Easy Styles for Every Kind of Curly Hair

With the right techniques (here!) and a key styling product or two, maximizing your natural texture has never been easier or more fun. Nexxus celebrity hairstylist Lacy Redway, who coiffed these curls, shows you how.

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Photo: Mei Tao
01 of 04

Curl Type: Kinky Curls (4C)

Curly Hairstyles: Kinky Curls
Mei Tao

Since curls are so personal, Redway collaborated with each model to come up with a vision. "Curls are really affected by climate, so each day is different," says Redway. "But instead of viewing that negatively, think of it as having options."

To give Raschelle's hair definition, Redway applied TGIN Butter Cream Daily Moisturizer ($11; target.com), finger-coiled her wet hair, and then sat her under a portable dryer (try Otovan Hooded Dryer, $12; amazon.com). Once Raschelle's hair was dry, Redway used a few drops of MarulaOil Rare Oil Treatment ($41; paulmitchell.com) on her fingers to separate the curls.

02 of 04

Curl Type: Beach Waves (2B)

Curly Hairstyles: Beach Waves
Mei Tao

"When it comes to curly hair, cuts really matter," says Redway. "Read reviews and seek out someone who specializes in cutting curls. If you have curly hair but also wear it straight, ask to be cut straight. But keep in mind you'll have shrinkage once your curls spring up."

Redway scrunched Nexxus Volumizing Mousse ($14; target.com) into Grace's damp hair, diffused it, and then wrapped frizz-prone pieces around her fingers. She gave Grace a side swoop for volume.

03 of 04

Curl Type: Loose Kinky Curls (4A)

Curly Hairstyles: Loose Kinky Curls
Mei Tao

"Women are embracing their texture more because they are seeing more representation of what they look like in the media," says Redway.

Long layers give Emma's thick, coarse hair some shape. Redway applied Jane Carter Solution Nourish and Shine Butter Cream ($12; target.com) before diffusing her hair. She wrapped a few pieces around an eighth-inch curling iron for a more uniform look.

04 of 04

Curl Type: Loose Curls (3A)

Curly Hairstyles: Loose Curls
Mei Tao

"Curls need moisture, so always look for products that call that out," says Redway. "Avoid touching curls until they're dry to minimize frizz."

To bring Marie's second-day curls to life, Redway misted on Nexxus Between Washes Revived Curls Crème Spray ($6; target.com) and scrunched mousse throughout. She diffused Marie's hair upside down for volume.

Ask your stylist to help you ID your curl type (ranging from 2A to 4C). That will help you pick the best products for your texture.

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