Curly Hair Care Tips for Healthy Curls: Expert Advice from Honey & Mane
Caring for curly hair isn’t one-size-fits-all. Curls are beautiful, unique, and require specific care to keep them defined, healthy, and frizz-free. At Honey & Mane in Reno, NV, Valerie—your local curl expert—specializes in curly haircuts and curly hair extensions. As a solo stylist passionate about textured hair, she’s sharing her top professional tips to help you love and care for your curls every day, even between appointments.
Whether you’re new to embracing your natural texture or looking for expert guidance to take your curls to the next level, this guide is packed with tips tailored to curly hair’s needs.
1. Scalp Care Is Curl Care
Healthy curls start at the scalp. Regular scalp massages help boost blood flow, which can promote growth and improve the health of your curls from the root. Using your fingertips, gently massage your scalp for a few minutes daily. Valerie recommends pairing this with a nourishing scalp oil formulated specifically for textured or dry scalps. This keeps your scalp balanced, which in turn supports strong, healthy curls.
2. Deep Hydration with a Pro-Recommended Hair Mask
Curls crave moisture. Regular deep conditioning is key to preventing dryness, frizz, and breakage. Instead of a DIY mask, Valerie recommends using a professional-grade curl-focused deep conditioner available at Honey & Mane. These salon-quality products are rich in moisturizing ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, and plant-based proteins that penetrate deep into the hair shaft.
Ask Valerie for her go-to hydrating mask—she'll tailor her recommendation to your specific curl pattern and porosity. Treat yourself to a deep conditioning treatment weekly, especially if your curls are color-treated or heat-styled.
3. Use a Silk Pillowcase
Switching to a silk or satin pillowcase is one of the easiest ways to improve your curl care routine. Cotton creates friction that can cause tangling and frizz, while silk allows your curls to glide smoothly while you sleep. It also helps retain moisture, which is essential for curl definition. Valerie always recommends this upgrade to clients looking to protect their curls overnight.
4. Always Use a Heat Protectant
While air drying is ideal for curly hair, if you must use a diffuser or any other heat tool, always apply a heat protectant. Choose one designed for textured hair that contains nourishing ingredients like argan oil or panthenol. Valerie can help you choose a product that protects without weighing down your curls.
5. Detangle with Care
Curly hair should always be detangled when wet and coated with a leave-in conditioner or slip-enhancing product. Valerie suggests using a wide-tooth comb or your fingers, starting from the ends and working your way up. Gentle detangling helps preserve your natural curl pattern and prevent unnecessary breakage.
6. Curly Hair Needs Moisture from the Inside, Too
Your hair’s health reflects what you put into your body. Stay hydrated and eat a curl-friendly diet that includes healthy fats, leafy greens, and foods rich in vitamins A, C, and E. Valerie reminds her clients that healthy curls start from within, so drink plenty of water and keep your nutrition balanced.
7. Don’t Over-Wash Your Curls
One of the most common mistakes with curly hair is over-washing. Shampooing too often can strip your hair of its natural oils, leaving curls dry and brittle. Aim to cleanse your curls once or twice a week with a sulfate-free shampoo designed for curly hair. Valerie can help you pick the right cleanser to avoid buildup without drying out your strands.
8. Protective Styling for Curly Hair
Protective styles like twists, buns, or braids can help maintain moisture and prevent breakage. These styles are especially helpful for preserving your curl pattern between washes or during travel. Valerie can help you choose protective styles that work with your curl type and lifestyle—while still showing off your beautiful texture.
9. Get Regular Curly Haircuts
Regular trims are essential for healthy curls. Unlike straight hair, curls can hide split ends, but those damaged pieces can cause tangling and make styling more difficult. Valerie recommends getting a curly haircut every 8–12 weeks to maintain your shape and keep your curls bouncy and manageable. At Honey & Mane, all cuts are done with your curl pattern and styling habits in mind.
10. Schedule a Curly Hair Consultation
Even the best at-home routine can’t replace professional care. Valerie offers one-on-one curly hair consultations to help you understand your texture, build a customized routine, and select the best products. Whether you’re curious about curly hair extensions or just want more defined, healthy curls—Valerie is here to help.
Ready to Level Up Your Curl Game?
At Honey & Mane in Reno, NV, Valerie’s mission is to help you embrace and enhance your natural curls. With the right guidance, professional products, and consistent care, your curls can thrive. Book your next curly haircut or consultation today and experience personalized service from a stylist who truly understands curly hair.