Types & Styles of Curly Hair
First of all, there are several types of curl patterns: loose,
curly, and kinky. Loose or wavy curls are soft, less defined, and
feature big, shining waves of hair, approximately two inches wide.
These curls are the most versatile, and the easiest to style.
Curly curls
are considered more “classic,” and is hair that falls
in tendrils 1 to 1 ½ inches wide. When cut short, this curl
becomes tighter, transforming into looser spirals when it is worn
longer.
Kinky curls are tiny ringlets of hair an inch or less in diameter,
and are probably the most fragile of all three categories. While
it may appear to be strong and wiry, appearances are deceptive,
and it needs to be treated very gently.
There are also different textures of hair, fine and coarse. Many
people are surprised to learn that most curly hair is fine and delicate,
with coarse hair usually being limited to the straighter hair of
Asians and Native Americans.
How Often Should Curly Hair be Shampooed?
One of the most commonly asked questions is how often should hair
be shampooed? The answer depends on the type of hair. While most women
prefer to shampoo their hair at least once a day, this may or may
not be a good thing for the hair. Loose waves are fairly strong and
can stand to be washed four to five times a week, while medium curls
should only be shampooed every second or third day. Kinky, tight curls,
which are fairly delicate and fragile, will benefit from only being
shampooed once or twice a week to avoid drying them out.
Shampooing
your locks correctly is also important. Piling all of your hair
on top of your head and scrubbing in the shampoo should be avoided.
Instead, use your fingertips to gently massage the shampoo into
your hair and scalp.
Don’t be afraid to play with your curls! The best trick to
creating a beautiful look with your curls is to position them while
they are still damp and let them dry naturally. Try not to touch
the drying curls, you’ll most likely disturb their natural
spiral pattern and create unwanted volume or frizz.
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