It's frustrating purchasing products, waiting for it to arrive, getting around to wash-day and then finding out that it doesn't do what you wanted it to do for your hair. Finding the right curly hair care products for your needs is crucial to maintaining healthy, moisturized and defined hair, but how do you make sure you're matching your products with your needs? With the multitude of options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right product for your unique hair type. This article aims to guide you through the essential steps to ensure that a curly hair care product is the perfect match for your needs.

Know Your Hair's Curl Pattern

Understanding your curl pattern is the first step in selecting the right products for your hair. Curls can range from loose waves to tight coils, and different hair types have varying needs. Tight coils require products that detangle well, help water move into the hair well and provide long-lasting moisture, wheras looser waves or curls require products that provide hold without leaving too much buildup behind. Identify your curl type, whether it's 2A, 3B, or 4C, to determine the specific requirements of your hair. Take our quiz here if you're unsure of your hair's curl pattern.

Identify Your Hair's Porosity

Hair porosity refers to your hair's ability to absorb and retain moisture. Understanding your hair's porosity level (low, normal, or high) helps in choosing products that cater to its specific needs. Low porosity hair may benefit from products with water-based humectants that make it easier for your closed cuticle to take in water and nutrients, while high porosity hair may require the infusion of protein or coating ingredients to help repair damage and trap water within a cuticle that is more raised. Take our quiz here if you're unsure of your hair's curl pattern.

Check the Ingredients

The ingredient list is crucial when choosing curly hair care products. Avoid products with sulfates, parabens, and silicones, as these can strip the hair of its natural oils and cause build-up. Products packed with water-based ingredients like aloe vera, honey, glycerin, cetyl/cetearyl alcohol help provide hydration and promote healthy curls, especially for low porosity hair. Keratin and silk proteins are good ingredients for hair that has been affected by colour or heat damage, as it can help to strengthen the hair shaft. Ensure that water-based ingredients are closer to the top of the ingredient list as those are the ones that have the higher concentration. 

Consider Your Scalp

Healthy hair starts with a healthy scalp. Take note of any scalp issues you may have, such as dandruff or sensitivity. Choose products that address these concerns without compromising the moisture balance of your hair. Products with scalp sensitivity can benefit from products with peppermint or tea tree, as these anti-fungal and anti-bacterial ingredients help to fight buildup at the scalp. If you find you have to wash often due to an overproduction of oil at the scalp, consider a co-wash that doesn't strip your natural oils so much, causing your scalp to reduce the amount of oil it was producing to try to overcompensate for the amount that it was being stripped of its natural oils. Try the As I Am Dry and Itchy Scalp Care Collection for products that help with managing scalp issues.

Experiment with Samples

Many brands offer sample-sized versions of their products. Experimenting with these samples allows you to assess how a product performs on your hair without committing to a full-size purchase. This trial-and-error process can be a cost-effective way to find the perfect product for your curls. We have many travel size options on our website from different brands and also include free samples in every order.

Read Reviews and Seek Recommendations

Take advantage of online reviews and recommendations from people with similar hair types. This can provide valuable insights into how well a product has worked for others and help you make an informed decision. Pay attention to reviews that highlight results on hair types similar to yours. Review the feedback underneath products on our website or check out Youtube's many natural hair influencers who have reviewed many products available on the market.

Choosing the right curly hair care product is a personalized journey that requires attention to detail and an understanding of your hair's unique characteristics. By identifying your curl type, considering porosity, checking ingredients, prioritizing scalp health, reading reviews, and experimenting with samples, you can confidently select products that enhance the natural beauty of your curls. With a thoughtful approach to curly hair care, you'll be well on your way to achieving and maintaining healthy, vibrant curls that showcase your unique style.

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