A Simplified Version of Curly Hair Product Order for Beginners

Starting a curly hair care routine can feel overwhelming when faced with shelves of products and conflicting advice online

Many beginners struggle to understand which products to use first, how much to apply, and in what order to layer them for healthy, defined curls.

Achieving great curls doesn’t require a complicated 10-step routine or expensive product collections.

This blog breaks down a simple, beginner-friendly curly hair product order that eliminates the guesswork from curly hair care.

Readers will learn the essential steps, why each product matters, and how to layer them properly for bouncy, frizz-free results without the trial and error

What is the Curly Girl Method?

The Curly Girl Method is a hair care philosophy created by stylist Lorraine Massey.

It focuses on treating curly and wavy hair with gentle, sulfate-free products while avoiding harsh chemicals that strip natural oils.

This approach encourages people to stop using traditional shampoos, heat styling tools, and brushes that can damage curl patterns.

Instead, it promotes co-washing with conditioners and using styling products that improve natural texture.

The method gained popularity through Massey’s book and online communities where people share their experiences.

It’s not a one-size-fits-all solution, but rather a framework that helps individuals understand their hair’s unique needs and find products that work for their specific curl type.

Factors to Determine if the Curly Girl Method is for You

The Curly Girl Method isn’t right for everyone, and that’s perfectly okay. Your hair type, lifestyle, and personal preferences all play a role in whether this approach will work for you.

The following are key factors to consider:

• Hair porosity level: Low porosity hair may struggle with heavy products, the method often recommends, while high porosity hair typically responds well to richer formulas.
• Scalp health: People with oily scalps, dandruff, or buildup issues might need clarifying shampoos that the method discourages.
• Time availability: The method requires patience for styling and longer wash days, which doesn’t suit everyone’s busy schedule.
• Budget constraints: Sulfate-free and curl-specific products often cost more than drugstore alternatives.
• Hair goals: If you prefer straight styles or frequently use heat tools, the method’s restrictions won’t align with your styling preferences.
• Product sensitivity: Some people react to common CG-approved ingredients like coconut oil or protein-rich products.
• Curl pattern: Looser waves sometimes need lighter products than what the method typically suggests for tighter curl patterns

Step-by-Step of Curly Hair Product Order

Following the right curly hair product order makes all the difference between defined, bouncy curls and a frizzy mess. Each step builds on the previous one, creating layers that work together to moisturize, define, and hold your curl pattern.

Step 1: Shampoo

Start with a sulfate-free shampoo to gently cleanse without stripping natural oils. Focus the shampoo primarily on your scalp rather than the lengths of your hair.

Massage with your fingertips, not nails, to avoid irritation and tangles. Curly hair produces less oil than straight hair, so you don’t need to shampoo daily.

Many people find washing 2-3 times per week works best. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water to prevent product buildup.

Step 2: Conditioner

Apply a generous amount of conditioner from mid-length to ends, avoiding the roots to prevent weighing hair down. Use your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to distribute evenly and detangle gently. This is when most detangling should happen since wet hair with conditioner has more slip.

Let the conditioner sit for 3-5 minutes to allow maximum moisture absorption.

Some people prefer to rinse out all conditioner, while others leave a small amount for extra moisture. The amount you rinse depends on your hair’s porosity and thickness.

Step 3: Leave-In Conditioner

Apply leave-in conditioner to soaking wet hair using the praying hands method or scrunching motions. This lightweight product provides ongoing moisture and creates a base for styling products.

Start with a small amount and add more if needed, as too much can weigh curls down. Focus on the mid-lengths and ends where hair tends to be driest.

Leave-in conditioner also provides heat protection if you plan to diffuse. The key is finding the right amount that moisturizes without creating heaviness or greasiness in your specific curl pattern.

Step 4: Curl Cream

Curl cream helps define and separate individual curl clumps while reducing frizz. Apply it section by section using the praying hands method, then gently scrunch upward.

This product works best on damp hair, so don’t let your hair dry too much before application. Curl creams typically contain lighter oils and conditioning agents that smooth the hair cuticle.

The amount needed varies greatly depending on hair length, thickness, and porosity. Some curl creams provide light hold, while others focus purely on definition and moisture. Choose based on whether you want your cream to contribute to hold or leave that job entirely to gel.

Step 5: Gel

Gel provides the hold needed to maintain curl shape throughout the day. Apply it over damp hair using the praying hands method, then scrunch gently to encourage curl formation. Don’t be afraid to use a generous amount, as curly hair needs more product than you might expect.

The gel creates a cast around each curl that prevents frizz and maintains definition. Look for gels without drying alcohols that can make hair crunchy and brittle.

Some people prefer strong hold gels, while others like medium or light hold formulas. The cast will feel crunchy initially, but this gets scrunched out in the final step for soft, defined curls.

Step 6: Air Drying or Diffusing

After applying all products, avoid touching your hair while it dries to prevent frizz and disrupted curl patterns. Air drying takes longer but reduces heat damage and often produces the most defined results.

If you’re short on time, use a diffuser attachment on low heat and speed. Cup sections of hair in the diffuser and pulse the air rather than moving it around constantly.

Some people prefer plopping with a microfiber towel or cotton t-shirt for 10-20 minutes before air drying. This removes excess water while maintaining curl shape. Avoid regular terry cloth towels, which can cause frizz and breakage to delicate curls.

Step 7: SOTC (Scrunch out The Crunch)

Once hair is completely dry, gently scrunch out the gel cast with your hands or a small amount of oil. This step transforms crunchy, hard curls into soft, touchable ones while maintaining definition and hold. The cast is crucial during drying, but needs removal for the final look.

