Taking care of curly hair is a challenge, to say the least. No matter how many hair products you try, there’s always another one promising better results. You’ve probably tried dozens of them and flushed plenty of cash down the drain in the process. 

Well, put your wallet away and listen up because there are plenty of ways to style your curly locks without the help of hair products. Whether you’re trying to save money on hair care or simply want to avoid artificial ingredients, there’s a solution for you. 

Hydrate curls, enhance shine and lock spirals in place with these all-natural styling tips. 

1. Apply a Mist of Oil

One of the best ways to style your hair without products is to apply plant-based oils. If you have thick, coarse curls, heavier oils like olive and coconut can help minimize frizz and define curls. However, if you have thin, delicate ringlets, jojoba or grapeseed oil may work better.

Essential oils like rosemary and ylang-ylang may also boost hair health, too. Add a few drops to a small spray bottle filled with a carrier oil. Then, give your hair a spritz and use your fingers to gently disperse the oil between strands. 

2. Comb from the Bottom Up 

Dry brushing can cause frizz and breakage, even when combined with styling products. Take a hint from the pros and swap your brush for a wide-tooth comb or pick. Then, start at your ends before working your way up to the roots. 

That’s right. You want to comb from the bottom up to retain your natural curl pattern. Focus on gently detangling curls and avoid pulling too hard. Otherwise, your risk over-separating your strands and creating wild, poofy mane. 

3. Braid Your Locks 

Braids are a godsend for people with wavy or curly hair. Whether you’d classify your locks as 2a or 4c, plating your locks into Dutch braids, French braids or cornrows is a brilliant way to style them. 

Apply hair oil or a DIY leave-in mask to your strands before adding braids. Then, leave them to set overnight. Take the braids out in the morning and enjoy your muss-free, luscious curls. Experiment with loose and tight braids, where you start them and how you tie them off to create different styles. 

4. Use a Diffuser 

Have you ever wondered what those funky-looking blow dryer attachments do? Well, the one that looks like a scalp massager is called a diffuser and it can actually help define curls and reduce frizz. 

Simply lift a section of your hair into the diffuser, turn your dryer on low and gently push it upward toward your roots. The technique should remind you of all those times you scrunched your curls in vain. Gently diffuse hair until about 80% dry and let them air dry at the end to achieve a bouncy finish.

Consistency is Key 

Whichever technique you choose, remember to rinse and repeat — literally! It might take a few days — or weeks — to retrain your hair and get it to a texture you’re happy with, so be patient. Stay consistent and use these tips each time you wash, dry and style your hair. If you stick with it, you’re sure to see results.