This is my favorite:
Black Orchid Hair Diffuser For Curly And Natural Hair - Professional Blow Dryer Diffuser to Maximize Frizz-Free Volume And Enhance Natural Curly Hair by xtava https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00VJ06PG8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_R0MFETSZX9CNRVW5RM19
I have to wet mine down each morning and scrunch with a bit of gel and leave in conditioner. This spray bottle is wonderful.
The leave in that I use is safe, I checked. The ingredients are:
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Water (Aqua), Polysorbate 20, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Water, Bambusa Arundinacea Stem Extract, Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil, Melia Azadirachta (Neem) Seed Oil, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Polyquaternium 10, Tapioca Starch, Propylene Glycol, Diazolidinyl Urea, Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate, Fragrance (Parfum)
I checked it on this website
Hi! Sorry I am late replying! So when you scrunch out the crunch (SOTC), instead of just doing it with bare hands or oil or whatever, I wear a satin glove. Like the kind you would wear to a prom in the 90s. I got this tip from Curls By Pearls. It helps minimize the frizz.
Here is an amazon link to a pair like the ones I got: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B076ZDPZSM/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I have this one and have been really happy with it. As a bonus, because it's 'universal' it will go on pretty much any blow dryer I want...
If you want to try co-washing, you might want to invest in a $3 Siliscrub. It makes a world of difference for me! I can scrub for 4 minutes instead of 10, and I always feel squeaky clean.
Well, I seriously spent a good amount of time searching for cg-friendly dandruff products on amazon. There are sulfate-free tea tree products, true dandruff is caused by the skin reacting to naturally-occurring malassezia fungus (normal part of the skin's microbiome, may or may not be an imbalanced overgrowth in people with dandruff). Tea tree oil is effective against the fungus but my sensitive skin reacts to tea tree :( l'oreal makes a sulfate free low-poo (?) called everfresh with pyrithione zinc, same ingredient in head and shoulders. L'oreal everfresh shampoo has cocomidipropyl betaine, it does have amodimethicone, but it is a silicone removed by coco betaine. So not 100% cg but maybe a good low-poo dandruff option if natural etc. oils don't work for you. Coal tar works best for my (severe) dandruff and I found this simple bar soap, with a short ingredients list, that I've read can be used for hair... I plan to use occasionally and follow with cowash. The soap: Soap Works Coal Tar Bar Soap https://www.amazon.com/dp/B009AG5BWC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_vj25CbKD7SNAC
I found some decent looking products that are budget friendly: Shampoo + Conditioner
My idea of budget, is less than a dollar an ounce. I mean, I find it a bit ridiculous to spend $3 an ounce, which was what I was being recommended by many articles.
This is the one I've been using recently. A lot of the organic labelled brand are full of preservatives and make my dry scalp worse.
There isn't much in this bottle, it's only 80ml, but it's the only one I've found that works.
I bought this cheap travel hairdryer https://www.amazon.co.uk/Remington-Hairdryer-Concentrator-Diffuser-Worldwide/dp/B01NCAPBDW/ref=asc_df_B01NCAPBDW/?tag=googshopuk-21&linkCode=df0&hvadid=310754896709&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=11639255293900123156&hvpone=&hv...
I didn't want to spend much incase my hair didn't like it, plus I wanted/needed something light weight. This was perfect, I was going to upgrade but I'm not going to. I have thick, dense hair so takes forever to dry naturally and didn't want a heavy dryer that makes my arms hurt.
He sleeps with it wet. Your son’s hair I bet wou Super Chamois - Super Absorbent Shammy Cleaning Cloth Value 6 Pack - Holds 10x It's Weight in Liquid https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01D0ICS6C/ref=cm_sw_r_awdo_Y0C6RK5QXPRHWH34BMFY?psc=1 This is what we have. It is synthetic. I wonder if I should edit my original post to avoid confusion.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0B1VGGPGP/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Hopefully it works this time!
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0B1VGGPGP/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Hopefully that works. It's kind of a scrunchie thing. The ones that hang down the sides look uncomfortable as all heck, so I haven't tried them.
