A comprehensive guide to the Curly Girl Method

Here, a step-by-step break down on how to master curls, coils and waves

By Scarlett Keddie | Sep 11, 2024

A comprehensive guide to the Curly Girl Method — Instagram: Zendaya

A step-by-step guide to the Curly Girl Method

Has the curly haired girl method been popping up in your algorithm? Cause us, too. And if it hasn’t, well, welcome to the world of taming the beautiful mane. We’ve developed a comprehensive guide on how to make the most of your bountiful, perfectly unpredictable locks.

What is the Curly Girl Method?

At it’s heart, the curly girl method is a reclamation of natural curly, coily and wavy hair, and essentially loving what your mum gave you. Out with heavily, chemical-y altered hair, and in with your natural curls and waves.

TikTok, which of course knows best with all things trends (good and bad) has billions of views set against the term ‘The Curly Girl Method’. Said method is usually five to six steps long—starting with cleansing and ending with drying—and leaves the head of hair owner with, well, a beautiful head of natural hair. It’s accentuating what you have, not changing it.

How long does it take the Curly Girl Method to work?

This is subjective to each person, as details like hair porosity, thickness and your schedule will affect how long it takes to work. Generally it will take a few weeks to tweak and work with the products that best suit your hair texture.

Which ingredients should I avoid with the Curly Girl Method?

Additives such as sulphates, silicones, waxes, and alcohol are said to be a no-no when it comes to enhancing your curls. Why? Because curly hair is actually prone to dryness more than their straight cousins.

David Burton, Rogue Beauty educator, explains in more detail. “Curly hair has a natural texture that varies from loose waves to tight coils. It’s prone to dryness and frizz due to the shape of the hair follicle and the fact that natural oils have difficulty travelling down the twists and turns of the curl pattern,” says Burton.

“Proper care involves using the right products, gentle handling, and a regimen tailored to your unique curl pattern.”

Which products should I use for my curly hair?

Caring for curly hair requires a blend of the right products, proper techniques, and consistent care.

Burton explains that by following the correct steps and utilizing recommendations, you can keep your curls looking vibrant, defined, and healthy. Embrace your unique curl pattern and enjoy the journey to well-nourished hair!

Step One: Cleanse

Burton recommends using a sulphate-free shampoo to cleanse your scalp without stripping away natural oils. This is because sulphates can be harsh and drying for curls.

Maria Nila Coils & Curls Co Wash

This brand is leading the way in terms of sustainable hair care. The detangling conditioner wash looks after all curl types, and nourishes both the hair follicles and your scalp. Ingredients include shea butter, aloe vera, vitamin E and jojoba oil.

Step Two: Condition

Burton recommends using an additional product that’s specifically formulated for curly hair and to focus here on the mid-lengths and ends which tend to be drier.

R+Co Bleu Soft Bounce Conditioner

R+Co have done it again with this conditioner that thoroughly nourishes your locks using the likes of banana fruit extract and black seed oil. Free from all of the nasties, simply gently squeeze excess water from your hair and after combing through with your fingers, leave on for at least one minute.

Step Three: Deep condition

Deep conditioning your hair once a week will show great results, insists Burton. It’ll up the nourishment and hydration factor.

R+Co Bleu Sleep Masque Night Repair Serum

Apply this luxurious mask overnight and wake up to bouncy, maintained tendrils. This serum is blended with the brand’s strengthening and shine-enhancing BLEU molecule complex, green caviar rich in vitamins and minerals to nourish and revitalise, and ceramides that correct damaged cuticles by sealing cuticle cells down.

Step Four: Detangle

Detangle your hair while it’s wet and coated with conditioner to prevent breakage. Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers. Easy.

Oribe Hair Care Priming Lotion

Self-proclaimed hair care for the hair-obsessed, Oribe are the holy grail of luxury hair lovin’, and this leave-in detangler absolutely meets the brief. This blend helps to not only prevent breakage, but also moisturise and smooth strands. Take special note of the bergamot, white butterfly jasmine and sandalwood notes.

Step Five: Style

Burton recommends a leave-in conditioner, or curl cream, to dampen your hair, which will ultimately enhance your curl definition and manageability.

R+Co Turntable Curl Defining Crème

This styling product offers a lightweight way to nourish and shape wavy or curly hair without weight or crunch. Instead, it imparts moisture, blocks the impacts of humidity, and adds noticeable shine. Two enviable ingredients? Rice protein for improving strength and coconut oil for optimal scalp health.

Additional tips for curly hair, per an expert

Avoid rough towel-drying: Instead, use a microfiber towel or an old cotton T-shirt to gently blot excess water from your curls.
Avoid heat styling: Excessive use of heat tools can dry out and damage your curls. Opt for heat-free styling methods or use heat tools with caution.
Refresh curls: Use a curl refresher spray to revive curls between washes and reduce frizz.
Trim regularly: Regular trims help to remove split ends and maintain your curl pattern, keeping your hair looking healthy and well-shaped.
Hydrate from the inside out: Drink plenty of water and eat a balanced diet to keep your curls looking healthy and vibrant. It’s the ultimate self-care routine.
Experiment with products: Find products that work best for your specific curl type and texture. It might take some experimentation to discover what your curls love.

Do you ever brush your hair with the Curly Girl Method?

The general recommendation for the CGM is to refrain from over-brushing your hair. This is because it’ll separate the strands and can disturb the curl pattern. Though this can vary from person to person, it’s probably best to mainly brush when you wash your hair.

Is it OK to wet my hair every day with the Curly Girl Method?

Try to refrain from wetting your hair every day. Why? Because this will lead to thirsty, dried out hair and potential breakage.

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By Scarlett Keddie

Scarlett, Head of Brand for Australian Women's Health, is a fan of all things that include but are not limited to: sweaty endorphins, all types of soft cheese, a good scammer podcast, taping her mouth at night for better breathing and sleep, apple cider vinegar, and any other non-suffocating bio-hacks. Still trying to work out: why spin class bike seats are uncomfortable and where to watch Shark Week.