Curls often have a bad reputation for being too high maintenance. They twist and spiral themselves in any direction they like. Due to the different porosities, it is difficult to stick to one product. They respond differently based on environmental stressors. Using the wrong product or everyday knowledge can make things even more difficult. That’s why it’s important to know which ingredients to avoid for curly hair and which ones are beneficial. You need a styling product that contains it,” says trichologist and hair expert Shab Reslan.
According to Amy Stollmeyer, co-founder and lead hair stylist at DESIGNME, curly hair can have different hair types depending on the curl pattern, hair texture (fine, medium, or coarse), hair density, climate and care regimen. Different types of care are needed. “Deep cleansing, moisture and hydration, protein, leave-in treatments, definers, and elasticity booster regimens are all general pluses for waves, curls, and coils,” she shares. And the endless amount of options that claim to define curls, add moisture, and maintain shine doesn’t make curl maintenance easy. So what products actually work?
The trick is to style your natural texture with certain curly hair products to nourish your hair and define your curls. This makes it very important to understand the best and worst ingredients for curly hair in general. Plus, they shared a slew of curl puddings, custards, gels, and creams that incorporate all the great ingredients you can add to your hair routine today.
Ingredients to avoid for frizzy hair
sulfate
Sulfates, which are known to strip hair of its natural oils, are a no-go for curls. Doing so may cause dryness, dryness, and rashes on the scalp. “The main ingredients to avoid are surfactants. [like] Sulfates that keep your hair from breathing,” Gibson tells TZR. For simplicity, if you look at the ingredient label in the cosmetic aisle, sulfates usually end with “-ate”, with ammonium laureth sulfate and ammonium lauryl sulfate being the most common.
Paraben
Ulta Beauty pro team member and celebrity hairstylist Michelle O’Connor argues that parabens used as preservatives can cause irritation and allergic contact dermatitis in some people. “Curly hair is brittle and parabens can pose a potential threat to your scalp by causing irritation,” she says. Instead, look for products labeled paraben-free.
protein overload
All experts agree that too much protein is the number one cause of damaged curly hair. “Protein overload can cause hair to slowly coat and damage, making it look dull and even lose shape,” says Carl. Very harmful Reslan says.
alcohol
Finally, I highly recommend avoiding drying alcohols such as propanol for curls. Healthy hair starts at the scalp, so avoid anything that irritates or dries out the scalp.”
Ingredients for curly hair
shea butter
Shea butter with vitamin E locks moisture into hair and acts as an anti-inflammatory, preventing itchy scalp and overall dryness. is ideal for
jojoba
Experts recommend that jojoba oil balances scalp oil production, nourishes dry scalp and locks moisture into the hair shaft. It is a great way to promote the growth of
aloe
Aloe vera has been popular for centuries for its healing and soothing properties. says hairstylist Ted Gibson.
hyaluronic acid
A true hydrating hero in skin care, hyaluronic acid is also great for frizzy, curly hair. “Hyaluronic acid increases the moisture absorption of hair and protects it all day long.”
argan oil
The helical structure of curly hair means less light is refracted than with straight hair. That means less shine. Using argan oil can help lock in moisture, reduce flyaways, and calm frizz, making your curls look even shinier.
grape seeds
Gibson recommends grape seed extract as a powerful antioxidant used to stimulate the scalp, fight dryness, and protect hair from damage caused by environmental free radicals.
glycerin
As a humectant, glycerin binds moisture in the air, attracting it to your hair and retaining it.
coconut oil
Coconut oil is an anti-inflammatory nut oil that moisturizes and lubricates the hair follicles, improving the condition of the scalp. Mix it with conditioner to make a homemade hair mask, use it as a styling hero on damp hair, or use a serum or two on dry hair for a super glossy shine. .
castor oil
Castor oil helps increase blood circulation to the scalp, protects hair follicles, nourishes them, and adds shine.
Phytantriol
According to Leslan, phytantriol is “a class of safe alcohols that can act as a moisturizer by reducing moisture loss in hair, repairing and protecting hair from damage.” From shampoos and conditioners to stylers, many products can help keep your hair moisturized.
Only products independently selected by TZR’s editorial team are listed. However, if you purchase products through links in this article, we may receive a portion of the proceeds.
