Curly Q: I have pretty dry curls, but an oily scalp. I find myself having to shampoo frequently to avoid greasy roots, only for it to dry out the rest of my hair. How can I treat both issues and find a healthy balance? Help!
Believe it or not, this problem isn't all that uncommon. In fact, I struggle with it myself. Most women with curly hair deal with dryness, but that doesn't mean our scalps don't accumulate oil. Luckily there are definitely ways to combat both the oily scalp and dry ends. Check out a few of my own tips below!
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Go for a gentle shampoo: If you're going to shampoo regularly, you might as well go for a gentle, sulfate-free formula that's not going to dry out the rest of your hair. I'm kind of obsessed with DevaCurl No Poo Shampoo ($19). It literally conditions while it cleanses. And make sure to only apply the shampoo directly to your scalp. As you rinse it will make its way down to your ends.
Use an ultra-moisturizing conditioner: Look for a conditioner or conditioning treatment that's specially designed for dry tresses. I recommend Ouidad 12 Minute Intensive Repair Deep Treatment ($26). It's filled with amino acids and proteins that help deeply hydrate and revive dry, damaged curls.
Avoid conditioning your roots: Make sure to only apply the conditioner on the mid-length section of your hair to the ends. You want to avoid getting it anywhere near your scalp, to avoid greasiness.
Try a dry shampoo: If in the morning your roots are already looking greasy and limpy, try a dry shampoo for curly hair like TRESemme FreshStart Waterless Foam Shampoo ($6). The foam solution gives you clean, fresh hair without having to use water. Perfect for the chica on the go!
Chill with the styling products: Whenever you're applying styling products whether it's gel, mousse, or a curling cream, you want to make sure that you're putting the majority of the product on your mid-length sections and ends, not your scalp. Apply no more than a pea-size amount to your roots to avoid product buildup or weighing down your hair.
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