I have the same issues with leave-ins, but “OI All in One Milk” by Davines is AMAZING! I use it as my leave-in …. It’s a game changer! https://www.amazon.com/Davines-OI-Milk-4-56-fl-oz/dp/B00CLIC7E6/ref=sxts_rp_s_a_1_0?content-id=amzn1.sym.37bfdf6c-7ccf-4cc5-bf39-7ab64af31a28%3Aamzn1.sym.37bfdf6c-7ccf-4cc5-bf39-7ab64af31a28&crid=25OC2MI99AXIR&cv_ct_cx=oi+all+in+one+milk+by+davines&keywords=oi+all+in+one+milk+by+davines&pd_rd_i=B00CLIC7E6&pd_rd_r=e0ef04a4-5260-4d73-8dcf-a49600858a69&pd_rd_w=wbEtq&pd_rd_wg=4iWA9&pf_rd_p=37bfdf6c-7ccf-4cc5-bf39-7ab64af31a28&pf_rd_r=1C34FJKZK9DGV4A4EGRS&psc=1&qid=1659409077&sprefix=oi+all%2Caps%2C81&sr=1-1-470306f1-0dca-446e-a010-67c3e8db9222
I know Manes by Mell has a few videos on how she wears scarves at night. Barring that, you could also try something like this: https://www.amazon.com/Company-Protection-Bandanas-Stylish-Reusable/dp/B09W57353S
Just instead of wearing it around your neck, you pull it all up around your hairline a la Marge Simpson.
I get migraines as well, and they make everything above my shoulders super sensitive. Are you sleeping on a satin pillowcase? I've noticed mine stay cooler with the thinner silk/satin fabric than the thicker ones.
Also, have you considered a net sleep cap, something like this? https://www.amazon.com/Pieces-Rayon-Crochet-Snood-Crocheted/dp/B08YRYSXW4
One of the big things to learn is to not brush your hair while it's dry. Start by taking a shower. Put a generous amount of conditioner in your hair. Then you can choose to use a shower comb to comb through the tangles. I then wrap my hair in a soft cotton tshirt to soak up some of the excess water. Then I got to sleep on a satin pillowcase and sheets. I can't sleep when using a hair bonnet, but a lot of people prefer that vs. using satin bedding.
I like this silicone one. It's inexpensive & collapses. Silicone doesn't get super hot like plastic ones and you can put your ends in the cup (section by section) and scrunch the to the root & hold 25-30 seconds. Dries fast!
$15.⁹⁹ Collapsible Hair Diffuser by The Curly Co. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B019GBG0IE/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_ZD10EP0KVJ3Z2C1G33KJ?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
lMO just a side note, I'd suggest long layers & more product. Your curls look weighed down
Look at these two pics... one is my hair long and wavy. One is shorter & layered & fabulous! https://imgur.com/gallery/t7i8xuv
Are you coloring your hair yourself?? If you’re using box dye from the drugstore that may be the part of the problem. Do you get your hair trimmed in a regular basis, like at least every 6 weeks. It looks like it has thinned, which also could be making it more tangled. IDK if your hair is thinning through breakage or if it’s something biological, ie, change in hormones, vitamin deficiency, etc. Not so sure Maui is a “better” hair care product, it’s still drug store level formula.
My advice just from the pics is 1. If you are coloring your hair yourself with box dye, stop immediately and have it done professionally.
CP-1 3 Seconds Keratin Hair Treatment, Hair Mask, Rinse Off Deep Conditioner for Dry Damaged hair, Protein Mask, Salon quality self hair care (13ml 20ea SET) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07WGK2JTV/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_GASWYWDK8PJMJSE5GVYX?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
If you find you do need a leave-in, try something like this that’s light weight and has a low Ph that will seal the cuticle of your hair.
Get your hair trimmed on a regular basis, at least every 6 weeks. You’d be amazed how much quicker your hair grows when it’s trimmed regularly.
If once you have been following these steps for a few weeks and don’t see your hair improving and thickening up go see your Dr and have a hormone, thyroid and vitamin levels blood work.
Good luck!
Any clarifying shampoo/product (also a Baking soda mixed with water to create a paste a leave on for 15-20 mins, rinse, shampoo out when you can’t afford or don’t want to run out and get clarifying product, should do the trick, then follow it up with a purple shampoo and if it’s still on the yellow side there are purple conditioning masks you can use.
A good color saving treatment routine should be a regular use of purple shampoo and mask conditioner, but only clarify maybe 1 per month to avoid dry out. Here’s a mask you can try (or something similar )
Purple Hair Mask for Blonde Hair - No More Yellow or Copper Tones - Deep Conditioner for Color Treated Locks with Keratin and Moroccan Argan Oil Treatment https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08BW6D5TY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_N54NQRW61G2TWEZBATQE Let us know how it works out!
I have the same hair and issue as you. These are the two I like right now: Arvazaillia Hydrating Argan Oil Hair Mask
Kristen Ess Weightless Hydration Daily Scalp + Hair Mask
The Kristen Ess product I use a lot more frequently. I find it hydrated without weighing my curls down. :)
Have you tried Tigi Bed Head Control Freak serum? I also tend to get the frizzies I’ve found if I spritz a little lite coat of hair spray when it’s wet and after setting it in place it seals the cuticle of the hair and prevents the frizz, doesn’t weigh down my hair or make of feel crunchy or dirty. A spray vs aerosol works best.
