Discover the key to brushing and styling curly hair effectively.
We’ve all heard the age-old advice, “Never brush curly hair!” Haven’t we? Yet, a growing number of people with curls are now achieving beautifully defined clumps by incorporating a brush into their styling routine.
From creating ribbon-like curls to using the shake technique, there are several ways to make brushing work for your curls. Always remember, curly hair is delicate when wet, so handle it with care when using these methods!
Brush Styling Techniques and How to Master Them
Brush and Shake
This is by far the simplest method and a great way to form loose waves and natural clumps. It works particularly well with upside-down styling and can be used on either wet or damp hair—though the wetter the hair, the more defined the result.Start by flipping your hair forward and gently brushing through it upside down, avoiding scrunching. Once brushed, gently shake your head to allow the clumps to naturally come together. If they don’t form easily, try adding a bit more water. Carefully scrunch the clumps to keep them intact, then either diffuse your hair while upside down or flip it back up and let it air dry.
Ribbon Styling
For the most defined curls, this technique is a go-to. Imagine curling a ribbon on a gift—that’s the kind of precision you’ll need. Apply pressure to your hair against the edge of your brush as you style.
This technique works both upside down and right side up but is best performed on wet or very wet hair. Choose a section of hair (the size will affect the final curl). First, brush through the section to ensure it’s smooth. Then, place the brush near the root and brush away from the scalp. Gently pinch the top of the section and shake to allow the clump to form. For tighter spirals, apply pressure on the hair as it passes over the top edge of the brush—this will curl the hair inward, resulting in a coil reminiscent of a ribbon curl.
Handle Styling
This method also works upside down or right side up and requires wet or very wet hair. The size of the section you choose will dictate the size of the curl. Begin by brushing through the section to smooth it out, then hold the brush upside down with the handle pointing upwards.Next, place the brush near the root and brush outwards while gently twisting and pulling the brush down. The curl will eventually wrap around the handle, and as you pull the brush through, it will leave behind a perfect spiral. Scrunch the curl carefully to avoid disrupting it.
Addressing Common Brush Styling Challenges
How to Prevent Tangles
Some curl enthusiasts may struggle with tangles, especially with the Ribbon or Handle Styling methods. To avoid this, consider sectioning your hair using clips or pins before you start. Brushing through your hair completely before styling can also help prevent tangles.
How to Avoid Flat Roots
For those with curl types 3a or below, styling right side up may flatten the roots due to the pulling action. This is particularly common with Handle Styling. To counteract this, try styling upside down to lift the roots away from the scalp. Alternatively, use root clips to hold sections in place, ensuring volume at the root while you work.
