How To Build A Simple Curly Hair Routine

Building a curly hair routine doesn’t have to be complicated or overwhelming. In fact, the best routine is the one you’ll actually stick to, because consistency is what transforms your curls over time.

If you’re tired of frizz, limp curls, or constant trial and error, here’s exactly how to build a curly hair routine that fits your hair and lifestyle.

Why You Need a Routine

Perfect curls don’t come from having the fanciest products—they come from using what you have the right way, over and over. A simple routine helps you understand what works and what doesn’t, without wasting money or time.

Tip: Grab my free Quick Start Guide to Mastering Your Curls for step-by-step help.

1️⃣ Know Your Hair

Before you plan anything, know the basics:

Texture: Fine or coarse strands?
Density: Lots of hair or thin spots?
Porosity: How easily does your hair soak up and hold moisture?

This helps you choose the right products and techniques. If you’re not sure, take my Curly Hair Type Quiz.

2️⃣ Pick Your Core Products

Start with just the basics:

You don’t need 10 bottles. Start small. CGM-approved is great, but use what works for you.

Check your current stash on curlscan.com before buying new.

3️⃣ Map Out Your Wash Day

Most curlies wash every few days up to a week. Find what works for your scalp and schedule.

Wash Day Steps:

Clarify (first wash only): Use a clarifying shampoo with sulfates, EDTA, or olefin sulfonate to remove buildup. Then clarify monthly.
Cleanse: Switch to your sulfate-free cleanser or co-wash.
Condition: Detangle with your fingers or a wide-tooth comb.
Style: Apply products on soaking wet hair.
Dry: Air dry or diffuse on low/medium heat.

One change at a time! Try a new product for at least 3 washes before you decide it’s not for you.

4️⃣ Layer Styling Products

For most curls, layer products from lightest to heaviest:

Leave-in or light conditioner (optional)
Mousse or foam for volume + definition
Gel or custard for hold + curl clumps + frizz control

Technique Tips:

Apply on wet hair.
Scrunch or rake in. Use a styling brush for extra definition.
Plop with a t-shirt or hair towel.
Let a cast form (crunchy is good!). Scrunch it out when dry.

My go-to: I wash, condition, rinse well, scrunch in gel and sometimes layer a volumizing foam under, plop with a hair towel, diffuse dry for lift and a longer lasting style.

5️⃣ Tools & Accessories

A few extras help:

6️⃣ Protect & Refresh

Sleep in a buff or bonnet to protect curls.
On day 2-4, refresh with a water + conditioner mix.
Add a small touch of gel or mousse if needed.

See my Nighttime Curl Care Guide for more ideas.

7️⃣ Clarify & Deep Condition

Clarify once a month to remove buildup and hard water minerals.
Deep condition monthly or more if your hair is dry or color-treated.

See my Clarifying Guide for product ideas.

8️⃣ Track & Adjust

Keep a simple journal:

Note what you used, what worked, what didn’t.
Only change one thing at a time.

My Curly Journey Journal makes this easy!

Curly Journey Journal – Spreadsheet Version

If you prefer a digital tool and like using Google Sheets, then this is the right option for you.

You can track from any device and record all the same stats, plus you can add photos.

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My Routine Example

Here’s my real routine for my 2B/2C/3A hair:

Wash every 2-3 days
I use a sulfate cleanser every way because my hair prefers that
Detangle with a wet brush (with conditioner in my hair)
Scrunch in gel while wet
Plop with a hair towel
Diffuse my hair upside down
Sleep in a buff, never refresh

FAQs

How long does it take to see results?
Expect changes in 3–6 weeks. Heavily damaged hair can take months.

Can I mix brands or methods?
Absolutely. The best routine is the one that works for you.

Why clarify?
To remove heavy buildup, silicones, and hard water minerals so your products work properly.

Final Words

Consistency + simple steps = healthy curls. You’ve got this!

✨ Ready to track what works? Download my Quick Start Guide below, grab my Curly Product Handbook and/or Curly Journey Journal, and start your curly hair journey today.

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