Black hair comes in a variety of shapes, volumes, and textures. For those of us with curls it can be a struggle to find an easy and manageable way to rock your hair everyday –- especially if the blow dryer and straightener are your worst enemies.

That's where the Ouidad salon comes in. Founded by Ouidad, a woman with curly hair who wanted to help other curly-headed women, the company has salons across the country. Each location is staffed with stylists who have been specifically trained to cut, style and manage curly hair of all types - from spiral curls to s-shaped waves.

At the salon, a friendly and patient stylist sat down with me and talked about the texture of my hair and the best way to treat my specific curl-type. She explained why the relaxer I had been using for years was not the answer for my hair type, and how - with the proper upkeep and products - I could have healthy, frizz-free curls. They used the "carving and slicing method," a technique where they remove bulkiness without thinning or layering, while keeping your specific curl pattern in mind.



When styling, they use the "shake and rake" method, which the stylist took time to show me how to do myself. The method essentially creates a "rake" in the hair with your fingers, followed by shaking the curls out, which is the best way to keep your curls' natural pattern.

When they were finished, my hair looked more healthy, bouncy and curly than I had ever seen it. The best part? The hair stylist created a look I could replicate at home. I've been able to wash and go by using the products they recommended, and my hair has been naturally full of healthy curls all summer. Relaxer? Never again.

Even if you don't have a salon near you or don't want to get a cut, Ouidad has a variety of products available online that keep curls moisturized and frizz free. I definitely recommend doing their deep-conditioner treatment once a month – it keeps curls looking healthy and shiny. For every day, their Botanical Boost spray is a good way to keep hair conditioned and to bring life back to curls at the end of the day. But for me, their life-changing product is the Climate Control Heat & Humidity Gel. Using this throughout your hair keeps frizz at bay and fights the harmful effects of both humidity and heat from a dryer, making sure your hair doesn't get damaged.

There is one drawback to the Ouidad experience - the prices are hefty. Depending on the experience level of your stylist, the cut can cost anywhere from $125-150, and their products average around $20 each. But if, like me, you've battled with your curls for years, I'd say the results are definitely worth it – it's so good to know there are salons and products out there made especially for us curly girls that actually work.


To find a salon nearest you, visit www.ouidad.com/Salon-Locator