curly girl essentials

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on the heels of my refinery 29 story, my curls have been seeing the most light of day that they’ve seen since college (when late nights and early classes left me no time for straightening). as i’ve been letting them run wild and free, i’m learning how to care for them and loving the fact that i can go three full days without washing them. while i am still professing my love and adoration for salt sprays, they to tend to dry things out and i’m not so crazy about that. here are a few new-to-me curl maintenance products that are keeping my spirals happy and heat-free.

aveda sun care after-sun hair masque, $26
technically relegated for apres beach, this ultra nourishing hair masque works to moisturize salt-parched hair. it’s brilliant for giving your tresses a much needed recovery boost and since it drenches hair in hydration, it gives curls extra bounce and shine without being heavy. i’m learning how important moisture is for curls. it’s making all of the difference!

ouidad curl defining styling souffle, $26
this one surprised me since i generally do not like products that have to be raked through my hair. start with just a little bit and build from there. the pudding texture is actually very easy to scrunch in and the result is slightly stretched and elongated curls. it’s a nice alternative to the salt sprays and the finished effects are still super pretty.

wella ocean spritz, $16
this is exclusively meant to be used on dry hair and it’s genius for giving your second or third day curls essential rejuvenation. it’s matte and gives nice hold, so if you’re opting to throw your ringlets back into a pony or topknot, it’s a great tool to keep on hand because it gives things some shape. the finished look is a bit wild and unkempt, but i like it.

mark. curl to curl reactivate and define mist mini, $8
where oh where has this stuff been all of my life? this is like the nectar of life for my curls! it’s an instant refresher, taming all flyaways and giving shape and definition to my slept in bird’s nest. it’s tiny and travel-friendly so it can be tucked into my purse, too. best: when i use it, no one knows that i’m rocking yesterday’s (or the day before’s) curly do.