I've been letting my curly hair grow for most of 2012 (I think, I lose track). My hair was long when Emma was born, then cut short, then grown out when Ian was started school, then was cut short again... mainly because I have no patience for the growing part. But this time around I'm actually doing it. Its been quite a while since I've seen this much hair on my head, and this many curls. My hair is not thick, but fine, and curls can go horribly wrong with my type of hair, at least in my case. I've fought them most of my life, but I'm determined to let these curls work for me this time around. I've secured myself a fantastic curly hair stylist (thanks to Katie, who also has curly locks) and get regular trims and shape ups, which helps alot. You really have to find someone who can cut and understand curly hair, that seems to be half the battle. I have also discovered an entirely new world of products and tips that actually make sense for curly hair (like for instance, don't ever dry curly hair with a towel, instead use clean, cut-up t-shirts and squeeze the water out, never rub). I'm thinking I might actually be able to manage this hair this time around, maybe even do something with it.
So here's one easy trick that seems to do great things for my hair. Salt water spray. Remember those chunky, gorgeous beachy waves your wavy or curly hair got when you'd been in the salty air all day? This spray is going to help mimic that effect for you. There are all kinds of this spray on the market, ready made, but I already spend plenty on curly hair products. It's easy to make and easy to use. I don't know if the effect on straight hair is good, but if anybody out there knows, please chime in!
Ingredients:
1 plastic spray bottle
your favorite styling gel (I use DevaCurl An-gel)
your favorite heat protectant (I use Aveda Damage Remedy)
sea salt from your kitchen
To Make:
1. Figure out how much water your spray bottle holds (mine holds 2 cups, so I'm basing my ingredient measurements on that amt, but adjust yours accordingly). I place 2 cups of water in a measuring cup and heat until the water is warm, not hot.
2. Add into the water: 1 Tbsp sea salt, 1 Tbsp styling gel, 1 Tbsp heat protectant. Mix until everything is dissolved and pour into your spray bottle.
To Use:
I only wash my hair about 2x a week, but I use this spray each morning in between shampoos when I am getting ready (don't overspray your hair, obviously). I spray evenly, scrunch it through my hair and use a diffuser to dry and fluff. It helps my hair reshape its curls between shampoos. Try it!
