If you have natural hair and are looking for that perfect curly, bouncy look, you’re in the right place.
Achieving curls that are full of life and volume doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right techniques and products, you can enhance your natural curl pattern and get the bouncy, defined curls you crave.
Here’s how to achieve the best curls for your natural hair with ease.
1. Start with clean, moisturized hair
Before you can get the bouncy curls you want, it’s essential to start with healthy, well-moisturized hair. Clean hair allows styling products to work more effectively, and moisture helps to maintain curl definition. Use a sulfate-free shampoo to cleanse your scalp and hair without stripping natural oils. Follow up with a rich conditioner to hydrate your strands, and apply a leave-in conditioner to keep your hair moisturized throughout the styling process.
2. Use Curl-Defining Products
Curl creams, gels, and mousses are your best friends when it comes to defining curls and adding bounce. Choose products that are designed for curly hair, as they provide hold and texture while ensuring your curls remain defined without crunchiness. When applying curl cream or gel, use your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to distribute the product evenly through damp hair. Be sure to coat each strand, as this helps define and separate your curls for a fuller, bouncier look.
3. Try the shingling method
The shingling method is an effective way to enhance your natural curls and achieve defined, bouncy locks. To do this, apply your curl cream or gel in small sections, and use your fingers to “shingle” the product into each strand. Start at the roots and work your way down to the ends, ensuring every curl is coated and separated. This method encourages curl definition and helps reduce frizz, which contributes to bouncy, voluminous curls.
4. Dry your hair properly
The way you dry your hair is crucial in getting those bouncy curls. Avoid rough drying, as it can cause frizz and disrupt the curl pattern. Instead, try the diffusing method with a blow dryer. Use a diffuser attachment to dry your hair on a low heat setting, gently scrunching your curls as you go. Alternatively, if you prefer a heat-free option, try the plopping technique. After applying your curl product, lay a microfiber towel or cotton t-shirt on a flat surface, and then flip your head forward to gently wrap your hair in the fabric, securing it for a few hours to let your curls dry naturally.
5. Don’t forget to fluff
Once your curls are dry, use an afro pick or your fingers to fluff them at the roots. This step adds volume and helps your curls “bounce” more. Be gentle when fluffing to avoid disrupting the curl pattern.
Conclusion
Achieving curly, bouncy natural hair is all about starting with the right foundation—clean, moisturized hair—and using the right techniques to enhance and define your natural curls. With curl creams, the shingling method, and the right drying techniques, you’ll be on your way to bouncy, voluminous curls in no time. Embrace your natural texture and enjoy your bouncy, beautiful curls