My Wash Day Routine: Setting the Stage for Curls That Last

Step 1: Cleansing for a Fresh Start

I always begin with a double shampoo. The first round clears out buildup - products, sweat, and whatever the week has thrown my way. The second ensures my scalp and strands are truly clean without feeling stripped.

💡 Pro tip: Massage your scalp with your fingertips (never your nails) to boost circulation and gently loosen buildup. Think of this step as a reset button for your curls.

My current go-to combo is Bounce Curl’s Clarifying Shampoo followed by their Cream Conditioner. I like to switch things up now and then, but this pairing has been my favorite lately for leaving my hair clean, balanced, and ready for styling.

Step 2: Hydrating with Intention

Conditioning is where the magic starts. I work conditioner through section by section, detangling gently with my fingers or a detangling brush/comb. This restores slip and softness and sets me up for easier styling later.

💡 Pro tip: Let the conditioner sit for a few minutes so your strands can drink it up before rinsing.

Step 3: Prepping My Canvas

After rinsing, I “prime” my hair with a leave-in conditioner. Think of it like primer before makeup, it preps the canvas so styling products go on more evenly and perform better.

Depending on how much hydration my hair needs, I’ll either break the leave-in application into two large sections of wet hair or go section by section, applying the leave-in before the gel. This is determined by how much moisture I feel my hair needs.

💡 Pro tip: Always keep a spray bottle nearby to re-wet any sections that start to dry. Products work best on soaking-wet hair, so this step ensures even coverage and helps fight frizz.

Right now, my go-to is the Olaplex No. 5 Leave-In Conditioner. It gives me that perfect balance of moisture and slip without weighing my hair down.
 

Step 4: Styling for Hold + Definition

Next, I reach for my Hydra Hold Curl-Defining Styling Gel. This gel is my go-to for creating a strong but flexible cast that locks in definition.

Working in small sections is key. It ensures every strand is evenly coated and no curls are left behind. I currently use the brush styling method using the BounceCurl Define Brush:

• Rake a small amount of gel through each section.
• Brush up, up, and away to encourage lift and shape.
• Scrunch and pulse to bring out curl formation.

💡 Pro tip: Don’t be afraid of the gel cast, that crunchy feel is temporary and exactly what keeps frizz at bay while locking in definition.

Step 5: Plopping for Perfect Curls

Once the gel is in, it’s time to plop. I use my MoonstoneSeven Hair Plop, made with soft cotton-Lycra fabric that keeps my curls supported and frizz-free while they start to set. This step helps me avoid that heavy, flat look that can happen if hair dries weighed down.

💡 Pro tip: Keep your plop on for at least 10 minutes. Personally, I plop for 30 minutes to an hour—long enough to set my curl pattern without letting my roots flatten. The sweet spot is different for everyone, so it’s all about finding your own “plop zone” that works best for your specific hair.

Step 6: Drying Without Damage

From here, I move on to diffusing. I keep the dryer moving, starting at the roots and working my way down to the ends. I gently shift and lift sections of hair so the airflow can reach all strands evenly. Patience is key here, rushing can cause frizz or uneven curl formation.

💡 Pro tip: I use the Dyson Supersonic Diffuser, which gives me full control over heat and airflow. This allows me to dry on high speed and high heat without damage. Just be sure to keep the dryer moving so no section gets over-dried.

Step 7: Breaking the Cast

Once my hair is fully dry, I scrunch out the crunch with a few drops of Miracle Moisture Nourishing Oil. This step transforms the crunchy gel cast into soft, bouncy wave with shine and long-lasting hold.

💡 Pro tip: If your hair still feels cold, that means it’s still wet. Don’t rush it—breaking the cast too soon can cause frizz and undo all that hard work.
 

Step 8: Protecting Overnight

Finally, to keep all that effort intact, I protect my curls while I sleep using the Satin Sleeper. It’s more structured than a bonnet, so it actually stays put and keeps my hair smooth and supported.