How to define my curl?
As hair professionals, we like to say, “Know thy curl and to thine own curl be true.” One way to identify your specific type of hair curls or hair coils is by using the curly hair typing system. While the system may have controversial origins, it can be helpful in identifying your curly hair’s specific texture so you can find better styling products and techniques for you. In the modern version of this system, introduced by celebrity stylist Andre Walker in the 1990s, there are nine curl types, from 2a to 4c. They range from loose S-shaped waves to tight coils. It’s possible to be between curl types or to have a combination of types, but as long as you can identify the general shape of your curls, you’re on the right track to understanding how to hairstyle curly hair.
Care routines and products for curly hairstyles
Once you have identified your curl or coil type, you can better establish a curl care routine and choose the right curl styling products for your curly hair There are shampoos, conditioners, masks, mousses and other styling products designed specifically for curly hair. Some of the main concerns when it comes to caring for and styling curly hair? Hydration, shine and frizz. Nourishment and protection are key for curly hairstyles.
To express your unique curl, consider adapted curl defining products. L’Oréal Professionnel’s Curl Expression range features products to supercharge your curls & coils with professional hydration, harnessing the power of concentrated actives for every step of your curly hair routine, from cleansing to styling. Different routines are adapted for different hair types, whether coils, loose curls or tight curls.
When it comes to styling curly hair, you want to be careful with heat. All types of curls, from kinky to wavy, can be stressed by heat styling, so you want to make sure you use a hair dryer for curly hair. The L’Oréal Professionnel AirLight Pro dries with the speed of light, literally. It uses infrared light to directly target water molecules, mimicking natural evaporation with the speed of light. It’s been tested and approved by top hair pros and, paired with the right styling products, it’s perfect for styling curly hair at lower temps and in shorter times. Be sure to use a wide tooth comb to help relax your curls for styling.
Hair cuts for curly hair
So, what are the best hairstyles for curly hair? Having curly hair is far from a limiting factor in terms of hair cuts. You can go long or short, retro or modern, blunt or layered. Yes, your curls may require a little extra attention or TLC when it comes to maintenance and styling, but there are so many options for hair cuts for curly hair. Different curl types and hair textures may be better suited to certain cuts or shapes, and as with hair of any texture, you’ll want to pay attention to the shape of your face, too. From short to long, here are some of our favorite hair cuts for curly hair.
Short curly hairstyles - cropped
Close-cropped hair works well for a range of different curly hair and coil types. It’s a great way to show off those curls without too much styling.
Short curly hairstyles - pixie
Finer, thinner curls are perfectly adapted for finger wave pixie cuts with a vintage, Flapper-inspired vibe. A curly pixie cut can work with or without bangs.
Short curly hairstyles - afro
From the TWA (Teeny Weeny Afro) to a full-on 70’s Afro, this cut is a great way to play with shape and volume to highlight your curls.
Medium curly hairstyles - bob
A well-shaped bob, whether closer to the chin or shoulder, can do wonders when it comes to flaunting the natural bounce of your curly hair. Technically, the longer the bob, the closer to a “lob” it is.
Medium and long curly hairstyles - shag
A soft, shaggy look for curls is extremely versatile, and works well on a range of lengths and textures. We particularly like it as a medium curly hairstyle.
Curly hairstyles for every occasion
We believe in flaunting your curls at every occasion, whether casual or formal, day or night. Choosing hairstyles for curly hair is just about expressing your curls – and yourself – at every moment.
Loose curly hairstyles
Let your hair down, literally. If you are taking care of your curls, there is no reason not to flaunt them as they are.
Twist curly hairstyles
Without overly taming or working your curls, you can twist one or several sections into a loosely pulled pack or pinned up look.
Bun curly hairstyles
Depending on the length of your locks, you can pull those curls back into a bun. Whether a topknot or closer to the nape of your neck, a bun is a way to add a little polish.
Choosing your curly hair look
From long curly hairstyles to short curly hairstyles ones, from sleek to voluminous, there are so many curly hairstyles to choose from. As long as you have the right products and tools, any curly hairstyle you choose is the right one for the occasion.