The Neville Hair and Beauty Guide to perfect curls

2023 is all about embracing your hair’s natural texture and curls are no different. To help you navigate the complexities of the curly hair world, we have pulled together this guide of simple tips that will help enhace the look of your hair without altering is natural pattern. Rather than telling you how you should be wearing your hair, we've focused on pulling together a list of tips and tools to achieve the perfect curls.

: Understand your individual haircare needs. Like with any hair type, understanding your individual haircare needs is the first step to unleashing its full potential. It’s no secret that curly hair textures need water, moisture, hydration and plenty of it. With more and more information readily available on the internet it can make things confusing and overwhelming, particularly if you are new to embracing your curls. That’s why at Neville Hair and Beauty we recommend a consultation with one of our curly hair specialists to help determine your specific hair needs. After your thorough assessment depending on the condition of your hair the stylist will prescribe a targeted haircare regimen, which may include in-salon treatments and a bespoke homecare regimen. Rest assured we like to keep things as simple as possible when it comes to home care and focus on: cleansing, conditioning and protecting. For anything above and beyond, we are here to help you.
: Ditch self-criticism. Part of the journey to embracing your natural curls is understanding that no curl day will be the same. Women have a tendancy to strive for perfection, particularly when hair is involved, but it's very important to have realistic expectations. Don’t be too hard on yourself, really the most important element is to build a lasting relationship with your hair and treat it with the same compassion your treat others. Remember there are no ‘right’ curls, despite what you may see on Instagram. Focus on surrounding yourself with people who will give you the confidence to embrace your natural self.
: Pick the right conditioner for you. Moisturising hair conditioners are a must for curly hair, but make sure you study the list of ingredients on the back. Ensure you avoid any harsh cleasing formulas which may strip your hair from the good oils. Instead focus on gentle formulas that contain nourishing ingredients. When using the conditioner make sure to focus the application on the mids lengths and ends as these require extra nourishment.
: Cold rinse. When you have finished washing you hair with the correct shampoo and conditioner, dare the cold rinse. Doing so will do wonders for your hair! Cold rinses will not only seal your conditioner in, it will also ensure it lays your hair cuticles flats, which means you will be left with visibly stronger, shinier and bouncier hair.
: Pat, don’t rub. When washing your hair at home, avoid rubbing your hair with a towel as this can cause unwanted frizz, instead pat and scrunch your hair dry as this will help limit damage and breakage.
: Style from wet. Unlike other hair types, curly hair requires action from the time your hair is wet. At Neville we recommend applying a smoothing serum to wet hair and ensuring even distribution with a wide tooth comb.
: Give your curls some oomph with mousse. Despite general preconception that mousse gives crunchy hair, it is in fact a great product to help define natural curls. In terms of quantity a little really does go a long way. Try and get your hands on a natural mousse, as those available in the supermarket tend to be charged with alcohol, which can dry out the hair. At Neville we are fans of Philip Martin’s natural mousse, which is designed to not only protect the hair but also make it brighter, softer with a velvety feel.
: Protect your hair. Heat protection is a must regardless of your hair type and should be applied everytime before you subject your hair to any heat.
: Switch your classic hairdryer nozzle for a diffuser. Most hair dryers come equipped with a diffuser. Although most people dismiss them, they are the ultimate curly hair ally. By switching your nozzle for a diffuser, you enable the hot air to be desitributed evenly as opposed to all the air being directed to one specific area, which can lead to damage. We recommend using a low heat setting and using your free hand to scrunch hair as you go along.
: Top up with hair oil. As your hair is subjected to daily agressors, we recommend always carrying around some hair oil, which you can use to top up moisture throughout the day. There are a variety of oils available, just make sure to use a couple of drops on the ends as it can quickly become quite messy.