Curly Hair Tips for Kids

If you're a parent with straight hair and the genetic gods have handed you a child with springy locks, here are some curly hair tips to help keep the knots out and the bouncy curls in.

Baby hair is typically thinner and finer than child and adult hair. It may be wispy, too thin to control with barrettes. Baby hair that is curly, then, may start to look wild or frizzy as it grows from your little one's head. This is part of the growing process; after a bit of patience and time, that hair will grow long enough to weigh itself down and look neater. In most cases, the frizz is simply due to that fine nature of baby hair.

Until that curly mane tames itself, try small rubber hair bands or tight clips on your little girl. A headband can also help hold down unruly locks. For boys, you may wish to keep the hair shorter until it thickens, but remember that a boy with a head of curly hair can look really cute! Try a haircut that keeps the top a bit longer than the sides, for a boyish look that maintains that curl.

To keep curly hair from frizzing, follow these tips:

• Do not brush dry hair! Curly hair should only be brushed or combed when it is wet; dry hair will become frizzy and teased.
• Always brush or comb through curly hair after it is washed. Knots form in curly hair very easily, and detangling those early on can help keep curls under control. If many tangles are present, use a detangling product to get the knots without eliciting any child tears.
• Allow curly hair to air dry. Don't blow-dry unless you use a diffuser, but keep in mind that most kids won't hold still for that procedure.
• Use conditioner. After shampooing, apply some leave-in conditioner and rub down to the ends. Keeping curly hair moisturized is essential for preventing frizzy, unmanageable hair. For kids age 6 and up, even a little styling gel could help control the curls.
• Buy appropriate hair products. Many leave-in conditioners and styling products are designed specifically for curly hair. Using products for straight hair can weigh down curls or make the hair look wet or greasy. Don't over-moisturize, but add enough to fight frizz.