Pro Stylist Secret: No ‘Snap’, No Perfect Curls for Textured Hair!

Curls, once overlooked, are making a comeback in the fashion world. From Nicole Kidman to Sonia Rolland, celebrities are proudly showing off their natural curls. They all appreciate the effortless look and the softness curls add to their facial features. Laureen Schein, the founder of La Belle Boucle, shares an essential tip for achieving beautiful waves without using a curling iron.

Those with textured hair, including the author of this article, share a common fear: relaxed curls that end up frizzy. To overcome this, a simple technique can define the curls, and “it starts while your hair is still wet,” according to the expert. After using conditioner and a protein or hydrating mask, apply a small amount of leave-in styling cream throughout your hair. Choose products with natural ingredients, free from sulfates and silicones, like those offered by brands such as Boucleme, Les Secrets de Loly, or Aroma Zone. Next, perform the magical move: scrunching. “This involves gently pressing the hair upwards with your hands, helping to enhance the natural curl shape and ensuring the styling products penetrate the hair fiber well,” explains our expert in her book Uncomplicated Curls (published by Leduc). To check if you’re doing it right, you should hear a slight squishy sound. If not, your hair might not be wet enough. Correct this by spritzing some water on your hair and scrunch again. Repeat until your curls are well-formed.

Worry not, this technique does not damage the hair. On the contrary, it helps hydrate it. For even more defined curls, apply a styling gel enriched with pure vegetable oils like argan, coconut, jojoba, or avocado while continuing to scrunch. These natural oils, available from brands like Cut by Fred or Kalia Nature, deeply nourish without weighing down the hair. Pre-dry your curls with a microfiber towel or a cotton t-shirt and finish off with a hairdryer equipped with a diffuser, being careful not to touch the curls too much as they could break.

Once your hair is completely dry, softly scrunch in a few drops of jojoba, argan, or sweet almond oil, or a serum made with aloe vera to eliminate any stiffness. Always opt for naturally sourced and organic products that are gentle on the delicate structure of textured hair. With this straightforward technique and appropriate care, your curls will regain their natural definition and shine.