hair

TOOL TIME (CURLY HAIR)

post/graphic design: Kristin Ess

Sometimes I wish I could show up at all of your houses and go through your bathroom to make sure you have the tools you need to work with your hair type. This week I thought it would be fun to do a checklist for each texture type. I’m grouping everyone in to 3 categories– curly, wavy and straight. There are definitely different types of curl, different types of wave and different kinds of straight hair but the way I’ve grouped things up should be really helpful for all. If you have something you want to add to the list we ALWAYS love hearing about it in the comments below. Don’t hold out on whatever secret/magic tool you have at home! Okay, here we go! This one’s for my curly girls…

1. Claw clips. Love these specific kind of clips for curly hair because you can just grab a section and clamp. I would not suggest the prong-style clips for girls with curl because you have to pull the section apart, which can break up curl and cause frizz.
2. Diffuser. Duh. Make sure you get the kind that’s right for your curl. There are many types of diffusers out there. Hmmm… maybe we need to do a post on that!
3. Root control tool. Now this isn’t for every curly girl. Just the girls who have the wild hairline (forehead and nape of the neck). This comes in so handy when you’re trying to put your hair up in a pony or a bun. You just comb around the perimeter and those rebellious little hairs lay down and go to sleep (aka blend in).
4. Blowdryer. Every girl with curls knows a good blowdryer is key. Get one with hot + cold settings, various wind settings, and multiple heat settings. The Elchim 2001 is my personal favorite!
5. Satin sleeping bonnet. You may not look super-chic over night, but you will the next day. Keep your curls from frizzing by wearing this when you sleep. A must.
6. T-shirt. If you have curls, by now you must know about T-shirt drying. If you don’t, read up right here. You’ll never dry your hair with a towel again.
7. Tiny curling iron. Not for every curly girl. Only looser curly hair. You only want to use a curling iron if you have to. Just have one on hand in case you can’t get that lock to behave. It happens. For tighter curls, it’s better to just re-wet and re-coil a piece that won’t behave.
8. Hooded dryer. Just set it and forget it! HA! No really, the less you touch your hair while it’s drying, the better. Which is why a hooded dryer is a great investment. Kick it and read a magazine while your hair dries.
9. Spray bottle. Every curl queen has their favorite DIY moisture concoction. Keep a spray bottle on hand always.
10. Wide-tooth comb. Keep it close and use it wisely.

Stay tuned for the wavy and straight hair checklists. xo