Subscribers Get More
New subscribers enjoy 20% off. Join our community, sign-up to our newsletter & be the first to hear about new product launches and exclusive promotions.
T&Cs apply
New subscribers enjoy 20% off. Join our community, sign-up to our newsletter & be the first to hear about new product launches and exclusive promotions.
Subscribe to our newsletter & enjoy 20% off your next order. Be the first to hear about exclusive offers, new product launches and promotions.
Learn More
Be the first to hear out upcoming Skincare Masterclasses and Wellness workshops with our experts.
Learn More
On Selected Products. T&C's and some exclusions apply.
Learn More
Healthy, defined curls come from gentle care and consistent habits. The Curly Girl Method (CGM) focuses on mild cleansing, deep conditioning, and styling on wet hair. It avoids harsh sulphates, heavy silicones, and drying alcohols that strip moisture and cause frizz. With the right routine and a few hero products, you will see softer, bouncier curls and less daily fuss.
The Curly Girl Method is a routine designed to cleanse mildly, condition generously and style on wet hair to reduce frizz and enhance curl definition. At its core:
Cleanse: Choose low-poo (gentle) shampoos or co-wash cleansers.
Condition: Detangle with slip, working section by section.
Style: Apply leave-in/cream/gel to soaking-wet hair for clumps and definition.
Set: Air-dry or diffuse with minimal touching, then scrunch out any cast for soft curls.
There’s a strict version (no sulphates, non-water-soluble silicones or drying alcohols) and a more flexible version where you might use some salon stylers for finish.
Short answer: yes, adapt it.
Waves (2A–2C): Keep things lightweight. Opt for gentle shampoo, a light rinse-out or leave-in, and a foam/mousse or soft gel so waves don’t collapse.
Curls (3A–3C): Balance moisture and hold. Cream & gel is a great pairing for frizz control and long-lasting definition.
Coils (4A–4C): Prioritise rich hydration and protective styling. Creams, butters and oils (if you use them) can seal moisture. Just clarify periodically if you layer.
Porosity & density:
Low-porosity hair likes lighter, water-rich formulas and gentle heat (like a cap) to help masks penetrate.
High-porosity hair tends to love creamy conditioners, leave-ins and gels that lock in moisture.
Scalp considerations: If you experience dandruff, eczema or sensitivity, use a scalp-friendly gentle shampoo on rotation and follow medical advice.
CGM “approved” generally means no harsh sulphates, no non-water-soluble silicones, no drying alcohols. If you prefer the flexible CGM path, you can still use salon favourites and simply clarify every few weeks.
Below are some products to get you started:
For gentle cleansing, the Kérastase Curl Manifesto range offers curl-friendly shampoos that leave hair soft and nourished without stripping away moisture. From Alfaparf, a low-poo option such as those in the Curl Range can provide a mild cleanse while respecting curl health. Moroccanoil Curl and Hydration ranges are also excellent choices, delivering moisture and balance. Be sure to only choose the silicone-free formulas where available for the most curl-friendly results.
For deep hydration and strength, the Kérastase Curl Manifesto collection includes conditioners and masks that nourish curls while maintaining definition. The Fondant Hydratation Essentielle Conditioner and the Masque Beurre Haute Nutrition mask are both great choices. The Alfaparf Semi di Lino Curls Mask is another great option, boosting elasticity and shine to keep curls bouncy and resilient. If you prefer the richness of argan oil, Moroccanoil products such as the moisture repair conditioner and hydrating mask provide excellent slip and frizz control, making detangling easier and curls more manageable.
For styling, Kérastase Curl Manifesto creams and gels offer lightweight definition with a soft, touchable finish. The Alfaparf Semi di Lino Curls Defining Cream enhances curl shape while helping to fight frizz throughout the day. Meanwhile, Moroccanoil’s Curl Defining Cream or Curl Control Mousse delivers flexible hold and lasting control, keeping curls smooth and touchable without stiffness.
If you ever use a serum or oil with silicones for gloss, schedule a clarifying wash (see Step 1) every 2–4 weeks to reset.
Before starting your new routine, give your hair and scalp a clean slate. A clarifying wash removes silicones, minerals, and product build-up so your curls can absorb moisture again. Follow with a nourishing mask to restore softness and shine.
How often? Do one reset at the beginning. After that, clarify every 2–4 weeks, or after heavy styling, swimming, or hard-water exposure.
How to do it:
Wet hair thoroughly and cleanse with a curl-friendly shampoo from the Kérastase Curl Manifesto range.
Rinse very well.
