Are you tired of dealing with frizzy, curly hair that seems always to curl outwards? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Many people struggle with this issue, and trying to find a solution can be frustrating.
Having hair that curls outward can be a frustrating and often challenging problem to tackle. It can make styling difficult and leave you less confident about your hair. Fortunately, with the right techniques and products, you can regain control and achieve your desired sleek, straight look.

In this guide on how to stop hair from curling outwards, we will explore various strategies and tips to help you stop hair from curling outwards. This will allow you to embrace a smooth and polished hairstyle that showcases your unique beauty. Let’s dive in and discover the secrets to taming those rebellious curls!
What Are the Causes of Hair Curling Outwards?
Before we dive into solutions, it’s essential to understand the underlying causes of hair curling outwards. There are a few factors that can contribute to this issue, including:
- Genetics: The shape and texture of your hair are primarily determined by genetics. You may be more prone to experiencing outward curls if you have naturally curly or frizzy hair.
- Humidity: High humidity levels in the air can cause hair to absorb moisture and swell, resulting in unwanted curls and frizz.
- Heat Styling: Overusing heat styling tools such as straighteners or blow dryers can damage the cuticle of your hair, making it more porous and prone to curling outwards.
- Product Buildup: Using too much product or not properly washing it out can create buildup on the hair, making it heavy and causing it to curl outward.
By understanding these potential causes, you can better determine which strategies will most effectively stop your hair from curling outwards.
What Will You Need?
To successfully stop hair from curling outwards, you’ll need a few key products and tools:
- Shampoo and Conditioner: Invest in high-quality shampoo and conditioner specifically designed for your hair type. Look for products with hydrating and smoothing properties.
- Heat Protectant: If you choose to use heat styling tools, using a heat protectant spray or serum is important to protect your hair from damage.
- Anti-Frizz Serum: A good anti-frizz serum can help control frizz and keep your hair looking smooth and sleek.
- Wide-Tooth Comb: This comb is gentler on the hair and can help detangle without causing excessive breakage.
- Microfiber Towel: Standard towels can cause friction and create frizz, so using a microfiber towel to dry your hair is gentler and helps reduce frizz.
Now that you have the necessary products and tools let’s explore some techniques for stopping hair from curling outwards.

10 Easy Steps on How to Stop Hair From Curling Outwards
Step 1: Start with Clean, Well-Conditioned Hair
Begin by washing your hair with a high-quality shampoo and conditioner suited for your hair type. Look for products with soothing and hydrating properties to help tame frizz and prepare your hair for styling. Gently rinse your hair with lukewarm water, as hot water can strip it of natural oils, making it more prone to dryness and outward curls. After washing and conditioning, use a microfiber towel to gently pat your hair dry, avoiding rough towel drying, which can cause frizz.
Step 2: Apply a Heat Protectant
If you plan to use heat styling tools, this step is crucial to prevent damage that can exacerbate outward curling. Apply a heat protectant spray or serum evenly throughout your damp hair. Focus on the ends, as they are more prone to damage. This step reduces the risk of heat damage and helps keep your hair looking sleek and manageable.
Step 3: Blow-Dry with a Round Brush
Use a blow dryer and a round brush to guide your hair in a smooth and inward direction. Start at the roots, using the brush to pull the hair taut while directing the blow dryer down your hair shaft. For the ends, roll the hair slightly inward with the brush as you dry, creating a curved and polished finish. Use a nozzle attachment on your dryer to improve the airflow.
Step 4: Use a Flat Iron for Sleek Results
Once your hair is dehydrated, use a flat iron to smooth out any remaining frizz and achieve a straight, polished look. Start by sectioning your hair into small, manageable parts. Take one section at a time, clamp the flat iron near the roots, and slowly glide it down the length of your hair. For the ends, slightly curve the flat iron inward to encourage your hair to turn in rather than out. Use a moderate heat setting suitable for your hair type to avoid excessive damage.
Step 5: Apply an Anti-Frizz Serum
After styling with heat tools, apply a small amount of anti-frizz serum to your hair. Focus on the mid-lengths and ends, as these areas are more prone to outward curling and frizz. The serum helps lock in moisture, smooth the hair cuticle, and keep your hair looking sleek throughout the day. Be careful not to use too much product, as excess can weigh down your hair and make it look greasy.
Step 6: Set Your Style with Hair Spray
To maintain your sleek hairstyle, use a lightweight, flexible-hold hair spray. Lightly mist your hair to hold it in place without feeling stiff or sticky. A humidity-resistant hair spray is ideal if you live in an area with high humidity, as it can help prevent frizz and keep your hair from curling outward as the day progresses.

