how to dry low porosity hair

THESE ARE 10 BEST OILS FOR CURLING HAIR: THE SECRET FOR LONG-LASTING LOOKS

For anyone with curls, you know the struggle of keeping them defined, bouncy, and frizz-free all day long. The good news is, there’s a secret weapon in your beauty arsenal: hair oil! These amazing elixirs can be the key to unlocking your hair’s full curling potential. Dive into the world of hair oils and discover the 10 best for luscious, long-lasting curls!

OUR TOP PICKS

BRIOGEO DON’T DESPAIR, REPAIR! STRENGTHENING TREATMENT OIL

Briogeo’s Don’t Despair, Repair! Strengthening Treatment Oil is a great option for those seeking to tame frizz and boost curl definition. This silicone-free formula is packed with repairing ceramides that target split ends and reinforce the hair cuticle. It also boasts intense moisture for a healthy shine, without weighing down your curls. A few drops applied to damp or dry hair, focusing on mid-lengths and ends, can transform your curls into a smooth, bouncy, and long-lasting style.

MIZANI 25 MIRACLE NOURISHING HAIR OIL

Mizani’s 25 Miracle Nourishing Hair Oil lives up to its name by offering a multitude of benefits in one product. This lightweight, multi-tasking oil is perfect for all hair types, including curly hair. Formulated with a blend of coconut, sunflower seed, and jojoba oils, it deeply moisturizes and softens hair, leaving it manageable and frizz-free. The key here is its lightweight nature. Unlike some heavier oils that can weigh down curls, 25 Miracle Nourishing Hair Oil absorbs quickly, adding shine and definition without sacrificing bounce.

PURA D’OR ORGANIC SWEET ALMOND OIL

Pura D’Or’s Organic Sweet Almond Oil is a versatile and gentle choice for curly hair. This all-natural oil, free from harsh chemicals and additives, is a great option for those with sensitive scalps. Rich in vitamin E and fatty acids, it provides lightweight moisture that absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue. Sweet almond oil can be used as a pre-styling treatment to tame frizz and boost shine, or as a post-styling refresher to revive curls and add definition. Its gentle nature also makes it perfect for use on dry cuticles and brittle ends, promoting overall hair health and curl manageability.

LIVING PROOF CURL MOISTURIZING SHINE OIL

Living Proof’s Curl Moisturizing Shine Oil stands out for its unique biomimetic approach. This silicone-free formula mimics the natural lipids found in healthy hair.  These natural oils work in harmony with your curls, smoothing and hydrating them for a boost of shine and frizz control.  The versatility of this oil is another plus. You can apply it before shampooing as a deep treatment, during styling to enhance definition, or even after styling to add a touch of shine and tame flyaways.  Living Proof’s Curl Moisturizing Shine Oil caters specifically to wavy, curly, and coily hair textures, making it a great choice for those seeking a curl-enhancing oil that integrates seamlessly with their hair’s natural chemistry.

OGX RENEWING + ARGAN OIL OF MOROCCO

If you’re looking for an affordable and luxurious option for your curls, OGX Renewing + Argan Oil of Morocco is a fantastic choice. This popular hair oil is enriched with nourishing Moroccan argan oil, a source of vitamin E and antioxidants. These ingredients work together to strengthen hair, improve elasticity, and combat frizz. OGX Renewing + Argan Oil of Morocco absorbs quickly, leaving your curls soft, shiny, and defined without feeling weighed down. Whether you apply it to damp hair before styling to enhance curl formation or use it on dry hair for a touch of frizz control and shine, this oil is a versatile option that can help you achieve your best curls.

PATTERN JOJOBA HAIR & SCALP OIL BLEND

Designed specifically for curly hair textures, PATTERN’s Jojoba Hair & Scalp Oil Blend is a lightweight, residue-free dream. This unique formula, created by actress Tracee Ellis Ross, blends jojoba oil with safflower, rosehip, and olive oil for a cocktail of nourishing goodness. The star ingredient, jojoba oil, mimics the scalp’s natural sebum, making it readily absorbed without clogging pores. This translates to deep moisture for your hair and scalp, promoting a healthy environment for curls to thrive. PATTERN’s Jojoba Hair & Scalp Oil Blend boasts additional benefits like reducing breakage and itchiness, perfect for those with low-porosity hair or a dry scalp. A few drops massaged into the scalp or smoothed through damp or dry hair can unlock your hair’s full curl potential, leaving it defined, bouncy, and beautifully hydrated.

