How to Do the Curly Girl Method: Step-by-Step Guide
The Curly Girl Method (CGM) is a revolutionary approach to haircare that helps people with textured hair achieve their best curls, waves, or coils. Whether you have loose waves, bouncy curls, or tight coils, this method emphasises hydration, gentle handling, and the right products to enhance your hair's natural beauty.
Originally introduced by Lorraine Massey in her book Curly Girl: The Handbook, CGM challenges conventional haircare norms. It focuses on avoiding harsh chemicals, damaging practices, and harmful ingredients. Instead, it encourages hair-friendly techniques and products that nourish and protect your curls.
If you’ve ever struggled with frizz, dryness, or undefined curls, the Curly Girl Method might be the solution you’ve been looking for. This guide breaks down the steps, products, and tips to help you embrace your natural texture.
What is the Curly Girl Method?
The Curly Girl Method is a lifestyle and haircare philosophy designed to celebrate and care for natural curls and waves. Its foundation lies in avoiding practices and ingredients that damage or strip hair of its natural oils. Instead, it focuses on creating a routine that emphasises hydration, definition, and overall hair health.
At its core, CGM is about ditching:
Sulphates: These harsh detergents are commonly found in shampoos and strip the hair of natural moisture, leaving it dry and brittle.
Silicones: Non-water-soluble silicones can build up on the hair, preventing moisture from penetrating the strands.
Heat Styling Tools: Regular use of flat irons, curling wands, or blow dryers can weaken and damage hair, making it harder to maintain healthy curls.
By eliminating these harmful elements, CGM allows your hair to recover and thrive in its natural state.
What Are the Curly Girl Method Steps?
Transitioning to the Curly Girl Method involves a step-by-step approach that may feel different from traditional haircare routines. Here’s how you can get started:
1. Clarify Your Hair
Before you begin, cleanse your hair with a sulphate shampoo one last time. This step removes product buildup, silicone residue, and other impurities, giving you a fresh slate for the CGM routine.
2. Avoid Harsh Ingredients
Once clarified, avoid products that contain sulphates, silicones, and drying alcohols. These ingredients can strip hair of moisture or create buildup that hinders curl formation.
3. Choose the Right Cleanser
Replace traditional shampoo with a co-wash or a CGM-approved low-poo cleanser. For example, Bumble and bumble’s Curl Moisturizing Shampoo gently cleanses without stripping natural oils.
4. Condition Generously
Hydration is key to healthy curls. Use a rich, CGM-friendly conditioner like Bumble and bumble Curl 3-in-1 Conditioner. Apply it to wet hair, detangle with your fingers or a wide-tooth comb, and let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing.
5. Apply Styling Products to Wet Hair
After washing and conditioning, apply styling products while your hair is still wet. This locks in moisture and enhances curl definition. Bumble and bumble Curl Defining Styling Cream is a great option to shape and define curls without weighing them down.
6. Dry with Care
Avoid rough towel drying, which can disrupt curl patterns and cause frizz. Instead, use a microfiber towel or a cotton T-shirt to gently squeeze out excess water. Let your hair air-dry or use a diffuser on a low-heat setting.
7. Deep Condition Regularly
Incorporate a deep conditioning treatment like Olaplex No. 3 Hair Perfector once a week. This helps repair damage, boost hydration, and maintain your curls’ elasticity.
What Products Can You Use for the Curly Girl Method?
The right products are the foundation of any successful CGM routine. Here are some top recommendations from Bumble and bumble and Olaplex:
Cleansing Products
Bumble and bumble Curl Moisturizing Shampoo: This sulphate free cleanser removes impurities while hydrating curls.
Conditioning Products
Bumble and bumble Curl 3-in-1 Conditioner: Whether you use it as a rinse-out, leave-in, or co-wash, this product delivers intense hydration.
Deep Treatments
Olaplex No. 3 Hair Perfector: A must-have for repairing and strengthening damaged hair.
Styling Products
Bumble and bumble Curl Defining Styling Cream: Enhances curl definition without stiffness.
Olaplex No. 9 Bond Protector: A lightweight, silicone-free serum that fights frizz and protects hair from pollutants.
These products align with CGM principles while providing the nourishment and protection your curls need.
Which Products Are Not Included in the Curly Girl Method?
Understanding which products to avoid is crucial for the success of the CGM. Here’s a list of items to keep out of your routine:
Sulphates: These harsh detergents strip the hair of its natural oils and leave it dry.
Non-Water-Soluble Silicones: These silicones coat the hair, creating a barrier that prevents moisture from penetrating the strands.
Drying Alcohols: Found in some styling products, these can make hair brittle and dehydrated.
Heat Styling Tools: Frequent use of flat irons, curling wands, or traditional blow dryers can damage curls and disrupt their natural pattern.
By avoiding these, you create an environment where your curls can thrive.
Breaking Curly Girl Method Rules
While the Curly Girl Method has strict guidelines, many users swear by Olaplex for its ability to repair damaged hair. However, not all Olaplex products are CGM-approved.
CGM-friendly options include:
- Olaplex Part 0
- Olaplex No. 3 Hair Perfector
- Olaplex No. 9 Bond Protector
These products are free of silicones and work well within the CGM framework. If your hair needs intensive repair, incorporating Olaplex into your routine can be a game-changer.
For a deeper dive into this topic, check out Breaking Curly Girl Method Rules: Is Olaplex Worth It?
How Long Does It Take for the Curly Girl Method to Work?
Adjusting to CGM requires patience. Most people notice an improvement in their hair’s texture, hydration, and curl pattern within 3 to 6 weeks.
During this period, your hair is transitioning away from harsh chemicals and building up its natural moisture balance. Stick with the routine, and the results will speak for themselves.
Is the Curly Girl Method Good for Hair?
Yes, the CGM is highly beneficial for anyone with textured hair. The method encourages healthy habits like avoiding damaging chemicals, embracing moisture-rich products, and reducing heat styling.
Over time, CGM can transform dry, frizzy, or damaged hair into healthy, hydrated, and well-defined curls.
Does the Curly Girl Method Work on Wavy Hair?
Absolutely. The CGM isn’t just for those with tight curls—it’s also incredibly effective for wavy hair. Wavy textures benefit from the enhanced moisture and definition that this method provides, resulting in soft, bouncy, and frizz-free waves.
What Are the Pros and Cons of the Curly Girl Method?
Pros:
- Promotes healthier, more hydrated hair
- Enhances curl or wave definition
- Reduces frizz and breakage
- Encourages natural beauty and reduces dependency on heat styling
Cons:
- Requires a commitment to new routines and practices
- Takes time to see results, especially during the transition period
- Involves trial and error to find the right products
Conclusion: Is the Curly Girl Method Worth It?
The Curly Girl Method offers a proven path to healthier, more beautiful curls. While it requires dedication, the results—hydrated, defined, and frizz-free curls—are well worth the effort.
Ready to Love Your Curls Like Never Before?
Book an appointment with our curly hair experts today and let us help you achieve your dream curls. Whether you need the perfect curly haircut or advice on the best products for your routine, we’re here to bring your curl goals to life. Don’t wait—your curls deserve it!
