Curly hair is often seen as a blessing, but for those who wish to change up their look, the question arises: Can you curl already curly hair? The answer is yes, you can. While curly hair already has a natural texture, styling techniques such as using different sized curling irons or flexi rods can enhance and define the curls, creating a more polished and voluminous look. It’s all about finding the right method and products that work for your specific curl type, so you can have fun experimenting with different styles while embracing your natural curls.
Can you curl naturally curly hair?
Yes, you can absolutely curl naturally curly hair. While it may seem counterintuitive to curl hair that is already curly, curling can actually enhance the definition and add more volume to the existing curls. Whether you have loose waves or tight ringlets, there are methods and products available to help you achieve your desired curls.
Benefits of curling already curly hair
Curling already curly hair can provide several benefits. Firstly, it allows you to have more control over the shape and definition of your curls. By curling specific sections of your hair, you can create a more uniform and polished look. Curling can also add volume to flat or limp curls, giving your hair a bouncier and fuller appearance. Additionally, curling already curly hair can help to refresh and revive your natural curls, especially if they have become loose or stretched out over time.
Tips for curling already curly hair
Before you start curling your already curly hair, there are a few key tips to keep in mind:
1. Understanding your curl type
It’s important to understand your specific curl type before you begin curling. This will help you choose the right method and products that work best for your hair. Whether you have loose waves, corkscrew curls, or anything in between, knowing your curl pattern will guide your styling decisions.
2. Choose the right curling method
There are various methods for curling already curly hair, and the best method will depend on your desired outcome and the type of curls you have. For example, using a curling iron with a smaller barrel can create tighter curls, while using a wider barrel can produce looser waves.
3. Prepping your hair before curling
To ensure your curls hold well, it’s important to prepare your hair beforehand. Start with clean, dry hair and apply a lightweight mousse or curl-enhancing product to enhance your natural curl pattern. You can also spritz your hair with a heat protectant spray to minimize heat damage.
4. Use a heat protectant
When curling your already curly hair, it’s crucial to protect it from heat damage. Apply a heat protectant spray evenly throughout your hair before using any heat styling tools. This will help to minimize the risk of frizz and breakage.
5. Choose the right curling products
Choosing the right products for curling already curly hair can make a significant difference in the final result. Look for curl-enhancing creams, mousses, or gels that are specifically designed for curly hair. These products can help to define and hold your curls without weighing them down.
6. Consider the size of the curls
The size of the curls you want to achieve will determine the type of curling tool you should use. If you want tighter curls, opt for a curling iron or wand with a smaller barrel. If you prefer looser waves, choose a curling tool with a larger barrel.
7. Avoid over-curling
When curling already curly hair, it’s important not to overdo it. Over-curling can lead to excessive heat damage and cause your curls to become frizzy or lose their natural shape. Curl just a few sections of your hair to add definition and volume without overwhelming your natural curls.
8. Experiment with different curling techniques
Don’t be afraid to try different curling techniques to find what works best for your already curly hair. Experiment with wrapping your hair around the curling iron in different directions, or try using different sizes of curling tools to achieve a variety of curls and waves.
9. Finish with a curl-enhancing product
After curling your hair, finishing off with a curl-enhancing product can help to set and hold the curls. Look for a lightweight curl cream or serum that won’t weigh down your curls but will provide extra definition and shine.
10. Avoid excessive handling of the curls
Once you have achieved your desired curls, try to avoid excessive touching or combing through your hair. This can disrupt the curl pattern and lead to frizz. Instead, use your fingers or a wide-toothed comb to gently separate and shape your curls as needed.
Products for curling already curly hair
When it comes to curling already curly hair, there are plenty of products available to help enhance and define your natural curls. Here are some recommended products:
– Curl-defining creams: These creams help to shape and define your curls while reducing frizz. They provide hold without stiffness, allowing your curls to move naturally.
