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If you were blessed with a head of curly hair, some days styling your hair can make the curls feel more like a curse instead of a blessing. Detangling can be a challenge if you don’t have the right products and you don’t know what you’re doing.
Pre-poo With A Natural Oil
For those of you who like going the natural route, this is perfect for you! What does it mean to pre-poo? This simply means that you apply oil to your hair about 15-20 minutes before a shower, then wash it out before you begin your regular washing routine.
I’ve used many natural oils like jojoba, tea tree, olive & coconut oil.
Coconut oil is probably my favorite because it solves a myriad of skin issues. It reduces inflammation, dandruff & itchy scalp.
Shea Moisture also makes a variety of natural oils that are hydrating for your scalp & hair.
Not only is it good for your scalp, but it works wonders on detangling. I love to use it after wearing a protective style for an extended period of time. Oil is also great for penetrating dry strands & bringing back a beautiful natural shine.
Deep Condition
If going the pre-poo route seems like too much maintenance for you, then deep conditioning is the way to go. Find a conditioner that you love, apply to your hair, and let it sit for at least 20 minutes.
To get the maximum benefit of deep conditioning, I suggest sitting under a hooded dryer.
If you have young children, put the conditioner on their hair when you first put them in the bath, then wash it out right before you take them out. I love using masks because they are thick and moisturizing. Carol’s Daughter Almond Milk Mask is a great one for all hair types.
Sitting under a dryer is not really an option for little ones that don’t like to sit still for extended periods of time.
If they are afraid of getting water in their face, then try using a splash guard like the Baby Kids Soft Shampoo Bath Shower Cap Hat Waterproof Shield.
Deep conditioning is a great way to bring life back into your curls, and a conditioner like Mielle Organics does most of the detangling work for you.
Use A Leave In Conditioner Or Detangler
I have 3 kids and both of them have curly hair in different textures. If I had to do without all products except one for them, detangler would be the one I would save.
Our favorite detangler is Kinky Curly Knot Today. It is lightweight and can handle any amount of tangles. I love it because it works for all 3 of my kids.
I’ll be honest, I use detangler & leave in conditioner. The leave in conditioner leaves the hair soft and moisturized after a wash. There’s no fear of dry hair in the morning.
Using A Wide Tooth Comb (Or Your Fingers) Makes Detangling Easier While Wet
Instead of fighting with your curls when it’s time to style, do yourself a favor and detangle in the shower or bath.
Once you find a good deep conditioner that moisturizes & detangles, use it to do the hard work for you.
In small sections, work a large tooth comb (or your fingers) through each section of hair. One of my favorite combs is the Conair shower comb. It’s cheap and gets the job done.
The thicker the hair, the smaller the sections need to be. Once you do this, styling will be a breeze.
Use A Steamer
Moisture is curly hair’s best friend. It reduces shrinkage & breakage. There are several steaming options: You can use a handheld steam, sit under a steamer (my favorite) , or use the steam from a hot shower.
One of the quickest ways to steam (and hydrate) hair is to use a handheld steamer like the Q-redew. The steam moisturizes my hair and instantly melts the tangles away.
It’s also a great way to intensify a deep conditioner or hot oil treatment. The Q-redew has long prongs that act like a comb, so sifting through the hair is a breeze.
What method of detangling works best for you??
Was this post helpful? Then share it with someone who struggles with their curly hair.
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Thank you for this! My daughter has beautiful curly hair (she’s Puerto Rican and Jewish), but we have a tantrum nearly every morning when she asks for a ponytail and I want to pick out her knots first. I’ve been using a co-wash and tons of detangler, but I’m going to try the coconut oil pre-poo and the deep condition.
I don’t know if I would use the steamer– I feel like it would just make her hair frizzy?
No! The steam adds moisture to the hair and makes it easier to style. You still have to put in a little work after steaming. It relaxes the hair follicle. Do you braid her hair at night before bed? That may help with the knots. Also try investing in a satin pillowcase.
These are great tips…it would work with my niece who has curly and wavy hair!
So glad this was helpful Jenny!
My daughter has beautiful curls that are always such a struggle to care for… I’ll be trying this out on her locks, thanks!
I hope this helps!
I don’t have curly hair, but my sister does! I’ll have to share this with her for sure!
Thanks Elizabeth!
Great tips for ladies with gorgeous curly hair, My hair goes frizzy and the tip about coconut oil is great!
Ellie | http://www.scotchandstilettos.com
Try gel for the frizz Ellie!
My sweet Marli has curly hair and it is crazy in the morning so I loved this. Going to have to try some of these products on her.
Let me know if this helps Linh!
Kinky Curly and a good natural oil are some of this curly girl’s favorite hair go-tos! I had no idea curl steamers existed though. Will have to check that out!
Yes girl, they do wonders for your curls!