How to Get Soft Curls With Natural Hair

Are you tired of having straight and boring hair? Would you like to add soft curls to your natural hair for a more voluminous and bouncy look?

Embracing and enhancing your natural curls can be a journey of self-love and self-expression. Soft, bouncy curls can add a touch of elegance and playfulness to your overall look, radiating confidence and individuality. Whether you have tight coils or loose waves, various methods and techniques can help you achieve soft curls with your natural hair.

In this guide on how to get soft curls with natural hair, we will explore different approaches, from gentle styling techniques to nourishing hair care practices, to help you unlock the beauty of your natural curls and embrace your hair’s versatility.

What Are the Benefits of Soft Curls?

Before we dive into the steps to achieve soft curls, let’s take a moment to appreciate the benefits of having soft and bouncy curls:

• Adds volume: Soft curls can add volume and fullness to your hair, making it look thicker and more voluminous.
• Versatility in Styling: Soft curls are versatile and can be styled in various ways, from loose waves to defined ringlets, giving you endless options for different looks.
• Low Maintenance: Unlike straight hair, soft curls require minimal maintenance. The natural texture of your hair does most of the work, allowing you to spend less time styling and more time enjoying your beautiful locks.
• Less Damage: Heat styling tools can damage your hair over time, but with soft curls, you can achieve a similar look without exposing your hair to excessive heat.
• Boosts Confidence: Embracing and enhancing your natural curls can boost your confidence. Soft curls can make you feel more comfortable in your skin and allow you to embrace your unique beauty.

Now that we’ve established the benefits of soft curls let’s explore the steps to achieving them with natural hair.

What Will You Need?

Before we get started, here are some essential tools and products that you will need to achieve soft curls with natural hair:

• Wide-tooth Comb: A wide-tooth comb will help detangle your hair gently without causing any breakage or damage.
• Curl-enhancing Products: From creams to gels and mousses, various curl-enhancing products are available in the market that can help define curls and provide lasting hold.
• Heat Protectant Spray: If you choose to use heat styling tools, it is crucial to use a heat protectant spray to minimize the damage.
• Diffuser Attachment: A diffuser attachment for your blow dryer can help distribute heat evenly and enhance your curls without causing frizz.
• Satin/Silk Scarf or Bonnet: To maintain your soft curls overnight, protecting them while you sleep is essential. A satin or silk scarf or bonnet can help reduce friction and retain moisture in your hair.

Now that we have everything we need, let’s move on to the steps to achieve soft curls with natural hair.

10 Easy Steps on How to Get Soft Curls With Natural Hair

Step 1: Start With Freshly Washed Hair

Begin by washing your hair with a sulfate-free shampoo and a moisturizing conditioner. Clean hair provides a fresh foundation for achieving soft curls. Focus on your scalp to remove any buildup, and follow up with a conditioner to hydrate and detangle your hair. Rinse thoroughly and gently squeeze out excess water with a microfiber towel or cotton T-shirt to prevent frizz.

Step 2: Apply a Leave-In Conditioner 

After washing your hair, gently pat it dry with a microfiber towel or a cotton T-shirt to avoid frizz and breakage. While your hair is still damp, apply a leave-in conditioner to provide extra moisture and ensure your curls stay soft and hydrated. Distribute the product evenly through your hair using your fingers or a wide-tooth comb, focusing on the ends for maximum hydration.

Step 3: Use a Curl-Enhancing Product 

Next, apply a curl-enhancing product, such as a cream, mousse, or gel, to define and shape your curls. Start with a small amount and work it through your hair evenly, section by section, starting from the roots to the ends. Make sure to use products suited for your hair type and desired level of hold. Using your fingers or a wide-tooth comb, gently scrunch your hair upwards to encourage your natural curl pattern to form.

Step 4: Section Your Hair 

Divide your hair into manageable sections using clips or hair ties. Sectioning your hair makes it easier to apply products and style evenly. Depending on the thickness and length of your hair, you can create anywhere between 4 to 8 sections. This step ensures that every strand gets the attention and care it needs for achieving soft and defined curls.

