How to avoid the ‘wet stringy hair’ curl look

Have you ever finished your curl routine and ended up with the dreaded ‘wet stringy hair’ look? You'll know it when you see it. But how can you avoid it?

It's all about balance, especially if you have fine or wavy hair. The key lies in understanding your hair’s needs and adjusting your product use accordingly. Here are some tips to help you maintain volume and definition without weighing down your curls.

Clarify your hair

First things first: when was the last time you clarified your hair? Product build-up can leave your curls looking limp and lifeless. Using a clarifying shampoo occasionally can help reset your hair, stripping away residue and rejuvenating your curls. This is especially important if you feel your hair has become unresponsive to your usual products. Check out the Crown Curly Shampoo for an instant curl reset. 

Choose your products wisely

Heavy curl creams and oils might be too much for finer hair textures. If your hair is thin or fine, these products can weigh down your curls, leading to that wet, stringy appearance.

• Opt for lighter alternatives: Instead of heavy creams, try a light leave-in curl cream like the Crown Curly Curl Creme followed by a gel. These products provide hold and definition without overwhelming your curls. Start off applying the gel sparingly and add more if needed.

• Experiment with product quantities: Sometimes, the issue isn’t the product itself but how much you’re using. Try reducing the amount, or apply products less frequently to see how your curls react.

• Ditch the oil: If you have fine hair, ditch the oil altogether. While oil is a-okay for thick curlies, for us fine ones, there's a pretty good chance it's the culprit for wet, stringy looking hair.

Review your styling technique

How you apply your products can also affect the outcome:

• Layering products: Start with a light base, like the Clever Curl Curl Cream, and add your gel. Layering helps you control the amount and type of product on each section of your hair.

• Application method: Instead of slathering the product all over, try raking it through your hair with your fingers to distribute it evenly. This technique helps enhance natural curl patterns without flattening them. And always start at the ends.

Handling wet frizz

Wet frizz can make your hair appear stringy before it even dries. What on earth is wet frizz? If you hair already looks frizzy before it dries, you've got a surefire case of wet frizz. To combat this:

• Brush through wet curls: Use a wide-tooth comb or brush like the Curlytops Curl Brush to gently detangle and define your curls while they are still wet. This can help manage frizz and define curls before they set.

• Final rinse technique: After applying your styling products, give your hair a quick, gentle rinse with cool water. This can help settle the cuticles and re-clump your curls, reducing frizz and preventing stringiness.

Embrace your natural hair

It’s important to remember that curly hair is inherently different and beautifully unique. It’s normal to have days when your hair doesn’t behave the way you want it to. If you’re really struggling, remember that it’s okay to switch up your routine and try something new. Who knows, you might just stumble upon an even better approach to styling your curls that never results in wet, stringy hair.

Looking for more curly hair tips and tricks? 

Check out more of our advice here.

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