Establishing a suitable curly hair routine can dramatically change the appearance of your hair. Curly hair has a spiral structure that prevents sebum from sliding naturally along the hair shaft. As a result, it is naturally drier, more fragile, and more sensitive to external aggressions.
Without a specific routine, the consequences are swift:
- loose curls,
- unruly frizz,
- loss of bounce,
- dull or brittle fiber.
An effective routine is always based on three fundamental pillars.
- Hydration, to compensate for the natural water deficit.
- The definition, to structure the loop without weighing it down.
- Protection to preserve the fiber from friction, heat, and moisture.
When these three principles are followed, curls regain their softness, elasticity, and hold over time.
In this guide, you will discover acomplete 5-steproutine for curly hair, inspired by skincare and formulated without added water, designed to respect both the scalp and the hair fiber.
Why Madame d'Alexis for your curly hair routine?
Not all products for curly hair are created equal. The difference lies in the formulation and composition.
✅ The first French brand formulated without added water
Maximum active concentration, zero dilution. Where a conventional shampoo contains 60-90% inert water, Madame d'Alexis replaces every drop with organic hydrosols. Each ingredient has been designed to deliver real effectiveness and deeply nourish your hair fiber.
✅ Organic hydrosols instead of water
: Damask rose, chamomile, orange blossom. Natural active ingredients that truly interact with the hair fiber. Hydrophilic aromatic molecules, minerals, antioxidants. An ultra-effective formula to moisturize your curly hair and give it natural shine.
✅ Skincare ingredients applied to the hair
Cationic hyaluronic acid (deep hydration), plant ceramides (strengthen the lipid barrier), prebiotics & probiotics (rebalance the microbiome), plant keratin (fiber repair). Each active ingredient has been selected to deliver visible results.
✅ Made in Brittany, in small batches
Premium quality, guaranteed traceability. French cosmetic expertise. Products designed with excellence to respect your hair type.
✅ Clean formulas: no compromises
Free from sulfates, silicones, parabens, PEG, mineral oils, and alcohol. Gentle on the scalp and hair fiber. Preserves the microbiome. Natural and healthy ingredients for healthy hair.
✅ Visible results from the very first use
From the very first wash, hair becomes softer. Lasting improvement over time (2-4 weeks for complete transformation). Bouncy, defined, hydrated, and nourished curls. This is the secret to truly beautiful, natural hair.
✅ Fast delivery and responsive customer service
Delivery in mainland France. Positive and verified customer reviews. Personalized advice available to help you find your perfect match.
Tip: Choosing Madame d'Alexis means choosing a routine for curly hair designed by experts, formulated in France, and created to deliver visible, long-lasting results.
The best products for curly hair
5 mistakes to avoid with curly hair
Before trying to increase the number of treatments, it is essential to identify the actions that sabotage results. These mistakes are common, especially among people who are just starting a suitable hair care routine.
1. Using shampoo that is too harsh
Shampoos containing sulfates strip the scalp and dry out the hair fiber. On curly hair, this leads to rapid moisture loss, noticeable frizz, and less defined curls. Over time, the scalp can become unbalanced and produce more sebum in response.
2. Detangle dry hair
Detangling dry curls weakens the hair fiber and breaks the natural shape of the hair. The curl stretches, becomes distorted, and eventually loses its bounce. Detangling should always be done on damp hair, using a detangling product, starting at the ends.
3. Neglecting deep hydration
Conditioner alone is not enough. Curly hair needs care that can retain water in the fiber and strengthen the cuticle. Without regular moisturizing masks, curls remain dry, dull, and difficult to define long-term.
4. Overusing heat
A hair dryer that is too hot, a diffuser that is used incorrectly, or occasional straightening are enough to damage the hair's keratin. Excessive heat opens the cuticles, increases dehydration, and alters the structure of the curl. Heat protection is essential, even for gentle drying.
5. Rub the hair with a cotton towel.
Cotton creates friction that lifts the cuticles and promotes frizz. This common habit often ruins the definition achieved in the shower. A microfiber towel or a simple smooth cotton T-shirt helps preserve the natural shape of curls.
Step 1: Gently cleanse curly hair
In a curly hair routine, washing is often underestimated. However, it is the most important step. The wrong shampoo can dry out the hair fiber, break the curl, and cause frizz, even with very good aftercare.
Curly hair is naturally drier. Sebum does not circulate well along the hair fiber. Using a shampoo that is too harsh accentuates this imbalance. The hair fiber becomes dehydrated, the curls lose their bounce, and the scalp may react by producing more sebum.
The difference between a gentle shampoo and a conventional shampoo is therefore significant.
A conventional shampoo primarily aims to strip away dirt.
A gentle shampoo aims to cleanse without disrupting the natural balance.
The scalp plays a key role here. A healthy scalp promotes more even growth, reduces discomfort, and allows curls to form more uniformly. In my opinion, the most common mistake is to treat the lengths without ever treating the roots.
