If you’re new to embracing your curly hair, styling can seem a bit overwhelming at first. But with the right techniques and a little practice, you can easily master some simple, go-to styles that showcase your natural curls. Whether you’re looking for everyday looks or something a bit more polished, here are some beginner-friendly curly hairstyles to try.
1. Wash-and-Go
What It Is: The wash-and-go is a staple in the curly hair community. It’s all about enhancing your natural curl pattern without too much manipulation.
How to Do It:
- Start with Clean, Wet Hair: After washing and conditioning, make sure your hair is still wet.
- Apply our Curly Hair Cream: Section your hair into two to four sections and apply the Curly Hair Cream! Remember, this is a THICK cream and a little goes a long way.
- Define Your Curls: Apply Curl Enhancer Gel , Anti-Frizz Gel, or Curly Hair Custard to define your curls. (Find out which products are best for your hair type in our curl quiz). Use the praying hands method (flattening the product between your palms and running them down your hair) to evenly coat your curls. Curls are friends, they like to be together!
- Scrunch Your Hair: Gently scrunch your curls upwards with your hands to encourage curl formation.
- Air Dry or Diffuse: Allow your hair to air dry, or use a diffuser on low heat to speed up the process. Avoid touching your hair while it’s drying to minimize frizz. When your hair is 70-80% dry, scrunch out your hair to release the gel cast.
Why It Works: The wash-and-go is perfect for beginners because it embraces your natural texture and requires minimal effort. It’s a great way to learn how your curls behave and what products work best for you.
2. Pineapple Updo
What It Is: The pineapple updo is an easy, protective style that keeps your curls out of your face while maintaining their shape. It’s also a great way to preserve your curls overnight.
How to Do It:
- Gather Your Hair: Flip your head over and gather your hair into a loose, high ponytail at the top of your head.
- Secure with a Scrunchie: Use a silk or satin scrunchie to secure the ponytail without creating dents or causing breakage.
- Adjust for Volume: Gently tug at the curls to adjust the volume and shape of your updo. You can leave some curls loose at the front for a more relaxed look.
- Optional: Lay Down Edges: Use a bit of gel or edge control to smooth down the edges around your hairline for a polished finish.
Why It Works: The pineapple updo is a quick and easy style that keeps your curls intact. It’s also perfect for keeping your curls fresh between washes.
3. Half-Up, Half-Down
What It Is: The half-up, half-down style is a versatile look that combines the best of both worlds—showcasing your curls while keeping them out of your face.
How to Do It:
- Section Your Hair: Start by sectioning off the top half of your hair, from just above your ears to the crown of your head.
- Create a Ponytail or Bun: Gather the top section into a ponytail or bun and secure it with a hair tie or scrunchie.
- Define the Curls: Use your fingers to fluff and define the curls in the top section, and do the same for the loose curls in the bottom section.
- Add Accessories (Optional): Enhance the look with hair accessories like clips, pins, or a headband for a personalized touch.
Why It Works: This style is great for beginners because it’s easy to do and works for both casual and more formal occasions. Plus, it helps manage volume while still showing off your curls.
4. Braided Crown
What It Is: The braided crown is a romantic, boho-inspired style that involves creating a braid that wraps around your head like a crown.
How to Do It:
- Part Your Hair: Create a deep side part and section off a small piece of hair at the front.
- Start Braiding: Begin braiding the section close to your hairline, adding more hair as you braid along the curve of your head. Continue braiding until you reach the nape of your neck.
- Secure the Braid: Once you’ve finished the braid, secure the end with a small hair tie. Tuck the braid behind your ear or pin it under the rest of your hair with bobby pins.
- Fluff and Define: Gently pull on the braid to make it look fuller, and define the remaining curls with a bit of curl cream or gel.
Why It Works: The braided crown is a beautiful, beginner-friendly style that adds a touch of elegance to any look. It’s also great for keeping your hair out of your face while still showcasing your curls.
5. Twisted Updo
What It Is: The twisted updo is a chic and simple style that involves twisting sections of hair and pinning them into an updo.
How to Do It:
- Section Your Hair: Divide your hair into several sections, depending on how thick your hair is and how many twists you want.
- Twist Each Section: Take each section, twist it from root to end, and then coil it against your scalp to form a small bun or twist. Secure each twist with bobby pins.
- Repeat: Continue twisting and pinning until all your hair is up.
- Finish with Accessories (Optional): Add decorative pins, clips, or a headband for an extra flair.
Why It Works: The twisted updo is a sophisticated style that’s easy to achieve, even for beginners. It’s perfect for formal events or when you want a polished look without too much fuss.
Final Tips for Styling Curly Hair
- Embrace the Learning Curve: Styling curly hair can take some practice, so be patient with yourself as you learn what works best for your curls.
- Use the Right Tools: Invest in a good wide-tooth comb, a microfiber towel, and a diffuser attachment for your hairdryer. These tools can make styling much easier.
- Don’t Forget to Protect: Always use a heat protectant if you’re using any heat tools, and consider sleeping on a silk or satin pillowcase to protect your curls overnight.
With these simple styles and tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering curly hair styling. Remember, the key is to embrace your natural texture and have fun experimenting with different looks.
Your curls are unique—celebrate them with styles that make you feel confident and beautiful!
Have questions? Email us hello@moptophair.com
Stay Curly! 💛