Use a light touch and scrunch upward from the ends. Some people add a tiny bit of lightweight oil to their hands first for extra softness.

If you scrunch too early while the hair is still damp, you’ll lose definition and create frizz.

Does the Order of Curly Girl Method Matter?

Yes, the curly hair product order matters for achieving the best results. Applying products in the wrong sequence can lead to poor curl definition, frizz, and wasted product.

The general rule follows from lightest to heaviest consistency. Water-based leave-ins go first since they penetrate the hair shaft easily. Creams and gels come next because they create a protective layer and hold curls in place.

Skipping steps or switching the order can prevent products from working effectively. For example, applying gel before leave-in conditioner blocks moisture from reaching the hair.

This creates dry, crunchy curls instead of soft, defined ones. Following the proper curly hair product order helps each product perform its intended function.

Ingredients to Avoid for Curly Hair

Curly hair can look beautiful when it’s well cared for, but some ingredients in hair products can make it dry, frizzy, or brittle. Knowing what to avoid can help keep curls soft, bouncy, and healthy.

Styling Products for Curly Hair

Finding the right styling products can change unruly curls into defined, healthy-looking hair. The market offers countless options, from lightweight mousses to heavy-hold gels, each designed for different curl types and styling goals.

The following are some styling products for curly hair for you.

1. Bounce Curl Enzymatic Shampoo

This shampoo gently cleanses curly hair while improving natural curl formation. It uses natural enzymes and moisturizing agents to provide hydration without stripping.

It leaves curls soft and bouncy after each wash. Sulfate-free and safe for color-treated hair, it’s designed to refresh curls and prevent frizz.

• Main Ingredients: Papaya enzymes, jojoba oil, aloe vera
• Best for Curl Type: 2B to 4C (loose waves to tight coils)

2. DevaCurl One Condition Original

A rich, creamy conditioner that deeply moisturizes and softens curls while detangling. It helps reduce frizz and adds definition with ingredients that nourish without buildup.

Ideal for daily use or weekly deep conditioning to maintain curl health and bounce.

• Main Ingredients: Olive oil, grape seed oil, rosemary extract
• Best for Curl Type: 3A to 4B (curly to coily hair)

3. Ouidad Moisture Lock Leave-In Conditioner

This lightweight leave-in conditioner hydrates curls without weighing them down. It smooths the hair cuticle, controls frizz, and protects against humidity.

Perfect for refreshing curls between washes and preparing hair for styling.

• Main Ingredients: Aloe vera, chamomile extract, marshmallow root
• Best for Curl Type: 2C to 4A (wavy to tight curls)

4. Eco Styler Olive Oil Gel

A popular styling gel that provides strong, flexible hold without flaking or crunchiness. Infused with olive oil, it conditions curls and improves shine while defining each curl strand.

Great for wash-and-go styles needing long-lasting control.

• Main Ingredients: Olive oil, glycerin, water
• Best for Curl Type: 3A to 4C (curly to coily hair)

5. Briogeo Curl Charisma Rice Amino + Shea Curl Defining Cream

This curl cream uses rice amino acids and shea butter to hydrate and define curls with a soft hold. It controls frizz and adds shine, helping curls stay shaped and moisturized throughout the day without buildup.

Ideal for thicker curls needing moisture and definition.

• Main Ingredients: Rice amino acids, shea butter, tomato fruit ferment
• Best for Curl Type: 3B to 4C (curly to coily hair)

6. Camille Rose Curl Love Moisture Milk

A lightweight leave-in moisturizer that detangles and hydrates curls with natural ingredients. Its creamy texture restores softness and elasticity, reducing breakage.

It also improves curl definition with a nourishing blend of oils and butters.

• Main Ingredients: Rice milk, macadamia oil, castor oil
• Best for Curl Type: 3A to 4B (curly to coily hair)

7. SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie

This curl cream delivers intense moisture and shine with natural butters and oils. It defines curls and waves while smoothing the cuticle for frizz control and softness.

Suitable for thick, dry, and coarse curls seeking hydration and definition.

• Main Ingredients: Coconut oil, hibiscus flower extract, silk protein
• Best for Curl Type: 3B to 4C (curly to coily hair)

Tips for Success in Your Curly Hair Routine

Building a successful curly hair routine takes patience and experimentation. Small adjustments in technique and product application can make a huge difference in your results.

The following are proven tips to help you succeed with the right curly hair product order

• Start with soaking wet hair: Apply all styling products to dripping wet hair for better distribution and curl formation.
• Use the right amount of product: Too little won’t provide hold, while too much creates buildup and weighs curls down.
• Don’t touch your hair while it dries: This causes frizz and breaks up curl patterns that are still forming.
• Experiment with application techniques: Try praying hands, scrunching, raking, or glazing to see what works best for your curls.
• Be patient with the process: It can take several weeks for your hair to adjust and for you to perfect your routine.
• Keep a hair journal: Track which products and techniques give you the best results on different days.
• Refresh curls between wash days: Use a spray bottle with water and a small amount of leave-in conditioner to revive tired curls.
• Protect your curls while sleeping: Use a silk pillowcase or pineapple your hair to maintain the curl pattern overnight.

Final Word

Mastering curly hair doesn’t happen overnight, but following this simple curly hair product order gives beginners a solid foundation to build upon.

The key is consistency and patience. Stick with this routine for at least a few weeks before making major changes.

Most importantly, learn to love your natural texture instead of fighting it. Curly hair has its personality, and learning to work with it, rather than against it, leads to the healthiest and most beautiful results.