In this blog, I’ll talk about how you can transition back to your natural hair, whether it’s wavy or curly. I’ll explain which products to use, styling methods, and what the overall process might look like.
In recent years, curly hair has become a trend, and more people are embracing their natural texture. I think this is partly because there are now so many more product options than just mousse that makes your hair feel crispy!
TikTok has also played a big role in the curly hair comeback. There have been so many videos circulating with people saying, “If your hair gets frizzy when you brush it, it might actually be curly.” In the past, many people straightened their hair to get rid of frizz, which often led to dryness or even damaged their natural curl pattern.
Step 1: get a haircut
If your roots are curly but the ends are straight, it likely means your ends are damaged and need to be cut off. Cutting off dead ends will make the transition much easier.
Getting a haircut is also great for adding shape, especially for curly hair. Sometimes, curls get weighed down, so adding layers and shape can help bring them back to life. For curly hair, I usually recommend getting a haircut every three months. This way, you keep it healthy without needing drastic cuts each time.
Step 2: invest in a good shampoo and conditioner
Curly/wavy hair can be tricky because some shampoos are too heavy, while others are too light. Here’s how to narrow it down based on your hair type:
- Finer wavy/curly hair → Go for a hydrating shampoo and conditioner. This provides moisture without being too heavy.
- Thicker, tighter curls → Choose a moisturising shampoo and conditioner to deeply hydrate your hair and make your curls softer and less coarse.
Check out my blog on the best shampoos here.
Step 3: use the right styling products
I always recommend starting with a heat protectant spray and a leave-in conditioner – both are great for textured hair.
When your hair is wet, apply a heat protector or leave-in conditioner first. Then, choose a curl cream, curl gel, or mousse (depending on your preference).
Here are two ways I apply products:
1. Twist method (for more defined curls)
- Apply a 10p-sized amount of product to your hands and distribute it evenly.
- Section your hair. Take a finger-width section and twist it—this ensures even product distribution.
- Repeat for the rest of your hair, working in sections (left side, then right, then back).
- This YouTube video is a good example
2. Scrunching method (for a more natural wave)
- Section your hair and comb through each section with a wide-tooth comb.
- Gather the hair in the palm of your hand, scrunch it up to the roots, then release.
- If your hands feel dry, apply a bit more product and repeat.
- This YouTube video shows how to scrunch your hair perfectly
Drying with a diffuser
- Use low heat and high speed.
- Try not to touch your hair too much—this can cause frizz. Instead, count to 10 in one section before moving on.
- Start at the roots, then move to the ends.
- You don’t have to dry your hair 100%—leaving it slightly damp can actually help control frizz.
- This YouTube video teaches how to diffuse your hair
Tip: If you’re using mousse, dry your hair enough so it doesn’t stay crunchy. The drier it gets, the softer it will be! Mousse is better for thicker hair rather than fine hair.
Check out my product blog for recommendations!
Tip: Spraying hairspray on wet hair can help prevent frizz!
Once you’re done drying, I like to use hair oil to break up the curls or simply shake the hair out to keep it from looking too “set.” Just be careful not to pull at the curls too much, or you might ruin them!
Step 4: Refresh your curls without washing
If your curls need a refresh but you don’t want to wash your hair, try spraying a leave-in conditioner throughout to revive them!
Finally, one last point
Transitioning back to your natural hair is a process—the more you do it, the better your curls/waves will get. So, don’t give up too quickly!