– Curl-enhancing mousses: Mousses are lightweight products that add volume and enhance the natural curl pattern. They are great for achieving softer, bouncier curls.
– Leave-in conditioners: Leave-in conditioners provide moisture and help to detangle and soften curly hair. They can be applied before curling to keep your curls hydrated and protected.
– Setting sprays: Setting sprays are designed to hold curls in place without making them crunchy or stiff. They provide long-lasting hold and can help to prevent frizz.
– Curling gels: Curling gels provide extra hold and definition to already curly hair. They can be applied to damp hair before curling to enhance the curl pattern and reduce frizz.
– Serums for frizz control: Serums can help to tame frizz and add shine to your curls. They provide a smooth and polished finish while keeping your curls looking healthy.
– Texturizing sprays: Texturizing sprays add texture and grit to your curls, giving them a more lived-in and tousled look. They are great for achieving an effortless and beachy vibe.
– Dry shampoos: Dry shampoos can be used between washes to refresh your curls and absorb excess oil. They help to add volume and extend the life of your curls.
Heat styling tools for curling already curly hair
While heat styling tools should be used with caution to prevent damage, they can be effective in curling already curly hair. Here are some popular options:
– Curling wands: Curling wands are cylindrical tools without a clamp that allow you to wrap sections of hair around the barrel. They create natural-looking curls and are suitable for both loose and tight curls.
– Curling irons: Curling irons have a clamp that holds the hair in place as you wrap it around the barrel. They come in various barrel sizes and can create a range of curl sizes and shapes.
– Hot rollers: Hot rollers are heated rollers that are set in the hair and left to cool. They can create long-lasting curls and are ideal for adding volume and body to already curly hair.
– Flat irons: Flat irons can be used to create both straight and curly styles. To curl already curly hair with a flat iron, you can twist sections of hair as you glide the flat iron down the length, creating a spiral curl.
Alternative methods for curling already curly hair
If you prefer to avoid using heat on your already curly hair or are looking for alternative curling methods, here are some options:
– Braiding: Braiding your already curly hair can create a beautiful texture and wave pattern. You can braid your hair while it’s wet and leave it to air dry overnight for natural-looking waves.
– Twisting: Twisting small sections of your already curly hair and securing them with bobby pins can create defined curls or waves. Leave them in place for a few hours or overnight to set.
– Pin curls: Pin curls involve wrapping small sections of hair around your fingers, securing with bobby pins, and allowing them to set. When you remove the pins, you’ll have lovely curls or waves.
– Flexi rods: Flexi rods are flexible, foam-covered rods that can be used to curl your already curly hair without heat. Wrap sections of hair around the rods, secure them in place, and leave them for several hours or overnight to set.
– Roller sets: Classic roller sets can be used to curl already curly hair. You can choose the size of the rollers depending on the desired curl size. Apply rollers to damp hair and allow them to dry fully before removing for well-defined curls.
Best hairstyles for already curly hair
When it comes to hairstyles for already curly hair, the options are endless. Here are some popular styles to consider:
– Loose beachy waves: Create relaxed and effortless waves by curling your already curly hair with a larger barrel curling wand or using alternative methods like braiding and twisting. This style is perfect for a laid-back, bohemian look.
– Tight ringlet curls: Embrace your natural curls by using a smaller barrel curling iron or wand to define and enhance them. This style works especially well for tight, coily hair textures and adds a touch of elegance.
– Messy bohemian curls: Achieve a carefree and tousled hairstyle by curling your already curly hair with different curling techniques and sizes. Gently tousle your curls with your fingers to create a relaxed and romantic look.
– Bouncy voluminous curls: Create voluminous curls by using a combination of different curling methods and volumizing products. This hairstyle adds instant glamour and is perfect for special occasions or those days when you want to feel extra glamorous.
