Celebrity stylist and SheaMoisture brand ambassador, Diane C.Bailey, shares exclusive tips on the curl wrenching mistakes many of us make when it comes to creating curls for specific hair-type and ensures that we have the low-down when it comes to curl world.
From styling Beyoncè to creating trend-setting looks for the runway, Diane’s expertise on natural hair spans more than 30 years and describes reintroducing women to their natural hair as her passion, drive and purpose.
Mistakes people with curls make
Diane explains the most popular mistakes that she sees often are that: “Many of my clients with curly hair or type 3 hair types want frizz-free curl definition. For full head curly girls, I recommend “less is more” – use products with a light touch. Many curly girls use heavy oily products to smooth the cuticle to reduce frizz, weighing down the hair. Light hydrating oils with anti–frizz benefits are the best solution. For voluminous curls minus the weight, I use SheaMoisture Fruit Fusion Coconut Water Weightless Texture Spray and the Coconut & Hibiscus Hold Curl Enhancing Smoothie.”
“A lightweight mousse and light hydrating spray are ideal for type 3a to redefine fine to medium “S” shape wavy/curls on either wet or dry hair. I use the moisture mist on the red carpet as a style refresher, to bring out shine and bust frizz.”
Frizz free curls
“Use the ‘LOC’ method with your favourite leave-in, oil and cream, selecting products that work for your hair’s texture, thickness, porosity, etc. This works well to nourish, moisturize and reduce frizz, while creating lasting styles. On freshly shampooed damp hair, moisturize hair with a small amount of your favourite leave-in. I use SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Grow Leave-in Conditioner, applying it sparingly to hair, avoiding the roots. To define curls, follow with your favourite styling cream. My go-to is Coconut & Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie. Finger coil to define and set curls. Finish with several drops of oil to seal in moisturize and bring out shine. Apply lightly throughout hair.”
How to define your style
Applying a product such as SheaMoisture Raw Shea Butter Extra Moisture Detangler helps to smooth dry, damaged hair and restore body. Diane recommends to “run the detangler through wet hair to achieve the best look and apply large pin curls. Begin to curl hair from the ends, working your way up to the roots, once you have curled one section secure in place with bobby pins. Blow dry hair with a diffuser which will set curls. Once dry, finger comb and style.
Creating perfect curls
Trying to tame and perfect curls can be tricky, Diane advises that you should: “Avoid heavy oily products that just lacquer. Find products that hydrate, without leaving a flaking, heavy, sticky finish.”
Prep work is essential too – “If you have a special event, shampoo your hair several days before. Curl memory takes a few days to find its moisture and curl balance.”
Remember to keep with what works for your hair type and your budget. Diane says: “Quiet your inner product junkie. If it works for your strands and supports your hair’s health, stick with it.”