Curly Hair
– Define, Moisturize & Love Your Curls
What Is Type 3 Curly Hair?
Type 3 curls are defined by their spiral shape and range in tightness:
- 3A: Loose, big curls with shine but prone to frizz
- 3B: Springy, ringlet curls with more volume and texture
- 3C: Tightly formed curls that are closely packed, have a lot of volume, and are more delicat
Type 3 curls usually need consistent moisture, curl definition, and frizz control — without heavy buildup or ingredients that suffocate the curl.
Common Type 3 Curl Struggles
- Frizz in humid or dry weather
- Dryness and breakage, especially at the ends
- Inconsistent curl definition
- Shrinkage and tangles
- Product overload or “weighed-down” curls
But with a routine tailored to your curl type, you can bring out bouncy, hydrated, defined curls every day.
The Wavy Curl Routine – Pretty Curly Girl Tips
Here’s how to create the perfect CG-proof routine for type 3 curly curls:
1. Gentle Cleansing
Cleanse – Without Stripping
Use a mild cleanser or co-wash that removes dirt without drying your curls. Type 3 hair often benefits from weekly washing to avoid buildup, especially if you use stylers.
Try:
- Reset Shampoo – Clarifying shampoo to remove build-up.
- Peppermint Clean Shampoo – for regular every week mild cleansing
- Peppermint Fresh Co-wash - to freshen your curls inbetween washes
Tip: Massage the scalp with your fingertips to stimulate hair growth and ensure a clean scalp.
2. Moisturize Deeply
Hydration is key. Use a rich, silicone-free conditioner after every wash to detangle and soften your curls. Once a week, treat your curls to a deep conditioning mask for intense moisture.
Try:
- Intense Moisture Deep Conditioner or Intense Protein Deep Conditioner
3. Define with Leave-In + Gel or Cream
Start with a Leave-In Conditioner to lock in moisture, then add a gel for hold and definition.
Try:
- Extra Loving Leave-In Conditioner
- Magical Flaxseed Gel (moisturizing gel)
- Flexible Hold Gel
Tip: Apply on soaking wet hair using the “praying hands” method or rake + scrunch technique for even distribution.
4. Drying Techniques
Dry with Care
Avoid rough towels — instead, use a microfiber towel or cotton T-shirt to scrunch out excess water. Diffuse on low heat or air dry to preserve curl pattern.
Once dry, scrunch out the crunchl, to reveal soft, touchable curls.
5. Refresh Between Washes
To keep your curls fresh between wash days, use our Rose Water refresh to reactive the products.
Tip: Pineappling your hair at night or using a satin bonnet helps preserve curls and avoid frizz.
Do Type 3 Curls Need Protein?
Yes — protein helps strengthen your curls, maintain bounce, and reduce breakage. However, too much protein can cause stiffness. Alternate between moisture treatments and protein treatments based on how your curls feel.
Signs you need protein:
- Limp, overly soft curls
- Excessive frizz or breakage
- Curls not holding their shape
Best Pretty Curly Girl Products for Type 3 Curls
Here’s our top curly-approved lineup for spiral and ringlet curls:
Own Your Curls
Type 3 curls aren’t meant to be tamed — they’re meant to be celebrated. With the right care, your curls can go from frizzy and undefined to healthy, shiny, and full of movement.
At Pretty Curly Girl, we create clean, vegan, CG-friendly products that give your curls everything they need — and nothing they don’t.
Be Pretty. Be Curly. Be You.
