, and that I leave my clumps alone when drying.

I tried the super-soaker method, and the water actually does help with forming clumps, but I felt quite guilty at using all that water (I also made a mess when I got the water all over myself and the bathroom lol :o ), so now I get the same effect by liberally wetting my hair with water via a spray bottle as the final step after applying leave-in/gel.

[beachwaves]

Wow!! What is your secret?

[rachelily]

Hahahah I get water everywhere when I do it too.

[ktani]

What works for me really well in terms of loosening curls is using the super-soaker method. My hair can get VERY curly if I diffuse or scrunch a huge amount, because it breaks up the clumps. But when I soak my hair, apply conditioner, scrunch only once or twice, and then apply gel, and then do not scrunch again until my hair is dry, I end up with large clumps and very loose waves because of the weight of the water, and that I leave my clumps alone when drying.

If that works for you great! It is about what works for people.

[Atira]

Ok so how do you know if you have split ends? I can't tell...

[rachelily]

If that works for you great! It is about what works for people.

That is how I meant it, as a suggestion.

[Heidi_234]

Ok so how do you know if you have split ends? I can't tell...
I know that I have them because I see them :wink:

[Atira]

I know that I have them because I see them :wink:

Ok yes, but I'm not sure what they look like. I'm a newb to all this ;)

[Heidi_234]

Ok yes, but I'm not sure what they look like. I'm a newb to all this ;)
They look like the ends of the hair is split in two, or white dots, or both. Here's a chart (http://forums.longhaircommunity.com/picture.php?albumid=1055&pictureid=57873), although it's not a guide, just examples. I think if you encounter them, you'll know that there's something wrong with that strand of hair and that its end shouldn't look like that.

[ktani]

Ok yes, but I'm not sure what they look like. I'm a newb to all this ;)

There is a chart in this article, that shows different kinds of split ends, http://www.haircaregrowthaids.com/holding-on-to-split-ends/.

Split ends are caused by dryness and there are different causes of dryness, from the ones mentioned here, http://www.hairscientists.org/trichoptilosis.htm, to build-up from products, when the hair has not been clarified.

Clarifying, chelating, baking soda and more, http://forums.longhaircommunity.com/showpost.php?p=1260283&postcount=6

[Atira]

I've looked at that chart and I've looked at my hair. I guess maybe because my hair is in layers I just cannot tell if my ends are split. Maybe a photograph of some would help.

[Heidi_234]

I've looked at that chart and I've looked at my hair. I guess maybe because my hair is in layers I just cannot tell if my ends are split. Maybe a photograph of some would help.
Here's two horror pics for you :) It's hard to catch on regular camera though.
http://forums.longhaircommunity.com/picture.php?albumid=2075&pictureid=70226

http://forums.longhaircommunity.com/picture.php?albumid=2075&pictureid=32654

I think you either don't have them (a rare possibility :) ) or you're not seeing them. I find I can't see mine unless there are good lightening conditions and proper background. I know some members suggest bright background (like the screen of your computer), but it never worked for me. When my ends are damaged, they usually also turn bright golden color that pops out since my hair is dark.

My optimal settings for good productive S&D is bright natural light (indirect sunlight if I sit by the window, for example), and a black or very dark background. I either spread a black shirt over my legs or use the dark carpet as a background. I find that when the background is further away, is keeps the focus of my eyes on the details of my hair instead of the background. The golden splitting ends and the white dots really show well this way.

Hope that helps. :)

[Curlsgirl]

I've looked at that chart and I've looked at my hair. I guess maybe because my hair is in layers I just cannot tell if my ends are split. Maybe a photograph of some would help.

How long is your hair? I didn't get splits at all until I was past BSL. The longer mine got the more splits I got. Even then, some types of hair just doesn't seem to split as easily.

[Cleopatra18]

Can someone please help me with the best way to use hair gel to hold curls? I baught some eco styler today and would love to try it in the next wash,my curls look great after washing but they dont last.am i supposed to use oil/leave in before the gel or after,or not at all?

[Curlsgirl]

Can someone please help me with the best way to use hair gel to hold curls? I baught some eco styler today and would love to try it in the next wash,my curls look great after washing but they dont last.am i supposed to use oil/leave in before the gel or after,or not at all?

With 2a/b hair it might be hard to get curls to hold with or without gel. You might try a stronger hold gel and after it's dry ALL the way just scrunch the gel out VERY lightly. You can use a little oil but I wouldn't use much because it can weigh your waves down. I use a leave-in, then a curl booster cream and usually skip the gel because I don't like the buildup. Have you tried a curl cream like AG re:coil or Boots? They help encourage the curl.

[Cleopatra18]

I am not really sure of my hairtype...Here's a picture of damp hair (http://forums.longhaircommunity.com/album.php?albumid=5876&pictureid=84100) that might show my curls,it's really bad quality though sorry.My hair is curlier at the roots as most of the length is "heat trained/damaged"

[Curlsgirl]

I am not really sure of my hairtype...Here's a picture of damp hair (http://forums.longhaircommunity.com/album.php?albumid=5876&pictureid=84100) that might show my curls,it's really bad quality though sorry.My hair is curlier at the roots as most of the length is "heat trained/damaged"

Hard to tell because your hair is still damp. For typing you should use no product or manipulation and let it dry naturally, no brushing or combing if you didn't know :) If it is curly at the roots though, it sounds as if you might have more curl than 2a or 2b. Even 3a has little curl at the roots usually. Hard to tell though without doing a pic like I described above.

[Shicurls]

With EcoStyler I like to use LA Sports Gel under with leave-in, or and this is better a curl boosting cream under the EcoStyler. I'm back to being a 3a with this method.

[darkwaves]

I've been using protein-free products for several months -- and my fine hair has been getting frizzier and frizzier.

After reading on NC.com that fine hair often needs protein (posts/links re: texture and porosity), I've decided I am going to try that...

Any curlies with suggestions for very rich conditioners with protein (but no cones, pls)?