Madame d'Alexis Shampoo is formulated without sulfates and without added water. Its base of active hydrosols provides effective cleansing while respecting the scalp's microbiome. This approach is particularly suitable for curly hair, which is often sensitive and reactive.
To optimize washing:
- wash your hair twice
- gently massage the scalp with your fingertips
- use a small amount, no need to overload
A good shampoo for curly hair leaves hair feeling soft after rinsing. If it feels squeaky or becomes coarse, the product is not suitable.
Step 2: Deeply moisturize the hair fiber
Hydration is key for curly hair. Its fibers are more porous, which means that water escapes quickly. Without proper care, curls lose their bounce, become dull, and difficult to define.
That's precisely what a mask does. Unlike a simple conditioner, it works deep down. It restores elasticity to the hair fiber, improves water retention, and strengthens the cuticle. Without this step, no curly hair routine can work long term.
- Alexis' Madame Mask combines two key ingredients that are particularly beneficial for curls.
- Plant-based ceramides, which strengthen the hair's lipid barrier and limit breakage.
- Cationic hyaluronic acid, which adheres to the fiber and maintains hydration over time.
Depending on requirements, several uses are possible:
- as an express treatment after shampooing
- as a conditioner to make detangling easier
- as a deep treatment on towel-dried hair
- as an overnight treatment for very dry or damaged curls
With experience, I have found that a well-chosen mask makes all the difference to the definition and hold of curls. It is often the step that really transforms the hair.
Step 3: Protect and define curls on a daily basis
In a curly hair routine, definition is not just about styling. It is built up over time, thanks to appropriate protection of the hair fiber and scalp. Without this step, curls become distorted, frizz sets in, and breakage progresses, even with good hydration.
It is essential to distinguish between two complementary uses.
The Day Serum acts on the lengths. Its mission is simple yet crucial: to protect the hair fiber on a daily basis while preserving the lightness of the curls. Curly hair is very sensitive to heat, humidity, and friction.
Thermal protection limits water evaporation during drying. An anti-frizz effect helps maintain the shape of the curl without stiffening the hair. The finish should remain light, without any greasy or heavy effect.
In my opinion, a good daytime serum should never be visible. It should be felt in the suppleness of the hair, not in its appearance.
The Night Serum works on another level. It does not define the curl immediately. It acts on the scalp, where it all begins. A balanced scalp promotes denser growth and more consistent curls over time.
This approach is often overlooked, even though it is essential for improving hair quality in the long term.
The desired benefits are clear:
- growth stimulation
- density improvement
- scalp comfort
When it comes to application, simplicity is key.
- The Day Serum can be applied to damp or dry hair, depending on the desired result.
- a small amount is sufficient, spread over the hands
- Movements should remain gentle, using pressure or scrunching, never rubbing.
The Night Serum is applied directly to the scalp, section by section, with a light massage.
Step 4: Purify the scalp for more beautiful curls
This is often the most underestimated step, yet one of the most effective for improving definition. A clogged scalp prevents curls from forming properly. Product residue, pollution, excess sebum—it all builds up at the root.
A healthy scalp results in curls that are more defined, airier, and longer lasting. Purification should never be aggressive. It should cleanse, oxygenate, and moisturize at the same time.
Alexis' Madame Scrub meets this need perfectly. It combines gentle mechanical exfoliation with a base of hydrosols and hyaluronic acid.
Fleur de sel removes impurities without irritating the skin. Hydrosols soothe and rebalance.Hyaluronic acid maintains scalp hydration after exfoliation.
There are two key points to remember about using exfoliants:
- two applications replace shampoo
- The ideal frequency is every 10 to 15 days, depending on needs.
When used correctly, this type of treatment really changes the hold of curls. Hair is lighter at the roots, definition is clearer, and the routine becomes more effective overall.
Anti-frizz tips and seasonal routines
Frizz is not inevitable. It is almost always a sign of an imbalance between hydration, protection, and the environment. Adapting your curly hair routine to the seasons makes a real difference, often more so than changing products.
In winter, curly hair suffers from a combination of unfavorable factors. Heating dries out the air, coats and scarves increase friction, and outdoor humidity accentuates static electricity. The hair fiber becomes dehydrated, curls lose their shape, and frizz appears right from the root.
In summer, the issues change. The sun oxidizes the fiber, salt and chlorine open the cuticles, and salt water stiffens the hair. Curls become coarser, less supple, and sometimes brittle.
However, a few simple adjustments can limit these effects.
- Drying: Opt for gentle drying. Allow to air dry whenever possible, or use a diffuser on a low setting. Direct heat breaks the shape of the curl and accentuates frizz.
- Suitable towel: Avoid using traditional terry towels, as they create unnecessary friction. A microfiber towel or smooth cotton T-shirt will absorb water without damaging the fibers.
- Diffuser: Always use a diffuser with your hair dryer. It distributes heat evenly and respects the natural shape of your curls.
