like some hair days

CURLY HAIR ROUTINE FOR BEGINNERS 

Curly hair is beautiful and unique, but it can also be challenging to manage. If you’re new to embracing your curls, don’t worry! This beginner’s guide will walk you through a simple yet effective routine to help you achieve defined, bouncy, and frizz-free curls. Let’s embark on this curly hair journey together!

CHOOSING THE RIGHT SHAMPOO

The “right” shampoo is one that’s gentle and designed to enhance your curls. With so many options out there, it can feel overwhelming, but starting with a sulfate-free shampoo is a great choice—these are increasingly common as more brands release sulfate-free ranges.

Most products will be clearly labeled as sulfate-free, but if you’re unsure, you can easily check. Just search for the shampoo’s ingredients online, then copy and paste them into CURLSBOT, a tool that instantly tells you if it’s Curly Girl-approved. I keep CURLSBOT saved on my phone—it’s a lifesaver at any stage of the curly journey!

CHOOSING THE RIGHT CONDITIONER

The “right” conditioner for curly hair means opting for a silicone-free formula. If you’re used to products with silicones, going silicone-free may feel like a big change, but it’s an important step in a curl-friendly routine.

Many commercial conditioners contain silicones, so it’s worth checking labels. Silicone-free conditioners don’t need to be expensive—they simply avoid silicones that can build up on your hair, causing greasiness, weighing curls down, and reducing bounce.

A T-SHIRT FOR DRYING

That’s right—a simple t-shirt is perfect for drying curly hair! Unlike a regular towel, a t-shirt is much softer and won’t roughen the hair cuticle.

You can use it as you would a towel, or you can try “plopping.” To plop, gently lower your hair forward into the t-shirt, then wrap and secure it around your head. Leave it on for 10-40 minutes to absorb moisture while helping curls form into defined clumps.

Alternatively, there’s “micro-plopping,” where you scrunch each curl individually with the t-shirt to remove excess water. Whether plopping or micro-plopping, a t-shirt is gentler than a towel, though a microfiber towel is also a good option for curly hair.

CHOOSING A STYLING PRODUCT – GEL, MOUSSE, OR CREAM

When starting a curly hair routine, it’s common to use a gel, mousse, or cream. Some people even layer all three! For beginners, starting with one product is ideal; you can experiment and build up your routine as you get to know what works for your curls.

It’s a good idea to check product ingredients, avoiding “nasties” like drying alcohols (e.g., Alcohol Denat) and silicones. This extra step helps keep curls healthy and bouncy.

Apply styling products on soaking wet hair to lock in moisture and minimize frizz. Scrunch the product up to the roots, aiming to shape your curls while wet and keep that definition as they dry.

GEL

Gel is great for setting curls in a “cast” as it dries, holding the shape until you’re ready to scrunch out the crunch, leaving soft, defined curls. A favorite gel for many is the Umberto Giannini Curl Jelly.

CREAM

Creams reduce frizz and add moisture, giving a softer look and more volume, though they typically don’t define curls as much as gel.

MOUSSE

A lightweight mousse helps define curls and add volume, especially at the roots. It should be light and non-sticky, so curls feel soft once dry. Each product offers unique benefits—try one and see how your curls respond!

A DIFFUSER

While air-drying is a solid option, many people find that a diffuser becomes an essential tool for styling curls. Air-drying can take a long time, especially since curly hair tends to dry in clumps and retains more moisture with the products you’re using.

Using a diffuser can speed up drying while encouraging curl formation by lifting and holding curl clumps closer to the scalp. For best results, use a low heat setting to reduce potential heat damage.

Avoid using a regular dryer without a diffuser, as it can disrupt curl clumps. If you don’t have a diffuser attachment, it’s actually better to air-dry. And as you transition into a new curl routine, try to minimize the use of heated tools like curling wands—your curls will thank you!

A DEEP CONDITIONER

Deep conditioning is key to keeping curls hydrated and healthy. Aim to deep condition at least every two weeks, or even weekly if your hair needs the extra moisture. A quality deep conditioner helps rehydrate naturally dry curls, while also softening and detangling them.

These treatments often contain nourishing oils and butters. Simply apply after shampooing and let it sit for around 30 minutes before rinsing out.

Another option is a “pre-poo” treatment, where you apply an oil or conditioning treatment like Olaplex to dry hair before shampooing. Leave it on overnight or for a few hours to give your curls a deep boost before you wash.

FINAL TIP

Keep track of your washday routine to fine-tune your curly hair care and see what works best for you. Here’s what to note down:

  • Which cleansing and conditioning products you used, including any deep conditioners
  • Did you plop or micro-plop?
  • Which styling products you applied, and in what order
  • Did you apply them with your hair hanging forward or back?
  • Did you scrunch the products in?
  • Did you diffuse until your hair was 100% dry or just 80%?

