Yes, the Nexxus Curl Define collection is specifically formulated for curly hair. It contains a ProteinFusion blend with silk protein and marula oil, which are rich in the amino acids that form the building blocks of curls, offering a science-backed solution for hair health and definition.
Caring for curly hair can seem complex, with endless questions about washing, styling, and techniques like plopping. We believe your routine should be simple, luxurious, and effective. The new Nexxus Curl Define collection simplifies curly hair care with its unique ProteinFusion blend of silk protein and marula oil. This blend is rich in Glycine and Serine, the amino acids that form the building blocks of curly hair. By infusing these proteins, Nexxus provides a scientifically-backed solution for treating and styling curls. We consulted with Nexxus Style & Trends Curator, Lacy Redway, to get expert advice on everything from curl science to managing frizz.
For readers who may not be familiar, can you explain what the curl chart is? How can it help them identify and care for their specific curl type?
Lacy Redway: A curl chart helps you identify your specific curl pattern. Many people don't know their pattern or how to care for their hair properly. The chart ranges from 2A to 4c, allowing you to find the pattern that most closely resembles your hair. Understanding your curl pattern is key to choosing the right products. For instance, if your hair is on the looser end of the spectrum, like 2A, you'll need different products than someone with a tighter 4C hair type. 2A types often need lightweight products that won't weigh hair down, whereas 4C types may require super-moisturizing products to enhance their curl pattern.
Can you explain what density and porosity are when it comes to curly hair?
LR: Density refers to your hair's thickness, based on how tightly your curls pack together when dry. Understanding density helps you select appropriate products. If you can easily see your scalp, you have finer hair and should use lightweight products. If your scalp is hard to see, your curls are dense and need heavier products to penetrate the strands.
Porosity is about how well your hair absorbs and retains moisture. While mostly genetic, it can be altered by chemical treatments or heat damage. You can test your hair's porosity by placing a strand in water: high-porosity hair sinks, low-porosity hair floats, and hair that's somewhere in the middle will sink slowly. Knowing this helps you find the right products for your curls' needs.
What are the main differences in how different curl types should wash and condition their hair?
LR: The main difference for washing various curl types lies in product selection. Tightly coiled hair may need more detangling time and heavier conditioners. I always recommend finger detangling on all curl types before wetting the hair to reduce tangles. For hair types in the 4 range, I suggest leaving conditioners and masks on longer than the instructions recommend, compared to 2 or 3 hair types.
LR: I'm fascinated by new discoveries, and what sets the Nexxus Curl Define line apart is its science. The products feature a ProteinFusion blend with silk protein, which research shows is rich in the same building blocks as curly hair, plus moisturizing marula oil. I recommend this line because you can easily incorporate one product to improve your current routine, and it's affordable and widely available.
What’s the best way to define curls without getting a crunchy or stiff effect?
LR: To avoid a crunchy or stiff finish, choose the right products. If your hair does dry crunchy, use a light or dry oil to soften the cast once it's completely dry. You can define your curls by massaging product in and finger coiling your strands. I like to rub products in, then let curls bounce back naturally. When diffusing, I avoid disrupting the curl shape with my hands or tools to prevent unwanted frizz.
LR: A pre-wash treatment can also help detangle and add moisture by creating a protective layer before shampooing. The pre-wash treatment in the Curl Define line is my favorite product because it does just that. The understanding that Nexxus’s silk protein specifically speaks to curly hair is what makes this product unique. It is also infused with marula oil, shea butter, and castor oil. It helps me detangle my strands and leaves them feeling soft, making the other steps in my haircare routine easier.
How does the Nexxus Curl Collection help those who struggle with frizz?
LR: When used correctly for your hair type, this line helps minimize frizz. Use less product for finer strands and more for thicker, coarser hair. However, it's important to remember that some frizz is perfectly fine. We often have a negative view of our hair, but I believe frizz adds life and character to a person’s unique style. While we aim to improve our curl routines, we should also embrace the uniqueness that our hair expresses.
How can curly hair types redefine curls without having to wash again (especially after sleeping)?
LR: To refresh your curls, use a quality leave-in conditioner like the Nexxus Curl Define Leave-In Conditioner. After sleeping, simply mist your hair with water to reactivate the curls. Then, flip your head upside-down and use your hands to gently shake and loosen them up.
People with curly hair know getting their hair wet is the worst. How can they minimize or fix the effects after an intense workout or going out in the rain?
LR: If you are active in the gym like me, use a barrier, like a sweatband, to keep sweat from traveling over your strands and prevent your hairline from reverting. I also use a bandana to stop my hair from expanding while wet.
For more tips and tricks for using Nexxus's Curl Define collection, follow Lacy @lacyredway and Nexxus @nexxushaircare on Instagram.
Frequently asked questions
To avoid a crunchy finish, choose the right styling products. If your hair dries with a stiff cast, you can soften it by applying a light or dry oil. Defining curls by massaging in product and finger coiling also helps create a soft, natural look.
To refresh curls without washing, mist your hair with water to reactivate the curl pattern. Apply a quality product like the Nexxus Curl Define Leave-In Conditioner, then flip your hair and gently shake to restore volume and shape.
Density is your hair's thickness, which guides whether to use lightweight or heavy products. Porosity is your hair's ability to absorb moisture. Understanding both is key to selecting the right products. You can test porosity by placing a hair strand in water to see if it floats or sinks.
A curl chart can help you identify your curl pattern, which ranges from 2A (loose waves) to 4C (tight coils). Knowing your curl type is the first step in choosing the most effective products and care routine for your hair.