The Ultimate Guide to Embracing and Styling Your 3C Curls
Okay, let’s be real for a sec. For the longest time, I was straight-up CLUELESS about my 3C curls. I mean, I tried *everything* to tame the mane – heat styling, you name it. But it was like battling a hydra, two more frizz-bombs popped up for every one I conquered. It took some serious trial and error (and maybe a few tears, who am I kidding?) to realize that my curls just needed some extra TLC.
Turns out, ditching the straightener wasn’t the magical solution I thought it would be (sigh). Don’t get me wrong, it was a step in the right direction, but my curls were still thirsty, frizzy, and let’s just say, not living their best life. I needed a routine and products specifically designed for my thick, kinda-coarse curls. So, I went straight to the top – celebrity stylist and curl whisperer, Leysa Carrillo.
Wash Day Ritual for 3C Curls – Building a Strong Foundation
Leysa dropped some serious knowledge bombs on me, completely changing my wash day game.
Carrillo’s Expert Advice
Leysa stressed the importance of starting with a clean slate (literally). Think of it like this: you wouldn’t paint a masterpiece on a dirty canvas, right?
Here’s the breakdown of her golden rules:
- Detox is Key: Start with a clarifying shampoo to remove product buildup and impurities. This step is clutch for letting those curls bounce freely.
- Turn Up the Heat (Just a Tad): Use warm water to open up the hair cuticle, allowing your products to really sink in and work their magic.
- Pre-Poo is Your BFF: Detangle BEFORE shampooing with a hydrating conditioner to prevent breakage and minimize those dreaded fairy knots (ugh, the worst).
- Deep Condition Like Your Life Depends On It: This is non-negotiable, people! Deep conditioning infuses your curls with much-needed moisture and repairs damage.
- Gel Up: A good styling gel is key for defining those gorgeous 3C spirals and keeping frizz at bay.
Clarifying Shampoo
Okay, so I used to think clarifying shampoos were the enemy, like they were out to suck every ounce of moisture from my hair. But Leysa set me straight (pun intended, haha).
Here’s the deal: clarifying shampoos are like a reset button for your hair. Use them every other week, or whenever your hair feels weighed down, greasy, or just meh. Trust me, your curls will thank you.
Leysa’s Top Picks:
- Redken Detox Hair Cleansing Cream Clarifying Shampoo
- Bread Beauty Supply Clear-Wash: Detox Clarifying Shampoo
Pre-Shampoo Detangler
Remember that whole “pre-poo” thing? This is it! Detangling before shampooing is a game-changer, especially for us 3C curlies. It minimizes breakage and makes wash day a whole lot less painful (both physically and emotionally).
Leysa’s Faves:
- COLOR WOW Curl Wow Snag-Free Pre-Shampoo Detangler
- Redken’s Acidic Bonding Curls Conditioner
Co-wash (Optional)
Okay, full disclosure: co-washes and I have a complicated relationship. I’ve tried a bunch, and most of them just didn’t get the job done. I felt like my scalp wasn’t getting clean, and my curls felt weighed down. Not cute.
However, there’s always an exception to the rule, right?
The one co-wash that’s stolen my heart (and actually cleanses my scalp):
- Drunk Elephant Laini Latherless Conditioning Co-Cleanser
The Ultimate Guide to Embracing and Styling Your 3C Curls
Okay, let’s be real for a sec. For the longest time, I was straight-up CLUELESS about my 3C curls. I mean, I tried *everything* to tame the mane – heat styling, you name it. But it was like battling a hydra, two more frizz-bombs popped up for every one I conquered. It took some serious trial and error (and maybe a few tears, who am I kidding?) to realize that my curls just needed some extra TLC.
Turns out, ditching the straightener wasn’t the magical solution I thought it would be (sigh). Don’t get me wrong, it was a step in the right direction, but my curls were still thirsty, frizzy, and let’s just say, not living their best life. I needed a routine and products specifically designed for my thick, kinda-coarse curls. So, I went straight to the top – celebrity stylist and curl whisperer, Leysa Carrillo.
Wash Day Ritual for 3C Curls – Building a Strong Foundation
Leysa dropped some serious knowledge bombs on me, completely changing my wash day game.
Carrillo’s Expert Advice
Leysa stressed the importance of starting with a clean slate (literally). Think of it like this: you wouldn’t paint a masterpiece on a dirty canvas, right?
Here’s the breakdown of her golden rules:
- Detox is Key: Start with a clarifying shampoo to remove product buildup and impurities. This step is clutch for letting those curls bounce freely.
- Turn Up the Heat (Just a Tad): Use warm water to open up the hair cuticle, allowing your products to really sink in and work their magic.
- Pre-Poo is Your BFF: Detangle BEFORE shampooing with a hydrating conditioner to prevent breakage and minimize those dreaded fairy knots (ugh, the worst).
- Deep Condition Like Your Life Depends On It: This is non-negotiable, people! Deep conditioning infuses your curls with much-needed moisture and repairs damage.
- Gel Up: A good styling gel is key for defining those gorgeous 3C spirals and keeping frizz at bay.
Clarifying Shampoo
Okay, so I used to think clarifying shampoos were the enemy, like they were out to suck every ounce of moisture from my hair. But Leysa set me straight (pun intended, haha).
Here’s the deal: clarifying shampoos are like a reset button for your hair. Use them every other week, or whenever your hair feels weighed down, greasy, or just meh. Trust me, your curls will thank you.
Leysa’s Top Picks:
- Redken Detox Hair Cleansing Cream Clarifying Shampoo
- Bread Beauty Supply Clear-Wash: Detox Clarifying Shampoo
Pre-Shampoo Detangler
Remember that whole “pre-poo” thing? This is it! Detangling before shampooing is a game-changer, especially for us 3C curlies. It minimizes breakage and makes wash day a whole lot less painful (both physically and emotionally).
