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Model: Chamel Taveras / Officiel Models NYC / Nefer Models Rep. Dom. / Location: Park Ridge, NJ© Jonathan Santos

How to rock an updo if you have curly hair

Styling an updo with curly hair can seem challenging, but with these tips, you will make your curls look fantastic


Shirley Gomez
Senior Writer
MARCH 26, 2024 4:12 PM EDT

Have you ever tried to style your curly hair into an updo, leaving you a frizzy mess? Don’t worry, you’re not alone! Many people with curly hair struggle with updos, but it doesn’t have to be that way. With the proper techniques and products, you can rock an updo that will make your curls look amazing.

Model: Chamel Taveras / Officiel Models NYC / Nefer Models Rep. Dom. / Location: Park Ridge, NJ© Photo: Jonathan Santos / Model: Chamel Taveras / Officiel Models NYC / Nefer Models Rep. Dom. / Location: Park Ridge, NJ

1. Start with clean hair

The first step to achieving a great updo with curly hair is to start with clean, well-conditioned hair. Use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner specifically formulated for curly hair to help control frizz and define your curls. Rinse your hair thoroughly to avoid any build-up that could weigh down your curls.

2. Use a styling product

Once you’ve washed your hair, it’s time to apply a styling product that will help define your curls and keep them in place. Choose a product that works well with your hair type, such as a curl cream or gel. Apply the product to your hair while it’s still wet, scrunching it with your fingers to help define your curls.

3. Blow-dry your hair

To make your updo easier to style, it’s an excellent idea to blow-dry your hair. Use a diffuser attachment on your hair dryer to help prevent frizz and maintain your curls‘ shape. While drying, use your fingers to lift and separate your curls so they don’t clump together.

Photo: Jonathan Santos / Model: Chamel Taveras / Officiel Models NYC / Nefer Models Rep. Dom. / Location: Park Ridge, NJ© Photo: Jonathan Santos / Model: Chamel Taveras / Officiel Models NYC / Nefer Models Rep. Dom. / Location: Park Ridge, NJ

4. Choose the suitable updo

When choosing an updo for curly hair, it’s essential to consider the texture and thickness of your curls. A messy bun, a braided crown, or a twisted updo are great options for curly hair. Avoid tight updos that can cause damage to your curls.

Photo: Jonathan Santos / Model: Chamel Taveras / Officiel Models NYC / Nefer Models Rep. Dom. / Location: Park Ridge, NJ© Photo: Jonathan Santos / Model: Chamel Taveras / Officiel Models NYC / Nefer Models Rep. Dom. / Location: Park Ridge, NJ

5. Secure your updo

Once you’ve chosen your updo, it’s time to secure it in place. Use bobby pins that match your hair color to avoid them being visible. For extra hold, you can also use a hairspray that won’t leave your hair feeling crunchy or sticky. Add bandanas or other accessories to personalize the look.

Photo: Jonathan Santos / Model: Chamel Taveras / Officiel Models NYC / Nefer Models Rep. Dom. / Location: Park Ridge, NJ© Photo: Jonathan Santos / Model: Chamel Taveras / Officiel Models NYC / Nefer Models Rep. Dom. / Location: Park Ridge, NJ

6. Finish with a shine spray

Finish with a shine spray to add some extra shine and definition to your updo. This will help tame any flyaways and give your curls a healthy-looking glow.

Photo: Jonathan Santos / Model: Chamel Taveras / Officiel Models NYC / Nefer Models Rep. Dom. / Location: Park Ridge, NJ© Photo: Jonathan Santos / Model: Chamel Taveras / Officiel Models NYC / Nefer Models Rep. Dom. / Location: Park Ridge, NJ

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