Keeping curly hair looking fabulous can be tricky, especially when trying to stretch the time between washes. Frequent washing can strip your hair of its natural oils, causing dryness and frizz. But don’t worry! There are plenty of ways to refresh your curls without washing them, keeping them bouncy and beautiful for days. Here’s how:
1. Start with a Good Base
The key to long-lasting curls begins with how you wash and style them. Use a sulfate-free shampoo and a deep conditioning masque to keep your curls well-nourished and hydrated. After washing, apply a leave-in conditioner and styling products that provide hold and definition. This creates a strong base, making it easier to refresh your curls in the days to come.
2. Use a Continuous Spray Bottle
A simple spray bottle filled with water is your go-to tool for refreshing curls. Lightly mist your hair with water to reactivate the products you used on wash day. This helps reshape and redefine your curls without soaking them. For extra moisture, mix a bit of your favourite leave-in conditioner with water.
Our pick: LuxeMist Continuous Mister Spray Bottle for Curls
3. Apply a Lightweight Refreshing Spray
There are many curl-refreshing sprays specifically designed to revive curls between washes. These sprays usually contain a mix of water, oils, and styling agents that help reshape curls, reduce frizz, and add shine. Simply spritz the product throughout your hair, scrunch, and let it air dry or lightly diffuse if you need extra volume.
Current favourite: Uncle Funky’s Daughter Thirsty Curls (Leave-In Revitaliser)
4. Re-Twist or Braid Sections
If some curls have lost their shape, re-twist or braid those sections to bring back the definition. Lightly dampen the hair with water or a refreshing spray, then twist or braid small sections. Sit under a dryer for about 15-30 minutes, then unravel to reveal refreshed, defined curls.
5. Finger Coil for Definition
For areas that need extra attention, like the ends of your hair or particularly frizzy sections, try finger coiling. Dampen a small section with water or a curl refresher, then wrap the hair around your finger to encourage the curl pattern. Hold for a few seconds, release, and let it dry.
6. Finish with an Oil or Serum
To seal in moisture and add shine, apply a lightweight oil or serum to the ends of your hair. This helps smooth out frizz and gives your curls a polished look. Use sparingly to avoid weighing down your hair.
Fan favourite: Flora & Curl Citrus Bloom Superfruit Hair Oil
7. Sleep on a Silk Pillowcase
To maintain your refreshed curls overnight, sleep on a silk pillowcase or wrap your hair with a silk bonnet. Silk reduces friction, preventing frizz and preserving your curls’ shape.
By incorporating these tips into your hair care routine, you can extend the life of your curls between washes, keeping them fresh, defined, and full of life. Remember, the secret to beautiful curls is maintaining moisture and minimising manipulation, so handle your hair with care and embrace its natural beauty!
