Creating a curly hair routine is an exciting step toward embracing your natural texture. But once you’ve settled into a routine, how do you know if it’s really working? Curly hair can be unpredictable, and sometimes it takes a little fine-tuning to get your routine just right.
Here’s how to evaluate your progress and identify when it’s time to tweak your curly hair routine for the best results:
1. Assess How Your Hair Feels
One of the clearest indicators that your routine is working (or not) is how your hair feels.
- Does it feel dry or brittle? If your curls feel dry, it may be a sign that your hair isn’t getting enough moisture or that you're using too much protein in your products. Consider adding a deep conditioning treatment or switching to more hydrating products. Try our Deep Conditioner on your next wash day.
- Is your hair feeling greasy or weighed down? This could indicate product buildup or too many heavy products. You might need to clarify your hair with our Detox Shampoo or reduce the amount of styling products you're using.
If your hair feels soft, manageable, and moisturized most of the time, that’s a good sign your routine is working. If not, it’s time to adjust.
2. Check Curl Definition and Frizz Levels
How your curls look can reveal a lot about whether your routine is on point.
- Is your curl pattern well-defined? If your curls are looking limp or undefined, it could be a sign that you need more moisture or that you aren’t using the right styling products. Try experimenting with a stronger hold gel or Curly Hair Cream that defines and enhances curls.
- Are you battling frizz more often than not? If frizz is a constant issue, it could be related to your technique or products. Consider using our Mongongo Oil or adjusting your drying method (like diffusing on a low heat setting or air drying without touching your hair). Humidity can also affect frizz, so be mindful of weather changes.
If your curls are consistently defined and your frizz is under control, your routine is likely in a good place. If not, you may need to tweak your routine to target these issues.
3. Monitor How Long Your Curls Last
Curly hair routines are not just about how your curls look on wash day—they also need to hold up in the days that follow.
- Do your curls last several days? If your curls lose their shape quickly or get frizzy after a day or two, it could mean your routine isn’t providing enough moisture or hold. You may need to use more product during styling or add a mid-week refresh to bring your curls back to life.
- Is your hair drying out quickly between washes? If your hair feels dry within a day or two, your routine might need more moisture. Try using a Leave-In Conditioner or hydrating spray between washes to maintain moisture levels.
A good routine should allow your curls to last at least 2-3 days with minimal touch-ups. If your curls aren't holding up, consider adding more moisture or stronger styling products.
4. Evaluate Scalp Health
Your scalp is the foundation for healthy curls, so it’s essential to keep an eye on its condition.
- Is your scalp dry, flaky, or itchy? This could indicate that your scalp needs more moisture or that you’re using a product that’s irritating your skin. Make sure you’re using scalp-friendly, Gentle Shampoo and consider adding a scalp treatment or oil to your routine.
- Do you have product buildup? If your scalp feels greasy or has buildup, you might need to clarify your hair more often. Using a clarifying shampoo once a month can help reset your scalp and remove product residue. Try our Detox Shampoo for a scalp reset!
A healthy scalp is essential for healthy curls, so if you notice issues like dryness, irritation, or buildup, it’s time to reassess your routine.
5. Track Your Hair’s Reaction to Weather
Weather plays a big role in how your curls behave, especially in humid or dry climates.
- Is your hair more frizzy in humid weather? Humidity can cause curly hair to frizz and lose definition. In this case, you may need to adjust your routine with anti-humidity products, like a serum or gel with strong hold.
- Is your hair drier in winter months? Cold, dry air can sap moisture from your curls, leaving them dry and prone to breakage. In this case, you might need to use heavier moisturizers or incorporate more deep conditioning treatments.
If you notice that your hair reacts differently depending on the weather, it’s a good idea to have seasonal tweaks to your routine to keep your curls looking their best.
6. Listen to Your Hair’s Needs
Your hair’s needs can change over time based on factors like health, hormonal changes, or even stress.
- Has your hair changed in texture or porosity? Sometimes, changes in your hair’s porosity or texture may require a shift in your routine. For example, if your hair becomes more porous (meaning it absorbs and loses moisture quickly), you’ll need to focus on moisture retention with products like a Leave-In Conditioner and oils.
- Are your products still working? Even if your routine worked for months, your hair might start needing something different. If your favorite products stop giving you the results you want, it’s time to experiment with new ones.
Curly hair can be sensitive to internal and external changes, so being flexible with your routine is key.
7. Document Your Progress
It can be hard to notice small changes in your curls over time, so keep a photo journal or notes on your hair’s condition after each wash day. This will help you track patterns, identify what works, and see when things start to change. Over time, you’ll be able to pinpoint what your curls need and how to adjust your routine accordingly.
Final Thoughts:
Your curly hair routine is not a one-size-fits-all solution—it’s an evolving process. By regularly evaluating how your hair feels, looks, and behaves, you’ll know when it’s time to tweak your routine. Whether it’s adjusting moisture levels, changing styling products, or responding to the weather, small changes can make a big difference in the health and appearance of your curls. Listen to what your hair is telling you, and don’t be afraid to experiment until you find the perfect routine that keeps your curls looking their best.
Have questions? Email us hello@moptophair.com
Stay Curly! 💛