SHEAMOISTURE 100% PURE ARGAN OIL

SheaMoisture’s 100% Pure Argan Oil offers a simple yet powerful solution for curly hair. This multi-tasking oil, derived from the Moroccan argan tree, is packed with essential fatty acids and vitamin E. These powerhouse ingredients work together to deeply nourish and soften dry, brittle curls. The lightweight formula absorbs quickly, avoiding the greasy residue that can weigh down your curls. SheaMoisture’s 100% Pure Argan Oil is a versatile product that can be used on both hair and skin. Apply a few drops to damp hair to enhance curl definition and add shine, or smooth it over dry hair to tame frizz and flyaways. You can even use it on your skin for a boost of hydration and a youthful glow.

AUSSIE MIRACLE CURLS CURL-DEFINING OIL

Aussie Miracle Curls Curl-Defining Oil is a budget-friendly option that packs a punch. Infused with coconut and Australian jojoba oil, this paraben-free formula promises to quench your curls’ thirst for moisture. The key ingredients work in tandem: coconut oil provides deep conditioning and shine, while jojoba oil mimics the scalp’s natural sebum, ensuring lightweight absorption that won’t weigh down your curls. Aussie Miracle Curls Curl-Defining Oil claims to instantly absorb and seal the hair cuticle, locking in hydration to combat frizz and promote long-lasting definition. Apply a few drops to damp or dry hair, focusing on mid-lengths and ends, to transform your curls into a smooth, bouncy, and manageable style.

KÉRASTASE ELIXIR ULTIME HYDRATING HAIR OIL SERUM

Kérastase’s Elixir Ultime Hydrating Hair Oil Serum is a luxurious option for those seeking a multi-benefit curl treatment. This blend of precious oils, including argan, camellia, and marula, nourishes and hydrates all hair types, with a special focus on taming frizz and boosting shine. The lightweight formula absorbs quickly, avoiding greasy buildup that can weigh down curls. Kérastase’s Elixir Ultime Hydrating Hair Oil Serum offers versatility in application. You can use it on damp hair before styling to enhance curl formation and manageability, or apply it to dry hair to smooth frizz and add a touch of luminous shine. This oil prioritizes hair health alongside curl definition, making it a great choice for those seeking a product that nourishes while promoting beautiful, long-lasting curls.

OUIDAD MONGONGO CURL TREATMENT OIL

Ouidad’s Mongongo Curl Treatment Oil is a curl-loving formula designed to address multiple concerns. This fast-absorbing oil, derived from the Mongongo nut native to Africa, is rich in essential fatty acids that provide deep nourishment and strengthen hair strands. It forms a protective barrier on the hair’s surface, locking in moisture to prevent frizz and damage from heat styling or UV rays. The result? Soft, shiny, and defined curls with long-lasting bounce. Whether you apply it to damp hair before styling to enhance curl formation or use it on dry hair for a touch of frizz control, Ouidad’s Mongongo Curl Treatment Oil can be a valuable tool in your quest for healthy, beautiful curls.

HOW HAIR OILS WORK

While all oils soften and nourish hair (they’re emollients!), they don’t directly add moisture. Think of them as sealing agents. They lock in moisture provided by conditioners, leave-in products, and creams that contain water and humectants. These hydrating products are key! Oils then create a protective barrier on the hair shaft, preventing that moisture from evaporating and keeping your curls frizz-free and defined for longer.

Here’s the takeaway: for the best results, use a conditioner or leave-in with hydrating ingredients first, then follow up with a hair oil to lock it all in. This combo will give your curls the moisture they crave and the definition you desire.

3 TYPES OF HAIR OIL

PENETRATING OILS

Penetrating oils are designed to sleep deeply into the hair shaft, nourishing it from the inside out. These oils typically have smaller molecular structures that allow them to pass through the hair’s cuticle layer. Examples include coconut oil, sunflower oil, and babassu oil. These oils are particularly effective for providing deep hydration, strengthening the hair, and preventing protein loss. They are ideal for use in pre-wash treatments and deep conditioning routines.

PENETRATING AND SEALING OILS

Some oils have the dual capability of both penetrating the hair shaft and sealing the cuticle. These versatile oils include castor oil, olive oil, avocado oil, grapeseed oil, sweet almond oil, argan oil, apricot kernel oil, and macadamia oil. They offer the best of both worlds: deep hydration and a protective barrier. These oils can enhance shine, improve elasticity, and lock in moisture, making them suitable for a variety of hair care applications, from leave-in conditioners to styling products.

