The Curly Commandments: A Complete Guide to Caring for Your Curls
Curly hair is a beautiful expression of individuality, but it thrives with specialized care. With the right knowledge and habits, you can nurture curls that are hydrated, defined, and thriving. These ten commandments serve as a foundation for healthy curls, no matter your pattern.
1. Cleanse with Care (Not with Sulfates!)
Traditional shampoos with sulfates strip the natural oils curls need to stay soft and defined. Instead, choose cleansers that cleanse gently while keeping your scalp and strands balanced.
Product Pick: Manetain Moisturising Shampoo
This sulfate-free cleanser hydrates and strengthens without disrupting your curl pattern.
Other Cleansing Options:
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Clarifying Shampoo – For monthly or bi-weekly resets to remove product buildup.
Manetain Clarifying Shampoo -
CoWash – A gentle cleanse option ideal for dry, coarse curls or midweek refreshes.
Manetain Co-wash
2. Hydrate Like You Mean It
Curls are naturally drier due to their spiral shape. Deep conditioning regularly replenishes moisture, enhances elasticity, and minimizes frizz.
Product Pick: Manetain Multipurpose Conditioner
Use it as a rinse-out, deep treatment, or leave-in. Rich in argan oil and phytokeratin, it deeply nourishes and softens curls.
3. Avoid Silicones, Sulfates, and Heavy Waxes
These ingredients can coat or dry out curls, leading to buildup and dullness. Stick to curl-friendly formulas that are water-soluble and nourishing.
Product Pick: Manetain Clarifying Shampoo
Use once or twice a month to remove buildup without stripping moisture.
4. Style for Curl Definition, Not Crunch
Curly hair loves lightweight, hydrating styling products that define curls without stiffness. Pairing a cream with a gel gives long-lasting hold and shape.
Styling Combo:
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Curl Cream – Defines and hydrates with plant-based lipids and amino acids.
Manetain Curl Cream -
Volume Gel – A lighter hold for soft, bouncy, voluminous curls.
Manetain Volume Gel -
Hard Hold Gel – For long-lasting definition and humidity protection.
Manetain Hard Hold Gel
5. Dry Gently to Avoid Frizz
Vigorous towel-drying can rough up the cuticle and cause breakage. Instead, gently blot excess water and air-dry or diffuse on low heat.
Product Pick: Manetain Microfiber Turban Towel
Reduces frizz and drying time while protecting your curl structure.
6. Protect Your Curls Overnight
Cotton pillowcases steal moisture and cause friction. A satin or silk layer helps curls stay smooth and defined while you sleep.
Nighttime Saviors:
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Satin Pillowcases – Reduce breakage and preserve hydration.
Manetain Satin Pillowcase -
Bonnets – Lock in moisture and prevent tangling while you sleep.
Manetain Satin Bonnet
7. Trim with Intention
Split ends travel upward and make curls look undefined. A curl-friendly trim every 8–12 weeks keeps your ends healthy and your shape intact.
8. Detangle with Patience
Curly hair is most fragile when dry. Always detangle soaking wet, conditioned hair with a wide-toothed comb or your fingers.
Product Pick: Manetain Multipurpose Conditioner
Provides slip and hydration, making detangling easier and reducing breakage.
9. Embrace Your Natural Texture
Limit heat and chemical treatments. Instead, focus on enhancing your natural curl pattern with nourishing, CGM-friendly products.
10. Listen to Your Hair
No two curls are the same. Stay curious. Your hair will tell you what it needs—whether that’s a midweek co-wash, extra protein, or a night in a bonnet.
Ready to Care for Your Curls Like Never Before?
By following these commandments and choosing the right products, you’ll build a routine that supports healthy, happy curls every day.
✨ Explore Manetain’s Curly Hair Collection to begin your journey.
