How to Style Long Curly Hair, Plus Our Fave Inspirational Looks
A no-fuss wash-and-go method to try all summer long.
With the hot summer days in full swing, it’s time to nail the go-to hairstyle favored amongst just about all curly girls during this time of year: the wash and go! There’s nothing like a carefree curly hairstyle like this one on a humid day, where you can allow your curls to be free and do whatever they want. And get this: You don’t have to hide inside until your hair is dry; let Mother Nature help you out especially if you have long curly hair, which often takes a long time to dry.
But while this hairstyle seems simple and drying your hair on the go seems convenient, there are a few steps and products to integrate into your styling routine for a defined curl pattern and some level of frizz control. Here’s how to do a wash and go style on long curly hair. Keep reading to get inspired:
Easy Wash And Go Tutorial for Long Curly Hair
Begin with soaking wet hair.
The key to a defined curly hairstyle begins in the shower. Wash and condition your hair with a hair care system that delivers a weightless moisture like Nexxus Unbreakable Care Shampoo and Nexxus Unbreakable Care Conditioner. After washing, part your hair in the direction you want your curls to fall then proceed to the next step.
Create sections.
Section off your hair from ear to ear. Then, clip the top section away and begin with the bottom portion of hair.
Apply gel or mousse.
Smooth gel or mousse onto your hair, then finger-comb through your curls from root to tip to ensure even distribution. We like Bed Head by TIGI Foxy Curls Mousse, which helps create and define curls, holding them in place all day with light conditioners for a touchably soft, non-crunchy finish.
Define your curls.
If needed, continue to work product through the section by taking subsections about an inch in size, and then smoothening product out to help define your curls.
Enhance your curl pattern.
If you have any stubborn strands that are giving you a hard time to curl, simply wrap that section of hair around your finger and hold it in place for about 10 seconds then release.
Scrunch and dry.
Crunch hair upwards using a paper towel or an old t-shirt to help dry and define curls.
Editor’s note: Use an old cotton t-shirt to help dry your curls. Cotton is great for drying wet hair as opposed to most towels that have fibers that snag the hair.
Repeat all over.
Continue this step throughout your hair, scrunching upwards to enhance curl definition and allowing excess water and product to be absorbed till hair is fully dry and defined. No one wants to be outside with watermarks on their clothing!
Allow hair to dry.
Editors note: Air-dry hair for about 45 minutes or until completely dry without touching. Messing with hair during the drying process may cause frizz. If you’re in a hurry, you can also opt for using a blow-dryer with a diffuser attachment to speed up the drying process.
All done!
Now you’re ready to take on the day! Gently fluff your hair at the roots for volume or leave it as is.
Long Curly Hair Ideas
1. Ombré
Show off your fab curl pattern with a bright pop of ombré hair color.
2. Natural Curls
There’s no better way to show off curly strands than by wearing them in their natural state!
3. Curly Bangs
Change up your look and add some face-framing bangs.
4. Added Texture
Add even more texture to your style by creating small braids that pull the front sections of your hair back.
