7 Easy Natural Curly Hairstyles: Step-by-Step Tutorials for Any Texture
Master effortless, head-turning curly hairstyles with expert tips, techniques, and curl-friendly product picks for every hair texture.
Nothing makes a bigger statement than healthy, defined curls styled effortlessly. Whether you’re working with coils, waves, or somewhere in between, mastering versatile curly hairstyles can upgrade your look and boost your confidence. This tutorial-rich guide covers seven easy-to-master natural curly hairstyles, with pro recommendations for every step. Each look focuses on enhancing your hair’s natural texture while protecting its health and maximizing curl definition.
Essential Prep: Setting Your Curls Up for Styling Success
Every great curly hairstyle starts with the right prep. Before jumping into the styles below, keep these pro tips in mind:
- Apply a moisturizing leave-in or styling cream evenly from roots to ends. Use your fingers and a fine-tooth comb to ensure complete coverage and avoid frizz.
- Dry gently: For definition and bounce, diffuse on a low-heat setting until about 90% dry, then finish air drying. This ensures your curls stay hydrated and maintain their natural shape.
- Work in small sections: For most styles, sectioning your hair before twisting, braiding, or pinning leads to better definition and hold.
Style 1: Defined, Voluminous Twists
Best for: Medium to tight curls craving definition and fullness.
How to Achieve this Look
- Apply Styling Cream: Use your fingers and a fine-tooth comb to work curl cream into small hair sections, ensuring even distribution.
- Finger Twist: Take consistent 1-inch sections (diagonally around the face for softness) and twist from roots to ends. Repeat until all hair is twisted.
- Dry Carefully: Let twists air-dry, or use a diffuser on low heat and gentle airflow until 90% dry, then let air dry completely for best texture.
- Flip for Volume: Flip your head upside down while drying to encourage major volume.
- Separate Twists: Once dry, gently pull each twist apart from the middle out. The more you separate, the softer and fuller your curls will be. Use a hair pick at the roots for additional lift.
- Lay the Edges: Smooth edges around your hairline with a soft toothbrush or small brush and edge control.
- Finish: Warm a few drops of lightweight serum in your hands and scrunch into ends for increased shine and definition.
Pro Product Pick:
- Lightweight styling cream for moisture and control without weighing curls down.
Style 2: Tousled Low Bun with Curly Volume
Best for: Shoulder-length curls or waves looking for a chic, easy updo.
Step-by-Step
- Moisturize: Apply a hydrating leave-in spray, working it in with fingers.
- Diffuse: Dry curls using a diffuser on low heat for best definition.
- Section & Secure: Create a top and bottom section by parting your hair from ear to ear. Secure the lower half into a low ponytail.
- Create The Bun: Tease the ponytail slightly, roll forward, and pin into a loose bun at the nape. Mist with hairspray from about an arm’s length for hold.
- Tease and Pull Back: Gather and tease the upper sections at the roots for volume, then pull them back and pin over the bun. Leave small pieces framing the face for softness.
- Define Face-Framing Curls: For sharper face-framing pieces, use a curling wand on a moderate heat setting (~295°F) and loosely wrap the sections.
Pro Product Pick:
- Leave-in moisture spray for even hydration and easier styling.
Style 3: Playful Face-Framing Mini Buns
Best for: Anyone seeking a fun accent style that keeps focus around the face, leaving the rest of the curls free.
How to Create
- Moisturize: Spray a leave-in conditioner and work in with fingers for even texture.
- Section Front Pieces: Take 1-inch squares along your hairline, from ear to ear.
- Shape Mini Buns: Apply a soft holding wax, slick each square with your fingers, then tie each section with a band, pulling through to create a looped mini-bun.
- Continue Across Hairline: Repeat step three along the entire front section of your hair.
- Treat the Back: Apply additional leave-in spray to the back section, using your fingers or a comb.
- Elongate and Dry: Blow-dry back curls on a mild setting, gently stretching curls with your fingers to elongate and define them.
- Smooth Edges: Use a clean toothbrush or small bristle brush with edge control for a polished finish.
Pro Product Pick:
- Pure-fro moisture spray combined with a flexible holding wax for lasting hold and hydration.
General Tips for Caring for Curly and Textured Hair
- Hydration is Key: Regularly use leave-in conditioners and hydrating sprays to combat dryness and maintain curl structure.
- Avoid High Heat: Always diffuse on a low or moderate heat setting, and never let your curling wand get scorching hot to preserve hair’s cuticle and bounce.
- Minimize Frizz: Pat—don’t rub—wet hair with a microfiber towel or cotton t-shirt, and avoid touching curls too much while drying.
- Edge Control: For sleek hairlines, a soft brush and edge gel can tame baby hairs and elevate any style.
How to Find the Right Curl Products for Your Hair
Different curl types require unique routines. Here’s how to choose the best products for your specific texture:
| Curl Type | Ideal Product | How to Apply |
|---|---|---|
| Wavy (2A–2C) | Lightweight leave-in spray, light gel, mousse | Apply to damp hair, diffuse or air-dry for soft definition |
| Curly (3A–3C) | Richer creams, curl-defining custard, lightweight oils | Distribute section by section; use finger-twisting for definition |
| Coily/Kinky (4A–4C) | Heavy creams, butters, hydrating sprays | Apply generously to soaking wet hair, use praying hands or shingling method |
What others are reading
Frequently Asked Questions About Curly Hair Styling
Q: How do I stop my curly styles from getting frizzy during the day?
A: Use products with anti-humidity properties and rehydrate midday with a hydrating mist. Minimizing friction (such as touching your hair or sleeping on cotton pillowcases) also helps preserve definition.
Q: Is heat styling safe for natural curls?
A: Occasional styling with a diffuser or warm—not hot—tools is generally safe if you always prep with a heat protectant and stick to lower temperatures. Avoid excessive direct heat to prevent dryness or pattern loss.
Q: What’s the best way to refresh curls on day two or three after styling?
A: Lightly spritz curls with water or a curl refresher spray, then scrunch gently. For tight curls, applying a small amount of moisturizing cream or oil to your hands before scrunching can help revive shape and shine.
Q: Do I need to use edge control for every style?
A: No. While edge control refines and smoothes the hairline for defined or polished looks, it’s optional—many prefer a more relaxed, softly blended finish.
Quick Recap: Keys to Styling and Maintaining Natural Curly Looks
- Section hair and apply product evenly for the most defined, manageable curls.
- Low heat is safer—for both drying and wanding, a gentle approach prevents disruption or damage to your curl pattern.
- Lay edges for a polished look, or skip for casual vibes—edge care is optional and depends on your style goals.
- Embrace your texture: Trying different curl-friendly styles and products will help you discover your hair’s full creative potential.
Try These Easy, Head-Turning Looks Yourself
Natural curly hair is naturally versatile—don’t be afraid to experiment with these seven styling techniques. Find your favorite, customize for your unique pattern, and wear your curls confidently every day!
References
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/a14763774/natural-curly-hairstyles-tutorial/
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/a34292024/curly-girl-method-how-to/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ipuBU9rxQaA
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J7sks_83tKI
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PxgpiHSt-1o
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XKRvXv9QFM4
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