Curly Hair Routine Mistakes You’re Probably Making (and How to Fix Them)
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Think You’re Doing Everything Right for Your Curls? Chances are, you’re making at least one of these curly hair routine mistakes.
Even if you’ve nailed your wash day steps, a small slip — like using the wrong shampoo or skipping leave-in — can leave your curls frizzy, dry, or flat. The good news? Most of these mistakes are easy to fix once you know what’s really going on.
Mistake #1 – Over-Washing Your Curls
Frequent washing strips away your hair’s limited natural oils, leading to dryness and brittleness.
- Low porosity or thick curls: wash every 7–10 days; co-wash midweek.
- High porosity or fine curls: wash every 3–5 days and seal moisture after.
Fix: Co-wash or refresh between wash days with a mist or leave-in.
Mistake #3 – Skipping Leave-In Conditioner
Curls lose hydration fast without a moisture barrier.
- Low porosity: lightweight spray leave-ins absorb better.
- High porosity or dense curls: Thicker creams lock in hydration longer.
Fix: Layer leave-in before styling to cut frizz and improve definition.
Try: Deep Conditioning 101: How to Restore Moisture to Curly Hair
Mistake #4 – Applying Products the Wrong Way
Technique matters just as much as product choice. Rushing through the application or skipping sections leaves some curls overcoated and others dry or frizzy.
- Fine curls: Scrunch product into soaking-wet hair to encourage bounce and light definition.
- Dense or coarse curls: Work in sections and use the praying-hands or shingling method to coat every strand evenly for longer-lasting definition.
Fix: For high porosity hair, apply products to soaking-wet hair to trap hydration and encourage smooth clumps. Medium porosity hair does best on damp-to-wet hair — enough water to help spread product, but not dripping. Low porosity hair often prefers damp hair, so products don’t just sit on top. Take your time, your curls will reward you for it.
See also: Understanding Your Hair Type: A Beginner’s Guide for Curly Girls
Common Curly Hair Mistake #5 – Brushing Dry Curls
Brushing dry hair roughens the cuticle and ruins the curl pattern.
- Low density: prone to frizz; finger-detangle only.
- High density: Use a wide-tooth comb in the shower for slip.
Fix: Detangle with conditioner and fingers or comb while wet.
You may also enjoy: Type 3 Curly Hair Explained
Mistake #6 – Ignoring Your Scalp
Buildup blocks follicles and causes dryness.
- Fine curls: exfoliate weekly to prevent greasy roots.
- Thick curls: massage with scalp oil to balance dryness.
Fix: Clarify gently and massage to boost circulation.
Want to make your routine easier?
Grab my free Curly Hair Hydration Guide inside the Freebie Library. You’ll also find various curly hair guides packed with wash day reminders, hydration tips, and product layering routines to help you stay consistent and build your perfect curl care plan.
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Join my circle to unlock the Curly Mama Freebie Library, your all-access pass to printables, checklists, and resources made for busy moms and curly hair lovers.
Mistake #7 – Heat Styling Without Protection
Even diffusers can cause damage when not used properly. Heat lifts the cuticle layer, leading to frizz, dryness, and split ends, especially if you don’t seal with a protectant first.
- High porosity: Extra vulnerable, always use a heat protectant before diffusing or blow-drying.
- Medium porosity: Moderate heat is fine, but avoid over-diffusing the same sections.
- Low porosity: Use low heat or air-dry to prevent stiffness and product buildup.
Fix: Always mist with a heat protectant before styling or use a microfiber towel to air-dry for minimal friction and frizz.
Related: Best Heat Protectant for Curly Hair
Mistake #8 – Not Refreshing Between Wash Days
Curls lose moisture and shape after two or three days, especially in dry or humid climates. Without a proper refresh, they can look dull, frizzy, or limp.
- Fine curls: Refresh with a light mist only to avoid weighing them down.
- Dense curls: Re-moisturize with a richer leave-in cream or curl milk to restore definition.
Fix: Mix 1 part distilled water with 1 part aloe vera juice or leave-in conditioner in a spray bottle, then mist each section lightly. Scrunch to revive curls, then finish with a tiny bit of oil or serum, if needed, for shine.
Recommended: Quick & Easy Curly Hair Routine for Busy Moms
Mistake #9 – Skipping Trims
Split ends creep upward, dulling curl definition and making detangling a nightmare. Regular trims help curls stay bouncy and healthy-looking.
- Fine curls: Trim every 8–10 weeks to prevent breakage.
- Thick curls: Every 10–12 weeks helps maintain shape and volume.
Fix: Schedule regular curl-friendly trims to maintain definition. If you’re trimming at home, always use hair-cutting shears, never kitchen or paper scissors, to avoid frayed ends and uneven cuts. I personally use this pair from Amazon, and they’ve stayed sharp through multiple trims.
Equinox Professional Razor
Best For: DIY trims, split-end maintenance, and precision shaping
Why I Recommend It: Lightweight, sharp, and beginner-friendly. These scissors glide through curls without snagging. A great, affordable alternative to salon shears for at-home curl maintenance.
Pair this with: One Year After My Big Chop: Reconnecting with My Natural Hair Journey
Mistake #10 – Copying Someone Else’s Routine Exactly
No two curls behave the same, and what works for someone on TikTok might be the total opposite of what your hair needs.
- Low porosity: Prefers lighter layers and lower protein levels.
- Medium porosity: Balances hydration and protein best.
- High porosity: Thrives with richer moisture and strengthening treatments.
Fix: Figure out your hair type, porosity, and density first, then build a routine around what your hair actually needs. Experiment, document results, and adjust as your curls change with the weather, products, or hormones.
Start here: Curly Hair Resource Guide
FAQs About Curly Hair Routine Mistakes
How often should I wash my curly hair?
Most people with curly hair do best washing once or twice a week. Low- and medium-porosity curls can often last 7–10 days, while high-porosity or fine curls may need refreshing or co-washing every 3–5 days, depending on buildup, workouts, and climate.
Can I brush my curls if they’re tangled?
Yes, but only when wet and coated with conditioner. Use your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to detangle from the ends up to avoid breakage and frizz.
How can I refresh my curls without re-washing?
Mix one part distilled water with one part aloe vera juice or leave-in conditioner in a spray bottle. Lightly mist and scrunch to revive definition and shine between wash days.
What are the signs I’m using the wrong products?
If your curls feel heavy, greasy, or coated, you may have buildup or too much protein. If they feel rough or dry, you might need more moisture or a lighter formula, depending on your porosity.
How do I know if my hair routine is working?
Your curls should feel hydrated, defined, and soft between wash days. You’ll notice less frizz, fewer tangles, and a consistent curl pattern from roots to ends—clear signs your routine is balanced.
Final Thoughts: Avoiding Common Curly Hair Routine Mistakes
Curls thrive on patience, consistency, and customization. The key isn’t perfection, it’s paying attention to how your hair responds. Start by fixing one mistake at a time and giving your curls a chance to bounce back.
Which mistake have you been guilty of? Drop it in the comments!
Don’t forget to grab your Curly Hair Hydration Guide—free when you subscribe!
Let’s Make Inbox Magic
Join my circle to unlock the Curly Mama Freebie Library, your all-access pass to printables, checklists, and resources made for busy moms and curly hair lovers.