SEALING OILS

Sealing oils are primarily used to coat the hair’s surface, creating a barrier that locks in moisture and protects the hair from environmental damage. These oils usually have larger molecular structures that prevent them from being absorbed deeply into the hair shaft. Examples include rice bran oil and jojoba oil. Sealing oils are excellent for smoothing the hair, reducing frizz, and adding a glossy finish. They are particularly beneficial when applied to the ends of the hair to prevent split ends and breakage.

WHICH OIL IS BEST FOR YOUR HAIR TYPE?

Choosing the best oil for your hair type depends on your specific needs and hair characteristics. Here’s a guide to help you select the right one:

FINE OR OILY HAIR

For fine or oily hair types, lightweight oils are best to avoid weighing down the hair or making it look greasy. Grapeseed oil and sweet almond oil are excellent choices as they are light and easily absorbed, providing moisture and shine without excess heaviness. These oils can help balance oil production and add a subtle sheen to your locks.

DRY OR DAMAGED HAIR

Dry or damaged hair benefits from heavier, more nourishing oils that can provide intense hydration and repair. Coconut oil, olive oil, and avocado oil are rich in fatty acids and vitamins that help to strengthen and moisturize the hair. These oils penetrate deeply, making them perfect for deep conditioning treatments to restore moisture and elasticity to brittle hair.

CURLY OR COARSE HAIR

Curly or coarse hair types often require thicker oils to maintain moisture and manageability. Castor oil and argan oil are ideal for these hair types as they offer deep hydration and help to define curls while reducing frizz. These oils also provide a protective barrier that locks in moisture, keeping your curls soft and bouncy.

COLOR-TREATED OR CHEMICALLY PROCESSED HAIR

For hair that has been color-treated or chemically processed, it’s essential to use oils that can help repair damage and maintain color vibrancy. Argan oil and apricot kernel oil are excellent options as they are rich in antioxidants and vitamins that help to strengthen and protect hair. These oils nourish the hair while helping to prolong the life of your color and adding a healthy shine.

NORMAL HAIR

If you have normal hair that doesn’t fall into any specific category, versatile oils like jojoba oil and macadamia oil are great all-rounders. Jojoba oil closely mimics the natural oils produced by your scalp, making it excellent for maintaining balanced moisture levels. Macadamia oil is also lightweight and nourishing, providing a nice balance of hydration and shine without being overly heavy.

CONCLUSION

Taming frizz, defining those gorgeous spirals, and achieving long-lasting hold – that’s the dream for anyone with curls. The good news is, hair oils are your secret weapon! With the right oil for your hair’s unique needs, you can unlock your hair’s full curling potential. From budget-friendly options to luxurious blends, there’s an oil out there waiting to transform your curls into a masterpiece of definition, shine, and bounce. So, ditch the frizz and embrace your curls with the power of hair oil!

15 BEST HAIR BARRETTES FOR THICK HAIR

Taming a head of thick hair can be a challenge, especially when it comes to finding hair accessories that can hold everything in place. Fear not, thick-haired beauties! This guide dives into 15 of the best hair barrettes designed specifically to conquer your voluminous locks. From strong claw clips to strategically placed clasps, we’ll explore barrettes that will keep your hairstyle secure and stylish all day long, without sacrificing comfort or causing damage.

WHAT IS BARRETTES?

A barrette, also known as a hair slide or hair clip, is a small clasp used to hold hair in place. It’s typically made of metal or plastic, and sometimes features decorative elements like fabric or jewels.

Here’s a breakdown of what barrettes are:

Function: They primarily serve to secure hair, keeping it out of the face, holding up updos like buns or twists, or sectioning hair for styling.

Material: Barrettes are commonly made of metal or plastic, but can also be found in wood or other materials.

Size and Design: They come in a wide variety of sizes and designs, ranging from small clips for individual strands to large barrettes capable of holding thick hair in intricate styles.

Decoration: Many barrettes feature decorative elements like jewels, beads, or fabric, making them a fashionable hair accessory.

OUR TOP PICKS FOR THE BEST HAIR CLIPS AND BARRETTES 

YITEXIN PLUS-SIZE VINTAGE METAL U-SHAPED HAIRPIN

The Yitexın Plus-Size Vintage Metal U-Shaped Hairpin is a specifically designed hair accessory for those with thick and long hair. Its U-shaped design allows you to easily gather and secure your hair in a variety of updos or chignon styles. Made of sturdy metal, it provides a strong hold without causing damage, making it a great option for thick hair that often requires reinforced support.

