If you were born with a head full of curls then you know it is both a blessing and a curse. Millions desire it, but few can handle it, which has led to many tearful salon visits and the ever-daunting haircare aisle. 

Thankfully, we are in the crux of a natural and curly hair movement. Say it with me ladies: Hallelujah! Now there are so many products to choose from for curly girls across all hair textures. However, many of struggle to find products that provide the sweet spot between having curls that are conditioned and controlled, while still maintaining a heathy and voluminous look. Let's be real, we go through all of this trouble to create the perfect curly fro. 

1. The first thing you want to do is distinguish the type of hair you have. Is it fine, thick, corkscrew, or loose? This will allow you to better determine the types of product and amount of it to put into your hair. Luckily a lot of brands out there cater to these different hair types. 

2. Once you have found out your hair type it is very important to invest in products that lock in moisture without weighing it down. One easy way to do that is by getting a hair mask or a rinse-out deep conditioner. One that I have really been loving is Shea Moisture's 'Superfruit Complex 10-in-1 Renewal Hair Mask.' Moisturized curls are happy curls. Do this once or twice a week or as needed. 

3. Drying curly hair after a wash is crucial. Don't even think about picking up that generic body towel. Use a microfiber towel or big t-shit (personal favorite and cheaper) instead to eliminate premature frizz.

4. Detangle curls so that they do not bunch together too much during the drying process. It also allows you to work your next products in without having to work through tangles. I like 'KNOT TODAY' from Kinky-Curly.

5. Go for a heavier cream like Shea Moisture's 'Coconut & Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie' for the next step. This once again adds moisture that can last you until your next wash. It does what is says too! Just be sure to not use too much on thinner curls because any excess product can produce a white residue. 

6. This next step calls for a more light weight cream. A good one to get that also straightens curls is 'Yucca & Plantain Anti-Breakage Straightening Styling Milk' made by Shea Moisture. Again, if you're hair is a bit thinner look out for products with words in the title such as, 'lotion,' 'mist' and 'gel-cream,' since they tend to be lighter weight. 

7. Once you have parted your hair and it is styled to your liking let it dry, and try not to touch it too much. You can also use a diffuser to cut down on the drying time. The Curly Co. makes one that is fantastic if you are in the market for one. 

8. Now that your hair is completely dry feel free to play with it. Pick it out with a comb. Fluff it around with your fingers. Whip your head back and forth! You may even start to notice your volume increase as the week progresses, so do not be afraid of puffiness and frizz. These are all good things!

Disclaimer: None of the products or companies mentioned in this post are sponsored. All are products I have personally tried and wanted to share with you all. Feel free to customize this routine to your lifestyle and be sure to research all products.