Skip to main content

Short, curly hair can be one of the more difficult hair types to manage. But with the right stylist and products, you can master the short curly look in no time.  Curly hair requires more attention than other hair types, that’s for sure. Too little moisture and your hair becomes frizzy. Too much moisture and you risk an oily, weighed-down look. The key to a polished, natural look is the right stylist and the right products for short curly hair.

1. Find the Right Stylist

Conventional wisdom says that curly hair should be grown long to draw out the curls. Not true! Curly hair, when managed properly, can be gorgeous in everything from short pixie styles to tousled bobs. Yes, it will take some effort, but the payoff will be worth it.

The right stylist is vital to achieving the right look for your curly hair. Be sure to choose a stylist who has experience with multiple hair types and who stays on top of the trends. Ask to see a portfolio that includes hair types similar to yours. Stylists can also pair your hair’s texture with the right haircut. Here at Deseo Salon & Blowdry, you can be sure you have the best in the business. Our hair care professionals have at least three years experience in the profession, and they are constantly learning the latest techniques and trends to help you look your best.

2. Use the Right Products for Short Curly Hair

Most products for curly hair focus on controlling frizz and maintaining a natural shape. A high-quality product can make all the difference in your hair care routine. Here are some must-have products for your short, curly hair:

1. Shampoo and conditioner

We highly recommend Kérastase’s products for our clients with curly hair. Working with Kérastase’s online diagnostic tool, your stylist can help you determine your unique hair type and the specific products that you need. One of our favorite conditioners for curly hair is the Fondant Fluidealiste, a product that helps smooth and tame frizzy locks.

2. Quality hair oil

To keep the frizz away and to maximize shine, try a beautifying hair oil like Kérastase’s Elixir Ultime Bi-Phase Spray. It adds shine and smoothness without weighing down your curls. Another great product is Oribe’s Cote d’Azur Hair and Body Oil. This luxurious, high-end product gives hair a satin glow and silky finish.

3. Styling products

For shaping and styling, we love Easy.Rider by Kevin Murphy. Loaded with vitamins and antioxidants, this product offers a flexible hold that activates curls and minimizes frizz. Keep it in your purse for a quick fix in the middle of the day or before an evening out.

4. Leave-in conditioner

Keep split ends at bay with a leave-in conditioning treatment. Our top choice is Kevin Murphy’s Leave-In.Repair. This is a restorative, nourishing treatment that adds strength and reduces breakage.

To know exactly what products work for your unique needs, schedule a consultation with one of our stylists today.

3. Everyday Style Tips for Short Curly Hair

Once you have a healthy foundation for your hairstyle, you’re ready to tackle the daily maintenance and styling. Here are our top style tips for managing your short curly hair at home.

1. Stay away from the brush!

Use a wide-tooth comb to gently detangle your hair. Brushes can ruin the natural curl pattern and create lots of frizz.

2. Use a diffuser when blow-drying.

This blow dryer attachment works by distributing heat evenly over your curls. It minimizes frizz and adds volume to your hair. If you’ve never used a diffuser before, ask your stylist for a quick tutorial on how to use one.

3. Get regular trims.

Schedule regular hair appointments to avoid split ends. Your hair is healthiest when it’s trimmed every six to eight weeks.

For more tips on how to manage your hair, visit our blog or schedule an appointment with one of our professional stylists for more personalized advice. Deseo Salon & BlowDry is Denver’s choice for luxury and style.

Is short, curly hair not your hair? Find the right guide for your hair’s length and texture:

Frequently Asked Questions

Can short hair look great with natural curls, or do curls need to be grown long?

Short curly hair can look absolutely stunning, the idea that curly hair must be long to look good is a common misconception. Short curly styles ranging from tight pixie cuts to tousled bobs can highlight curl patterns beautifully when shaped by the right stylist who understands how curls behave as they grow. The key is working with a professional who has experience with multiple curl types and can tailor the cut to complement your specific texture.

What shampoo and conditioner are recommended for short curly hair?

For short curly hair, Kérastase is a highly recommended brand. Kérastase’s Fondant Fluidealiste conditioner is particularly noted for its ability to smooth and tame frizzy curls without weighing them down. Kérastase also offers an online diagnostic tool that, combined with a stylist consultation, can help identify the specific products best suited to your unique curl type and hair needs.

What hair oil works best for short curly hair?

For keeping frizz at bay and maximizing shine without weighing down curls, Kérastase’s Elixir Ultime Bi-Phase Spray is a top recommendation, it adds shine and smoothness with a lightweight formula. Oribe’s Côte d’Azur Hair and Body Oil is another excellent option, providing a satin glow and silky finish ideal for short curly styles.

Should I use a brush on short curly hair?

No, brushes should be avoided on curly hair as they break up the natural curl pattern and create significant frizz. Instead, use a wide-tooth comb to gently detangle hair while it is damp or conditioned, which minimizes breakage and preserves the curl’s shape. Finger-detangling is also a gentler option for very fragile or delicate curls.

What is a diffuser and why is it recommended for short curly hair?

A diffuser is a blow dryer attachment that disperses airflow evenly over a larger surface area, rather than directing a concentrated stream of heat at one section. This even heat distribution is crucial for curly hair because it allows the curls to dry without being disrupted or flattened. Using a diffuser minimizes frizz, adds volume, and helps define curl patterns. If you’ve never used one before, a stylist can provide a quick tutorial on proper technique.

How often should I trim short curly hair?

Short curly hair benefits from trimming every six to eight weeks. Regular trims remove split ends before they travel further up the hair shaft, keeping the ends healthy and the curl pattern intact. Consistent trimming also helps maintain the shape of the cut as curly hair grows, which can be unpredictable in different directions, keeping the style looking intentional and well-maintained.

Share