Curl Knowledge Base
How to Wear Hats Without Ruining Your Curls: Opt for Satin Beanies
Winter is (almost) here and while hats are essential in the colder months, they can also bring problems with them. Friction, static, and compression can flatten your curls, cause frizz, or even cause breakage. The solution? Satin-lined beanies and silk hats that protect your curls. So here’s how to keep your head warm without sacrificing any curl definition. Choose the Right Hat Material Not all hats are created equal when it comes to curly hair. Wool, cotton and acrylic hats create friction that leads to frizz, dryness and breakage. I love cotton due to its breathability, so I do have quite a few cotton hats and scarves, but I have also started to invest in satin and silk hats. Best options: Satin-lined beanies – These have a smooth interior that protects your curls from friction. And if you're looking for a high-quality satin beanie, consider the Miribel Naturals Satin Lined Beanies. Silk-lined hats – Similar benefits to satin, with added luxury, but also are better options if you are avoiding polyester. Loose-knit beanies – Allow your hair to breathe whilst still providing warmth If you already own hats you love, you can sew a satin or silk lining inside or wear a satin bonnet underneath. Another option is to avoid wearing hats all day, outside of satin and silk beanies. Make sure to limit your wear to a few times a week, a few hours a day. Never Wear a Hat on Wet Hair We've all done it, styled our hair on wet hair and put a hat on, only to take your hat off to reveal a dome of hair. Sometimes domes are unavoidable, even on dry hair, but with wet hair, it's at its most vulnerable, and trapping it under a hat can lead to: Breakage from friction Mildew and unpleasant odours Loss of curl definition Discomfort from the cold Always ensure your hair is completely dry before putting on a hat. If you're short on time, focus a blow dryer (with a diffuser) on your roots to speed up drying. Hat-Friendly Styles Some hairstyles work better with hats than others. Best hat-friendly styles: Low buns or ponytails Two-strand twists Braids Avoid wash-and-go styles on days you'll be wearing a hat, as they're most susceptible to flattening and ‘hat hair’, unless it is on old wash and go. Apply Lightweight Products The last thing you want to do is stain your hats with hair product. For this reason, we recommend using lightweight products like leave-in sprays and making sure your hair is fully dry before putting your hats on. Pre-hat routine: Apply a light oil or serum to your mid-lengths and ends Use an anti-static spray or a tiny amount of leave-in conditioner Smooth down flyaways with a bit of edge control or gel Air dry or use a blow dryer. This creates a protective barrier between your hair and the hat material. Quick Fixes for Hat Hair If your curls have succumbed to ‘hat hair’, there are a few fixes to try out. Flip your head upside down and gently shake at the roots Use a pick or your fingers to lift flattened sections Lightly mist with water or a curl refresher and scrunch Apply a small amount of cream or mousse and re-scrunch Final Thoughts With the right materials, techniques, and a bit of planning, you can keep your curls looking great all winter long, without sacrificing warmth for style. Invest in a satin-lined beanie, master hat-friendly styles, and protect your hair from the cold. Your curls (and your head) will thank you.
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Stronger, Healthier Curls All Year-Round: Tips You Actually Need
Your hair goes through a lot every season, and even with the best intentions and the most popular curly hair products, damage can still occur. However, if we prioritise strength over appearance, our curls will have the chance to truly flourish. All you need is to follow a few simple steps in your hair routine and perhaps invest in some helpful product suggestions. 1. Hydration Hydration Hydration Water is essential for healthy curls, both inside and out, so here’s how you can ensure your curls stay juicy no matter what: ● Drink at least 2 litres of water per day ● Use leave-in products with water as a top ingredient, like Kitsch Moisturising Argan Milk Leave-In Conditioner ● Refresh your curl definition with a light water spritz between wash days ● Avoid keeping hair constantly wet, and save dripping wet hair for wash day only 2. Don’t Be Afraid of The Trim Stop holding onto dead ends that don’t serve you. I get a trim every 2-3 months, but everyone's hair is different. Talk with a trusted hairdresser about how often you should trim, or if you're skilled enough, try it yourself. Regular cuts keep your curls looking their best. 3. Keep Products Off Your Scalp Your scalp produces natural oils and doesn't need heavy products. Heavy product buildup can block pores and prevent hair growth. So here’s what you need to do: ● Apply leave-ins, creams, and gels from mid-length to ends only ● Rinse away any gel that lands on your scalp ● Use scalp-friendly products like Curlsmith. 4. Swap Plastic Brushes for Wood Upgrade your detangle routine with better tools. Plastic can create static, which causes further frizz and breakage. But another benefit of wooden brushes is that they naturally distribute oils, adding natural shine and moisture. Try out the Abyssian Classic Schima Wood Paddle Brush for gentle detangling and frizz-free results. 5. Shop Smart for Strong, Frizz-Free Hair Healthy hair is achievable, but it will take some kind of maintenance, and so consistency is key. Whether you’re looking for the best curly hair products, want to buy curly hair products online, or shop locally at a curly hair shop in Romford, Kiyo Beauty has you covered with products designed to keep your curls hydrated, defined, and frizz-free.
What is hair shrinkage and why are we so afraid of it?
If you have wavy, curly or coily hair, then you likely deal with hair shrinkage on a regular basis. But what does this actually mean, and is shrinkage something we should combat? What is Shrinkage? Picture this: Two girlfriends haven't seen each other for a while. Ashley has naturally curly hair, but ever since Vanessa has known her, she has worn it straight, blow-dried, or in braids. Recently, Ashley decided to wear her natural curls out. Vanessa: “Hi Ashley, I love your new haircut! It's much shorter than before, and your curls are beautiful.” Ashley: “Thanks Nessa, but I haven't cut my hair. It's just hair shrinkage.” Sound familiar? This conversation happens all the time, even within the natural hair community. Shrinkage is occurs when wavy, curly or coily hair appears shorter as it dries. When wet, hair is stretched out, but as it dries, its spiral or zigzag pattern tightens, causing the strands to “shrink.” Depending on your curl type, shrinkage can reduce visible length by up to 90%, especially for tighter textures. Methods to Reduce Hair Shrinkage If you are looking to maintain the look of longer hair, then several techniques can help minimise shrinkage, such as: Sectioning your hair after styling and weighing it down with multiple hair ties (use satin hair ties to reduce frizz.) This method is called ‘banding’ - make sure the hair elastics are evenly spaced. Braiding or twisting your hair until it is dry and then take it out for a curl-defined twist out or braid out. Blow drying your hair with a diffuser attachment or use the tension method to reduce shrinkage. Be sure to use a heat protectant. Style your hair in a loose bun or puff to reduce shrinkage. Use products that target shrinkage specifically, like the Creme of Nature Pure Honey Pure Honey Shrinkage Defense Curl Activator Using heavier creams, butters and gels that weigh down the hair whilst providing significant moisture. Why Embrace Shrinkage Shrinkage is a sign of healthy hair, and it also means that your hair is properly hydrated. Shrinkage also makes your hair versatile - you can rock a short fro or wear it stretched out. And while challenging Eurocentric beauty standards is empowering, how you wear your hair is ultimately up to you. No matter how you choose to wear it, your natural hair is beautiful. But there's definitely something liberating about letting your hair exist exactly as it grows from your scalp, without manipulation or alteration. Ready to Transform Your Curl Game? Still have questions about shrinkage? Don’t worry, our friendly team is here to help you achieve the best day 1, 2, 3 plus curls. Contact our dedicated team at hello@kiyobeauty.com or check out our Kiyo Journal.