Step 7: Sleep on a Silk Pillowcase
A silk or satin pillowcase is an easy yet effective way to prevent outward curling while sleeping. Unlike cotton pillowcases, which can cause friction and lead to frizz, silk pillowcases allow your hair to glide smoothly, helping it maintain its sleek appearance. This small change can significantly improve the longevity of your hairstyle.
Step 8: Avoid Touching Your Hair
Once your hair is styled, avoid touching it excessively throughout the day. Constantly running your fingers through your hair or adjusting it can disturb the sleek finish, cause frizz, and encourage outward curling. If you need to fix or reposition your hair, use a wide-tooth comb or gently smooth it down with your hands instead of repeatedly handling it.
Step 9: Use Regular Deep Conditioning Treatments
Maintaining the health of your hair is key to preventing outward curling. Incorporate a deep conditioning treatment into your routine at least once a week. This helps nourish and hydrate your hair, smoothing the cuticle and reducing frizz. Look for treatments with argan oil, keratin, or shea butter, known for their hydrating and smoothing benefits. Consistent use of deep conditioning treatments can improve your hair’s manageability.
Step 10: Trim Split Ends Regularly
Split ends can cause your hair to lose its shape and contribute to outward curling. To combat this, visit a professional stylist for regular trims every 6-8 weeks or as needed based on your hair’s growth and condition. Trimming split ends keeps your hair looking healthy and polished and helps maintain the inward direction of your hairstyle. Healthy ends are less likely to fray and curl outward, ensuring a smoother appearance.

Following these steps and maintaining a consistent haircare routine can effectively minimize outward curling and enjoy sleek, manageable hair daily.
5 Things You Should Avoid
Here are five common mistakes to avoid if you want to prevent your hair from curling outwards:
- Heat Damage: Excessive use of heat-styling tools like curling irons or straighteners can damage your hair and cause it to curl outwards. Limit heat styling and always apply a heat protectant before styling.
- Lack of Moisture: Dry hair is more prone to frizz and curling outwards. Keep your hair well-moisturized using a hydrating shampoo and conditioner and regularly applying a nourishing hair mask or oil treatment.
- Incorrect Brushing Technique: Vigorously brushing your hair or using the wrong type of brush can cause friction and frizz, curling your hair outwards. Use a wide-toothed comb or a brush specifically designed for your hair type, gently detangle your hair from the ends to the roots.
- Skipping Regular Trims: Split ends and damaged hair can contribute to frizz and unruly curls. Schedule regular trims every 6-8 weeks to remove split ends and keep your hair healthy and manageable.
- Overusing Styling Products: Too many styling products or using them incorrectly can weigh down your hair and make it more prone to curling outwards. Use a minimal amount of lightweight styling products and distribute them evenly through your hair to avoid product buildup.

By avoiding these common mistakes and adopting healthy hair care practices, you can prevent your hair from curling outwards and achieve a smoother, more manageable hairstyle.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are several steps you can take to prevent your hair from curling outwards and achieve a sleek, straight hairstyle.
These tips, from using the right products and tools to maintaining a healthy haircare routine, can help you achieve smooth and manageable hair. Remember also to avoid common mistakes that can contribute to frizz and outward curling, such as excessive heat styling or lack of moisture.
Hopefully, the article on how to stop hair from curling outwards has provided you with valuable information and tips to help you achieve your desired hairstyle. So go ahead and try out these steps for yourself, and say goodbye to unwanted outward curls! Happy styling!
you can also check it out Thinning Scissors on Curly Hair
About the Author
Jane Hubbard is a passionate beauty expert with a wealth of experience in makeup, hair, and overall beauty techniques. After years of working as a hairdresser specialist, she followed her entrepreneurial spirit and started her own consultancy business.
Jane has always been driven by her desire to help others feel confident in their own skin, and she does this by sharing her knowledge, experiences, and practical beauty tips. Through her consultancy, she empowers individuals to embrace their unique beauty, offering tailored guidance that boosts both self-esteem and personal style.
Professional Focus
- Specializes in makeup, hairstyling, and beauty consulting.
- Provides personalized beauty advice, tips, and techniques to help individuals feel confident in their appearance.
- Dedicated to staying up-to-date with the latest industry trends and developments.
- Passionate about creating a comfortable and empowering experience for every client.
Education History
- University of Craft and Design – Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Woodworking and Furniture Design
- Woodworking Apprenticeships – Extensive hands-on training with skilled craftsmen to refine carpentry and furniture making techniques
- Online Courses & Masterclasses – Continued education in advanced woodworking techniques, design principles, and specialized tools
Expertise:
- Makeup artistry, hairstyling, and beauty consulting.
- Personalized beauty techniques to enhance confidence and self-expression.
- Educating clients on how to maintain their beauty routines at home.