Curly and Neat

Short African hair with neat curls
Photo: Iofoto/Shutterstock
Q: I am an African American woman with a Motions light perm in my hair. I've been admiring many Black women who have short to medium length hair that looks beautifully curly and perfectly styled, especially during summer. What products can I use to create those defined, neat curls (similar to Jheri curls) on my permed hair? I understand that many curly hair products aren't compatible with chemically treated hair. Can you please recommend products and techniques that would work with my light perm? Thank you!
 
A: Thank you for your excellent question about styling your permed hair! As an African American woman with a Motions light perm, you absolutely can achieve those gorgeous, defined curls you've been admiring.
 
Since you're already familiar with the Motions product line, I'd highly recommend starting with Motions Styling Lotion as your foundation product. While many people use this primarily for wrap styles, it's actually perfect for creating defined curls on permed or relaxed hair. The formulation is specifically designed to work with chemically treated hair, unlike many curly hair products that are intended for natural textures only.
 
The key to achieving those neat, defined curls depends on working with the size of curl your current perm has given you. If your perm has created a good curl pattern that you're happy with, the Motions Styling Lotion will enhance and define those curls beautifully. For best results, apply the styling lotion to freshly washed, slightly damp hair. Use enough product to coat each section thoroughly without making your hair feel heavy or sticky.
 
After applying the styling lotion, gently scrunch your curls upward toward your scalp to encourage curl formation. You can use your fingers for a more natural look or a wide-tooth comb or pick to create more uniform curls with greater definition. Many women find that a combination approach works best: using the comb to initially organize the curls and then finishing with finger-scrunching to perfect the look.
 
For additional shine and moisture throughout the day, I strongly recommend investing in a good leave-in conditioning spray that contains light fruit oils like grapeseed, apricot, or jojoba oil. These lightweight oils will give your curls a gorgeous glossy finish without weighing them down and will help combat the frizz that often develops throughout the day, especially in humid summer weather.
 
One of the major benefits of the Motions Styling Lotion is its staying power. As long as you avoid excessive touching or manipulating of your curls once they're dry, they'll maintain that smooth, defined, almost wet-looking finish that's so appealing. If you notice your curls beginning to lose definition or "fray" during the day, simply spritz them lightly with your leave-in conditioner and gently scrunch them again to restore that sleek, defined appearance.
 
You might also consider adding a light curl activator gel to your hair care routine for extra definition and hold. Look for products specifically formulated for chemically treated hair. Brands like Luster's S-Curl, Wave Nouveau, or even Motions' own activator products can provide additional curl definition without damaging your perm.
 
For nighttime care, protect your style by wrapping your hair in a satin or silk scarf, or sleeping on a satin pillowcase to prevent friction that can cause frizz and breakage. In the morning, you may need to refresh your curls with a light misting of water mixed with a small amount of leave-in conditioner before gently scrunching to reactivate the products already in your hair.
 
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See also: Questions about African hair