This vintage-inspired hairpin adds a touch of elegance to your hairstyle, while its plus-size design ensures it can handle the volume of thick hair effectively. With its simple yet effective design, the Yitexın hairpin offers a practical and stylish solution for taming your thick locks.

PATTERN BY TRACEE ELLIS ROSS

Not only is Pattern Leave-In Conditioner famous for being one of the best detanglers for curly hair, this company is also known for hair clips. Tracee Ellis Ross’ model isn’t just a hair care line, it’s also a celebration of textured hair. Founded by the award-winning actress herself, Pattern offers a selection of shampoos, conditioners, stylers and even tools, all specially designed for the unique needs of curly and tightly textured hair. Embracing the philosophy of low porosity hair care and promoting natural curl, Pattern empowers individuals to nourish, shape and style their beautifully textured hair.

EMI JAY BIG EFFING CLIP

Emi Jay claw clips address a common frustration with super cute hair accessories: they often lack the functionality to hold thick hair securely. Fortunately, Emi Jay’s design solves this issue with a super big and sturdy build, ensuring your hairstyle stays put all day long. While the adorable star embellishments might require some gentle handling to prevent rhinestone detachment, the overall functionality and secure hold make these clips a strong contender for thick-haired individuals seeking both style and practicality.

MWL THREE-PACK CLAW HAIR CLIPS

Madewell’s MWL Three-Pack Claw Hair Clips offer a versatile and stylish solution for taming your tresses. Available in sets of three, these medium-sized clips come in various colors to complement different looks. Their lightweight metal construction ensures durability and a secure hold, making them suitable for thick, thin, or long hair. Whether you’re crafting a casual updo or simply securing loose strands, the MWL clips provide both functionality and fashion in a convenient three-pack.

MLE MINI CLOUD CLAW IN PINK

For a touch of whimsical charm and ethereal elegance, the MLE Mini Cloud Claw in Pink is a delightful addition to your hair accessory collection. This petite claw clip, crafted from eco-friendly cellulose acetate, boasts a mesmerizing marbled design in soft shades of pink and lilac. Its compact size makes it perfect for adding a playful touch to half-up styles, securing braids, or even adorning a messy bun. Whether you’re embracing a dreamy, ethereal aesthetic or simply seeking a touch of whimsical flair, the MLE Mini Cloud Claw in Pink offers a delightful way to elevate your everyday hairstyles.

FREE PEOPLE MATTE OVERSIZED CLAW

The Matte Oversized Claw makes a bold statement with its sleek, contemporary design. Its generous size and sturdy construction effortlessly gather and secure even the thickest hair, making it ideal for effortless updos, half-up styles, or simply keeping your hair out of the way with a touch of modern flair. The matte finish adds a touch of sophistication, ensuring this claw clip seamlessly transitions from casual to polished looks.

SYEENIFY HAIR CLIPS FOR THICK HAIR

SYEENIFY offers a variety of hair clips specifically designed to handle the demands of thick hair. Their claw clips come in various sizes, with some reaching up to 4.3 inches, ensuring they can hold even the thickest hair securely and comfortably. They also prioritize strong, durable materials like acrylic resin and metal alloys to prevent the clips from breaking under the weight of your hair. Additionally, SYEENIFY doesn’t sacrifice style for function. Their clips come in various trendy designs and colors, allowing you to keep your hair under control while maintaining a fashionable look.

KITSCH BLOW DRY CLIPS

Kitsch’s separating clips are a game-changer for anyone who blow-dries their hair. Their super strong grip ensures sections stay separated, allowing for even heat distribution and a smooth, frizz-free finish. No more battling annoying dents or creases – these clips hold your hair perfectly in place while you style. While the convenience and functionality are undeniable, a minor downside is that they only come in packs of three, which might not be enough for everyone. Nonetheless, the incredible grip and styling benefits make Kitsch’s separating clips a valuable addition to any hair care routine.

FICCARE FICCARISSIMO HAIR CLIP

The Ficcarissimo hair clip is a luxurious and functional hair accessory known for its exceptional grip and stylish design. Handcrafted from high-quality materials like acetate and enamel, these clips come in a wide array of colors and patterns, allowing you to express your personality. Their patented design features a spring mechanism and a unique, curved shape that distributes pressure evenly, ensuring a secure hold without damaging hair. Whether you’re crafting an intricate updo or simply securing loose strands, the Ficcarissimo clip offers a blend of elegance, functionality, and long-lasting quality.

