Ocean effect on curly hair: why it changes and how to take advantage of it

Volume, texture, definition... Anyone with curly hair knows there's something about the beach that makes curls look spectacular. It's not magic; it's science. We'll tell you why it happens and how to achieve that look without damaging your hair.

Why does curly hair look better near the sea?

1. High ambient humidity: Curly hair is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture from the environment. On the coast, the relative humidity is higher, causing the hair fiber to swell slightly and regain its natural shape. The result: more elastic, defined, and bouncy curls.
2. Salt as a natural hairspray When seawater evaporates, it leaves behind salts such as sodium, calcium, and magnesium in your hair. These act as a natural texturizer, separating curls and adding volume and body without the need for additional products.
3. Less static electricity: The sea breeze and humidity reduce the electrostatic charge in your hair. This means less frizz, less flyaways, and a more organized feeling in your curls.

But be careful : salt water also strips away your hair's natural moisture. While the visual effect is beautiful at the moment, salt can make hair rougher, drier, and duller in the long run. Therefore, it's a good idea to look for alternatives that respect the hair fiber.

Curly-safe ingredients that mimic the "sea effect"

Modern hair care allows you to recreate that beachy look without using salt or sulfates. These are the key ingredients:

• Humectants: Mimic coastal humidity. Glycerin, propanediol, sorbitol, and betaine are active ingredients that attract water to the hair fiber, keeping it hydrated and flexible. Examples: Anira Curls Mango Scrunch
• Hydrolyzed proteins: provide body and texture. Wheat, rice, and vegetable keratin proteins increase friction between hair fibers, mimicking the thickening effect of salt. For example: Leave in Moisturizer
• Natural film-forming agents: define and shape. Flaxseed, aloe vera, xanthan gum, or chia seeds form a soft film that surrounds the curl and holds it in place without stiffening it. For example: Gyada Strengthening Gel or Styling Gel Flax it

How to achieve the sea effect without damaging your curls

Use curly method-friendly texturizing sprays with lightweight moisturizers and proteins (such as Revitaplis Volume ) to reactivate the curl between washes.

Apply linseed or aloe vera gels to lock in shine without stiffness. Ideal for: Gyada Strengthening Gel and Styling Gel Flax it

Introduce masks with vegetable proteins (such as Extreme Repair Mask or Curly Superglow Mask ) to keep the curl structure elastic and strong.

This way, you can achieve the famous "sea effect" at home: defined curls with texture and volume, without dehydrating or compromising the health of your hair.

The sea gives us volume and definition, but it can also be damaging to hair fibers. The good news is that you can achieve that beachy look without leaving home and without suffering the negative effects of salt water.

With the right products and a routine tailored to the curly method, your curls can look like you live by the sea... every day of the year.