How to Manage Toddler Curls: A Happy Haircare Guide
Caring for Your Toddler’s Curls Without the Stress
Caring for your toddler’s curly hair can be challenging, especially when dealing with tangles, tears, and an active little one. But, the right routine can make the process easy and stress-free. You can’t force your toddler to love bath time or getting their hair done. Still, you can compromise and make the process less daunting.
Check out my previous post, “Cradle Cap Remedies: Easy Baby Scalp Care Solutions”, If your little one is still dealing with cradle cap. The following routine can be done at the same time, just make sure you are using less product. This way, you can resolve the cradle cap issue first without causing any infection or other problems.
In this guide, you’ll learn a step-by-step routine, styling ideas, and ways to handle tender-headed toddlers with ease.
Step-by-Step Routine for Toddler Curly Hair
1. How to Detangle Toddler Curly Hair with Ease
- Why it matters: Dentangling before washing minimizes breakage and discomfort. It can also reduce the time you spend washing your toddler’s hair.
- How to do it: Dampening the hair before applying any detangler is very important. Curly hair is manageable when it is wet, otherwise the product will just lay on the hair. Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers after applying a detangling spray or pre-poo shampoo. Work gently from the ends to the roots.
So Cozy Kids Curl Leave-in
Great for Toddlers with fine to medium curly hair. I recommend spritzing the hair with water first before applying this product and detangling it with a wide-tooth comb. The water will help avoid stickiness.
African Pride Pre-shampoo
This is great for older kids with long, thick or coily hair. It should be applied to damp hair. You may also spritz the hair with water as you apply the product before detangling.
2. Washing Tips for Toddler Curly Hair
- Why it Matters: Harsh Shampoos strip away natural oils, which are essential for curly hair. Make Sure to look for a shampoo that is moisturizing. Curly hair tends to get very dry, your goal is to add and lock in moisture to the hair.
- What to use: While sulfate-free is a popular choice, remember that sulfate is used to remove dirt from the crown. Look for shampoos with moisturizing ingredients that will not dry out the hair. For younger toddlers, look for tear-free shampoos. These keep the hair clean without irritating.
SheaMoisture Extra – Nourishing Shampoo
This shampoo is known for being gentle, hydrating, and specifically designed to define and nourish curly hair without harsh chemicals.
Aquaphor Baby Wash and Shampoo
This is a great choice since it doubles as a body wash and is tear-free. I recommend this formula for smaller kids as it is gentle and good on the skin.
3. Best Conditioner for Toddler Curly Hair
- Why it matters: This step is important because conditioner hydrates curls and makes detangling easier. Conditioner can also be used as a pre-poo to detangle and hydrate the hair. Additionally, it can be used as a co-wash if you simply want to refresh the hair.
- How to do it: Apply conditioner after rinsing shampoo out completely. If you are using it as a co-wash, make sure the hair is completely damp before application. Use a detangling brush or comb to gently work through knots while the conditioner is in the hair.
Pro tip: If you are struggling when detangling the hair, add more water and conditioner to loosen up the curls. Always section when dealing especially with thick or longer hair.
SheaMoisture Kids Conditioner
An excellent choice if your kiddo has dry curly hair. It nourishes the hair while strengthening the curls.
Not Your Mother’s Curl Conditioner
Not Your Mother’s is already a great brand. I love their Curl Talk line, so I was even more excited to see there is one for kids.
4. Styling & Moisturizing: Keep It Simple
- Use a leave-in conditioner or curl cream to lock in moisture. Leave-in conditioners and creams are great when you are manipulating the hair to make braids and other styles. Gels are great when leaving the hair loose.
- Stick to easy, tension-free styles like puffs, ponytails, or headbands.
Pro Tip: Let your child’s curls shine naturally by using lightweight products.
Shea Moisture Curl Cream
This is a long-time favorite of mine from this line. It is very thick and works great on thicker hair. If your child has finer hair add a minimal amount and more as needed.
As I am Leave-in Conditioner/Detangler
The As I Am line is a great choice for fine to medium hair. The product is not too thick.
Aunt Jackie’s Curling and Twisting Custard
This is a great choice for fine to medium hair. I love this line in particular because it always leaves the hair shiny with a wet look.
5. Drying: Minimize Frizz
- Do this: When drying toddler curly hair, use a microfiber towel or soft T-shirt to gently blot excess water.
- Avoid this: Use a leave-in conditioner or curl cream to lock in moisture. Leave-in conditioners and creams are great when you are manipulating the hair to make braids and other styles. Gels are great when leaving the hair loose.
- Stick to easy, tension-free styles like puffs, ponytails, or headbands.: Rubbing the hair, which can lead to frizz and damage.
I recommend air drying to reduce frizz. Toddlers and younger kids are very gentle and the heat from the dryer can burn them easily. Additionally, you can apply a hair oil to break up the curls. I prefer using Jojoba oil but you can use an oil of your preference.
6. Nighttime Protection: Curls That Last Overnight (Optional)
- Protect curls overnight with a satin bonnet or silk pillowcase. These reduce friction and help curls last longer.
2 PCS Baby Bonnet
This is a great option if your toddler twists and turns through the night. I like this especially because it can be tied in place so it won’t fall off at night.
Satin Pillowcase (Various Designs)
Another great choice for boys or if your child refuses to wear a bonnet.
Tips for Tender-Headed Toddlers
Caring for a tender-headed child can be challenging, but these tips can make it easier:
- Distract them: Let them watch a show or play with a toy during hair care.
- Be patient: Start detangling from the ends and work upward.
- Take breaks: Short sessions with breaks can prevent meltdowns.
Essential Tools for Toddler Haircare (Optional)
Wet Brush
This Wet Brush is excellent for detangling hair. It is also useful for styling since it does a great job of clumping the hair together.
Detangling Comb
I love this detangling brush because it has one side to undo knots and another for detangling. It is also perfect for sectioning hair.
Hair Wash Bin
If you have the space, this is a great way to get the salon feel at home. You will get continual use out of it as your child grows older. Adults can use it as well.
ShampooTime Shampoo Mat
This is another great option if you have counter space in your bathroom or kitchen. It includes a phone holder so your child can watch videos while you wash their hair.
Easy Styling Ideas for Busy Mornings
Here are a few easy hairstyles for busy mornings:
- Loose Puff with a Bow
- Gather the hair into a high puff and secure it with a soft elastic. Add a cute bow for a quick, adorable style.
- Gentle Braids
- Divide the hair into two sections and braid each side. This style can last for days!
- Two Low Ponytails
- Part the hair in two and secure it with elastics for a playful look.
- “Pineapple” for Short Toddler Curls
- Brush the curls upward and secure loosely at the top for an easy, chic look..
Final Thoughts
Caring for your toddler’s hair doesn’t have to be stressful. Having a routine, the right tools, and techniques can make haircare a positive and bonding experience for you and your child. I know this can be a daunting task but remember to nurture their unique curls with love and patience.
FAQs: Toddler Curly Hair Care
Download Your Free Checklist
Want to simplify your routine even more? Get the Stress-Free Toddler Curly Hair Routine Checklist! It’s a step-by-step guide to making hair days easier for you and your little one.
Subscribe for More Haircare Tips!
Join our community for exclusive haircare tips, product reviews, and savings hacks! Sign up today and get a FREE Toddler Curly Hair Routine Checklist!—a step-by-step guide to making hair days easier for you and your little one!
Enter your email below to grab your freebie!