CANITOR LARGE HAIR CLAW CLIPS FOR THICK HAIR

Canitor Large Hair Claw Clips are a game-changer for those with thick hair. Designed to tackle even the most unruly locks, these clips provide the perfect solution for styling and managing voluminous hair effortlessly. Crafted with durable materials, they offer a stronghold without causing any damage or discomfort. Their large size ensures that they can comfortably accommodate thick hair, keeping it securely in place throughout the day. Whether you’re looking to create an elegant updo or simply need a quick and easy way to tame your mane, Canitor Large Hair Claw Clips are your go-to accessory. Say goodbye to frustrating hair days and hello to effortless style with these versatile and reliable clips.

ANBALA METAL HAIR CLIPS

Anbala offers a range of metal hair clips known for their durability and style. ANBALA typically uses high-quality metal alloys in their clips, making them sturdier than plastic or acrylic options. This ensures they can handle the weight and texture of thick hair without bending or breaking. They also have mini claw clips for styling bangs, braids, or smaller sections of hair. You won’t be limited to basic styles. ANBALA often features claw clips in various shapes like butterfly, crescent moon, or geometric designs. They also come in different colors like gold, silver, rose gold, and black, allowing you to match your hair accessory to your outfit.

FRANCE LUXE COUTURE JAW CLIP

The France Luxe Couture Jaw Clip is a luxurious and sophisticated hair accessory that elevates the everyday claw clip. Handcrafted in France from high-quality cellulose acetate, it boasts a polished, lustrous finish that exudes elegance. Available in a variety of sizes, from mini to jumbo, the Couture Jaw Clip caters to all hair types, from fine to thick and curly. Its strong, secure hold ensures hairstyles stay put effortlessly, whether you’re crafting a chic updo or simply gathering your hair back in a stylish twist. With its timeless design and premium quality, the France Luxe Couture Jaw Clip is a worthy investment for those seeking a touch of French sophistication in their everyday hair routine.

FRAMAR LARGE CLAW CLIPS FOR THICK HAIR

Framar’s large claw clips are designed specifically for those with thick hair, known for their ability to tame and hold even the most voluminous locks. These clips come in a generous size, often around 5 inches long, with a sturdy construction that features a powerful metal spring and small inner teeth. This combination ensures a strong grip that can hold your hair in place all day long, without slipping or budging, so you can style your hair in various ways without worrying about it falling apart.

LAXIZAR 8-PACK LARGE HAIR CLIPS

Laxizar’s 8-Pack Large Hair Clips offer a value-driven solution for taming thick or voluminous hair. Each clip boasts a generous 4.3-inch size, ensuring they can gather and hold even the most abundant locks securely. The pack often comes in a variety of neutral and classic colors, making them versatile for both casual and dressed-up hairstyles. Their simple, rectangular design offers a timeless look, while the durable construction ensures they can withstand everyday wear and tear. Whether you’re crafting intricate updos, securing messy buns, or simply keeping your hair out of the way, these large hair clips provide a practical and affordable solution in a convenient eight-pack.

AGIRLVCT PEARL STRONG HOLD HAIR CLIPS

Agirlvct Pearl Strong Hold Hair Clips offer a touch of elegance and practicality in one stylish package. These clips come in a set of four, featuring different sizes to accommodate various hair types and styling needs. The highlight is the incorporation of beautiful, faux pearls, adding a touch of sophistication to any hairstyle. But beyond aesthetics, these clips boast a strong hold thanks to high-quality resin and a sturdy spring mechanism. This ensures even thick hair stays securely gathered, whether you’re crafting an updo, securing a half-up style, or simply keeping your hair out of the way. Gentle on hair and available in a convenient multi-pack, Agirlvct Pearl Strong Hold Hair Clips offer a charming and functional solution for everyday hair styling.

CONCLUSION

Taming thick hair doesn’t have to be a struggle. With the right barrette, you can conquer your voluminous locks and create a variety of stylish updos, half-up styles, or simply keep your hair secured throughout the day. From the oversized strength of claw clips to the delicate elegance of pearl-adorned styles, this diverse range of barrettes offers something for everyone. Remember, the best barrette for you will depend on your specific hair type, desired hairstyle, and personal preferences. So, embrace the possibilities, experiment with different options, and let your thick, beautiful hair shine with confidence.