holloway4a/3c

I've been natural for about 2 1/2 years. However, until recently I wore my hair very short, so all I had to do was wash and go, with very minimal product needed. Now that my hair has some length to it, I'm experiencing some issues that I don't know how to rectify. I have a nice lil starter fro. If I had to guess about 4-5 inches long. I'm a 3c/4a curl type. Probably closer to 4a. One issue is major shrinkage which is why I'd say I'm closer to a 4a. My hair is actually a decent length but you'd never know it because of shrinkage. I would like my curls to be extended the full length of my hair. Also, I need a good moisturizer and a product that will maintain curls. When I wet my hair, it's very beautiful, soft and full of curls (great curl definition). However, when I sleep on it, it's very mushy, little curl definition on the parts that I lay on, and for the most part looks dry and matted. If it's not after a fresh shampooing, my hair can seem a little frizzy after applying product (mainly in the back - the parts I sleep on). What do I do, as I don't want to have to shampoo my hair everyday in order to revitalize my curls. Current daily regimen is to generously wet with water and apply product (Shea Moisture curl enhancing smoothie & deep conditioning masque). However, I don't receive maximum results unless I almost fully douse with water. What do I do to decrease shrinkage, and maintain curl definition, even after sleeping, witthout shampooing my hair daily? Thank you for any suggestions!

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Muzz

Hi...I have found a satin sleeping cap very helpful in keeping my curls
from being mashed in the morning..I've been no-poo for about 4 yrs now
and I use a variety of products, Wash with mostly Sauve conditioners
and experiment with diff leave-ins. Hope this helps

CSI

I have the same hair type and I'm 2 years 4mos. post relaxer. I use the CG Method which helps with moisture (no sulfates, silicones). At night, I put about 5 or 6 braids in my hair to sleep in and to stretch the hair. In the morning my hair looks crazy when I take the braids out but in about 15minutes the curls just go back to normal state. I love it. I think what I use on my hair also aids in elongation. I put on Lond Aid Curl Activator then Eco Styler gel on top. This gives me about 6-7 day hair. I love it. By 3rd or 4th day I re-apply some gel, depending on how my hair is acting. Practice makes perfect.