The Curly Girl Method: Your guide to beautiful, defined curls

You've probably seen it everywhere on TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube – the Curly Girl Method has become a total gamechanger for curly hair!

If you're tired of flat, frizzy, or undefined curls, it's time to give this method a try.

In this comprehensive Curly Girl guide series, you'll learn everything you need to know about the Curly Girl Method, Co-Wash, and which Curly Girl products can help you achieve the most beautiful, healthy, bouncy curls.

Ready to get started?

What is the Curly Girl Method?

The Curly Girl Method (often shortened to CG Method) is a hair care routine created by Lorraine Massey, the author of Curly Girl: The Handbook. This method is specifically designed for people with curly or wavy hair, aiming to create healthy, defined curls by avoiding harmful ingredients like sulfates, silicones, and drying alcohols.

The philosophy behind the method is simple: Care for curly hair with natural, moisturizing, and nourishing products. By removing the harmful ingredients and using the right care products, your hair will transform into the healthiest and most defined curls.

How Does the Curly Girl Method Work?

The Curly Girl Method is all about caring for curls without stripping the hair of its natural moisture. The method excludes hair products containing sulfates (which can dry out hair) and silicones (which build up on the hair and make it heavy).

Instead, you focus on Curly Girl hair products that provide moisture, nourishment, and definition. The basic philosophy is to allow your hair to retain its natural oils and structure to achieve the best results.

Understanding Your Hair Type

When following the Curly Girl Method, it's important to consider your hair type, as it plays a significant role in how you care for and style your curls.

Hair types are divided into 4 main categories: Type 1 (straight hair), Type 2 (waves), Type 3 (curls), and Type 4 (afro curls). Each category has its own unique structure and needs, which is why each type requires specific care and styling products.

Type 1: Straight hair, generally lacking volume or curl.

Type 2: Wavy hair, ranging from light waves to more defined waves.

Type 3: Curly hair with distinct spirals and volume. Curls can be loose or tight.

Type 4: Afro curls, which have very tight curls or zigzag patterns.

Within these main categories, there are also subcategories that consider the thickness of the hair strands (fine, medium, or thick) and the hair's porosity (how well the hair absorbs and retains moisture). Understanding your exact hair type allows you to choose the right hair care products and techniques, which is key to achieving healthy, defined curls with the Curly Girl Method.

Getting Started with the Curly Girl Method: A Step-by-Step Guide

The Curly Girl Method can seem a bit confusing at first, but with this simple guide, you'll quickly get the hang of it! Follow these five steps, and you'll have healthy, soft, and defined curls in no time.

Step 1: Last Wash - Avoid Sulfates and Silicones

Before starting the Curly Girl Method, it is recommended to do a "last wash" to thoroughly cleanse your hair of any silicone and wax residues. For this, use a sulfate-containing shampoo without silicones to wash out wax and silicone buildup, as these can dry out and weigh down your curls.

Step 2: Wash Your Hair with Co-Wash / Low-Poo

Instead, opt for a co-wash (conditioner wash) or a low-poo shampoo that gently cleanses without removing the hair's natural oils. It’s important to scrub and massage your scalp for 4-5 minutes to loosen any dirt from the scalp.

Co-wash is perfect for reducing frizz and keeping the hair hydrated, while low-poo shampoo cleans effectively without drying out the hair. Always check the ingredients list and choose hair products free from sulfates and silicones for the best results.

Step 3: Care with Conditioner

After washing, it’s time for moisturizing care with conditioner. As you distribute the conditioner through your hair, you can detangle it with your fingers. Let the conditioner sit for 3-5 minutes before rinsing out.

Step 4: Gently Dry Hair - Squeeze for Defined Curls

Let your curls air-dry, or use a diffuser on low heat if you're in a rush. Avoid heat styling tools like blow dryers and straighteners. Use a microfiber towel or a cotton T-shirt to gently press the water out of your hair instead of a regular cotton towel.

Gently squeeze your hair to enhance curl definition and reduce frizz. Use your hands to press the styling products into your hair – this helps define the curls.

Step 5: Styling - Moisture is Key

You can now style your hair with gel, curl cream, or other products to bring your curls together. Curls love moisture! After washing, always use a leave-in conditioner or curl cream to add extra moisture and help your curls pop beautifully.

Look for hair products that contain natural moisturizing ingredients like aloe vera or glycerin – they help keep your hair soft, hydrated, and defined all day long.

Is the Curly Girl Method Suitable for All Hair Types?

The Curly Girl Method is specifically designed for curly hair, but it also works really well for wavy and textured hair. If you're struggling with frizz or lack of definition in your curls, the Curly Girl Method can help you gain control and shine.

With the right Curly Girl products, you can bring out the best in your hair, whether it's curly, wavy, or textured. The most important thing is to find the right products and techniques for your hair type. So yes, the Curly Girl Method can definitely work wonders, whether you have tight spirals or soft waves!

How Often Should I Wash My Hair on the Curly Girl Method?

When following the Curly Girl Method, it's all about giving your hair time to become healthy and hydrated. Generally, it's recommended to wash your hair with co-wash or a sulfate-free shampoo 1-2 times a week, depending on your hair type and needs. If you're using the right Curly Girl products, you may even be able to stick to co-washing all week without shampooing. It's about finding the balance that works best for your hair. Wash your hair too often, and you risk drying it out, so it's important to listen to your hair’s needs. Remember, the Curly Girl Method is about keeping the hair hydrated and healthy, and the right products play a huge role in that.

Unsure about the difference between co-wash and low-poo? Read more in the article here.

Find the Best Curly Girl Products for Your C urls

To get the best results with the Curly Girl Method, it's essential to choose the right products that suit your curls. Each curl type has its own needs, and with the right Curly Girl products, you can achieve well-defined, hydrated, and shiny curls, while avoiding harmful ingredients like sulfates and silicones found in regular hair products. At Luxplus, you’ll find a wide range of Curly Girl-approved products specially designed to care for and shape your curls – and at prices that won’t break the bank.

Unsure which products are best for your hair type? No worries! Read our article where we guide you to the perfect choices, whether you have tight spiral curls or large waves:

Ready to Give Your Curls the Care They Deserve?

The Curly Girl Method is perfect for those with natural curls or waves. If you have straight hair, this method is not the best choice. But if you love your curls and want them to look their best, the Curly Girl Method is definitely for you!

Explore the wide range of Curly Girl hair care – right here

FAQ

Can I use regular shampoo on the Curly Girl Method?

No, regular shampoo contains sulfates that dry out curls. Instead, use a sulfate-free shampoo or co-wash.

How do I define my curls with the Curly Girl Method?

Use leave-in conditioner and styling gel to define curls. Plop your hair for extra volume and hold.

Can I use heat on my hair in the Curly Girl Method?

Heat treatments should be avoided. Use a diffuser on low heat if you absolutely must use heat, to protect your curls.

What should I avoid in products for the Curly Girl Method?

Avoid sulfates, silicones, alcohol, and parabens as they can dry out and damage curls. Choose Curly Girl-approved products.

Is it okay to color my hair on the Curly Girl Method?

Yes, but choose ammonia-free hair color and use moisturizing treatments to protect your curls after coloring.

What is plopping?

Plopping is when you gather your freshly styled hair in a T-shirt or microfiber towel to "sit on top of your head". After plopping, you can either air-dry your hair or dry it with a diffuser on low heat.