So we asked top curl expert, international hair stylist, and creative director Aminata Kamara to break down the essential steps and products needed for any great curly hair routine that actually works.
“When you have curly hair, it can feel like you need a 10-step routine and an entire shelf of products just to get good results, which often becomes overwhelming and actually counterproductive,” Aminata tells us. “Whether you have fine, loose waves, or thick, tight coils, you can follow the same simple process with just a few tweaks to get the look you want.”
“One of the biggest mistakes people make is constantly refreshing their curls,” she continues. “I personally do not believe in refreshing. If you follow the method below, you should not need to add water or extra product until your next washday, as doing so often weighs the curls down and undoes the results from your washday.”
If your curls need a refresh, it’s usually a sign you need to wash again. But don’t fret—washdays and hair care recommendations are not a one-size-fits-all. Your lifestyle plays a role. If you are active, gym-based, or live somewhere humid, your washdays may be more frequent. But there are no strict rules; it is about what looks and feels best to you.
“The most important thing, regardless of curl type, is understanding what your hair needs and choosing your products based on that,” she says. “You do not need an overly complicated routine. These steps alone will give you definition, shine, and longevity between salon visits.”
Below, she shares her easy six-step curly hair routine.
The best curly hair routine, step by step
Step 1: Shampooing
Start with a clean base. If your hair feels greasy, dry, heavy with product, or your curls have lost their bounce, it’s time to clarify. A clarifying shampoo gives your hair a deep cleanse and resets it for optimal styling. Follow immediately with a moisturizing shampoo, which gives a gentler clean while adding softness, hydration, and bounce back into the hair.
Clarifying shampoo is not something you need to use often. Save it for when your hair really needs a reset. A moisturizing shampoo will be your regular go-to. Make sure you rinse thoroughly before moving to step two.
Cécred Clarifying Shampoo & Scalp Scrub
Oribe Eternal Curls Moisturizing Shampoo
Conditioner rehydrates the hair after shampooing, bringing back moisture and softness. It also provides slip, which is why I always recommend detangling at this stage, as it reduces frizz, counteracts clumping, and boosts definition.
