Curls are more common than you think. But so many women straighten and style theirs into submission you would never know! Are you one that wants to embrace your bounce? Then here are the expert tips on how to treat, style and wear curls best.
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Curly Haircuts
Curly hair can take on a lank, lifeless look if left to their own devises, so follow trends with curls advises Barney Martin of Barney Martin Hairdressing
“The biggest trends for curly hair are either wavy hair worn as a short side swept bob – a-la – Arizona Muse – or tight spiral curls inspired by the 80’s,” he says. Generally, anything deconstructed is directional with curls, such as layered bobs, messy up-do’s, topknots and textured braids, he adds.
Beyoncé, Mel B, Sarah Jessica Parker and Alicia Keys are all perfect examples of on-trend tendrils, notes Barney, who says its wise to request a ‘dry cut’ next time you visit the salon. “You can’t do a precision cut on curly hair,” he says. “Think of it more like a hedge that needs to be trimmed it into shape!”
Curly Hair Care
Contrary to popular belief, curly hair is not more maintenance than straight, says Barney. If it’s cut well, kept in good condition and hydrated, the ongoing care will be simplified.
To do this, adopt anything that adds moisture into your daily hair arsenal and stay away from hairspray that can dry hair out. “Serums and oils are also a great option for those with dry or bleached curly hair,” notes Barney.
Treatments are very important for women with curly hair too because the cuticle is raised, so moisture is lost easily. “If you have curly hair you should really be applying a treatment at least once a week and a leave-in moisturizer daily.” Look for products that say ‘deep conditioning’ or that contain proteins. “Silicone based products are also good for curly hair.”
Other tips include:
- Be careful not to over process hair, as over colouring will make the hair more porous and frizzy.
- Sleep on a silk pillow to reduce friction.
- Never use a brush on curly hair.
- Choose products that are specifically designed for curly hair.
“My belief is with curly hair is that less shampooing and conditioning is more, as natural oils produced by the scalp are good for moisturising dry,” says Barney.
And step away from the paddle brush, he urges. “Always comb through with a wide tooth comb as brushing will make it go fluffy!”
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