Curly hair is bold, beautiful, and expressive—but it also demands thoughtful care. Unfortunately, many curly-haired individuals unknowingly follow routines that work against their natural texture, leading to dryness, frizz, and flattened curls. If you’ve ever wondered why your curls look dull or feel stiff despite your best efforts, it may be time to take a closer look at some common habits.
Understanding what not to do can be just as important as finding what works. Whether you’re new to embracing your curls or deep into your curl-care journey, breaking these habits will make a real difference. For those also interested in eco-conscious choices, check out a simple guide to zero waste curly routines for tips that care for both your curls and the planet.
Brushing Your Curls While Dry
Let’s start with one of the biggest no-nos: brushing curly hair when it’s dry. Unlike straight textures, curly strands don’t lie flat and are more prone to damage when pulled. Running a brush through dry curls often results in breakage, split ends, and that dreaded halo of frizz. Instead, detangle your hair in the shower with a wide-tooth comb or your fingers while it’s saturated with conditioner. This keeps the strands slippery and far less vulnerable to snapping or tearing. If you must refresh curls mid-day, opt for a spritz of water or a curl-refreshing mist before gently separating strands with your hands.
Using the Wrong Shampoo
Many shampoos contain harsh sulfates and drying agents that strip away the natural oils curls need to stay defined and moisturized. These products might leave your hair squeaky clean—but at the cost of softness, elasticity, and shape. Look for gentle, sulfate-free cleansers or consider co-washing (cleansing with conditioner). Your curls don’t need to be squeaky; they need to be nourished. Also, avoid anything with heavy alcohols, as they can contribute to dry, brittle strands.
Skipping Deep Conditioning
If your curls feel like hay or start snapping like dry twigs, a lack of moisture could be the root cause. Skipping deep conditioning treatments is a habit that sneaks up on many curly-haired folks. But curls crave hydration, and a regular deep conditioning session—at least once a week—can transform limp or wiry strands. Go for masks rich in ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, or aloe vera. And if you’re using heat to help the product penetrate, limit it to a low setting and never overdo it. Hydrated curls are springy, happy curls.
Drying Hair with a Regular Towel
That standard bath towel hanging in your bathroom might be one of the most damaging things you’re using. Its rough texture can snag curls and create friction, leading to breakage and frizz. Instead, consider using a microfiber towel or an old cotton t-shirt. These materials are gentler on the hair and help preserve the natural pattern of your curls. Remember to blot rather than rub—patting the hair reduces friction and keeps curls intact.
Overusing Heat Styling Tools
Yes, flat irons and curling wands offer quick fixes. But frequent heat styling can weaken curly hair, leaving it limp, unevenly textured, or with permanent heat damage that no amount of conditioner can reverse. Instead of reaching for hot tools regularly, explore heatless methods of styling or stretching your curls. When you must use heat, apply a heat protectant spray and keep the temperature moderate. The key is moderation—your curls weren’t meant to fight their natural shape every day.
Final Thoughts
Sabotaging your curls doesn’t always look like intentional harm—it’s often embedded in your daily habits and product choices. But by letting go of the routines that hinder your curls, you can unlock their full potential. Pay attention to what your hair is telling you, be consistent with moisturizing and protection, and don’t underestimate the power of the right wash routine. Healthy, bouncy curls aren’t about buying every product on the shelf. They’re about simplifying your approach, avoiding what doesn’t work, and giving your hair the gentle care it thrives on.
