Curls and coils express themselves in so many forms. But how do you know when they’ve become compromised—and when it’s time to fix them? It’s all about the look, feel, and knowing where damage is coming from in your routine.

what do damaged curls look + feel like? 

Some signs of damaged curls are inconsistent curl formation and changes in texture. Compromised curls and coils can even look looser than usual, like a rope starting to unravel as it gets weaker. Your strands can also feel rougher, duller, or drier than usual. While many in the curly–coily community have various curl patterns + textures on their heads, the ends of the hair fibers always tell the story. Since they have been on your head for longer, they have more time to be compromised. 

how to fix damaged curls

Hair damage is everywhere, from your routine, to salon services, to just living with hair. While we can’t avoid hair damage altogether (I wish), it helps to understand where damage is coming from in order to fix it. 

Do you have mechanical damage? This can come from brushing and tight hairstyles. Try gently detangling in the shower on wet hair, and use a lightweight oil with slip to prevent mechanical damage while brushing. Friction is also a culprit and can come from sleeping on a rough pillowcase, or even long drives rubbing your head against that car headrest. Use a satin-lined cap to protect your crown from friction. Trichologist Angela Onuoha uses a silk bonnet on her car headrest to protect her from wear and tear while driving! 

What about environmental damage from pollution, dirt, smoke, and UV rays? Wear physical protection like hats, and a pH-optimized clarifying shampoo to remove environmental buildup. 

Do you heat style? Use heat protection first! Chemical services can be extremely damaging to your hair’s strength and elasticity. Use repair products that work on a molecular level to reverse damage from the inside out.