Learn the best tips for washing curly hair to keep it healthy, defined, and frizz-free with Ouidad’s expert advice.
If you’ve ever wondered how to wash curly hair properly, the answer isn’t just about shampoo. Curly hair requires the right cleanser, conditioning routine, and washing technique to keep curls hydrated and defined.
We asked Jason Hallman, senior stylist at Ouidad’s New York flagship salon and Curl Advisory Board member, to walk us through the best way to wash curly hair for every curl type.
Tip 1: Start With the Right Cleanser
Which cleanser should I use?
"Choose a shampoo or co-wash based on the condition your hair is in," Hallman says.
"If your hair is dry, brittle, or damaged, go for an extra-moisturizing formula like Ouidad's sulfate-free Moisture LockTM Ultra-Nourishing Cleansing Oil Shampoo."
If you have healthy curly hair, choosing the best shampoo depends on the results you want.
Need to wash away buildup? Try our Water Works Clarifying Shampoo.
Want to control frizz? Opt for the
Advanced Climate Control® Defrizzing Shampoo.
A cleanser targeted to your curl type's needs is always a good bet—for example, coily curls are best cleansed with a co-wash, while loose curls & waves benefit from a volume-boosting shampoo and conditioner combo.
For Spiral curls, the best curly hair shampoo and conditioner balances moisture; for tight curls, a more deeply hydrating regimen is ideal.
"If most shampoos leave your hair feeling too squeaky clean and dry, try Ultra-Nourishing Cleansing Oil - it has fatty acids that cushion your curls, and it's great for all curl types (even fine hair)." -Jason Hallman, Ouidad Curl Advisory Board
Tip 2: Use the Right Washing Technique
How do I wash curly hair without tangles?
"Don't shampoo in a circular motion, which tangles the curls," Hallman advises.
"Instead, use a gentle back and forth motion, and avoid bunching up your curls."
Massage your shampoo or co-wash into the roots of your curls, and work the lather down the mid-lengths and lightly on the ends.
If your curls are very knotted, carefully break up the tangles with your fingers before washing your curls—but don't dry brush your curls.
"Because curly hair stretches so much, you'll get less breakage if you detangle wet," Hallman says.
Tip 3: Condition Based on Your Curl Type
What's the best way to condition curly hair?
Choosing the best moisturizing hair products for your curls depends on how much hydration your hair needs, then let your curl type guide your application.
If you're a loose, wavy or spiral curly hair type, apply your conditioner from your hair's mid-lengths to ends, "so you don't weigh down the roots and create a pyramid," Hallman says.
If your curls are tight or coily, you can condition closer to the scalp as well as through the ends.
Use your fingers to detangle as you distribute the conditioner, or if you have curly hair prone to tangling, comb through with a wide tooth comb or Ouidad's Double Row Detangler.
Let your conditioner soak in for between two and five minutes.
If your goal is elongated curls, don't wash out all the conditioner from your curls—leave a light coating on the hair to add weight to the curls.
Tip 4: Adjust Your Routine Based on Curl Type
How often should I wash my hair?
Loose, wavy and spiral curls can be washed two to four times a week.
Coily curl types can co-wash weekly and deep cleanse with shampoo once a month.
Tight curls fall somewhere in between—shampoo or co-wash every few days to a week.
Tip 5: Support Your Routine With Leave-In Hydration
Many curly hair routines include a leave-in conditioner after washing.
Leave-in products help maintain hydration, improve curl definition, and reduce frizz between washes.
Applying a Leave-In Conditioner to damp curls can help support curl shape and moisture balance as hair dries.
