The Lazy Curl Method

Step Two

The Wash

The second step in The Lazy Curl Method. The best approach to The Wash will depend on your hair type and individual needs.

 

Why do we wash hair?

We wash our hair to remove sebum (natural oils) and product buildup, and to prevent flakey scalps. Build-up can result in limp, lifeless hair and can even prevent proper hydration of the hair strand. After cleansing the hair it is essential to use an appropriate conditioner.

 

Different ways to wash hair.

Shampoo – containing an emulsifier, shampoo can dry out your curls as they cleanse. The use of gentle shampoo only (low-foaming shampoo, baby shampoo etc.)  is recommended on curly hair, but even this can lead to some hair types losing curl definition and becoming frizzy or dry.

Co-wash –  Cleansing conditioners (specially formulated or regular) cleanse without an emulsifier. While co-wash is usually the most suitable for curls, it will not cleanse as well as shampoo and can lead to build-up.
 
ACV Rinse – Usually used as a deep-cleanse in conjuction with a co-wash routine, an Apple Cider Vinegar rinse can remove build-up well and restore the natural pH of the scalp.

 

Which way is right for me?

The easiest way to approach choosing the right method is to identify your hair type and individual needs and adapt your approach if your needs change over time.

My hair is coarse, dry or too frizzy and I’d like more curl definition

The best approach typically is co-washing, with occasional deep-cleanse with ACV or gentle shampoo (every 2-4 weeks or more), and the use of a heavy conditioner.

My hair is coarse, dry or too frizzy and I’d like more volume

The best approach typically is the frequent use of co-wash (every 2-3 days) ocassional use of a gentle shampoo (every 5-7 days), and the use of a medium-light conditioner.

My hair is fine, limp or greasy and I’d like more volume

The best approach typically is the regular use of gentle shampoo and a light conditioner.

My hair is fine, limp or greasy and I’d like more curl definition.

The best approach typically is alternating between a co-wash and gentle shampoo (every 2-3 days) and the use of a light conditioner.

 

How often should you wash your hair?

The best answer to this question is “as infrequently as possible”. This can mean different things based on your hair type and individual needs. The ideal wash frequency is usually every 3-5 days. Typically, finer hair will require more frequent washes where as coarser curls benefit from going longer between washes.

If you are finding that your hair is getting limp and/or is beginning to get build-up at your roots, then you are most likely going to long between washes. If you are finding that your hair is feeling dry or frizzy and you are not getting any build-up or flat hair, then most likely you would benefit from going a little longer between washes.

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