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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3 Low-Maintenance Curly Hairstyles for Winter
Winter can be brutal on curly hair. Cold, dry hair strips moisture, whilst scarves and jumpers create friction that leads to frizz and breakage. But you don’t need to sacrifice style for convenience. These five low-maintenance hairstyles will protect your curls, minimise daily styling, and keep you looking effortlessly put-together all season long. 1. Mini Twists Mini twists on natural hair are one of the most low-maintenance hairstyles you could do. Start by washing your hair, then apply a leave-in conditioner and blow-dry until completely dry. Part your hair into medium sections and braid each section into a plait (this keeps the hair separated and makes twisting easier.) Unravel one braid at a time and split it into at least two sections to twist from root to tip. Then repeat across your whole head. This style can last up to two weeks without needing to be washed or redone. Best for: curly and coily hair 2. Simple Twist-Out A twist out gives you defined, voluminous curls with minimal upkeep. Start with freshly washed, damp hair. Apply a leave-in conditioner or a curl cream to each section. Divide your hair into medium to large sections and create two-strand twists (or three-strand for more definition). Leave hair to air dry or use a blow dryer for faster results. Once your hair is fully dry, unravel each twist with a bit of oil on your palms. This style will last 3-5 days. Tip: Sleep on a satin pillowcase for best results. Best for: curly and coily hair 3. A Curly Bun In winter, it is best to keep your hair protected from the cold air. One way of doing so is a loose bun, such as a twisted or braided bun or even a curly bun that showcases your natural texture. Apply cream or a leave-in conditioner to dry hair (as styling on wet hair in cold conditions could lead to breakage and discomfort). Gently gather hair at the nape of your neck and twist it into a bun. Secure your hair with a hair tie and bobby pins. Best for: medium to thick hair, wavy to curly textures Quick Winter Protection Tips Invest in a satin beanie and a satin hoodie Deep condition weekly to combat dryness Trim your hair every 2-3 months (specifically for those fine-haired girlies) Introduce co-washing as needed Don’t leave the house with wet hair Final Thoughts Winter hair care is all about protecting your curls while reducing daily styling. Some of these styles, like mini twists, require initial time investment but pay off with weeks of low manipulation. Others, like a simple bun, take just minutes. Find what fits your hair routine, and let your curls thrive all season long.
