My curls feel too crunchyUpdated 19 days ago

If your curls feel crunchy, you might be forgetting to break your cast.

Many curly-haired folks neglect this essential finishing step once hair is dry, but it’s an important one. Typical curl stylers (especially gel formulas) work by creating a seal on hair. This seal prevents frizz from forming and helps lock in curl definition, but it’s not meant to be left in a stiff state. To soften things up, break the cast: Coat your palms with a thin layer of a finishing product such as serum or pomade. In one firm motion, smooth your hands over your entire mane from front to back, as if you’re creating a ponytail. The pressure of your fingers will soften the styler’s hold, but your curls will retain their shape.