5 Mistakes Curly Haired Gals Should Never Make

If you're one of the lucky ones who has beautiful natural curls, you've probably heard "I wish I had curly hair" more times in your life than you could ever count. However, with that luck comes the responsibility of caring for your delicate curls in a way that allows them to look their best. From one curly-haired gal to another, here are the mistakes I've made along the way, and what you should do instead to put your best curls forward.

Don't: Be Afraid of Using a Hairdryer

Do: Use a Diffuser

The best way to dry curls is typically the natural way but, if time is of the essence, don't be too hesitant to bust out the blow-dryer. Using a diffuser attachment will help define your curls by distributing heat more evenly than a standard barrel dryer. Just be sure to turn the heat down to low or turn it off completely. Heat is no friend of the curl.

Don't: Avoid Haircuts

Do: Find a Stylist Who Specializes in Curly Hair

Even though you may not feel like you need a haircut regularly, it's key to maintaining beautiful curls. A trim will help maintain healthy ends and make sure that your curls aren't weighed down. That being said, you'll want to find a stylist who is a pro with handling naturally curly hair.

Don't: Wash Your Hair Everyday

Do: Use a Renewal Spray

As tempting as it may be to wash your hair every day so your curls will form fresh, it can cause strands to dry out and lose the natural oils they need to stay healthy. You can give new life to your curls without washing by using a quick refresh spray or few spritzes of water. You'll also want to look into co-washing to find out if it's right for you. Some of our favorite curly girls swear by the method and have ditched their suds habit completely.

Don't: Own a Hairbrush

Do: Use a Wide-Tooth Comb

If you have natural curls, you shouldn't even have a hairbrush in your bathroom. If you do find yourself in need of a little help brushing through curls to prevent tangles, gently rake a wide-tooth comb through wet strands while you're in the shower just before rinsing out your conditioner.

Don't: Run Your Fingers Through Your Hair

Do: Use Your Fingertips to Style Your Curls

After your curls are styled, resist the urge to run your fingers through your hair as you sit at your desk or wait at a red light. This will cause curls to separate, lose their definition, and become frizzy. However, implementing the rake and shake method (apply product to fingertips and rake through wet strands; shake your hand from side to side as you near the ends) will help encourage your curls to form in the most natural way. You can read more about the method here.

WATCH: The Short Curly Cut That Will Have You Booking an Appointment With Your Stylist—Immediately

If we've convinced you to book that long overdue appointment at the salon, this short curly cut may be just the style you've been looking for.