By following a consistent curly hair routine, your curls will stay healthy and look the way you want them to. As you get to know your curls better, you’ll discover a daily routine that works for your unique curl type and your lifestyle. Curly hair may require relatively little maintenance on a daily basis, but it does need more care on wash days or when certain issues arise. But it doesn’t have to be difficult if you follow these steps below.

Basic wash day routine

This routine is ideal for a regular wash day when you just need to cleanse, condition, and refresh your curls.

1. Use shampoo to cleanse your scalp and hair.
2. Use a leave-in conditioner to restore moisture, then rinse it out.
3. For extra hydration, use a leave-in conditioner to hydrate and smooth the cuticle.
4. Use your chosen styling products to add extra moisture, define curls, and prevent frizz.
5. Drying: natural or with a diffuser.
6. Finishing - This is optional, but you can use a hair oil to add shine, soften the gel layer, and lock in moisture.

Curl renewal routine

Ideally, you won't have to worry about your curls too much in the days between washes, especially if you're using a strong hold gel. Some days you might wake up and do nothing, but more often than not, you'll need to revive them without having to rewash your hair or completely reshape your curls. Just add a little water and/or additional product to effectively refresh your curls.

1. Moisturize: Gently spritz hair with water or wet your hands and smooth hair.
2. If your curls are dry or tangled, add a little leave-in conditioner or curl cream/gel, such as the one you used on wash day, and mix with a little water.
3. Dry for a few minutes with a warm or cool blow dryer or let it dry naturally.
4. Some gels can be reactivated by simply adding water, so you don't have to add more gel. However, if you feel like your curls are too frizzy, you can detangle them by mixing the gel with water and gently squeezing it.

Healthy curls take time and dedication

Nourishing your hair from the inside out is the key to healthy curls. If you are looking to start taking care of your natural curls now and want to restore them to their natural state, it will take time and dedication. It is very important to understand the unique needs of curls, follow a routine, and use products designed for curls - that is, products without any sulfates, silicones, or other harmful substances.