Leysa’s Faves:
- COLOR WOW Curl Wow Snag-Free Pre-Shampoo Detangler
- Redken’s Acidic Bonding Curls Conditioner
Co-wash (Optional)
Okay, full disclosure: co-washes and I have a complicated relationship. I’ve tried a bunch, and most of them just didn’t get the job done. I felt like my scalp wasn’t getting clean, and my curls felt weighed down. Not cute.
However, there’s always an exception to the rule, right?
The one co-wash that’s stolen my heart (and actually cleanses my scalp):
- Drunk Elephant Laini Latherless Conditioning Co-Cleanser
Regular Shampoo
Listen, sometimes you just need a good ol’ fashioned shampoo, you know? For those times when my hair isn’t feeling overly-product-laden, I reach for this gem:
- Redken Acidic Bonding Curls Silicone-Free Shampoo
Deep Conditioner
Okay, can we just take a moment to appreciate the magic of a really good deep conditioner? If you’re not already incorporating this into your routine, sis, you are MISSING OUT. Especially for us 3C queens, deep conditioning is like hitting the refresh button on our curls. It infuses each strand with hydration, repairs damage, and leaves them feeling soft, bouncy, and basically like a million bucks.
Leysa recommends splurging a lil’ on this one (treat yo’ self!):
- Oribe Moisture & Control Deep Treatment Hair Mask
Part 2: Mastering the Art of Styling 3C Curls – Less is More
Now, here’s where things get interesting. Leysa is all about that minimalist life when it comes to styling 3C curls. Her philosophy? “Why use ten products when three will do?” Preach, girl!
Carrillo’s Minimalist Approach
Leysa emphasized that less is definitely more when it comes to styling 3C curls. Product buildup is the enemy, people! She’s all about keeping it simple and focusing on hydration and definition.
Her go-to ingredients?
- Aloe Vera: For that next-level hydration that 3C curls crave.
- Jojoba Oil: To amp up the shine and lock in moisture.
Essential Styling Products
Ready to streamline your styling routine? Here’s the 3C holy trinity, according to Leysa:
- Curl Cream: For soft definition and manageability.
- Gels: To lock in those curls and prevent frizz.
- Mousse: For lightweight hold and volume (because who doesn’t love a little extra oomph?).
Leysa’s Tried-and-True Recommendations:
- Curl Cream: Redken All Soft Moisture Restore Leave-In Treatment With Hyaluronic Acid
- Gel: Redken Sculpting Curl Gel
- Mousse: Drunk Elephant Silkamino Conditioning Leave-In Milk
- (Bonus!) Extra Polish: Taliah Waajid Apple Aloe Miracle Hold Gel
Diffusing (Optional)
Okay, so I know heat styling can be a slippery slope, but hear me out. Diffusing can actually be a curly girl’s best friend when used correctly! If you’re going for max volume and definition (who isn’t?), diffusing on a low heat setting can make all the difference. Just make sure to use a diffuser attachment to distribute the heat evenly and minimize damage.
Leysa’s Pick:
- Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer with diffuser attachment
Refreshing Your Curls – Because Ain’t Nobody Got Time for a Full Wash Day Every Day
Let’s be real, washing our hair every single day? Not gonna happen. And for us 3C curly girls, it’s not even necessary (thank goodness!). But what about those days when your curls are looking a little…sad? Don’t worry, I got you.
Carrillo’s Quick Refresh Routine
Leysa shared her secret weapon for reviving those second (or third, no judgment here!) day curls:
- Spritz and Go: Grab a spray bottle and fill it with a mixture of water and a little bit of your favorite leave-in conditioner. Lightly mist your hair, focusing on the areas that need a little extra love.
- Finger Comb (or Don’t!): Gently detangle your hair with your fingers, or use a wide-toothed comb if needed. But if your curls are looking pretty good as is, feel free to skip this step altogether.
- Scrunch and Fluff: Remember those scrunching motions we talked about earlier? Yeah, those are your new best friend. Scrunch your curls upwards from the ends to the roots to bring back that bounce and volume. And don’t be afraid to give your hair a little fluff for good measure!
Product Recommendations for Refreshing 3C Curls
Need some product inspo for your refreshing routine? I gotchu:
- Leave-In Conditioner: SheaMoisture Manuka Honey & Mafura Oil Intensive Hydration Leave-In Milk
- Curl Refresher Spray: Ouidad Botanical Boost Curl Energizing & Refreshing Spray
The Confidence Boost – Owning Your 3C Curls
This journey to embracing my 3C curls has been a game-changer, not just for my hair, but for my confidence too. It’s amazing how much of an impact our hair can have on how we see ourselves.
Embrace the Journey – It’s a Marathon, Not a Sprint
Listen, I’m not gonna lie, figuring out your 3C curls can feel like a full-time job sometimes. There will be good hair days, and there will be days where you wanna just shave it all off and rock a beanie for the rest of your life (been there, done that). But the key is to keep going, sis!
Experiment, have fun, and most importantly, be patient. Your curls are unique and beautiful, so embrace the journey of discovering what works best for you.
Love the Skin (and the Curls!) You’re In
At the end of the day, it’s all about loving the hair you were born with. 3C curls are fierce, bold, and undeniably gorgeous. So rock those spirals with pride, girl! You got this!
Conclusion:
Embracing my 3C curls has been a journey, but let me tell you, it’s been so worth it. It’s about more than just finding the right products; it’s about embracing your natural beauty and rocking those curls with confidence. Trust me, once you find what works for you, you’ll be unstoppable!