nm19

Hi, just joined this site! Well I have been straightening my hair daily for the past like 3 years. But im tired of it taking so long that ive decided to embrace the curls! From what i've read on this site, I think i have somewhere between 2c and 3a hair. My hairs on the thinner side, very curly underneath and a little less on the top layer. My main problem is how to dry the curls. I've found recently that my hair turns out better when I blow dry with a diffuser but it takes way too long! When I airdry the bottom layer gets nice and curly but the top gets flat to my head...what's the best way to maximize the curls on my top layer and make them look as nice as the underneath layer? Also, any just general tips you have would be great! Thanks so much in advance!

kathymack

Welcome!

It's typical for the canopy to be drier and less curly then the rest of your hair. It's the area most exposed to the elements. Depending on your hair properties and needs, either moisture or protein will help to tighten your curls and make it a little more consistent.

Knowing your properties is the best way for people to give you information. Here's a link to help with that: Live Curly Live Free - Curly Hair Basics Once you determine your hair properties, you can look for others with similar hair to see what they use and do.

Using curl towels (Curlease and/or Curls Like Us) or an old cotton tee shirt to scrunch out water will help cut down on drying time and not add frizz.

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3a (Corkicelli), highlighted, fine, low porosity
modified CG, since April '07
CG since 3/11/08

SE PA

HGs: Curly Kinks Satin Roots, Curlycue ReNew and Coil Jam; homemade FSG and okra gel; soap bars; DM MiraCurls Curling Gelly; UFD Curly Magic; Shescentit LIs; Sevi conditioners; Botanical Spirits Puree, CJ Repair Me

adthomas

Your hair might be heat damaged.

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Transition your mind before you transition your hair.

triple_spiral

Agree your hair might be heat damaged, and as it gets healthier the top might be less flat.

I have a flat top too...bane of my existence, lol. I tried probably every method of drying out there, what I found works best for me is

- Microfiber towel straight out of the shower (the turban twist kind for hair)

- Leave on while getting dressed, etc.

- By the time I take it down about 15 - 30 mins later my hair is damp, not soaking. The curls are intact, no frizz. Also, since my hair is piled on my head under the towel I feel like it helps with root volume a little.

- I can then use the diffuser for MUCH less time than when I was using it on very wet hair.

HTH

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4a?? Maybe 3c...some 4b??? No clue

tiny s-waves, coils, and spirals


- Cleanser: CJ Daily Fix or KC Come Clean
- Co-wash: Suave Naturals or V05
- RO: GVP Conditioning Balm or Tresemme Naturals
-Stylers: Garnier Pure Clean Gel, CJ Aloe Fix, KCCC


"I remember your childhood hair....flowin' wild at the county fair" - kelley stoltz

"and all the hours that you've been sitting at your vanity....may they carry you far from your misery" - conor oberst

Gretchen

Great advice, everyone!

Welcome, nm19! You might want to check out our Texture Typing system, too!

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Gretchen
NaturallyCurly.com co-founder
3A

You are beautiful!