Also, take photos of your results! They’ll be invaluable when you’re figuring out what works best for your curls. I still jot down small changes I make to my routine, as even minor adjustments can lead to major differences in results.

I created a tracker for myself to keep track of my washdays, and I’m sharing it here because I’ve found it super helpful!

CONCLUSION

Congratulations, you’ve taken the first step towards embracing your natural curls! Remember, consistency is key. As you continue to experiment with your routine, you’ll discover what works best for your unique hair type.

Don’t be afraid to seek advice from other curly-haired individuals or consult with a hairstylist who specializes in curly hair. By following these basic steps and tailoring them to your specific needs, you’ll be well on your way to achieving healthy, beautiful, and bouncy curls.

7 PROVEN EXERCISES TO LOSE FACE FAT IN 2 DAYS

In today’s world, many people are eager to learn how to reduce face fat, as the face is often the first feature others notice. However, facial fat can be a stubborn issue—even after reaching your ideal weight, a fuller face can sometimes remain. For those aiming to achieve a more defined look, especially in the world of modeling, reducing face fat can be challenging and may require targeted effort.

But achieving that model-like appearance isn’t impossible. To help you out, we’ve gathered seven effective exercises specifically for reducing face fat. With consistent practice, these exercises can help you slim down your face more easily than you might expect.

Even if you’re at a healthy weight, chubby cheeks or a double chin can sometimes make you appear heavier than you are. Luckily, you’re in the right place to learn how to reduce face fat quickly and effectively.

Excess facial fat can add years to your appearance, but with a regular exercise routine and a mindful diet, you can slim your face more efficiently. Here are simple exercises that you can do in two days to reduce face fat that you can start right now!

SMILE EXERCISE

Smiling is one of the simplest and most effective ways to tone your cheeks and reduce face fat. This natural “workout” stretches the muscles in your cheeks, helping to slim down your face over time.

How to do it:

  • Lie on your back without a pillow, knees bent, and feet resting on the bed.
  • Open your mouth wide, then slowly close it while resisting slightly.
  • Smile broadly without clenching your teeth.
  • Lift your head slightly, then put it back down while maintaining the smile.
  • Repeat 7 times.

FISH FACE EXERCISE

The fish face exercise is an easy and fun way to engage your cheek muscles. You can do it anytime, like while watching TV or listening to music, to help tone your cheeks and reduce face fat.

How to do it:

  • Suck in your cheeks and pout your lips to form a “fish face.”
  • Try to smile while holding this pose and hold for 5 seconds.
  • Relax when you feel tension in your cheeks and jaws.
  • Repeat 15-20 times.

BLOWING AIR EXERCISE


This exercise helps to work out almost all your facial muscles, especially around the cheeks, neck, and jaw, to reduce chubby cheeks and a double chin.

How to do it:

  • Sit straight in a chair and tilt your head back to face the ceiling.
  • Purse your lips and blow out air, holding for 5 seconds.
  • Relax, then repeat 15-20 times.

CHIN LIFTS

Chin lifts are a great way to stretch the facial muscles, including those in the throat, neck, and jaw.

How to do it:

  • Stretch your neck upward, tilting your head back.
  • Keep your eyes on the ceiling.
  • Push your lower lip over your upper lip and smile widely.
  • Hold for 10 seconds, then repeat 10 times.

FACE MUSCLE STRETCH

Stretching your face muscles with your hands can help reduce face fat. This technique stretches the skin under your cheekbones for a natural lift.

How to do it:

  • Lower your chin toward your chest.
  • Use your hands to pull the skin so it moves under the cheekbones.
  • Say “Ah” in this position.
  • Repeat 3 times per day.

JAW RELEASE

The jaw release exercise is especially effective for toning the cheeks, lips, and jaw and reducing a double chin.

How to do it:

  • Sit or stand up straight.
  • Close your lips and mimic a chewing motion.
  • Breathe in through your nose, then exhale slowly while humming.
  • Open your mouth wide and press the tip of your tongue gently against the back of your bottom teeth.
  • Hold for 5 seconds, breathing steadily, and complete 2 reps.

TIGHTEN YOUR EYES

This final exercise involves tightly closing your eyes to feel the contraction in your facial muscles. It helps to tone and reduce face fat.

How to do it:

  • Close your eyes tightly, using your cheek muscles.
  • Hold for 10 seconds, then relax.
  • Repeat at least 5 times per day.

CONCLUSION

While it’s important to set realistic expectations, these exercises can significantly contribute to a slimmer, more defined face. Remember, consistency is key. Incorporate these exercises into your daily routine, and you’ll be well on your way to achieving your desired facial contours.