– Half-up half-down hairstyles: Showcase your curls while keeping your hair out of your face with a half-up half-down hairstyle. You can use clips, bobby pins, or hair ties to secure the top section of your hair, leaving the rest of your curls flowing freely.
– Updos with curly hair: Updos are a versatile option for already curly hair. From sleek chignons to bohemian braided updos, there are endless opportunities to showcase your curls in an elegant and elevated way.
How to maintain curls in already curly hair
Once you’ve achieved your desired curls, it’s essential to maintain them to keep them looking their best. Here are some tips for maintaining curls in already curly hair:
– Use a satin pillowcase: Sleeping on a satin pillowcase can help reduce friction and prevent frizz. Satin is also gentler on the hair, minimizing the risk of hair breakage and preserving your curls overnight.
– Avoid brushing or combing too much: Over-brushing or combing can disrupt the curl pattern and lead to frizz. Instead, use your fingers or a wide-toothed comb to gently separate and detangle your curls as needed.
– Refresh curls with a water-based spray: If your curls start to lose their shape throughout the day, lightly mist them with a water-based spray to revive them. Avoid using products that contain drying alcohols, as they can strip moisture from your curls.
– Pineapple or wrap hair at night: To preserve your curls overnight, try the pineapple or wrap method. Gather your curls on top of your head in a loose ponytail or wrap them in a silk scarf before bed to prevent them from getting flattened.
– Avoid excessive heat styling: Excessive heat styling can cause damage and dry out already curly hair. Try to limit the use of heat styling tools and opt for heat-free curling methods whenever possible.
– Protect curls from humidity: Humidity can cause already curly hair to become frizzy and lose its shape. Apply a humidity-resistant styling product or use a hair oil or serum to seal in moisture and protect your curls from humidity.
– Deep condition regularly: Curly hair tends to be naturally dry, so deep conditioning treatments can help to replenish moisture and keep your curls healthy. Use a deep conditioner once a week or as needed to keep your curls hydrated and vibrant.
Preventing damage while curling already curly hair
While curling already curly hair can be a fun and transformative process, it’s crucial to take steps to prevent damage. Here are some tips for protecting your hair while curling:
– Ensure hair is properly moisturized: Dry and damaged hair is more prone to breakage. Before curling, make sure your hair is well moisturized by using hydrating shampoos, conditioners, and styling products.
– Limit heat exposure: Excessive heat can cause already curly hair to become brittle and dry. Set your heat styling tools to a moderate temperature and limit the amount of time the heat is applied to each section of hair.
– Use a lower heat setting: Start with a lower heat setting on your curling iron or wand and gradually increase it if necessary. High heat can be damaging to already curly hair, so it’s important to find the right balance between achieving your desired curls and protecting your hair.
– Don’t hold heat for too long: Avoid holding the curling iron or wand on your hair for extended periods. A few seconds should be sufficient to create the curls. Leaving the heat on for too long can cause excessive heat damage and weaken the hair shaft.
– Use a heat protectant: Before curling your hair, always apply a heat protectant spray or serum. This creates a barrier between your hair and the heat, reducing the risk of damage and promoting healthier curls.
– Take breaks between styling sessions: Your hair needs time to recover and rehydrate between styling sessions. Avoid curling your hair every day and give it regular breaks to allow your natural curls to bounce back.
– Avoid excessive tension or pulling: When curling your already curly hair, be gentle and avoid pulling on your curls too tightly. Excessive tension can lead to breakage or cause your curls to lose their natural shape.
Final thoughts
Curling already curly hair is not only possible but can also be a great way to enhance your natural curls and add more volume and definition. Experimenting with different curling methods, products, and hairstyles can help you achieve the desired look that complements your individual style. Remember to take care of your hair by using suitable products, protecting it from excessive heat, and maintaining a healthy hair care routine. If you’re unsure about which curling techniques or products to use, consider seeking professional help or watching tutorials to learn and refine your curling skills. Embrace your naturally curly hair and have fun exploring the world of curling!