Image: @style_dose<br />With the start of the new year, it only makes sense that you might want to switch things up with your curls. Experimenting with color is a fun way to give yourself a new look and is guaranteed to turn some heads. However, curly hair can be fragile and it's important to consider ways to keep your hair healthy when coloring your curls. You're in good hands because we spoke to Ayanna Augustine, the Master Artistic Educator and Lead Stylist at the Ouidad Flagship salon in NYC. She's also the resident color expert, so keep reading for some of her tips on how to safely color your curls.Are there certain color treatments that work better for different curl types?Yes, I would suggest certain color treatments for certain curl types. Ombré and balayage work best on long, loose, wavy, and classic curls. This way you can see the color gradually lighten to the ends, starting with your natural color at the roots.For tight, or kinky curls I would suggest highlights, or painted highlights. This brightens the color while still keeping the integrity of the curls since you can start with your natural color as a base. Single-processes are more for gray touch-ups, but you can also change it, if you choose.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Ayanna Augustine Ouidad Master Artistic Educator/ Lead Stylist<br />What should curly girls keep in mind in terms of maintenance of color as it grows out? Since the ends are usually the lightest, its always best to do regular trims, every 10-12 weeks and a deep conditioning treatment once a week or every two weeks depending on your hair type. This is also great for those who are low maintenance as this do not require root touch ups. Are there specific Ouidad products that you recommend in the salon for clients who color their hair?I love the treatments and masks we have. The Deep Treatment Curl Restoration Therapy which reconnects the molecular bonds in the hairs to help keep integrity of curls. I recommend this for highlights, ombré and balayage once every two weeks. Then you have the Triple Treat Deep Conditioner, the Ultra Nourishing Intense Hydrating Mask, or the Meltdown Extreme Repair Mask that you can supplement with on a weekly basis when you're not doing your Restoration Treatments. I've also been recommending my clients to use a leave in such as Moisture Lock Leave-In Conditioner to help with the winter months when curls tend to be dry.How should you prep your hair for a color treatment?By doing a deep conditioning treatment 2-3 days before coloring your hair, it penetrates the same layer as the color does, which makes the color adhere better. It also gives the hair a little extra nourishment to hold that color in longer.So, there you have it. Here's to heading into 2020 with vibrant, healthy curls! Start your curl coloring journey at one of our flagship salons here