How to Protect Your Curls While Working Out
- Curls Unleashed
- Apr 3
- 3 min read
Staying active is important, but if you have curly hair, workouts can be a challenge when it comes to maintaining your style. Sweat, friction, and humidity can cause frizz, dryness, and loss of definition. The good news? With the right techniques, you can protect your curls and keep them looking great while staying fit. Here’s how to manage wavy, curly, and tight coily hair before, during, and after your workout.
Check out this Instagram video of Santia Deck (@trackbaby001) and her curls as she works out throughout the week!
Wavy Hair (Type 2A–2C)
Before Your Workout:
Dry Shampoo at the Roots – If your scalp gets oily quickly, applying a lightweight dry shampoo before your workout can help absorb sweat before it settles.
During Your Workout:
Wear a Satin or Silk Headband – A moisture-wicking headband helps absorb sweat while protecting your waves from frizz.
Avoid Tight Ponytails – Keeping your hair loosely secured prevents stretching and loss of wave pattern.
After Your Workout:
Refresh with a Light Mist – Use a water and leave-in conditioner mix or a curl refresher spray such as Rizo’s Curls Refresh & Detangle Spray to bring waves back to life.
Diffuse – If your waves have lost definition, scrunch in a bit of mousse - I love the Curl Defining Mousse from TreLuxe - and use a diffuser on to revive them.
Curly Hair (Type 3A–3C)
Before Your Workout:
Pineapple or Two Loose Braids – The pineapple method keeps curls stretched and prevents tangling, while loose braids reduce shrinkage and frizz.
Silk or Satin Scarf Wrap – Wrapping your curls in a silk or satin scarf can help protect them from excessive moisture absorption.
During Your Workout:
Opt for a Sweatband – A cotton or silk lined sweatband absorbs moisture from the scalp while keeping curls intact.
Avoid Constant Touching – The more you touch your curls, the more frizz you create. Let your hair sit untouched during your session.
After Your Workout:
Let Hair Air-Dry Before Removing the Pineapple or Braids – This helps your curls set back into place.
Refresh with a Styling Mist, Foam or Curl Primer– Lightly mist your hair with water and apply a bit of mousse to redefine curls. TreLuxé Aloe Vera Curl Primer as a great product to refresh your curls after a workout.
Shake It Out & Fluff – Once dry, flip your head upside down and shake gently to revive volume.
Tight Coily Hair (Type 4A–4C)
Before Your Workout:
Low Tension Styles – Opt for chunky twists, braids, or a loose bun to reduce manipulation and maintain curl pattern.
Satin-Lined Cap or Scarf – Wearing a satin-lined cap helps protect against friction and keeps moisture locked in.
During Your Workout:
Keep Hair Covered If Needed – A satin-lined headwrap or cap helps control shrinkage and frizz.
After Your Workout:
Let Your Hair Fully Dry Before Styling – If your hair is damp, let it air-dry in its protective style before taking it down.
Fluff and Go – Once your coils are dry, gently separate them for volume and shape.
Final Tips for All Curl Types:
Use a Satin or Silk Pillowcase – If you work out in the evening, sleeping on satin helps maintain your curls overnight.
Drink Plenty of Water – Hydrated hair starts from within, so keep your water intake up.
Adjust Your Routine Based on Your Workout – High-intensity workouts may require more protection, while lower-impact sessions like yoga may allow for looser styles.
Ja'Nera Nicole is a passionate and skilled hairstylist and educator for Innersense Organic Beauty, dedicated to empowering her clients through the art of hair. With a deep understanding of the natural hair journey, she is committed to helping individuals embrace their unique textures and enhance their natural beauty. Ja’Nera’s approach is not just about styling; it’s about education and transformation. She believes in the power of healthy hair practices and is known for her honest, supportive guidance, ensuring that each client feels confident and beautiful in their own skin. Her expertise and dedication make her a trusted figure in the world of natural hair care. If you are in the Atlanta area and would like to schedule an appointment with Ja’Nera, you can do so here.
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