Anyone with curly hair will know that caring for your hair can be a challenge. Not to mention styling it can be downright dreadful. Dry hair tends to be inherently coarse, dry, and prone to frizz. What is more, curls do not always follow the same patterns on your hair. Some areas can be tighter, whereas others fall more loosely. Knowing how to care for your curls effectively is paramount when it comes to keeping your hair healthy and styling it how you prefer. Here are the 7 most effective ways to taking care of curly hair.

Your scalp is one of the most important components of hair health. Therefore, you need to make sure you care for your scalp with equal attention as you give your hair. If your scalp has inflammation, irritation, dryness, excess oils, or a skin condition, it can affect how your hair looks and feels. Not to mention, it can make you feel rather uncomfortable as well.

People with curly hair, especially if it is dense, need to be particularly aware of the shape products they use on their scalp. The RADIA shampoo line is ideal for curly-haired guys and gals because it is a sensitive cleanser that detoxifies and removes build-up without drying out your hair. It is also perfect to use if you have any type of damage, including damage from styling and dying or bleaching. RADIA helps you cleanse your scalp and hair without compromising your color.

Most people with curly hair will know that brushing generally is unpleasant and is not that effective at getting you the style you want. In fact, it often causes your hair to lose its bounce and makes it puff up into a giant frizzy nest. Yet, your hair does need to be detangled at some point. Generally, it is best to do so when you are in the shower.

Next time you wash your hair, use your fingers or take a wide-toothed comb and brush through your hair with conditioner in it. This technique helps to coat all of your strands in conditioner while simultaneously detangling it.  

Daily washing is generally not recommended for most people unless they use a tremendous amount of product in their hair or are prone to excess oil on their hair and scalp. If you have curly hair, you certainly will want to avoid over washing because it can dry out your hair more quickly and make your hair more prone to frizzing.

When you do wash your hair, you will want to make sure to use a gentle shampoo that detoxifies your hair without being too harsh and drying.

Conditioner is everyone’s friend, but for our curly friends, it is essential. Use a conditioner that is ideal for people with curly hair, like the RADIA Conditioner from DS Laboratories. RADIA works on all hair types and is especially effective for reducing frizz and making curls more manageable. It is also well-known for making your hair noticeably softer and healthier after just one wash.

Hot water opens up the cuticle, or outer layer, of your hair shaft. When the cuticle is opened, it can cause your hair to lose its moisture. Colder temperatures keep the cuticle closed tightly, so while it may not be the most enjoyable shower experience, you can expect your hair to be moister and less frizzy following a wash in cold water.

To keep your shower as cozy and relaxing as possible, wash your hair first and then pin it up gently for the remainder of the shower to keep hotter temperatures off your hair. Bonus points if you decide to leave the conditioner in your pinned-up hair while you finish the rest of your shower and then wash it out at the very end.

Whether you are toweling your hair dry or resting your head for the night, the fabric your hair is in contact with can make a big difference. Curly-haired women swear that sleeping on a silk pillow or wrapping their head in a silk scarf helps minimize frizz and breakage. The reason this is their experience is because typical cotton pillowcases wick away the oils in your hair, which are important for keeping your hair healthy. Also, drying your hair with an abrasive towel can roughen up your ends up and leave you with a frizzy mess. Opt for a towel specifically meant for drying your hair and gently pat it dry.

Blow dryers, straighteners, and curling irons cause breakage due to high heat. Try to avoid using these tools, or if you must, do so sparingly. If you happen to be committed to using hot styling tools, aim to give your hair respite on the weekends and allow your hair to air dry or use foam rollers.

Similarly, dying and bleaching your hair can be especially traumatic on curly tresses, as the chemicals used in these processes can damage your curls. People with curly hair often find their curls fall limp and lifeless, especially after bleaching. Lightening your hair color, in particular, strips it of the proteins and fatty acids that give it its texture and structure. Thus, you can expect to struggle with your curls following bleaching.

Are you struggling to find a sound hair care system for your curly locks? Shop the RADIA line at DS Laboratories or speak with a product advisor today to see what product will best serve you and your curly tresses.