Curl Must-Haves: The Professional Guide to Healthy, Defined Curls

A consistent, structured routine is the single most important factor in healthy curl care. Here is a straightforward framework that works across most curly hair types:

• Shampoo: one to two times per week using a sulphate-free or mild cleansing formula

• Conditioner: every wash day, applied from mid-length to ends only

• Deep treatment or mask: once a week to restore moisture and elasticity

• Leave-in conditioner or curl cream: applied to wet hair before diffusing or air drying

• Styling product: curl gel or mousse to define and hold the curl pattern

Skipping steps, particularly the deep treatment, is the most common reason curls lose definition over time. Moisture lost through washing, heat, and environmental exposure needs to be actively replenished.

Not all shampoos are curl-friendly. Formulas containing harsh sulphates can strip the natural oils curly hair depends on, leading to increased frizz and breakage. Look for shampoos labelled sulphate-free, moisturising, or curl-specific.

If you use heavy styling products regularly, incorporate a clarifying shampoo once a month to remove build-up without disrupting your regular routine. Two products we consistently recommend for curly hair cleansing are:

Conditioner is non-negotiable for curly hair. Apply it generously from the mid-lengths to the ends, detangle gently with fingers or a wide-tooth comb, and leave it on for two to three minutes before rinsing. Never apply conditioner directly to the roots, as this contributes to a congested scalp and limp roots.

For very dry or coarse curl types, a co-wash (conditioner-only wash) between shampoo days can help maintain moisture without over-cleansing. Two conditioners that work particularly well for curly hair types are:

Frizz is the most common concern we hear from curly-haired clients. It occurs when the hair cuticle lifts and absorbs moisture from the surrounding air, disrupting the curl pattern. In New Zealand and Australia, where humidity can be high year-round, this is an ongoing challenge.

The most effective approach is a layering technique applied to wet hair:

• Start with a leave-in conditioner to seal the cuticle and provide a moisture base

• Follow with a curl cream or butter to define the curl shape and reduce puffiness

• Finish with a curl gel or mousse to lock in definition and provide humidity resistance

• Once dry, apply a small amount of hair oil to smooth the surface and add shine - never on wet hair, as this can block moisture from entering the shaft

Loss of curl definition is usually a sign of dehydration, product build-up, or damage from heat or chemical treatments. Before adjusting your styling products, it is worth addressing the condition of the hair itself.

1. Treatments That Support Curl Recovery

A protein treatment strengthens the hair structure and can help restore elasticity in over-processed or weakened curls. Follow it with a deep moisture mask to prevent the hair from becoming brittle. This protein-moisture balance is something many clients overlook, and it is one of the most impactful adjustments you can make to a curl routine.

Brands such as Joico, Milk Shake, and Kevin Murphy offer professional curl treatments available through HairPlus NZ that address both protein and moisture needs within a dedicated curl care range.

This May, HairPlus NZ is making it easier to invest in a professional curl routine. From 24th May until 31st May, selected curl must-haves will be available at up to 25% off across our curly hair care range.

We stock professional salon brands trusted across New Zealand and Australia, including Davines, Evo, Kevin Murphy, Moroccanoil, Milk Shake, O&M Original Minerals, Kerastase, Joico, Oribe, and more. Every product is an authorised, genuine item.