Falling for Curls: Autumn and Winter Care Tips for Naturally Textured Hair

'Tis the season to give your curls extra TLC! (Copyright Soak & Ale, 2024)

As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, your curls might be begging for a little extra TLC!

At Soak & Ale, we believe every curl should shine, especially during the sweater weather seasons of autumn and winter. Here are five essential tips for maintaining luscious, healthy hair during the cooler months, plus three beginner-friendly styling tips to keep your curls looking fabulous.

1. Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize

The drop in humidity during autumn and winter can leave your curls drier than a corn maze in October. The key to combating this dryness is a good moisturizing routine. A good quality leave-in cream like our MARSHMELLOW Leave-in Conditioning Cream is your go-to hydration hero. Work a generous amount through damp hair to deliver non-greasy moisture and protect your strands from the crisp, dry air.

2. Seal the Deal

After moisturizing, apply an oil layer to aid in holding moisture like our Fusion Hair Oil Blend. This step is crucial as it forms a barrier to reduce moisture loss. Just a few drops applied throughout your hair can help keep your curls smooth and nourished so you can enjoy those apple cider nights and festive lights!

3. Turn Down the Heat

Hot tools might be tempting when you want to look your best for all those seasonal festivities, but too much heat can lead to damage. Try to air dry your hair as much as possible, or use a diffuser or hooded dryer on a low setting. Remember, your curls are like hot cocoa—best enjoyed warm, not boiling hot!

4. Deep Condition Weekly

Your hair deserves a weekly treat. Deep conditioning sessions are like the pumpkin spice to your autumn - they add that extra special something. Once a week, apply a deep conditioner and let it sit under a shower cap for 30 minutes before rinsing with cool or lukewarm water. This can help repair summer damage and prepare your locks for the dry winter air.

Bonus Tip: Put a thick winter hat over the shower cap to lock in your natural head warmth and help your hair soak up all that good conditioner!

5. Protect Your Hair at Night

Tossing and turning on a cotton pillowcase can create friction and lead to breakage. Its high absorbency can can be very drying. Protect your hair by sleeping on a satin or silk pillowcase, or wrap your hair in a silky scarf or bonnet before bed. Think of it as tucking your curls into a cozy little bed, ensuring they wake up refreshed and frizz-free!

Beginner-Friendly Styling Tips:

Twist and Shout: Twists are a fantastic way to style natural hair gently. Apply some MARSHMELLOW Leave-in Conditioning Cream to slightly damp hair, part your hair into sections, and twist each section from root to tip. Unravel the twists once dry or the next morning for defined curls without the heat.

Pineapple Express: Overnight, gather your curls into a loose ponytail at the top of your head (a “pineapple”) to prevent them from getting squished while you sleep. This simple updo helps maintain your curl’s shape and volume, making your morning routine a breeze.

Diffuse the Situation: If you need to dry your hair quickly or cut down on the air drying time, use a diffuser attachment on your blow dryer. Tilt your head and let your curls, twists or braids sit in the diffuser bowl. Move the dryer gently around your head to distribute air evenly. This technique minimizes frizz and keeps your curls bouncy and full of life.

Curly hair doesn’t have to be a challenge, not even when the temperatures drop. With the right care, including our MARSHMELLOW Leave-in Conditioning Cream and Fusion Hair Oil Blend, your curls can thrive all year round. So, are you ready to fall in love with your hair this season?