The Ultimate Curly Hair Survival Kit for a Humidity-Proof Summer
April 5, 2025
Summer heat and humidity can wreak havoc on curly hair, leading to excessive frizz and dryness. The key to maintaining healthy, defined curls is the right routine and products. Whether you’re washing, styling, or protecting your curls overnight, these must-have items will help keep your curls looking their best all summer long!
Washing: A Clean Slate for Frizz-Free Curls
A good wash routine is essential for preventing buildup and keeping curls bouncy. Here’s how to cleanse and condition your curls for maximum hydration and frizz control:
Step 1: Double Cleanse with a Sulfate-Free Shampoo
Start with a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo to remove dirt and excess oils while maintaining your curls’ natural moisture. Some great options include:
- Moroccan Oil Frizz-Free Shampoo & Conditioner Line (my go-to!)
- As I Am Curl Clarity Shampoo
- Camille Rose Sweet Ginger Cleansing Rinse
- Innersense Organic Beauty Hairbath
- Pattern Cleansing Shampoo w Matcha Green Tea, Aloe and Green Tea
For best results, lather up twice! The first cleanse removes buildup, while the second cleanse allows the shampoo to really penetrate and refresh your scalp.
Step 2: Deep Condition for Extra Hydration
If you have extra time, a deep conditioner is a game-changer for keeping curls soft and hydrated. Some of the most popular deep conditioners right now are:
If you’re short on time, go in with a rich, moisturizing conditioner instead to keep your curls nourished.
Step 3: Detangle with Conditioner In
For best results, detangle while the conditioner is still in your hair. Use your fingers, a wide-tooth comb, or a detangling brush to avoid breakage.
Tip: Clarify Once a Month
Over time, products can build up on your scalp and hair, weighing down your curls. Once a month, use a clarifying shampoo to deep clean your scalp and refresh your curls. Some great clarifying shampoos include:
Styling: Defining & Locking in Your Curls
Once your curls are clean, the styling process is crucial to achieving frizz-free definition. Hydration and technique are key!
Step 1: Apply a Leave-In Conditioner
Applying a lightweight leave-in conditioner on soaking wet hair helps to lock in moisture before styling. Some great choices include:
- It’s a 10 Miracle Leave-In Conditioner
- Rizos Curls Refresh & Detangle Spray
- Miss Jessie’s Leave-In Condish
- Innersense Sweet Spirit Leave-In Conditioner
Step 2: Define with a Curl Cream
Next, use a curl defining cream to enhance curl pattern and reduce frizz. Some top picks include:
Step 3: Seal with Gel or Custard
A gel will give strong, long-lasting hold, while a custard provides hold with added moisture and bounce. Choose based on your hair needs:
- Rizos Curls Curl Custard (Obsessed with the results!)
- Curls Goddess Botanical Gel
- Curlsmith Hydro Style Flexi Gel
Step 4: Curl Defining Methods
When it comes to defining your curls, there are a few go-to techniques that can make all the difference. Tools like the Denman brush, Bounce Curl brush, or even finder coiling can help smooth and define your curls beautifully. I personally like to focus on the front pieces that frame my face, as well as the top and back sections—these areas tend to need the most love. Some curly folks prefer to go all in, sectioning their hair and using a curl-defining brush throughout their whole head for consistent, bouncy curls.
Step 5: Drying – Air Dry or Diffuse?
Diffusing helps your curls dry fully while boosting volume and minimizing frizz from wind or humidity. While air drying is a great low-maintenance option, stepping outside with wet curls (guilty!) can sometimes lead to frizz. If you prefer to air dry, gently scrunch your curls with a t-shirt or microfiber towel to remove excess water before heading out.
Nighttime Hair Care: Protect Your Curls While You Sleep
Curly hair needs extra protection at night to maintain definition and minimize frizz. Here’s how to keep your curls fresh overnight:
Step 1: Put Hair in a Loose Pineapple Ponytail
Gather your hair at the top of your head in a loose ponytail to prevent flattening or tangling overnight. I prefer spiral hair ties or scrunchies to prevent hair breakage.
Step 2: Use a Bonnet or Silk Pillowcase
A satin or silk bonnet helps reduce friction, keeping curls intact. If bonnets aren’t your thing, opt for a silk pillowcase instead – or use both!
Step 3: Refresh in the Morning
If your curls need a little pick-me-up, lightly spritz them with water or a leave-in refresher spray to bring back bounce and definition. For any frizzy or lackluster sections, try finger coiling or smoothing them out with a curl-defining brush to revive their shape and shine.
By following this routine and using these must-have curly hair products, you can keep your curls looking hydrated, frizz-free, and defined all summer long—even in heat and humidity! Let me know in the comments what your favorite curly hair essentials are. Happy styling! ✨
