I’ve always had big, crazy, curly hair. Here’s some proof from back in the day (clearly I also had great style):
Anyways, ever since I could get my hands on a hair dryer I’ve tried to fight and destroy my curls, 90% of the time failing and ending up with even bigger hair. In more recent years I’ve tried Keratin treatments which only sort of work and don’t last beyond a couple of weeks. I typically wear my hair in a bun, in very messy curls, or spend an hour to straighten it (and then of course work out within 24 hours and ruin all my hard work). I’m finally coming to terms with my curly hair (took long enough, right?) and decided to get my hair cut at Devachan, a curly-hair mecca. They specialize in curly hair and really know their stuff.
I’m very happy with the results. They cut your hair dry so they see how your curls actually fall. I also learned some tips to keeping curls looking good:
- Only use shampoo (more specifically, the Deva product “No-Poo”) 1-2 times per week, the rest of the week only use conditioner
- Don’t ever dry your hair with a towel, instead use a cotton t-shirt or paper towels
- Before doing anything, once you are done showering (with sopping wet hair), put your hair gel/cream in then you can allow it dry
I don’t know how well you can see it in the pictures below, but my curls are already bouncier, more defined and less frizzy. Because I work out so much, it’s not worth it to destroy my hair (and waste my time) ironing it pin straight. That will still be reserved for special occasions because I do love how my hair looks straight. But I’m glad I’m FINALLY embracing my natural hair!
If you have curly hair, I suggest you check out Devachan. Junior Stylists are $80 which is about what most hair cuts are in NYC (also, Jr Stylists still really know their stuff- my hairdresser Sage is a Jr stylist and has worked there for 6 years-she’s awesome). If you make an appointment, please tell them Amanda Shapin sent you!
Before:
After:
