Scruffy looking curls

[CurlyMcCurlFace]

I have naturally curly, Mediterranean curly hair. I've never worn it curly, from a young age I've always worn it straight.

I'm trying to embrace my curls, I've had it cut into a curly style and started the 'curly girl' method. I know/hope the curls will become more defined over time and I will get used to caring for them but I also suffer from a bit of anti-curl bias and associate them with looking scruffy! Attached (hopefully) some pics of my hair this morning - if you saw me at the shops/ on the school run would you be thinking "why hasn't she brushed her hair!!!"

You have lovely curls! Try experimenting with different products and techniques. It looks like you need more moisture. Have you tried Squish to condish? There are a lot of how to videos on youtube that might be helpful. What products are you currently using?

Left to it’s own devices, my hair is similar so I know exactly where you’re coming from. It’s pretty difficult to look groomed with this sort of hair, a bit of lipstick helps look like you’ve made an effort, sort of. Other than that…god knows!

To be honest this is why I straighten but will watch thread with interest.

I definitely wouldn’t think you looked scruffy if I saw you.

I wouldn’t wonder about a brush at all as I know brushing curly hair is a big no no, and would make it look far worse.

As a pp said, looks like it needs more moisture, and could do with something to help with the curls clumping together.

What product are you using to define the curls?

Thanks for your thoughts everyone. I know it needs more moisture/conditioner- I'm trying to get on top of it but nervous after a lifetime of worry about greasy hair!

I left the hairdresser with lovely defined soft curls and haven't (yet!) managed to replicate at home but only washed for the first time yesterday so still learning. I washed with only conditioner for the first time yesterday (sulphate free which I always use anyway) and then used 'Contu' curl cream when it was wet. This morning I tried to refresh with a water spray and leave in conditioner spray but wasn't sure whether to do the curl cream again? I might use some vitapoint which I find very moisturising.

You've got lovely curls! I wouldn't think anything other than that TBH. Curly Girl takes a while to really bring out the best, so stick with it as it's amazing (my curls are now the best they've ever been). However, I totally understand the 'curls never look tidy..' as I'm the same. I never feel my hair is smart or 'together' looking. If I'm feeling frazzled, the curly mop on top makes me feel like I look worse 😂

As PP said it does look like you need a bit more moisture, like a serum or leave-in conditioner. But stick with CG (or your version of it) as your hair is really gorgeous.

Your curls are lovely, and you do not look scruffy at all.

I have similar hair, slightly less curly, and without the right cut and root drying I tend to get a bit of a triangle effect, or look like I have spaniel ears

I would recommend that next time you get it cut you think about getting some layers in to help even it out on the sides. I also dry the roots (only) to get some lift, if I accidentally dry it too much I dampen it back down to manage any frizz from drying.

(This is a day after washing, only combed through with a wide tooth comb)

I’d try adding an oil to your routine to add more moisture. That helps me minimise frizz. I’ve also only been embracing my own curls for the last month or so, so I’m also on the learning !

You've got lovely curls OP. I definitely wouldn't think you looked scruffy. Have you thought about parting your hair off centre and adding a few layers? I think it would really suit your hair.

My hair has a similar texture to yours. I use frizz ease serum and mouse to define the curls but as others have suggested I would consider adding a few layers and drying from the roots.

I use a diffuser to dry mine but when nearly finished I lean right forward and let my hair hang down whilst a give the roots a quick blast.