The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) offers the following six expert tips for caring for curly and coily hair, aimed at minimizing breakage, maintaining hydration, and enhancing curl definition:
Cleanse as Needed
Curly hair does not require daily—or even weekly—washing. It is recommended to wash your hair at least once every 2 to 3 weeks to maintain a healthy scalp and healthy hair.
When washing long or thick hair, consider washing it in sections to minimize damage and tangling.
Choose a moisturizing shampoo specifically formulated for curly hair. If you frequently use a large amount of styling products (such as hairspray, oils, or waxes), it is recommended to use a clarifying shampoo before your moisturizing shampoo.
Maintain Hair Hydration
Curly hair tends to be drier than other hair types. After shampooing, apply a rich, heavy conditioner to your entire head (not just the ends).
After rinsing, apply a hair oil or leave-in conditioner.
If your hair is extremely dry or difficult to detangle, consider applying conditioner *before* shampooing.
Look for products containing argan oil, glycerin, or fatty alcohols (such as cetyl alcohol or stearyl alcohol)
Care for Your Scalp
Due to the longer intervals between washes, the scalp may accumulate excess oil, potentially leading to dandruff.
If using a dandruff shampoo, apply it only to the scalp; let it sit for 2–10 minutes (as directed by the product instructions) before rinsing. Use a moisturizing shampoo on the rest of your hair to prevent the anti-dandruff ingredients from drying out your strands.
Detangle Correctly
Never comb your hair while it is dry, as this can lead to breakage and frizz.
When detangling—either during washing or between washes—thoroughly wet your hair first, apply a leave-in conditioner, and then use your fingers or a wide-toothed comb/specialized curl brush. It is also recommended to work in sections.
Sun Protection
Heat and UV rays can make curly hair even drier. When spending time outdoors, consider wearing a wide-brimmed hat and keeping your hair well-hydrated.
Nighttime Care
Before going to bed, tie your hair into a loose ponytail at the crown of your head (known as the **"pineapple"** method) or braid it loosely.
This helps reduce friction between your hair and the pillowcase, preventing frizz and breakage.
