Curly Chronicles: Transforming Frizzy Waves With A Simple Routine for Definition
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Karen has thick, coarse, naturally wavy hair with medium porosity and lives in the South Central Texas area. Read about her curly hair journey and how she transformed her frizzy waves into defined wavy hair with a simple routine.
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What was it like growing up with textured hair?
In the 1960’s/70’s there were no products and my mother had no idea what to do with my wavy, thick hair so I wore it in a pixie and everyone thought I was a boy…so it was horrible. In middle school, I grew it out and I looked like Roseanne Roseannadanna from SNL.
What made you decide to transition to wearing your hair curly/wavy?
In 2019 A friend gifted me some products that were too heavy for her hair and all of a sudden the waves and curls became more defined. Then I went down the YouTube rabbit hole and found you and others to help me figure things out.
What has been the most difficult part of your curly hair journey?
Figuring out styling techniques to minimize frizz. I used to think it was products but know now it’s technique.
What has surprised you most about your curly hair journey?
The more healthy it is, the curlier it has become.
How have other people reacted to your hair transformation and journey?
Mixed reviews…”I love your curls” to “is that natural” to “so you decided to rock the 80’s look?”
What’s the most important thing you learned on your curly hair journey?
This is my crown and if I love the curls then that’s all that’s important AND my curls will never look like someone else’s so stop comparing and wishing it was less dense or coarse.
What do you love most about embracing your natural hair?
It’s really pretty even though I’m still trying to figure out styling techniques.
What are your curly girl essentials?
A good hair mask, Kinky Curly Knot Today, Kinky Curly Custard, Twist Weather Up Gel, and Jessicurl Spiralicious Gel.
What is your current curly hair routine?
1-2 times per ,week I wash and condition.
I usually just use Kinky Curly KnotToday Leave-In, Kinky Curly Custard, and a hard hold gel on pretty wet hair.
Wet plop after products are applied, then micro plop to remove excess water.
Hover diffuse and then diffuse side to side lifting the roots.
Root clip and SOTC with oil.
I sleep in a silk scarf on a silk pillowcase.
Is there any technique or product that made a significant difference on your hair?
Kinky Curly Custard has been a game changer. Lately I’ve been trying out a pea sized amount of Cantu Avocado Oil Curl Activator and I love it.
What is your top tip for others on their curly hair journey?
Start with a sulfate free shampoo and a silicone free conditioner, a curl cream and a gel. Play around with technique before going out and buying all the things. It will save you money and heartache.
Do you have any funny stories about your hair?
When I began my journey in 2019, I used Shea Moisture Leave in and I used a lot. My hair had clearly too much product and “wet” looking but it was actually defined and not frizzy so it was exciting that there was hope!
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If you want help with embracing your naturally wavy or curly hair, you can join my FREE email course and download my FREE pdf guide, THE QUICK START GUIDE TO MASTERING YOUR CURLS, full of everything you need to know to get started and bring out your beautiful waves and curls.