Curly Hair and Humidity: How to Manage Frizz

Curly hair and humidity can be a challenging combination. The moisture in the air can cause curls to puff up, lose definition, and turn into a frizzy mess. But with the right techniques and products, you can keep your curls looking smooth, defined, and frizz-free, even on the most humid days.

Here’s a quick how-to to help you manage frizz when the humidity rises:

Understanding Why Humidity Affects Curly Hair

Humidity affects curly hair more than other hair types because of its natural structure. Curly hair tends to be drier, with the cuticle layer (the outermost part of the hair) often raised. When exposed to humid air, the raised cuticles allow moisture to penetrate the hair shaft, causing it to swell and become frizzy.

Tips for Managing Frizz in Humid Weather

A strong curly hair routine is the first line of defense against humidity-induced frizz. Here’s how to build a frizz-resistant foundation:

• Use a Moisturizing Shampoo and Conditioner: Hydrated hair is less likely to absorb excess moisture from the air. Use our Gentle Shampoo and Daily Conditioner to keep your hair hydrated and smooth.
• Deep Condition Regularly: Incorporate a deep conditioning treatment into your routine once a week to strengthen and hydrate your hair, reducing its tendency to frizz. Try our very own Deep Conditioner on your next wash day! 
• Rinse with Cold Water: After conditioning, rinse your hair with cold water to help close the cuticles and lock in moisture. This creates a smoother surface that’s less likely to frizz.

Choosing the right products can make all the difference in controlling frizz in humid weather.

• Leave-In Conditioner: Apply a Leave-In Conditioner to damp hair to add an extra layer of moisture and protection. Look for products with ingredients like glycerin, aloe vera, and silicones, which help to seal the hair cuticle and prevent frizz.
• Curly Hair Cream + Styling Gel: After your leave-in conditioner, apply our Curly Hair Cream and your choice of a styling gel. We offer styling gels like the Curly Hair Custard, Curl Enhancer Gel , & Anti-Frizz Gel . These products create a barrier that locks out humidity while adding shine and smoothness to your curls.
• Seal with Oil: Finish your routine by sealing in moisture with a lightweight oil like Mongongo Oil . This helps to smooth the cuticle and add a final layer of frizz protection.

Styling your curls properly can help minimize frizz, even in high humidity.

• Use a Curl-Enhancing Gel: A good gel can help to define your curls and hold them in place throughout the day. Apply the Curl Enhancer Gel  to wet hair, scrunch it in, and allow your hair to air dry or use a diffuser on low heat.
• Try the Plopping Technique: Plopping is a great way to define your curls and reduce frizz. After applying your styling products, wrap your hair in a microfiber towel or cotton T-shirt to help set the curls while they dry.
• Avoid Touching Your Hair: Once your hair is styled and drying, avoid touching it. The more you handle your hair, the more likely you are to disrupt the curl pattern and cause frizz.

Even with the best prep, humidity can sneak up on you during the day. Here’s how to keep your curls frizz-free on the go:

• Carry a Travel-Sized Frizz Fighter: Keep a curl refresher spray in your bag. We recommend a continuous spray bottle and one of our stylers. We offer travel size Curly Hair Custard that make it easy to apply on the go! If you notice frizz starting to appear, apply a small amount to your curls to smooth them out. Try our travel size Curly Hair Custard today! 
• Use a Silk or Satin Scarf: If the humidity is especially high, consider wrapping your hair in a silk or satin scarf while you’re outside. These materials reduce friction and help keep your hair smooth.
• Embrace Protective Styles: On particularly humid days, opt for protective styles like braids, twists, or buns. These styles help to shield your hair from the elements and keep frizz at bay.

How you care for your hair at night can influence how it handles humidity the next day.

• Pineapple Your Hair: Before bed, gather your curls into a loose, high ponytail on top of your head (known as the pineapple method). This helps preserve your curl pattern and reduces frizz.
• Sleep on a Silk or Satin Pillowcase: Cotton pillowcases can cause friction, leading to frizz. Silk or satin pillowcases allow your hair to glide smoothly while you sleep, keeping frizz to a minimum.

Embrace the Weather

While it’s important to take steps to manage frizz in humid weather, remember that some frizz is natural and can add to the beauty and volume of your curls. Don’t stress about achieving perfectly smooth hair every day—sometimes, embracing a bit of frizz can give your curls a more natural, lived-in look.

We hope with these tips and tricks, you can confidently face even the most humid days while keeping your curls defined, smooth, and beautiful. Remember, it’s all about maintaining moisture, sealing the cuticle, and protecting your hair from the elements. Embrace your natural curls and enjoy frizz-free hair all year round!

Have questions? Email us hello@moptophair.com 

Stay Curly! 💛