Apply Alfaparf Semi di Lino Curls Mask from mid-lengths to ends. Leave it on as directed, then rinse.
On very wet hair, apply your leave-in. A curl cream from Kérastase Curl Manifesto works well to lock in hydration.
Apply plenty of conditioner and detangle in sections with your fingers or a wide-tooth comb. Add water as you go, as it helps curls clump together. If hair is very dry, leave a little conditioner on the ends.
How often? Condition every wash day. Use a richer mask once a week, or whenever hair feels dry.
How to do it:
Work Moroccanoil Moisture Repair Conditioner through sections, adding water to help curl clumps form.
Detangle gently with fingers or a wide-tooth comb.
For extra slip, use Kérastase Curl Manifesto Fondant Hydratation Essentielle.
Rinse well. For dry ends, leave in a pea-sized amount of conditioner.
Once a week, apply Alfaparf Semi di Lino Curls Mask or Moroccanoil Hydrating Mask Light. Leave on as directed, then rinse.
Style your curls while they are soaking wet for the best definition. Layer your products to lock in hydration and set your curls in place.
How often? Every wash day.
How to do it:
Apply a leave-in from Kérastase Curl Manifesto (cream or milk) to add slip.
Follow with Moroccanoil Curl Defining Cream for moisture and shape.
Finish with Alfaparf Semi di Lino Curls Defining Cream or your preferred gel/foam for hold.
Use the “praying hands” or “rake and scrunch” method to encourage curl clumps.
Work gently and avoid handling the hair too much to reduce frizz.
Drying is just as important as cleansing, conditioning, and styling. The right technique keeps curls defined, frizz-free, and bouncy.
How often? Every wash day.
How to do it:
Blot gently with a microfibre towel or a soft cotton T-shirt. Never rub.
Air-dry whenever possible, or use a diffuser attachment on low to medium heat.
Avoid touching your hair while it dries to maintain curl definition.
Once completely dry, scrunch out the crunch (SOTC) to soften any gel cast and reveal soft, defined curls.
Traditional terry towels rough up the cuticle and cause frizz. Switch to microfibre or a soft T-shirt.
Frequent straightening or high-heat blow-drying can sap moisture and disturb your pattern. If you heat-style, use a heat protectant and lower settings.
Brushing dry curls breaks clumps and creates frizz. Detangle only with conditioner in, then avoid brushing until the next wash.
For strict CGM:
Harsh sulphates (e.g., SLS/SLES) except when clarifying intentionally.
Non-water-soluble silicones (e.g., dimethicone) unless you plan to clarify.
Drying alcohols (SD Alcohol 40, Alcohol Denat.).
Heavy waxes/mineral oils that can build up without a proper cleanse
Daily washing can dry curls, especially if you’re prone to frizz. Most curl types do well on a 2–7 day wash cadence; refresh in between.
The Curly Girl Method takes time to show results. You may see softer, more defined curls in a few weeks, but fuller improvements usually take 3–6 months of consistent care.
Yes, you can and it may actually help. Bleached hair is usually more fragile and prone to dryness, so the CGM’s focus on hydration, gentle cleansing, and silicone-free care is ideal. Just make sure to use extra moisture (masks, leave-ins, oils) and avoid heat styling where possible. Weekly deep conditioning is especially helpful for maintaining elasticity.
The method itself does not cause hair loss. However, as you stop brushing and start detangling only during conditioning, you may notice more shed hairs in the shower. This is simply the natural daily hair shed (50–100 hairs) that wasn’t being brushed out before. If you’re experiencing significant thinning or scalp irritation, it’s best to consult a trichologist or dermatologist.
For most people, yes. The method removes harsh sulfates, drying alcohols, and heavy silicones that can build up and damage hair over time. By focusing on hydration, gentle cleansing, and curl-friendly styling, it helps improve hair health, reduce frizz, and enhance natural curl patterns. That said, it’s not one-size-fits-all — some people prefer a “modified CGM” that still includes occasional clarifying washes or certain styling products.
No, not when it’s dry. Brushing curly hair disrupts curl patterns and creates frizz. Instead, detangle in the shower with plenty of conditioner and water, using your fingers or a wide-tooth comb. After styling, let curls set without brushing. Once dry, you can gently separate or fluff them with your hands or a pick for volume, but avoid traditional brushes.
The Curly Girl Method is all about consistency, hydration, and gentle care. Whether you’re just starting your curl journey or refining your routine, the right products make all the difference. At Millies, you’ll find everything you need. Explore our full haircare collection and build a routine that keeps your curls soft, bouncy, and beautifully defined.
