A Letter to My Younger Self (And Her Straightener): What I Wish I Knew About My Curls

Dear 16-year-old me,

I see you.

In front of the mirror again, the straightener heating up like clockwork. You’ve probably burned your fingers this week—but anything to “tame the mess,” right?

I wish I could tap you on the shoulder and say, “You don’t have to fight your hair.” Because of your curls? They’re not the enemy. They’re not broken. They’re not a phase. They’re you. And they’re beautiful.

Here’s what I wish you knew sooner:

1. You’re Not at War With Your Hair

Your curls aren’t a problem to fix. They’re your texture, your volume, your personality. They just need care, not control.

2. That Straightener? It’s Stealing Your Spark

Sure, it smooths things over. But it’s also flattening the best parts of your hair—the bounce, the life, the you. Trust me, it’s not worth it.

3. Hydration, Not Grease

You’re drowning your hair in oil, thinking it’ll help. But curls crave moisture, not grease. The right leave-ins and curl creams will change everything.
 [Manetain Leave-In Conditioner]
 [Manetain Curl Cream]

4. You Look Better Than You Think

You worry people are judging your hair. But they’re admiring it. That big, bouncy look you’re trying to tame? That’s your power.

5. Satin Will Be Your Curls’ BFF

It’s not just bougie—it’s practical. A satin pillowcase keeps your curls soft, frizz-free, and happy.
 [Manetain Satin Pillowcase]

6. Choose Healthy, Not Perfect

Curls don’t transform overnight. And frying them into submission won’t help. Give them time. They’ll grow with you.

7. Frizz Is Just Texture With a Story

You’ve been taught to hate frizz, but it’s not failure. It’s freedom. Let your curls be a little wild.

8. People Love Your Hair

While you’re trying to blend in, your hair is standing out in the best way. You’re turning heads—own it.

9. Build Your Routine

There’s no one-size-fits-all. Try things. Mix it up. Your perfect routine is waiting—and once it clicks, you’ll wonder why you ever reached for that straightener.

10. Your Curls Are Yours

You can straighten them, sure. But you don’t need to. Your curls are uniquely yours. They’re part of your story. Love them, and they’ll love you back.

Here’s the truth:
You’re not a project to fix. You’re already enough. Straight hair isn’t the goal—self-acceptance is. And when you finally embrace your curls, you’ll start showing up in the world like you were always meant to.

Keep going. You’ve got this.

Love,
Your future curly-haired, confident-as-hell self