How to find the best part for your curly hair

Let’s talk about the politics of the part. 

Side, middle, deep, zigzag (hello 2002), or that chaotic no-part-part where your curls just do what they want – where your part sits can totally change your look.

But for curly hair, it’s not just a matter of grabbing a comb and going to town. So where should your part go? Can you switch it up? And how do you stop that annoying frizz that loves to pop up along your part line? Let’s get into it.

Where should your part go?

Here’s the truth: your part can go wherever you fancy. But where it naturally falls depends on how your curls grow from the scalp. Most of us have a natural parting – usually smack bang in the middle or slightly to one side – where your hair tends to separate without resistance. That’s your default, but it’s not your destiny.

If you’re after volume, a deep side part is your friend. It gives your roots a lift and adds drama. A middle part tends to frame the face evenly and can help balance features. Want a bit of both? A diagonal part can give you shape and softness all at once.

Can you change your part?

Absolutely – but your curls might kick up a fuss at first. Curly hair has memory and will often revert back to its usual habits unless you teach it new tricks.

To change your part:

• Start on wash day when your hair is soaking wet and full of conditioner.

• Use a comb to set your part location. 

• Apply your styling products while your hair is still wet, keeping your curls in place with a clip or two if needed while they dry.

Give it a few days or a couple of wash cycles and your curls will start getting the hint.

How to fight the frizz around your part

Ah yes, the frizz halo that loves to hover right around your part. It’s the gremlin of curl styling – but you can tame it.

• Hydrate: Make sure the section of hair around your part is getting enough moisture. These baby hairs can dry out quickly and go rogue.

• Seal: After styling, smooth a small amount of gel or curl cream with your fingers or a toothbrush (just… not the one you brush with, obviously).

• Hands off: Once your hair is styled, resist the urge to touch or adjust your part. The more you mess with it, the more frizz you invite.

Other part-related curl tips

• Want to fake volume? Flip your part to the opposite side once your hair is dry. You’ll get an instant root lift without needing any tools.

• Crown flatness driving you mad? Try clipping the roots at your part while your hair dries. Just pop in a few sectioning clips at the crown and remove once everything is dry and set.

• Can’t decide? You don’t have to. Let your curls do a ‘no part’ look by raking your styling products all back and scrunching. This creates a more natural, carefree vibe – perfect for when you want to say “I woke up like this” (even if you didn’t).

Whether you’re a side-part loyalist or ready to switch things up with something bold and new, there’s no wrong way to part your curls. It’s your hair, your vibe, your rules. So go forth, part with purpose – or don’t. Your curls will look fab either way.

Looking for more curly hair tips and tricks? 

Check out more of our advice here.

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