No-Fail Curly Hair Routine

This is my go-to routine when I want voluminous, shiny, and well-defined curls. It’s quick, simple, and fits seamlessly into my everything shower routine right after skincare. The products and process aren’t anything fancy, but they work. If you’re looking for a curly hair routine that enhances your curls without too much effort, this is a great place to start. Use this as a base and adjust it to suit your own hair type.

Step One: Shower Prep

A great curly hair routine technically starts in the shower. Check out my full everything shower routine for details on my hair-washing process and the products I use to keep my curls hydrated and healthy.

Two: Post-Shower Styling

After showering and finishing skincare, gather all of your products along with a hairdryer and diffuser.
Your hair should be soaking wet before applying products. If needed, spray your roots with water to rehydrate—moisture is key for any curly hair routine.
Apply Kristin Ess Volumizing Mousse to the roots first, working it down to the ends while scrunching to distribute evenly.
Apply Not Your Mother’s Curl Talk Cream, starting at the ends and working it upward with a scrunching motion.
Take a pea-sized amount of pomade, warm it up in your hands, add a bit of water, and then scrunch it into your hair for added hold and definition.
Use a linen towel to gently scrunch and remove excess water without disturbing your curls—this step is essential for keeping your curly hair routine frizz-free.

Three: Drying & Diffusing

Start by diffusing upside down. Avoid touching your hair for the first few minutes to allow the curls to set naturally.
Once curls have started to set, begin diffusing normally on the lowest setting to prevent frizz.
When your hair is about 80% dry, let it air dry the rest of the way.
Once it reaches 90% dryness, do one final round of diffusing on a low and cool setting for extra volume and definition.
After your hair is fully dry, apply a lightweight hair oil to the ends to smooth out any frizz and add shine.

Four: Overnight Curl Care

Before bed, wear a mulberry silk bonnet to protect your curls and keep them looking fresh and bouncy overnight. Maintaining your curls while you sleep is an essential part of a curly hair routine that lasts beyond wash day. If you need to refresh the next day wet your hands and then scrunch water into your hair. Diffuse if needed.

This routine always gives my bob the perfect volume and definition, and it’s been a game-changer for keeping my curls looking cute <3