Style Medium Length Curly Hair: A Guide to Achieving Beautiful, Voluminous Curls

With its effortless elegance and flattering versatility, medium length curly hair has become a highly sought-after hairstyle for women of all ages. Whether you're looking to enhance your natural curls or create a captivating new look, this comprehensive guide will provide you with everything you need to know about styling medium length curly hair.

Understanding Your Curls

Before embarking on your styling journey, it's crucial to understand the unique characteristics of your curls. The "curl pattern" refers to the shape and texture of your curls, ranging from loose waves to tight coils. According to the Andre Walker Hair Typing System, there are four main curl patterns:

• Type 2 (Wavy): Loose, S-shaped waves that are often easy to style.
• Type 3 (Curly): Defined, bouncy curls that range in tightness from loose ringlets to corkscrews.
• Type 4 (Coily): Tight, zig-zag coils that are often prone to shrinkage.

Essential Styling Products

To achieve the perfect style for your medium length curly hair, it's essential to invest in a few key styling products:

• Shampoo and Conditioner: Choose curl-specific products that are sulfate-free and moisturizing to avoid drying out your curls.
• Leave-In Conditioner: A leave-in conditioner provides lasting moisture and helps reduce frizz.
• Curl Cream: A curl cream defines and enhances your curls while providing hold.
• Mousse: Mousse adds volume and support while preventing frizz.
• Gel: Gel provides a stronger hold for more defined curls.

Step-by-Step Styling Guide

1. Wash and Condition:

• Wet your hair and apply a generous amount of curl-specific shampoo. Gently massage your scalp to remove dirt and buildup.
• Rinse thoroughly and follow with a curl-enhancing conditioner. Leave the conditioner in for a few minutes before rinsing.

2. Apply Leave-In Conditioner:

• Towel-dry your hair gently to remove excess water.
• Apply a leave-in conditioner to damp hair from roots to ends. Distribute evenly using a wide-toothed comb.

3. Add Curl Cream:

• While your hair is still damp, apply a curl cream from mid-lengths to ends. Use your fingers to define and shape your curls.

4. Use Mousse or Gel:

• For added volume and definition, apply mousse or gel to the roots of your hair.
• Scrunch your hair gently to encourage curl formation.

5. Diffuse or Air Dry:

• If you want to speed up the drying process, use a diffuser attachment on your blow dryer. Hold the diffuser about 6 inches away from your hair and move it constantly to distribute heat evenly.
• Alternatively, you can let your hair air dry naturally. This method takes longer but results in less frizz.

Tips and Tricks

• Embrace Your Natural Texture: Remember that each curl pattern is unique and beautiful. Don't try to force your curls into a different shape.
• Use a Wide-Tooth Comb: Avoid brushing your curls with a regular brush as it can break them. Opt for a wide-toothed comb instead.
• Avoid Over-Washing: Over-washing can strip your hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness and frizz. Aim to wash your hair 2-3 times a week.
• Deep Condition Regularly: Deep conditioning your hair every 1-2 weeks provides intense hydration and nourishment.
• Protect from Heat: Heat styling tools can damage your curls. Use a heat protectant spray before using any hot tools and limit their use.

Conclusion

Styling medium length curly hair requires a combination of knowledge, patience, and the right products. By understanding your curl pattern, investing in quality styling products, and following the step-by-step guide, you can achieve beautiful, voluminous curls that will turn heads wherever you go. Embrace your natural texture and don't be afraid to experiment with different styling techniques until you find what works best for you.