Different kinds of hair need to be cared for in different ways to keep them in their best condition. This is particularly true for hair with kinks, waves, and curls, which needs lots of care to keep the curls well defined and free from frizz. People with this type of hair often want to know which products will keep their hair looking its best.
Characteristics of Curly or Wavy Hair: The structure of this hair type allows it to become dry easily, which makes it prone to frizz. Straight hair lets sebum glide down the hair shaft, which keeps it moisturized. Wavy hair does not allow sebum to make its way down the hair shaft as easily. Because of this, kinky or wavy hair can be dry.
The cuticle of the hair, or the outer surface, looks like scales that overlap each other. The waves and kinks in curly hair can keep the scales from lying flat and acting as an effective layer of protection. The result is that moisture is lost easily and the hair can be damaged.
When you are on the hunt for the best curly hair products, look for a few key ingredients. Products should moisturize to help prevent dryness, help define curls and prevent frizz, and protect hair by locking in moisture to prevent damage.
Good Shampoos for Curls: Because hair with curls can dry out easily, stay away from clarifying shampoos, which can be harsh. Seek out creamy shampoos that contain conditioning ingredients instead. Another option is shampoo formulated for frizzy hair because its formula typically will nourish the hair and leave behind a protective coating. If most shampoos are too drying for your hair, seek out sodium lauryl sulfate free shampoo, which will typically have more gentle detergents.
Good Conditioners for Curls: If you have hair with waves or curls, you must always use a good conditioner. Conditioners help keep curls manageable and beautiful. Look for good moisturizing ingredients, as well as silicones. Silicones add a protective layer to your hair, seal moisture in, and help keep your curls defined in humid conditions. AVEDA Damage Remedy is a great conditioner for curls.
Styling Products for Curls: Hair that is wavy or curly requires products that help shape the curls and keep frizz at bay. There are plenty of products out there, and products with silicone tend to work best on curls. Not only do they add shine, they keep hair from absorbing moisture from the air. This keeps hair from getting frizzy.
Some people think you should avoid silicone based ingredients because there is a belief that prolonged use will dry out hair. This is certainly a personal choice, but there is no real evidence that silicones cause drying or suffocate your hair. Standard shampoos should be able to wash away any silicone that has built up in your hair. Paul Mitchell and John Frieda both offer frizz reducing products that work very well on curls.
There is definitely no single option that is good for all types of hair. Curly, wavy, or kinky hair in particular requires special care. When choosing the best products for your curly locks, these tips should help you choose the right products that will keep your hair moisturized, defined, frizz free, and gorgeous.