How to Build Your Curly Hair Routine (Without Going Crazy)

If you have curly or wavy hair, it's easy to end up trying scattered things: a washing method here, a drying technique there, a "miracle" product... and still feel like your routine isn't consistent.

This guide helps you build a complete routine with a simple approach: identify your characteristics (curl type, porosity, etc.), choose a cleansing mode (CGM, low poo, co-wash or hybrid) and adjust the steps according to what your hair is asking for.

What you need to build your routine

Before choosing products, it's good to have these points clear:

• Curl type (2A-4C): guides the definition level and hydration needs.
• Porosity: influences how your hair absorbs and retains hydration.
• Texture and density: fine hair usually needs lighter products; thick or dense hair tolerates (and sometimes needs) richer formulas.
• Cleansing mode: CGM (original), low poo, co-wash or a hybrid approach.
• Washing and drying frequency: adjusts according to root oil, buildup, climate and results.

There is no single "correct" combination: results vary and it's normal to keep adjusting.

Decision tree: identify your curl type

A useful starting point is to recognize your curl pattern. To see it more clearly:

1. Wash with shampoo and conditioner.
2. Let air dry without products.
3. Observe the natural shape.

Simple decision tree:

1. Do waves form in "S" shape (looser)? → Type 2 (wavy).
2. Do defined spiral curls form? → Type 3 (curly).
3. Do very tight curls form, afro/very curly type? → Type 4.

Then you can refine with A-B-C (A looser, C tighter).

In general:

• Tighter patterns (approx. 3B–4C) usually need more hydration and often products with more body to maintain definition.
• Waves and looser curls (approx. 2A–3A) usually work better with light layers to avoid hair getting weighed down.

Critical components according to your hair characteristics

Beyond the "curl type", there are variables that often make the difference:

• High porosity: usually loses hydration quickly; sometimes helps seal with oils or butters (don't overdo it).
• Low porosity: can saturate easily; usually works better with light products and good application technique.
• Fine texture: watch the "weight" of products (very dense creams can pull the shape down).
• Coarse/dense texture: usually tolerates richer creams and more consistent hold.
• Damaged hair: can benefit from proteins, but the protein/hydration balance is individual.
• Oily root or sensitive scalp: prioritize adequate cleansing and avoid accumulating too many layers.

If you follow CGM, it's usually recommended to avoid sulfates and certain silicones, but compatibility depends on the mode (CGM, low poo or co-wash) and whether you do occasional deep cleanses.

Beginner routine vs. advanced routine

If you're starting

A good initial routine should be simple and repeatable:

• Cleansing: start with the mode that best fits you (many people start with co-wash or low poo).
• Conditioner: focus on good application and detangling with wet hair.
• Definition: a basic technique (for example, applying product on very wet hair and scrunching).
• Drying: air or diffuser carefully; plopping if it works for you.

If you've been at it for a while and want to optimize

"Advanced" doesn't mean doing more things, but adjusting with intention:

• Change the cleansing mode according to buildup, climate or scalp needs.
• Introduce a deep cleansing shampoo when you notice buildup (many people do it "when needed", not on a fixed calendar).
• Adjust the hydration/protein balance according to the actual hair response.

Common mistakes that usually sabotage the routine

• Washing too much (or too little) without looking at scalp signals.
• Detangling dry, increasing breakage.
• Abusing heat without protection or technique.
• Using too many product layers and not checking buildup.
• Touching the hair continuously during drying (usually increases frizz).

Related guides (to go deeper)

• Beginner washing guide: how to choose method and technique.
• Drying techniques: options and how to adapt them.
• How modes work in the app: differences between CGM, low poo and co-wash.
• Guide to start with Curly Girl Method: basics and concepts.

An honest closing

Much of what is shared about curly routines comes from community experience and good professional practices; direct scientific evidence about "the perfect routine" is limited.

That's why the most useful thing is usually this: start simple, change one thing at a time and stick with what your hair confirms with results.