What To Know About Caring for Your Curls

If you have curly hair, you know hair care can be a bit of a challenge.

The good news is you can have healthy and beautiful curls with the right knowledge and products! In this blog post, we will discuss everything you need to know about caring for your curly hair. 

The hair care experts here at Modern Core have laid out the different types of curl patterns, the textures you’ll find in curly hair, how to create a hair care routine, and more! So sit back and relax – we are about to teach you everything you need to know about taking care of your curls!

Understanding Curl Patterns

One of the most important things to understand about curly hair is the different types of curl patterns. 

There are three main types of curl patterns: wavy, curly, and coily. Each type of curl pattern has its own unique challenges when it comes to care and styling. For example, 

• Wavy Hair is more prone to frizz than curly or coily hair
• Curly Hair is more likely to be dry than wavy or coily hair
• Coily Hair is the most prone to tangles and breakage.

But no matter what type of curl pattern you have, there are ways to achieve healthy and beautiful curls!

The best way to determine your curl pattern is to look at your hair when it is soaked and free of any products. 

• Wavy hair forms loose “S” shapes
• Curly hair forms tight “S” shapes or small ringlets
• Coily hair forms zig-zag patterns or large, loose coils

Here's how the curl types break down:

Wavy hair. This is the most common type of curl pattern. Wavy hair is usually Fine to Medium in texture and can range from loose, beachy waves to tight, defined curls. These are also typically referred to as:

• 2A — Soft Waves
• 2B — Wavy
• 2C — Deep Waves

Curly hair. Curly hair is usually Medium to Thick in texture and can range from loose, bouncy curls to tight, spiral curls. These are recognized as these curl types:

• 3A — Soft Curls
• 3B — Curly
• 3C — Ultra Curly

Coily hair. Coily hair is the least common type of curl pattern. It is usually Thick in texture and can range from loose, springy coils to tight, kinky curls.

• 4A — Coiled
• 4B — Zig-zag
• 4C — Tightly Wound

Once you know your curl pattern, you can better determine which products and styling methods will work best for your hair.

Curly Hair Textures

In addition to the different types of curl patterns, there are also different textures of curly hair. The three main textures of curly hair are thin, thick, and wiry. Each type and texture of curly hair has its own unique challenges and best practices.

For example, fine curly hair is more prone to frizz and breakage than thick or wiry curly hair. This is because there are fewer cells in each strand of fine hair, making it weaker. To help combat frizz and breakage… 

• Use a gentle shampoo and conditioner
• Avoid heat styling
• Use a lightweight serum or oil

Medium curly hair is the most versatile type of curly hair. It can be styled in a variety of ways and is less prone to frizz and breakage than fine curly hair. To style medium curly hair, you can… 

• Use a curling iron, 
• Use a diffuser
• Simply let it air dry

Coarse curly hair is the thickest and strongest type of curly hair. It is less prone to frizz than fine or medium curly hair, but it can be more difficult to style. The best way to style coarse curly hair is to use a diffuser or let it air dry. Avoid using a curling iron, as this can damage the hair.

Products That Work Well For Curly Hair

Now that you know all about the different types of curl patterns and textures, it’s time to talk about products! 

When it comes to curly hair, you’ll need a few essential products in your arsenal. These include

• Shampoo
• Conditioner 
• Leave-in conditioner
• Hair serum
• Gel

Shampoo and conditioner are essential for all types of hair, but they are especially important for curly hair. This is because curly hair is more prone to dryness and breakage. Look for shampoo and conditioner formulas that are designed specifically for curly hair. These products will help to hydrate and nourish your curls.

Leave-in conditioner is another essential product for curly hair. This type of conditioner will help to detangle your hair, fight frizz, and add shine. Apply leave-in conditioner to damp hair before styling.

Hair serum is a great option for those with frizzy hair. The best hair serum contains oils that can help to tame frizz and add shine. Apply a small amount of serum to damp or dry hair, focusing on the ends.

Gel is a must-have for those with coily hair. This product will help to define your curls and prevent frizz. Apply gel to damp hair, using a small amount.

How To Take Care Of Curly Hair (And What To Avoid)

Now that you know all about the different types of curly hair and which products work best for each type, it’s time to talk about how to develop a hair care routine that works. 

The best way to care for curly hair is to… 

• Use a gentle shampoo and conditioner
• Avoid heat styling
• Use a lightweight serum or oil

When shampooing your hair, be sure to use a gentle formula. Avoid shampoos that contain sulfates, as these can be harsh on curly hair. Instead, look for shampoos that are designed specifically for curly hair. These products will help to hydrate and nourish your curls.

Conditioner is also essential for curly hair. Be sure to use a conditioner that is designed specifically for curly hair. Conditioners help add moisture and strength to the hair, preventing breakage.

Avoid heat styling your hair, as this can damage the hair. If you must use heat, be sure to use a heat protectant. Heat protectants help to shield the hair from damage caused by heat styling.

In addition to using a gentle shampoo and conditioner, be sure to use a lightweight serum or oil. These products can help to tame frizz and add shine. Apply a small amount of the best hair serum or oil for your hair when it is damp or dry, focusing on the ends.

Start Your Journey To Beautiful Healthy Curls

Curly hair is beautiful, but it does require special care. Be sure to use a gentle shampoo and conditioner, avoid heat styling, and find the right lightweight serum or oil. These tips will help you to keep your curly hair looking its best.

If you’d like to learn more about products created specifically for gorgeous curly hair, check out the Modern Core shop. Our products are designed with your unique hair in mind!