Naturally curly hair comes in beautiful, unique textures. But uncontrolled frizz and undefined clumps can disguise curl pattern. With the right techniques, you can train your curls to bring out their best spiral shape, spring, and definition.
What Does It Mean to Train Curly Hair?
Training curly hair involves gently encouraging your natural curl pattern into uniformity and definition. The goal is not to alter your curl type but to maximize the bounce, coil, and beauty already inherent in your locks.
Training teaches curls to:
- Coil in a consistent direction
- Form defined clumps instead of frizz
- Create spiral shapes from root to tip
- Hold their shape between washes
When done correctly, training enhances and celebrates your hair’s natural curl potential.
How to Train Curly Hair
Training curly hair takes some trial and error. But these tips will point you in the right direction:
Start with a Clean Slate
Damaged, dry hair won’t hold a curl shape well. Clarify and deep condition to optimize moisture and elasticity.
Work in Small Sections
Divide hair into 1-2 inch sections. Larger sections won’t allow you to shape curls precisely.
Drench Hair with Water
Soaking wet hair will be pliable and easy to shape. Apply a leave-in conditioner for slip.
Choose a Curl Training Method
Popular techniques include:
- Finger coiling strands around fingers
- Brush styling by twisting hair around a Denman brush
- Twisting or braiding sections
Work in the Natural Curl Direction
Enhance the natural curl pattern rather than forcing unnatural shapes.
Define with Styling Products
Use a curl cream or custard, then seal with gel for hold.
Air Dry Completely
Let curls set fully before gently “scrunching out the crunch.”
Train Consistently
Train curls for multiple washes so they “remember” the enhanced pattern.
With practice and TLC, you’ll reveal your hair’s maximum curl potential!
Step-by-Step Guide to Finger Coiling
Finger coiling is a popular curl training method. Follow these steps:
Wash and Condition Hair
Shampoo and conditioner as usual. Finger coil conditioner in the shower for extra moisture.
Add Leave-In Conditioner
Evenly distribute a nourishing leave-in cream or spray when hair is dripping wet.
Section Hair
Work in 1-2 inch sections for maximum definition. Clip up the rest.
Apply a Styling Product
Use a quarter-sized amount of curl cream or custard. Light gels or mousse work too.
Coil Strands Around Fingers
Take a section and wind hair from tip to root around 1-2 fingers into spiral shapes.
Coil Each Section
Repeat the winding method, coil by coil, on all sections—ensuring curl direction aligns with your natural pattern.
Seal with Gel
Finish with a palm-sized amount of strong hold gel, prayer hands distributed and scrunched in for hold.
Air Dry Fully
Let curls dry untouched. Wait until 100% dry before gently “scrunching out the crunch” of gel.
Repeat Often
Train curls for multiple washes so the enhanced pattern sticks. Embrace your beautiful coils!
Curl Training Tips for Success
Follow these best practices to master curl training:
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Add moisture first: Drench hair in water and conditioner so it’s pliable. Leave-in conditioner also prevents snags.
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Work in small sections: 1-2 inch sections allow you to shape curls precisely from root to tip.
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Enhance natural growth direction: Work with hair’s natural curl direction, not against it.
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Use the right styling products: Light creams or gels for training, then strong hold gel to set.
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Air dry fully before scrunching: Letting coils dry completely helps set the enhanced shape.
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Train consistently: Repeat curl training for multiple washes so hair “remembers” the curl pattern.
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Record your process: Take photos and notes to track improvements in definition over time.
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Adjust as needed: Fine-tune techniques until you reveal the bounciest coils.
Common Curl Training Questions
Training your curls takes patience and practice. But you’ll get the hang of it! Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
How long does it take to see results? Consistency is key. Train curls for at least 6 washes before assessing improvements in definition.
How often should I train my hair? 1-2 times per week works for most. Balance training with giving curls a break.
What if sections won’t coil? Simply work in the natural curl direction. Forcing unnatural shapes will cause frizz.
Can I train wavy hair? Yes! Wavy hair may get subtle refinement in pattern rather than tight uniform coils.
Will training make my curls tighter? Not necessarily. The goal is enhancing your existing texture, not altering curl type.
Is training bad for delicate curls? Take care not to over-manipulate. Use plenty of moisture and handle hair gently.
Maintaining Your Trained Curls
Once you’ve put in the work to better define your spirals, maintaining results is key.
- Stick to a consistent curl routine with the right products for your hair.
- Refresh curls on non-wash days by dampening and finger coiling the most unruly sections.
- Use satin pillowcases and loose protective styles at night.
- Schedule occasional protein treatments to fortify curl shape.
- Get regular trims to prevent splits from forming.
- Clarify once a month to remove buildup.
Think of curl training like fitness for your hair—just a few sessions won’t make lasting change. But regular “workouts” enhance and maintain beautiful bouncy curls!
Celebrating the Diversity of Curly Hair Textures
The goal of curl training is never to fundamentally alter your natural texture. Rather, it gently brings out the best in the unique curl pattern you were born with.
There is no ideal curl type—only celebrating healthy hair and enhancing what makes your coils special. The diversity of curl shapes, sizes and textures is what makes the curly community so vibrant.
Whether you have loose waves or tight spirals, rest assured your hair is beautiful. With the right curl care and training techniques, you can help your locks reach their full potential.
The Takeaway: Embrace Your Texture
With patience and TLC, you can reveal your hair’s true curl pattern. But the journey is just as important. Along the way:
- Appreciate the hair you have, frizz and all.
- Take notes on what works and doesn’t work for your strands.
- Don’t force your hair into unnatural shapes.
- Adjust techniques until you unlock defined curls.
- Have fun enhancing your gorgeous natural texture!
Curl training is all about bringing out the best in your unique hair texture. Embrace the journey, enhance your spirals, and let your hair shine!