New to Curls? Start Here With This Beginner’s Guide

Welcome, curlfriends! If you’re new to embracing your natural texture, you’re in the right place. Navigating curl types, understanding what your strands need, and building a regimen that works can feel overwhelming at first, but it doesn’t have to be. In this guide, we'll break things down step by step and introduce you to a beginner-friendly routine using Leisure Curl products to get you started on a path toward healthy, happy curls.

1. Why Embrace Your Natural Texture?

The twists, coils, and spirals of curly or coily hair make it harder for your scalp’s natural oils (sebum) to travel down the hair shaft. That means curlier hair tends to be drier and more fragile. Curls are also more susceptible to breakage, shrinkage, and frizz if not well-nourished and handled gently.

As a beginner, the goal isn’t perfection: it’s consistency, learning your hair, and giving it the care it deserves.

2. Know Your Curl Type: The Foundation of Your Routine

The curl classification system divides hair into Types 1 through 4, with Types 2, 3, and 4 relevant for wavy, curly, and coily textures. Subtypes A, B, and C describe the tightness of the curl.

You may even notice multiple textures on your head—that’s totally normal.

Tip: To find your curl type, wash and air-dry your hair without products, then observe the natural shape.

3. What Do Curls Need?

No matter the type, curls thrive on:

• Moisture to prevent dryness and frizz
  
• Protein for strength and elasticity
  
• Definition to maintain curl shape
  
• Gentle cleansing to remove buildup without stripping
  
• Sealing and protection to lock in hydration

4. Meet Your Starter Curl Kit: Recommended Leisure Curl Products

Here are six products perfect for beginners:

1. Leisure Curl Shampoo & Conditioner (2-in-1): A dual-action cleanser that removes buildup while conditioning for slip. Great for simplifying wash day.
   
2. Leisure Curl Detangling Conditioner: Softens and smooths to make detangling easier and reduce breakage.
   
3. Leisure Curl After Shampoo Moisture Balance: Restores hydration, elasticity, and softness after cleansing.
   
4. Leisure Curl Gel Activator: Defines curls with flexible hold—no crunchy cast.
   
5. Leisure Curl Conditioning Scalp Spray: Refreshes and soothes the scalp between wash days.
   
6. Leisure Curl Coconut Oil Finishing Shining Mist: Adds shine, smooths frizz, and polishes your style.

Together, these cover cleansing, conditioning, hydration, definition, scalp care, and finishing.

5. The Beginner’s Curl Routine (Step-By-Step)

Step A: Pre-Wash (Optional)

Use a little conditioner before shampooing to reduce friction and tangling.

Step B: Cleanse

Wash with Leisure Curl Shampoo & Conditioner (2-in-1), massaging the scalp gently.

Step C: Condition

Apply Leisure Curl Detangling Conditioner generously. Detangle with a wide-tooth comb, working from ends to roots.

Step D: Deep Hydration

Follow with Leisure Curl After Shampoo Moisture Balance. Let it sit 5–10 minutes to replenish moisture.

Step E: Define & Style

Apply Leisure Curl Gel Activator to wet hair in sections, scrunching or raking through.

Step F: Scalp & Refresh

Mist with Leisure Curl Conditioning Scalp Spray between washes to hydrate and soothe.

Step G: Finish

Once hair is mostly dry, spritz Leisure Curl Coconut Oil Finishing Shining Mist for shine and frizz control.

6. Tips for Newbies on Curl Care

• Start simple and don’t overload with too many products at once.
  
• Layer smart: hydrate, then define, then seal.
  
• Always detangle damp, never dry.
  
• Check porosity: low porosity may prefer lighter formulas, high porosity often benefits from heavier creams.
  
• Stay consistent: give a new routine 4–6 weeks before deciding it doesn’t work.

7. Sample Routine by Curl Type

Type 2 (Wavy): Wash 2–3 times weekly, lighter use of gel, refresh with mist.
Type 3 (Curly): Wash 1–2 times weekly, full routine, refresh midweek.
Type 4 (Coily): Wash weekly, co-wash in between, use more moisturizer, seal ends.

8. Common FAQ’s

Q: How do I know my curl type?
A: Curl types are generally categorized as wavy (2A–2C), curly (3A–3C), and coily/kinky (4A–4C). The best way to identify yours is to look at your hair when it’s wet and product-free, paying attention to the shape and tightness of your curls.

Q: Do I need different products for different curl types?
A: Some products work well across all curl patterns, but your curl type usually determines how much moisture or hold you’ll need. Looser curls may thrive with lighter lotions and gels, while tighter curls often benefit from richer creams and deep conditioners.

Q: How often should I wash my curly hair?
A: Most people with curls wash once or twice a week to avoid dryness, though your lifestyle and hair needs may vary. The key is balancing cleansing with keeping your hair’s natural moisture intact.

Q: Why is moisture so important for curls?
A: Curls are naturally drier than straight hair because natural oils don’t travel as easily down the twists and coils. That’s why hydrating products like leave-ins, moisturizing conditioners, and nourishing creams are essential for soft, defined, and healthy curls.

Q: What’s the best way to detangle curly hair?
A: Always detangle with conditioner in your hair to add slip and reduce breakage. Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers, starting from the ends and working up to the roots.

Q: How do I prevent frizz?
A: Frizz is usually a sign of dryness. Keep your curls hydrated, seal in moisture with lightweight oils, and avoid rough towel-drying. Instead, use a microfiber towel or a cotton T-shirt to gently blot your curls dry.

Q: Can I use heat tools on curly hair?
A: Yes, but in moderation. Excessive heat can cause dryness and damage. Always apply a heat protectant before using tools like blow dryers, flat irons, or curling wands.

Q: Which Leisure Curl products should beginners start with?
A: A great beginner-friendly regimen includes After Shampoo Moisture Balance to restore hydration, Coconut Oil Defining Curl Jelly to define and enhance curl patterns, and Finishing Shining Mist to add shine while taming frizz and flyaways.