Curly Dictionary: Basic Terms and Techniques You Should Know

Are you just starting out in the world of the curly method and don't understand half the terms you see? Don't worry: we'll explain the techniques and keywords of the curly world so you can care for your hair with confidence.

If you have curly hair and are trying to follow the curly method , you've probably come across words like "scrunch," "cast," or "refresh" and have been left wondering. And that's normal. The curly world has its own language, full of specific techniques and terms that may seem strange at first, but are essential to understanding how to properly care for your curls.

Here's an updated curly dictionary with the techniques and concepts every curly-haired person should know. Get ready to speak curly with ease!

Scrunch

Plopping

Praying Hands

Application technique in which you clasp your hands as if you were praying and slide the product through your hair from top to bottom.

Ideal for: distributing the product evenly without breaking the curl.

Claw hands

You separate your fingers like a claw and slide them through your hair to distribute the product while defining the strands.

Good for: defining without weighing down and working in sections.

Rake In

It means "finger combing." It involves applying product and sectioning your hair with your fingers as if they were combing.

Perfect for: separating curls and defining strand by strand.

Cast

It's the hard layer left behind by the gel when it dries. Although the curls may look stiff at first, they're easily removed with a scrunch once dry.

Result: soft, defined curls with long-lasting hold.

Refresh

It is the process of revitalizing curls between washes, reactivating shape and volume without the need to wash again.

It is done with: water, light leave-in or defining spray.

Low Poo

Gentle shampoo, without harsh sulfates, that cleanses without drying out curly hair.

Recommended for: frequent use, especially on sensitive or dry scalps.

Clarifying

Deep cleansing shampoo that removes product buildup, grease, or pollution.

Use: once a month or when hair feels saturated.

50% Technique

It consists of applying the hairspray when the hair is half dry, not soaked.

Advantage: achieve more volume and natural hold.

Conclusion

Mastering these curly hair method techniques and terms will help you better understand what your hair needs and how to properly apply each product. It's not just what you use that matters, but how you apply it. And now that you speak the curly language, you're ready to transform your hair routine.