- Low temperature: Moderate heat is sufficient. Curly hair does not need to be "secured" by heat. On the contrary, excessive heat opens the cuticles and accentuates dehydration.
Personally, I believe that preventing frizz is the best approach. Well-hydrated and protected hair reacts much better to climatic changes, both in summer and winter.
Curly hair routines tailored to your needs
Not all loops are the same. Tailoring your routine to your main needs will help you achieve faster and more lasting results. The table below will help you make the right choice without unnecessarily complicating your routine.
| Problem | Recommended products | Frequency | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dry curly hair | Gentle shampoo + moisturizing mask + serum | With every wash + mask 1 to 2 times per week | Softer, hydrated, bouncier curls |
| Persistent frizz | Gentle shampoo + protective serum | Daily serum | Better defined curls, natural smoothing effect |
| Thin loops | Gentle shampoo + light mask | Mask once a week | Preserved volume, airy curls |
| Colored hair | Gentle shampoo + nourishing mask | After each coloring | Brighter color, reinforced fiber |
| Damaged loops | Gentle shampoo + deep mask + night serum | Treatment lasting several weeks | Stronger hair, less breakage |
Structuring yourcurly hair routine around your actual needs prevents the accumulation of unnecessary products. In my opinion, regularity and consistency are the two most effective ways to enhance your curls for the long term.
FAQ: Curly hair routine
How long before I see results?
The first effects are quickly noticeable. After just a few washes, hair often becomes softer and more comfortable. For a visible improvement in the definition, bounce, and hold of curls, it usually takes2 to 4 weeks. This is the time needed to rehydrate the fiber and stabilize the routine.
Can all products be used together?
Yes, as long as you follow a simple routine. Cleanse, moisturize, then protect. In my opinion, the real risk isn't using multiple products, but applying too many at once. Curly hair responds better to products that are carefully measured and evenly distributed.
How often should you use the scrub?
The scrub should be usedevery 10 to 15 days on average. This frequency allows you to purify the scalp without irritating it. If you use a lot of styling products or sweat easily, you may want to use it a little more frequently.
Should the treatment be applied to wet hair?
For definition, yes.Damp hair allows the curl to form naturally. On dry hair, the product is used more to control frizz and provide a light finish.
Is it suitable for wavy or frizzy hair?
Absolutely. The principles remain the same: hydration, definition, protection. Only the quantities and application times vary depending on the nature of the curls.
Which products should you choose for curly hair?
Choosing the right products for curly hair is essential to prevent dryness and frizz. An effective routine relies on a few well-targeted products. I always favor formulas that are gentle on the hair fiber and scalp.
The essentials are:
- a gentle shampoo, to cleanse without damaging
- a conditioner or detangling treatment to make styling easier
- a hair mask, to boost hydration
- a vegetable oil such asjojoba oil, which is ideal for sealing in moisture
- a hair gel, vegan curl cream, or vegan curl gel, depending on the desired result
This foundation is sufficient to establish a balanced and sustainable curly hair routine.
How can I define my curls naturally?
Defining your curls naturally requires, above all, respecting the texture of your hair. The natural routine begins on damp hair, after washing. This is when curls form best.
Applying styling gel or a defining treatment helps define, enhance, and hold curls without making them stiff. This method works on all types of textured hair, whether wavy, curly, kinky hair or kinky hair. The difference lies mainly in the amount used.
What is the best hair care routine?
The best hair care routine is one that is simple and consistent. It is based on clear steps: wash, condition, style. There is no need to add extra steps if the routine is consistent.
An effective routine includes:
- wash with a suitable shampoo
- apply a moisturizer or mask
- apply to damp hair
- occasionally use an oil treatment if your hair is very dry
For a beginner's curly hair routine, it's best to start light and then adjust according to how your hair reacts.
How do I take care of my curly hair?
Taking care of your curls means adapting your routine to your hair type. Needs vary between dry hair, oily hair, fine hair, long hair, and short hair.
Good hair care should provide:
- regular hydration
- intense nutrition if the fiber is fragile
- a nourishing support mask
Consistency matters more than the quantity of products used.
What are some tips for curly hair?
Certain simple techniques significantly improve everyday results. It is often these small habits that make all the difference.
The most effective tips:
- allow to dry in the open air or in a diffuser
- use a microfiber towel
- scrunch on damp hair
- gently detangle before styling
These steps reduce frizz, improve definition, and make styling easier.
How to avoid frizz?
Frizz occurs when the hair fiber lacks moisture or protection. An unbalanced scalp can also exacerbate the problem.
To limit them:
- use a vegetable oil or detangling treatment as a finishing touch
- apply styling gel to protect the curl
- adapt your routine to textured hair, whether it is kinky or curly
- protect the fiber frommoisture and friction
In my opinion, preventing frizz is more about having a consistent and regular routine than searching for a miracle product.
