Curly Hair Mistakes to Avoid (And What to Do Instead)

Curls can be both a blessing and a full-time job. If you’ve ever wondered why your curls aren't curling, why they feel dry, or why they look frizzy no matter what product you use — you're sooooo not alone. Sometimes, the issue isn’t your hair. It's just a few sneaky habits that are holding your curls back.

Here are some common curly hair mistakes — and what to do instead:

1. Brushing Dry Hair

Why it’s a mistake: Brushing curls when they’re dry breaks up the curl pattern, creates frizz, and can even cause breakage. Do this instead: Detangle your hair in the shower while it’s wet and use a conditioner that causes your hair to feel slippery. Use your fingers or a wide-tooth comb.

2. Using the Wrong Shampoo

Why it’s a mistake: Sulfate-heavy shampoos strip the natural oils, which curls desperately need to stay hydrated and defined. Do this instead: Use a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo or co-wash to keep moisture locked in and your curls happy. Look into the protein/moisture balance concerning naturally curly hair - it's so important!

3. Skipping Leave-In Conditioner

Why it’s a mistake: Curly hair is naturally drier. Skipping this step means you're missing a key layer of moisture and frizz control. Do this instead: After rinsing out your regular conditioner, apply a leave-in while your hair is still wet to help seal in hydration.

4. Applying Products to Soaking Wet or Towel-Dried Hair (Randomly)

Why it’s a mistake: If your hair is too wet or too dry when applying product, it might not absorb properly. Do this instead: Apply styling products to damp hair (not dripping, not dry). Experiment to find your hair’s “sweet spot” for moisture and hold to allow for your hair to properly clump together and create those gorgeous curls.

5. Drying with a Regular Towel

Why it’s a mistake: Terrycloth towels create friction, which causes frizz and disrupts curls. Do this instead: Use a microfiber towel or a cotton T-shirt to gently scrunch water out of your hair. Or even better....air dry! Sometimes I will even use the fan from my vehicle on high (I know different, but it works so well).

6. Not Protecting Your Hair at Night

Why it’s a mistake: Tossing and turning on a cotton pillowcase leads to breakage, frizz, and flattened curls by morning. Do this instead: Sleep on a satin or silk pillowcase, or better yet, wrap your hair in a satin bonnet or scarf.

7. Expecting Every Product to Work Like Magic

Why it’s a mistake: Not every curl cream or gel works for every curl type. And layering five products might not solve the problem either. Do this instead: Learn your curl type and porosity, and build a simple routine. Start with one or two core products and go from there.

Final Thoughts

Curls don’t need to be complicated — they just need consistency, moisture, and a little TLC. The best thing you can do? Be patient. Trial and error is part of the process, but your curls will thank you for ditching these habits.