Once detangled, brush slowly to set your curls, she advises. “The curls will begin to clump together,” she adds. This is where it’s important to use tension. After you’ve repeated this in all sections, “scrunch the ends to set the curls,” she says. It’s that simple. If you want to boost volume, that’s easily done as well: “When you get to the top sections I recommend brushing up to create a little volume,” says Gutterman. And just be mindful not to mess up the curls you’ve already created when you move on to the next section, she points out.
4. Dry the hair
When you’re done brushing your hair, air dry or diffuse your hair. “The key is to allow the hair to fully dry before touching,” says Ashley. Why? It’s the golden rule for definition, explains Ocando. “That alone cuts down more frizz than people realize.”
Original video of Malia Griggs testing Ouidad Universal Diffuser
Original photo from Malia Griggs testing Bounce Curl Define EdgeLift Brush
How to stop frizz and hair breakage when using a curl brush
If your curls or waves always seem to get frizzy, it’s likely that they need more hydration. “Frizz and breakage usually happen when the hair isn’t wet enough or there isn’t enough slip,” says Ocando. Before using a brush, “I always start with saturated sections, detangle first, and make sure my styling product is evenly distributed so the brush can glide without snagging,” she adds. You also don’t want to over-brush your strands. “I like to do one to two passes, or three if I really need it.” And as mentioned above, your curls must be 100% dry before breaking them up, fluffing them, or touching them. It’s a “non-negotiable,” says Ocando, “otherwise you’re creating frizz before the curl has a chance to set.”
To add extra hydration to your hair, consider a pre-wash hydrating treatment. “Curls need hydration, and anyone with curly hair will tell you their biggest complaint is frizz,” says Ocando. “The best way to combat frizz is to hydrate the hair before washing so you’re starting with maximum moisture. I always begin with a pre‑wash conditioning treatment like BÉSSA Beauty’s Pre‑Wash Conditioner on dry, unwashed hair. I leave it on for about 10 minutes, making sure the hair is fully saturated.”
How to prevent curls from falling flat
One of the worst feelings is spending time creating your hairstyle and perfecting your curls, only for them to fall flat and limp halfway through the day. The right styling products will make a world of difference. “Always make sure you are being intentional about the products you’re using and the way you are brushing the hair,” says Gutterman. “Mixing a product that has hold with a product that has moisture is important because this will make sure the curls stay defined.” She also recommends using a diffuser instead of air drying to help lock everything in place.
