I said I’d update you on using the Paul Mitchell’s curl products.

Here’s the routine I use on my (just re-done) chemically straightened hair.  I’m no expert or hairdresser – just sharing what I do and what works for me…

1.  Shampoo the hair.  I started with the Spring Loaded Detangling Shampoo.   I try to avoid sulfates in shampoos so it was a plus that this is sulfate free too.  Tip: Stay away from any that have SLS sulphates as they are known to be the most drying on hair.

2.  Do not rush the shampoo bit.  Tip: I usually shampoo twice.  The second time gets the hair ‘squeaky’ clean on rinsing which I don’t feel on the first. I think it helps get rid of product build up better as well.

3.  After the basic conditioner. Use the Paul Mitchell Full Circle Leave-in Treatment.  For me this is where I see a difference either way in the finish of the hair – the leave ins.

4.  Section hair and apply the leave-in. Tip: I concentrate on twisting it from mid to ends which is the driest part – especially with me having permanent colour.

5. Finish with Twirl Around Crunch-Free Curl Definer.  I used less than shown below, scrunching it mostly into the ends.  Tip:  I avoid using too much of any leave in products so that it doesn’t feel or look weighed down – a quarter is usually enough (that’s about a one pound coin to us Brits).

6.  Air dry the hair for a few hours.  When going curly I avoid heat and let the hair dry naturally.  After a few hours it turns to this.  Tip: If you have chemically relaxed hair like mine, avoiding heat when you can is huge which is why I don’t use diffusers.  Plus with permanent color – even more reason to avoid heat. Going curly means a break from dryers.

7.  From straight to curly with no heat!  I just had my hair chemically straightened last week which leaves it thin and limp which I hate. Big natural looking curls is an alternative I like switching back and forth between to give volume and to play with two completely different looks : -)

Tuxedo Blazer: Zara. White dungarees: Vintage Levis (similars on sale). T-shirt: Tea & Sympathy in the west village.  Leopard wallet used as clutch: Random NY shop.  Similars by Clare V  or DVF! Shoes: Chuck Taylors

So there you have it.  My straight to curly routine in a nutshell but this time with the Paul Mitchell products I told you I was going to try.

You can pick them up at any Paul Mitchell salon and leave your own #curlconfession on the Paul Mitchell Truth About Curls facebook page.

Would be interesting to read if anyone with hair like mine gives these a try.

ps. A curl confession truth for you:  I use distilled water from a bottle for the last hair rinse. Best tip I got once to counteract the hard water I live with.  It makes the hair dry softer.

pps. Check out my usual hair care routine (here).

Want to know why I cut my hair? Read (this post)!!