Curly hair extensions are my absolute favorite—they give me the best of both worlds: volume, definition, and a natural look that blends seamlessly with my hair. Plus, let’s be real—the compliments never stop!
If you want your curly extensions to stay fresh, bouncy, and well-defined, a proper wash routine is essential. In today’s guide, I’ll walk you through my tried-and-true method for keeping those ringlets looking flawless.
Step 1: Section and Detangle Thoroughly
Start by dividing your hair into 3 to 4 sections and detangle each one using a high-quality Denman brush. Make sure every knot is worked out completely—trust me, skipping this step will only make things harder down the line!
Step 2: Hydrate with a sulfate free Conditioner Blend
Create a moisturizing spray by mixing 2/3 sulfate free conditioner with 1/3 water in a spray bottle. Saturate each section completely with this blend before moving on to the next step. Proper hydration is key to reviving your curls!
Step 3: Define Those Curls
Using your Denman brush, start from the ends and gently work your way upward. As you brush, you’ll see your curls begin to take shape. If you properly detangled earlier, this step should be smooth and effortless. If you want extra definition, a lightweight serum or curl cream can help—just don’t go overboard! Heavier products should only be used for ultra-textured patterns like Soft Kinks or Raw Cambodian Curly Wave. For looser curl types, less product is always better.
Step 4: Scrunch for Shape & Volume
Grab a soft cotton T-shirt and gently scrunch each section. This helps lock in your curl pattern while removing excess water, preventing frizz and ensuring your coils stay intact.
Step 5: Dry with a Diffuser
While keeping your hair in sections, use a blow dryer with a diffuser attachment to dry until it's at least 60% dry. The diffuser is your best friend here—it helps retain the curl pattern and minimizes unwanted frizz.
Step 6: Hands Off! Let It Set
This might be the hardest part—once your curls start drying, resist the urge to touch them! Running your fingers through damp curls will only cause frizz and disturb the curl formation. Let them air dry naturally for the best results.
I follow this routine every other day or whenever my curls need a refresh. Give it a try, and you’ll notice the difference!