Kinky Curl Traits
-
Curl shape
Kinky curls are known for their unique Z-shaped coils. These curls are often so tight that even with the use of product, they don't hold their curl pattern. The hair looks similar when wet as it does fully dry, keeping the same curl pattern, only with less shrinkage.
-
frizz factor
Kinky curls are often seen as the frizziest hair type. This is caused by the vast amount of tiny curls that each go in their own direction. As a result of the frizz, kinky curls are the hair type most prone to tangling, breakage and shrinkage.
-
maintenance level
It's no secret that kinky curls involve the most steps when it comes to maintenance. A lot of time, money and effort can go into care and styling the hair. Kinky curls are extremely fragile and need a gentle hand when washing and styling to prevent excess tangling and breakage.
Tips for care
Make sure to either use a t-shirt or a microfibre towel when drying your hair so as to not disturb your kinky curls as they are very delicate.
Along with tight curls, kinky curls are very good at holding their shape, making them the perfect hair type for being able to hold protective styles such as twist-outs and braid-outs. These styles require heavier duty products (such as creams, as opposed to gels and mousses) and particular braiding or twisting techniques. These styles are good choices if you want to stretch out your hair from its shrinkage. Protective styles also offer a nice break from your normal hair, and can often last for a week or more.
If looking for a low maintenance way to care for kinky curls (or if you want to rock a 70s-era afro), apply some product (e.g. leave-in conditioner) every day between your wash days, detangling or brushing through your hair every day to prevent tangles. You can even keep an afro pick on hand if your hair starts to deflate and shrink throughout the day.
Much like other hair types, sleep on a silk pillowcase or wear a silk bonnet when going to bed. This prevents tangles forming throughout the night.