(Dove Style + Care Hairspray, Strength and Shine, Extra Hold, 9.25 Ounce https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007O74NMS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_SM0PST0BXDV2HATHX5NW
A satin bonnet or buff is a game changer! Buffs work for me SO well. I have one like this:
I put it on like a headband around my neck first, flip my head over and pull the open edge down along with my hair, and then flip my head back up while still holding the open part and shake my head a little so my hair settles onto itself in the buff. Then I go to sleep and have very low effort hair in the morning!
Yes, sorry for the delay. I'm loving this one right now so much I sent it to my Mom:
Love Beauty and Planet - Murumuru Butter and Rose Vegan, Paraben-Free, Silicone-Free, Cruelty-Free
I got it on Amazon (but I'm sure there's other online retailers!) Here's the amazon link (Canadian amazon)
Silk scrunchies are awesome if you want to put it up loosely, like for sleeping. The rest of the time I use a clip with claws or these really thick ponytail holders I found on Amazon. I like them because they’re actually fabric and not hard like an elastic.
20 Pieces Large Stretch Hair Ties Hair Bands Ponytail Holders Headband for Thick Heavy and Curly Hair (Black, 5 cm in Diameter, 1 cm in Width) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XSMCXZC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_917EBNNNNZ6SWWR7ZZCF
Same; this is what I use - pretty widely available and they work really well!
I have reently found this product for my 2.5 year old girl. We wash her hair on Wednesdays and Saturdays. When she gets out of the tub, I spray this on my hand and run it through her hair. Then we comb out any tangles. Then we put her in bed with wet hair and let it air-dry overnight. Between bath nights, We spray her hair with water and comb through her curls to liven them up again.
I bought this Paul Mitchell gel on Amazon based on a Curl Scan search. It’s protein and glycerin free, should be low residue from what I know. I got decent results on my thick, coarse, low porosity, heavy, wavy hair. I also like the Deva Curl spray gel but it has glycerin which my hair isn’t a fan of this time of year. It’s a lot more expensive though.
Tea Tree Firm Hold Gel by Paul Mitchell, 2.5 Ounce https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B00BTNJUTO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_ZDSQEX23N8RS3638WFW8?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
My front pieces always look weird too, I get it. I've been eyeing these rollers I saw other curlies using on Instagram and I know you can use it on damp hair! A good way to create uniform curls if it works and you don't need heat. If you use it I'd love to hear how it works. Linked here (:
If you can add a few mods dollars, I have this one and love it
Conair 1875 Watt Cord Keeper Hair Dryer, Black - Amazon Exclusive https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06X3VQ6ZY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_CS72MGJ61089BWASVHK2?psc=1
Do you use a diffuser? My hair takes a long time to dry too, and the diffuser helps a lot, also to prevent the "product weighing hair down" effect. Furthermore, I'd suggest looking for a leave in that is as liquid as water, or close to it, they're usually lighter. I use this one. I think it technically isn't a leave in, but it works good on my hair
Sure! I use a lightweight oil like apricot seed oil or almond oil and use the pump and squirt about 4 half pumps into various parts on my scalp. I let it sit for 30 min or so before washing. (I use a scalp brush with the shampoo above and let it sit for a minute to make sure it has time to break down the minerals in the water.)
There are a few different scalp oils too that work great for the scalp but some of them end up being heavier oils which my 2b/c hair doesn't handle well.
This one is universal, so it should fit most blow dryers. $20 on Amazon. There was a cheaper one, but the reviews weren’t as good.
Universal Hair Diffuser, Hair Dryer Diffuser Attachment for Curly and Natural Wavy Hair, Professional Blow Dryer Diffuser, Adjustable from 1.4 Inch to 2.6 Inch https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07ZJ6Z9Q7/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_4321XZQT4T9D343T63K1
>Thanks so much! Is it this one? https://www.amazon.com/Looks-Extreme-Sport-Tri-Active-Ounce/dp/B000A3V2BI Because I also see this one: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01B3OXZ26/ref=vp\_d\_cpf-substitute-widget\_pd?\_encoding=UTF8&pd\_rd\_i=B01B3OXZ26&pd\_rd\_w=fFsuz&pf\_rd\_p=1fb277a6-8ae3-47be-82e5-df85a9c1794f&pf\_rd\_r=KSZ45XJJDQ3TWZ3SSF62&pd\_rd\_r=5e3110cf-fe4...
>
>Dont know the difference?
