When it comes to curly hair growth, it can sometimes feel like it has a mind of its own! But those bouncy, beautiful curls deserve all the love and attention—and with the right care, you can encourage healthy growth and length retention. As someone who’s spent countless hours figuring out what works best for my children’s hair, I know the journey can feel overwhelming. Let’s break down these curly hair growth tips together with practical tips that are easy to follow and implement.
Moisture is Key
Curly hair is naturally drier than other hair types, which means hydration should be a top priority.
Start by investing in a good leave-in conditioner or curl cream. After washing hair, apply it generously to damp curls to lock in moisture. I’ve noticed with my daughters that a lightweight, hydrating product works wonders, especially when paired with a weekly deep conditioning treatment.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget to seal in that moisture with an oil, like jojoba or argan oil. This step creates a barrier that keeps hydration locked in, especially during colder months.
Be Gentle When Detangling
If there’s one lesson I’ve learned, it’s that patience is your best friend when detangling curly hair.
Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to gently work through knots, starting at the ends and moving up to the roots. Detangling is best done when the hair is wet and saturated with conditioner. My favorite detangling brush that I constantly rave about is Tangle Teezer. I’ve noticed the most length retention in mine and my daughter’s hair once we started using them.
I used to struggle with tears and frustration during detangling sessions until I turned it into a fun bonding time with my daughters. We now play music or watch a favorite show, making the process smoother for everyone.
Wash Every 7-10 Days
Washing curly hair too frequently can strip it of its natural oils, leading to dryness and breakage.
Aim to wash your hair every 7-10 days, using a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo. Follow up with a moisturizing conditioner to keep curls hydrated and manageable.
Trim Regularly
It might seem counterintuitive when you’re trying to grow hair out, but regular trims are essential to prevent split ends from traveling up the hair shaft and causing more damage. I aim to trim my girls’ hair every 8-12 weeks, and it’s made a noticeable difference in their curl health.
Pro Tip: Look for a stylist who specializes in curly hair growth—they understand how to shape curls without taking off too much length.
Protective Styles Work Wonders
Low-manipulation and protective styles like braids, twists, or buns can help minimize breakage and give hair a break from daily styling. Just make sure the styles aren’t too tight, as this can lead to tension and hair loss.
When my daughters have a busy week of activities, I put their hair in braids. It’s a simple style that keeps their hair neat, reduces tangling, and allows me to focus on other tasks without worrying about daily detangling.
Incorporate Scalp Massages and Skin Therapy Wands
Healthy hair starts with a healthy scalp.
Regular scalp massages stimulate blood flow to the hair follicles, promoting growth. Use your fingertips or a scalp massager to gently massage your scalp for 5-10 minutes a few times a week.
For an extra boost, consider using a skin therapy wand with red light or microcurrent technology. These tools can help improve circulation and overall scalp health, creating the ideal environment for hair growth.
Real-Life Example: I’ve found that incorporating scalp massages during my daughters’ nighttime routine not only helps with hair growth but also relaxes them before bed. It’s a win-win!
Nutrition Matters
Curly hair growth starts from within, so a balanced diet is crucial.
Foods rich in vitamins A, C, D, and E, as well as biotin and omega-3 fatty acids, can contribute to healthier hair. Encourage plenty of water, fruits, vegetables, and proteins in your family’s diet to support strong, vibrant curls.
Nighttime Care is Essential
How you care for curly hair at night can make a big difference in growth and length retention.
Use a satin or silk pillowcase, or wrap hair in a satin scarf or bonnet to reduce friction and prevent breakage.
Mom Tip: If your little one doesn’t like wearing a bonnet, try a satin scrunchie to secure a loose pineapple-style ponytail. It’s comfortable and keeps the curls intact overnight.
Be Consistent and Patient
Growing curly hair is a marathon, not a sprint. It’s important to stay consistent with your routine and give it time to work. Celebrate small wins, like noticing increased shine or reduced breakage, and know that every step you take is helping your curls thrive.
I remember feeling discouraged when progress seemed slow, but keeping a photo diary helped me see the growth over time. Trust the process—you’re doing an amazing job!
Final Thoughts
Curly hair growth tips require care, patience, and a whole lot of love, but the journey is so worth it. Remember, every curl is unique, and what works for one head of hair might not work for another. Experiment with these curly hair growth tips to find what makes your curls happiest, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences or questions below. Let’s grow together!