How to Turn Frizzy Curls Into Beautiful Twirls

Co-authored by Jasmin Todd

Last Updated: January 23, 2023

Having frizzy curls isn't always fun, but with a little care and time, you can have ringlets that shine with all their strength. Here's a guide on turning unmanageable frizz into glossy goddess curls that will look amazing.

Disclaimer: Get a curly cut to create the best results for styling.

Steps

1
Wash your hair 2-3 times a week. Shampoo dries out hair, which causes all that frizz!^{[1]
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Research source} When you wash, use only a little bit of shampoo, and plenty of conditioner. Look for shampoo products that do not contain sodium, laureth, or sulfate—this is what makes the shampoo sudsy, and dries out your curls.^{[2]
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Research source} Massage your scalp vigorously to work out the flakes and improve blood circulation - you'll see the difference in a few weeks.
- Your best friend against frizz is moisture to help create hydration. Deep conditioning helps most curl types achieve hydrated curls.
- To help keep the frizz away during the winter months, try using a deep conditioner with a heating cap or a hooded dryer weekly.
2
Comb through your hair with a wide tooth comb and rinse out the conditioner. Comb through your hair *before* you rinse out the conditioner. Then, rinse out the conditioner with cool water to close the cuticle and create natural shine.

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3
Squeeze your hair lightly with your hands to remove a little bit of excess water. Don't towel-dry your hair prior to adding leave-in conditioners or stylers—these products need a generous amount of water in order to distribute well.
- If you refrain from towel-drying your hair, your resulting curls will be smoother, shinier, and frizz-free.
4
Always follow up with a high-quality leave-in conditioner. Curly hair is thirsty for moisture, and frizz is a result of the individual hairs sticking out in search of that moisture. If you have fine hair, a professional-grade leave-in conditioner will work well. For coarse, thick hair, consult your hair stylist to find a rich creamy leave-in that will weigh down your curls a bit.
5
Finish with a styling lotion. Pump the recommended amount into your hands, and rub them together so that it is spread evenly on your hands. Always check the manufacturer's instructions before you get started, as different brands have different recommendations.^{[3]
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Research source}
- It may also help to consult a haircare professional on how to use a particular product.
6
Tilting your head to one side, smooth the product into your hair in sections. Work through your hair section by section. When the product has been distributed evenly, style your hair in the way that you would like.
- The best styling method for your curls is ultimately subjective. Styling methods like raking, praying hands, or using a Denman brush are all possible options. Denman brush techniques in particular help encourage and define curls, and are great for loose waves or tighter curls and coils.
7
Diffuse your hair with metal duck bill clips at the roots. You can encourage volume and lift by diffusing with metal duck bill clips at the roots and then diffusing for lifting. If you have longer and heavier hair, flipping your hair upside-down and diffusing with gravity can help lift your roots for volume.
- To air-dry, it's recommended to hover over the wet curls with a diffuser for 5-10 minutes (without touching) and then finish your air-drying naturally.
8
Scrunch diffused, dry curls with a light oil or serum. This helps to soften the cast curls, which should fall into place, move, and bounce. To encourage root volume, massage your roots with your fingertips—just be careful not to run your fingers through your dry curls. Massage the roots to discourage any unnecessary frizz or use a pick to encourage lift and break up any partings that expose the scalp.
9
Preserve your style while sleeping. Use a bonnet or the pineapple method with a scrunchie or silk/satin pillowcase to preserve and prevent frizz while sleeping. In the morning, shake out your curls by scrunching them dry. If further manipulation is needed, use a refresher spray to scrunch any misbehaving curls. Some tighter curl types may need to be refreshed with oil.
- You can preserve your style at night for a 3-7 day lasting style.

Expert Q&A

Question

How do you get nice curls with a diffuser?

Jasmin Todd
Curly Hair Specialist
Jasmin Todd is a Curly Hair Specialist and the Owner of Austin Curls in Austin, TX. With over 20 years of experience, she specializes in cutting and styling naturally curly hair. Jasmin trained at the world-famous Ouidad salon and is Ouidad certified. In 2022, Mane Addicts named Austin Curls as one of the Top U.S. Salons for Curly Hair.

Jasmin Todd

Curly Hair Specialist

Expert Answer

Use a diffuser with a concave cup to cradle your curls during diffusing. After applying a styling product on wet curls, gently dry them with a diffuser on low-medium heat, hovering your curls for five to ten minutes. Then, cradle the curls into the diffuser cup in an up-and-down motion until dry. This technique should encourage the curls and maintain the look. Using a diffuser the wrong way can encourage frizz.
Question

How can I restore my frizzed weave after a wash?

Community Answer

Put a little coconut oil on afterwards to give it a glossy, soft feel.
Question

What can I do to make sure my baby's hair is not so curly and frizzy?

Community Answer

Conditioner (any kind) is always a big helping hand!

Warnings

Be prepared for perfect strangers to pull your ringlets, just to watch them spring back into place.

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If your hair is permed, do not use this guide. You need to use special products for your hair, such as conditioner created especially for permed or color treated hair.

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