I found that a Tangle Teezer brush was the absolute best thing. I’ve got the large, wet detangler and it’s amazing. Often just use it with water and no conditioner or spray. It’s really gentle on your scalp.
Get a wet brush and just add some of the conditioner you use mixed with water in a spray bottle. That brush was a life saver for me.
I don’t have great hair gel recs, I’d go with the recs from the other commenter here or search the sub for past recommendations. Recommend staying away from Kinky Curly Custard Gel- it flaked like crazy for me.
I also suggest a wash with clarifying shampoo to get the coconut oil out. You might need to use it two washes in a row. Coconut oil will coat the hair and make it look like yours does now. You may want to check your shampoo and conditioner for it. Argan oil is a much better leave-in and deep conditioning option as it’s a drier oil, which means it sinks in and washes out easily.
If you want to do deep conditioning in the future you can use the argan oil. Saturate your hair with it, leave on for 30mins-1hour or so. You can use a blow dryer on it for 5ish mins to help it sink in. Then wash as usual, it will wash out with regular shampoo.
If you’re still having issues with frizz or uneven oil distribution after trying the above this brush is great. It smoothes frizz and redistributes oil from the scalp. Use on dry, not wet hair, especially good at night before bed. Won’t work well with gel, but fine if you have some argan oil in you hair. Boar Bristle Hair Brush - Hair Brushes for Women & Mens Hair Brush, Best Detangling Brush, Boar Bristle Brush, Wooden Hair Brush, Curly Hair Brush, Ha https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0155HHQVS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_rRkZ8Z4gLdWXR
Ok y'all. I had this problem - I complained constantly on nights I washed my hair bc I didn't sleep well w it wet, I hated having a wet pillow, I got too cold, on and on and on.
My husband - he really is the best - found this on Amazon. It attaches to a hair dryer you already have. I put it on for ab 20-30 mins when I'm already in bed. Usually I read when I'm wearing it. Sometimes we watch TV but we have to put on subtitles. I can't recommend this method enough.
I think going to bed in a good mood w my hair makes my hair prettier in the morning too.
Which ones have you tried? I just ordered this one:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07WDKXSDP?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2_dt_b_product_details
because I saw someone using it in a YouTube video:
yes... I know exactly what you mean, I did the same! They discontinued the old bottle and there was an awkward gap between the new bottle. here is your favorite curly girl product again :) :
this one. is adjustable! I have 2c/3a hair as well and most dryers/diffusers blow too much air and ruin my curls. This one you can dial down the airflow perfectly! Worth the cost IMO
Siliscrub: SILISCRUB - The Original Silicone Shampoo Brush (Black) https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B07MNLDWKV/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_ECGYNR6K0RM7RFEXEJ6T
I do the cowashing step to get my scalp clean, and rinse all of it out so there’s no gunk left behind.
Then I put some fresh conditioner in my hair, focusing on the ends and allow it to saturate a bit.
I clarify with water-diluted apple cider vinegar about twice a month. Sometimes I wash with a gentle low-poo, for example this week I’ve been spending loooonng days out in the sun, wind, and dirt, and I just wanted to feel squeaky clean!
Continuous spray bottle was a game changer for me. Beautify Beauties Hair Spray Bottle – Ultra Fine Continuous Water Mister for Hairstyling, Cleaning, Plants, Misting & Skin Care (5 Ounce) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07GRD5WLD/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_74T0T3YFS34108RFZD6K?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Tbh, this. I got a few of these when I didn't want to get a weird tan before my wedding, and now I use them for plopping. No complaints so far!
Everyone gushes about the Dyson blow-dryer. Honestly, if it's ever in your budget or even if you just slowly save points at ulta and buy it that way it may be worth your while simply because It's said to cut drying time to a fraction.
But if you're like me and 500 on a dryer isn't really in the cards at the moment, I really love my conair dryer. It's a new model specifically for curly and textured hair. The diffuser is a massive bowl and really works great. I can't say I notice my dry time shortened too much though, definitely some. [here's a link to amazon.](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07VPNXN5J/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glt_fabc_8X8TMEGZFWR547Amazon.
Good luck on your journey. It takes patience!!
I'm not 100% sure, but I believe Shea is quite heavy. You could try to find a website that categorizes products by being heavy or not. I know one, but it's Dutch. Alternatively, you could just try other products and see if it makes a difference. Mouse for example is known to be light. I use a leave in that is runny as water, instead of thick like cream. It is from Maui: this one
That may help.
I have a collapsing diffuser, travel toiletry bottles, & I cannot stress enough the use of hats & headscarves to keep the mane in check & presentable while you're too busy having fun to worry about curl definition!
