How to Scrunch Out the Crunch A Guide to Perfecting Your Curly HairCurly hair is often a beautiful and unique texture, but it can be tricky to manage at times. One common challenge many people with curly hair face is the ‘crunch’ that can result from styling products like gels or mousses. While these products can give curls definition and hold, they can sometimes leave your hair feeling stiff and crunchy. If you’re looking for ways to get rid of the crunch and achieve soft, bouncy curls, this guide is for you. Here, we’ll explore the best techniques for scrunching out the crunch and achieving the perfect curly look.
What is Scrunching Out the Crunch?
Scrunching out the crunch is a technique used by people with curly hair to soften the texture of their curls after applying styling products. It involves gently breaking up the stiff, crunchy cast that forms when a styling gel or mousse dries, leaving your curls soft and bouncy without losing definition.
Why Does Hair Become Crunchy?
When you use gel or mousse on your curly hair, these products create a ‘cast’ around each curl. This cast locks in the curl’s shape and helps maintain hold and frizz control. While this is great for keeping your curls intact throughout the day, the cast can often leave your hair feeling hard and crunchy once it dries. The key to beautiful, natural-looking curls is to remove this crunchy layer without disrupting the curl pattern.
Step-by-Step Guide to Scrunching Out the Crunch
1. Start with Wet Hair
The scrunching technique works best when your hair is still wet. After washing your hair, apply your styling products while your hair is damp, ensuring you distribute the product evenly from root to tip. It’s important to avoid applying too much product, as it can lead to excessive crunchiness.
2. Apply the Right Styling Product
To achieve defined curls with minimal crunch, you need to choose the right styling products for your hair type. A light gel, mousse, or curl cream can provide hold without leaving your hair feeling too stiff. When applying your product, use the ‘praying hands’ technique, which involves smoothing the product over your hair and then scrunching it upwards towards your scalp. This helps encourage curl formation and ensures an even distribution of the product.
3. Let Your Hair Air Dry or Use a Diffuser
Once you’ve applied your styling products, it’s time to let your curls dry. You can either air dry your hair or use a blow dryer with a diffuser attachment. If you choose to air dry, avoid touching your hair to prevent frizz. If you use a diffuser, set the dryer on a low heat setting and gently cup sections of your hair into the diffuser to encourage curl formation.
4. Wait Until Hair is Completely Dry
It’s important to wait until your curls are completely dry before attempting to scrunch out the crunch. Trying to remove the cast while your hair is still wet or damp can result in frizzy or undefined curls. Be patient and allow your curls to fully dry.
5. Scrunching Out the Crunch
Once your curls are dry, it’s time to break the cast. Gently scrunch your hair with your hands to soften the curls. You can do this by cupping your hair in your palms and squeezing upwards toward the scalp. Focus on small sections at a time, and use a light touch to avoid disturbing the curl pattern.
6. Use Oil or Serum (Optional)
If you find that your hair is still too crunchy after scrunching, you can apply a small amount of lightweight oil or serum to your hands and continue scrunching. The oil will help to add shine, reduce frizz, and further soften the curls. Be sure not to use too much oil, as it can weigh down your curls and cause them to lose volume.
Tips for Best Results
1. Don’t Overapply Product
Overusing styling products can lead to an excessive cast, making it harder to scrunch out the crunch. Apply just enough product to define your curls without weighing them down.
2. Choose the Right Curl-Friendly Products
Not all styling products are created equal, so it’s important to choose products specifically designed for curly hair. Look for products that provide hold and frizz control without creating a crunchy or stiff finish. Consider using a gel that is lightweight and designed to provide a soft hold, or a curl cream for more natural texture.
3. Avoid Touching Your Hair Too Much
During the drying process, avoid touching your hair as much as possible. Constantly running your hands through your curls can disturb the curl pattern, create frizz, and prevent your curls from setting properly.
4. Use a Microfiber Towel
When drying your hair after washing, use a microfiber towel instead of a regular cotton towel. Microfiber towels are gentler on the hair and help reduce frizz. They also absorb moisture without roughing up the hair cuticle, which can lead to the dreaded crunch.
5. Don’t Scrunch Too Early
It’s tempting to start scrunching your curls as soon as you apply your styling products, but you should wait until your hair is fully dry before scrunching out the crunch. Scrunching too early can lead to frizz and unwanted volume. Let your curls dry completely to ensure they hold their shape.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Over-Scrunching
While scrunching out the crunch is important, over-scrunching can cause your curls to become frizzy and lose definition. Be gentle and don’t overdo it. A few scrunching motions should be enough to break the cast and soften your curls.
2. Using Too Much Product
Too much product can leave your curls feeling heavy and crunchy. Apply just enough product to define your curls without weighing them down.
3. Not Using Heat Protection
If you’re using a blow dryer or any other heat styling tools, be sure to apply a heat protectant beforehand. Heat can dry out curly hair and make it more prone to damage and frizz. A heat protectant will help shield your hair from damage while preserving its natural curl pattern.
Scrunching out the crunch is a simple but essential technique for anyone with curly hair. By following the steps outlined above and using the right products, you can achieve soft, bouncy curls that retain their definition. The key is to be patient, use the right styling products, and give your curls the time they need to fully dry before scrunching them. With a little practice, you’ll be able to achieve the perfect curl without the dreaded crunch, leaving your hair soft, defined, and full of volume.