Soft or Defined Curls? Why Not Both!
You spent time applying your favorite definer, waited patiently for your curls to dry, and now you're left with a hard, crunchy cast. Don't worry, that's a good sign!
A gel cast helps lock in moisture and definition while your curls dry. It's the key to a long-lasting wash and go, but if you aren't a fan of the crunch, that's okay! The final step is learning how to "scrunch out the crunch" to reveal soft, bouncy curls underneath.
Whether you use Pop Life™, Just Gel™, or Hold Up™ as your definer, here are our top products and tips for breaking up the cast!
Top Product Picks
For oil prone hair, place a few drops of Mane Tame™ Frizz Control Serum into your palms and emulsify. Cup the hair from the bottom, scrunching the upwards towards the scalp. This helps break down the cast, adds shine, and leaves curls feeling softer and more flexible.
Hair Bling™ High Shine Pomade is best for dry to normal hair, adding softness and UV protection! Using the same method as before, emulsify a dime sized amount in your hands and cup the hair from the bottom, scrunching upwards towards the scalp. Insert your fingertips near the roots and gently shake side to side. This loosens the cast at the scalp while creating volume and separating curl clumps naturally.
Top Techniques to Scrunch Out the Crunch
The right technique makes all the difference! By waiting until your hair is fully dry and using the right scrunching technique for your hair type, you can reveal soft, defined, bouncy curls that last for days.
Method One: Hands
Once your hair is 100% dry, flip your head forward or to the side and gently cup sections of curls in your hands. Squeeze the curls upward toward your scalp using a soft scrunching motion. Continue around your entire head until the stiff cast disappears. This method requires no additional products and preserves your curl definition, making it an ideal choice for beginners.
Method Two: Satin or Silk
If you're concerned about frizz, try using a silk or satin scarf instead of your hands.
Wrap a small section of the scarf around your hand and use it to scrunch the curls. The smooth fabric helps break the cast without roughing up the cuticle. This technique minimizes frizz and adds shine, and is a great choice for delicate curl patterns or fine hair.
Method Three: Diffusing
A diffuser is an important tool not just for setting, but for breaking up the cast too!
Once you are completely dry and your cast is set, place your curls into the bowl and gently push it upward toward your scalp. Turn the dryer on for about 10 seconds, then switch it off before releasing the hair. Turning off the diffuser before pulling it away keeps the flyaway's at bay. Repeat as needed to soften the cast.
The key to successfully scrunching out the crunch is using gentle techniques that soften the cast without disrupting your curl pattern. The next time your curls feel crunchy, resist the urge to panic. Instead, embrace the cast, scrunch it out, and enjoy the curls hiding underneath!