Try out a hair mask once or twice a week. I have been using this one recently and it’s worked great so far Shea Moisture Intensive Hydration Masque Manuka Honey & Mafura oil . It has made my hair more smooth and smells really nice. Good luck!
I use this and they make it in rose water too :)
Only ingredients are water ! Yay! Glycerin ! Yay! And either rose or lavender oil! Yay!
Heritage Store Moisturizing Mist, Lavender Water and Glycerin with Atomizer, 8 Ounce https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008MTFM5O/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glc_fabc_IxL3FbP9M2M9G
I bought this scalp massager on Amazon for less than $7. When I get flaky, I use this in the shower to loosen things up or really make sure that my shampoo/cowash/whatever is reeeally getting in there.
I will also add that a month or two into CGM, my scalp got super flaky and I almost gave up, but I stuck with it and it went away. Just a few weeks ago, I started getting dry and flaky again, and now I know it’s probably more likely to be environmental than CGM-related. Just a thought!
Yep! It's as easy as a deep conditioner. The instructions just say to put on clean hair, leave on for 10 minutes, then rinse out completely :)
Note: Olaplex 3 is the only "step" in the system that is sold to the general public (to my knowledge). I bought it on Amazon.
I bought a satin bonnet off Amazon and I LOVE it! I bought the extra large in anticipation of growing out my hair (currently above my shoulders) and it definitely has room for my future growth.
I recently discovered this balm by SheaMoisture. It’s been a game changer for keeping clumps together post scrunching out the crunch. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B079TBYVZC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_btf_t1_hDqHFb70WJVT9
This is the one I use. It works fine. I use the shea moisture protein mask because my hair likes protein. I wish I could find a mask with more protein and less moisture though.
Anyway, it also helps to wait a few minutes in the shower before washing. The hot water helps the cuticles open. Youre probably doing this before, but thought Id mention it.
> Bert's bees deep conditioner.
when I use gel on my hair i use 2-3 palms full. if you want a cheap alternative for gel you can buy the same one i have https://www.amazon.de/Eco-Styler-Styling-Olive-Produkte/dp/B003E82NG4/ref=sr_1_3?__mk_de_DE=%C3%85M%C3%85%C5%BD%C3%95%C3%91&crid=1C1FFHL6PJ9YZ&dchild=1&keywords=ecostyler+olive&qid=1598281504&s=beauty&sprefix=ecostyler%2Cbeauty%2C164&sr=1-3
this is like 2 litres of gel lmao. id like for it to be a stronger hold though. before you buy it, try with your own gel first, maybe the lack of gel is not the problem in your case.
​
also, i just saw that your frizz is mainly tiny lil' babby hairs. a good layered haircut can help you create little curl clumps or more defined waves. make sure to apply the gel to the top of your head too. Or you could finger curl those tiny lil babby hairs.
We have very similar hair. I comb when wet only and let my hair dry in a pineapple of loss head top bun. I'm in the states, and I don't know what you have available. While abroad I relied on cowashing and leave in conditioner. Specific brands I've been using are:
Oyin handmade hair dew daily quenching hair lotion https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00AFITAB2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_QQQlFb9HVBV6V
Shea Moisture silicon free leave in https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DFSL36F/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_bTQlFb3SH66PJ
I'm concluding from your reference to Harry Styles and being straight/cis, you feel that you have a "boy's" hair cut. Tools I used to feminize my previously similar cut were: dying, straightening/curlying, styling products, and accessories. My hair is frizzy and easily damaged so I now follow the Curly Girl method to avoid damaged. However, your hair is beautifully shiny and healthy looking. The products I use focus on decreasing friz and defining curls, like:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00AFITAB2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_CHBkFbDNQTEED
Shea Moisture, Carol's daughter, and select gels.
Would any of these producta be of use to you? I don't know. If you don't like your hair length now, plan how you want to grow it out. Undercuts have been difficult for me to transition. You have beautiful hair. If you have a style you know you want, this group would probably be able to help you achieve it.
I recommend the stilling product BedHead Catwalk Curls Rock. It gives great hold and a lot of volume while still being flexible.
https://www.amazon.com/Catwalk-Curls-Amplifier-Styling-Cream/dp/B00O5AKVPA
Thank you! I use a ton of gel. From the looks of it it may not be available in Canada (see this: https://curltalk.naturallycurly.com/discussion/161471/canadians-looking-for-la-looks-sports-gel-read-this). You can buy on amazon: LA Looks Extreme Sport Alcohol-Free Hair Gel | Level 10 Hold, 20 oz | 1-Unit https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0007RRNE2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_rs-LDb4H9PHYW