Step 5: Start Styling Your Curls 

If you prefer a heat-free method, you can set your curls using techniques such as braiding, two-strand twists, or bantu knots. Take small sections of hair and braid or twist them tightly, then secure the ends with a hair tie or clip. For heat-styling enthusiasts, use a diffuser attachment with your blow dryer on a low or medium heat setting. Work through each section slowly and scrunch your hair gently upward to enhance the curl formation.

Step 6: Air Dry or Diffuse 

If you used a heat-free styling method, allow your hair to air dry completely. Patience is key during this step, as touching or manipulating your curls while drying can cause frizz. If you’re using a diffuser, gently cup sections of your hair with the diffuser attachment and blow dry on a low heat and speed setting. Move the diffuser around your head to dry all sections evenly. This helps set the curls while maintaining softness and reducing frizz.

Step 7: Separate and Fluff 

Once your hair is dehydrated, you can separate the curls to create more volume and achieve a softer, fuller look. Use your fingers to separate any clumps of curls gently. Be careful not to disrupt the curl pattern too much to maintain definition. To add extra volume and lift, fluff your roots lightly with your fingertips or a wide-tooth comb.

Step 8: Add Final Touches 

To finish your look, apply a lightweight oil or serum to your curls to add shine and lock in moisture. Focus on the ends of your hair to prevent dryness and maintain the health of your curls. If needed, use a small amount of edge control product to smooth your edges for a polished finish. Avoid using too much product to avoid weighing down your curls.

Step 9: Preserve Your Curls Overnight 

Maintaining soft curls overnight is essential to ensure your style lasts. Before sleeping, use a satin or silk scarf, bonnet, or pillowcase to minimize friction and retain moisture. You can also try the pineapple method by gathering your curls into a loose, high ponytail to help preserve the curl shape and prevent flattening.

Step 10: Refresh Your Curls 

On the following days, use a spray bottle filled with water or a curl refresher spray to wake up and redefine your curls. Lightly mist your hair and scrunch the curls to restore their shape and bounce. For any frizzy or flat sections, apply a small amount of curl-enhancing product and repeat the scrunching motion. This quick refresh will keep your curls fresh and vibrant without reopening the entire styling process.

By following these steps, you can achieve and maintain soft, beautiful curls that highlight the natural beauty of your hair. With the proper techniques and products, your curls will stay defined, moisturized, and full of life!

5 Things You Should Avoid

1. Overusing Heat Styling Tools: Excessive use of heat-styling tools, such as flat irons or curling wands, can cause heat damage and lead to dryness and frizz. Opt for heatless styling methods or use heat-protectant products when using heat tools.
2. Skipping Heat Protectant: It is crucial to apply a heat protectant spray or serum before using any heat styling tool. This helps shield hair from heat damage and keeps it moisturized.
3. Using Harsh Chemicals: Avoid products that contain harsh chemicals like sulfates and alcohol. These chemicals can strip your hair of its natural oils and cause dryness and breakage. Opt for gentle, sulfate-free shampoos and moisturizing conditioners.
4. Over-manipulating Your Hair: Excessive combing, brushing, or styling can lead to excessive breakage and damage. Be gentle when handling your hair, use a wide-toothed comb or your fingers to detangle, and minimize the use of tight hair ties or styles that cause tension.
5. Neglecting Moisture: Natural hair tends to be drier, so it’s essential to keep it moisturized. Use deep conditioning treatments regularly, hydrating leave-in conditioners, and natural oils to lock in moisture and promote softness and elasticity.

By avoiding these common pitfalls, you can enhance the health and appearance of your natural hair, achieving those soft and beautiful curls you desire.

Conclusion

Every person’s hair is unique, and embracing and celebrating your natural curls is essential.

Finding the right techniques and products for your hair type may take some trial and error, but with patience and consistency, you can achieve soft, defined curls that reflect your personal style. Remember to nourish and protect your hair, avoid damaging habits, and, most importantly, have fun experimenting with different styles!

With these tips in mind on how to get soft curls with natural hair, you can confidently rock your natural curls every day.  So go on and show off those beautiful curls with pride!  Keep learning about proper hair care practices to ensure healthy, strong locks for years to come. Happy styling!