Of course, the most difficult thing about having curly hair is that it takes FORever to style it. What you've likely noticed if you're a curl girl mom is mornings are super busy once school starts. Between grooming and meals and lunches and making sure homework is ready to go, time is tight. If you're not the type who likes to get up before dawn to work on hair, then try these tips to make sure your curl girl is always ready without too much intervention from you.
Our go-to style is the old-fashioned, tried and true barrette holding ponytail braid. It's not necessarily the most protective, however it lends to the idea that hair has been touched every day. Without changing the braids or touching them at all, you can change the color barrettes to match her outfit. This also gives you a chance to brush rough ends a little so it looks fresh without too much effort. If you wrap the hair in a satin or silk head scarf, it will last longer and need less maintenance.
Cornrows are also a style you can try. Cornrows are just as they sound. They are French style braids of approximately the same size in several rows like corn. When well-done with the right amount of oil and water, these are very forgiving throughout the week, or even longer if necessary. They are neat and very protective. Remember not to braid too tightly, as this causes breakage. And, if your curl girl will tolerate it, wrap the hair each night in a satin or silk scarf.
Types of Twists:
Mini twists are bitter sweet. While they are very protective in nature and last for weeks if not months, they are tedious to complete. Mini twists require parting the hair in 1/4 inch sections and twisting each section one by one. This could take hours and probably needs to start early morning, rather than afternoon or evening. Allow time for breaks to eat and do whatever chores will be necessary throughout the day so you don't become frustrated. There are times when this style takes too long and you have to finish on a different day. Be sure to start in the front of your head so any sections left undone can easily be put into a ponytail until you can finish.
Regular twists are generally an inch to an inch and a half thick. In fact, you can make them any size that seems to fit. While twists can be protective, it's important to note that they may require more maintenance than any of the other styles. Use conditioner and oils to ensure they maintain moisture.
- Style her hair on Sunday afternoon or evening. Sundays are the day to settle in and take the time to really work on hair without being rushed. Rushing is a problem because it usually causes more frustration, less careful practice, and therefore broken and snapped hair. Also, as the last day of the weekend it represents the perfect time to primp hair before the busy week ahead. Take your time and gather all the materials you need. Wash and condition her hair during bath time. Once bath time is over, go to your normal hair spot. Make sure she has something to preoccupy her.
- Use braids or twists. While we all love seeing curly, flowing locks, or puffy afros, it's important to remember that these styles require your attention everyday and cause more tangling, which could lead to breakage. Braids and twists keep hair de-tangled and protected. But, they also provide you with shortcuts. It also can't be overlooked that braiding or twisting hair prevents you from having to do too much maintenance during the week.
Types of Braids:
Our go-to style is the old-fashioned, tried and true barrette holding ponytail braid. It's not necessarily the most protective, however it lends to the idea that hair has been touched every day. Without changing the braids or touching them at all, you can change the color barrettes to match her outfit. This also gives you a chance to brush rough ends a little so it looks fresh without too much effort. If you wrap the hair in a satin or silk head scarf, it will last longer and need less maintenance.
Cornrows are also a style you can try. Cornrows are just as they sound. They are French style braids of approximately the same size in several rows like corn. When well-done with the right amount of oil and water, these are very forgiving throughout the week, or even longer if necessary. They are neat and very protective. Remember not to braid too tightly, as this causes breakage. And, if your curl girl will tolerate it, wrap the hair each night in a satin or silk scarf.
Types of Twists:
Mini twists are bitter sweet. While they are very protective in nature and last for weeks if not months, they are tedious to complete. Mini twists require parting the hair in 1/4 inch sections and twisting each section one by one. This could take hours and probably needs to start early morning, rather than afternoon or evening. Allow time for breaks to eat and do whatever chores will be necessary throughout the day so you don't become frustrated. There are times when this style takes too long and you have to finish on a different day. Be sure to start in the front of your head so any sections left undone can easily be put into a ponytail until you can finish.
Regular twists are generally an inch to an inch and a half thick. In fact, you can make them any size that seems to fit. While twists can be protective, it's important to note that they may require more maintenance than any of the other styles. Use conditioner and oils to ensure they maintain moisture.
