How to Transition to the Curly Girl Method: What to Expect
If you have naturally curly or wavy hair and you’re ready to embrace your texture, you’ve probably heard of the Curly Girl Method. This popular approach focuses on moisture, gentle care, and eliminating harsh ingredients that damage curls. As a Calgary hairstylist and curly hair specialist, I’ve guided many clients through this journey — and I’m here to share what you can expect when making the switch.
What Is the Curly Girl Method?
The Curly Girl Method (CGM) is a hair care philosophy created to bring out the best in naturally curly, wavy, or coily hair by eliminating ingredients and practices that strip or damage the curl pattern. The core of the method includes:
Avoiding sulfates, silicones, drying alcohols, and waxes
Gentle cleansing with low-poo or co-wash
Deep conditioning regularly
Using gel or mousse to define and hold curls
Air drying or diffusing instead of heat styling
What to Expect During the Transition Phase
1. Detox: Removing Product Buildup
If you've been using traditional hair products with silicones or heavy waxes, your hair may need a "reset". Look for a clarifying shampoo free of sulfates but strong enough to remove buildup, such as Kinky Curly Come Clean or Innersense Detox Hair Mask.
Avoid products with ingredients ending in “-cone” (like dimethicone), petrolatum, and waxes, as they coat the hair but block moisture.
Instead, opt for products with ingredients like aloe vera, flaxseed, marshmallow root, glycerin (in moderate amounts), and proteins (for high porosity curls).
2. Be Patient With the Curl Pattern
Your curls may look unpredictable at first — flat at the roots, frizzy ends, or uneven spirals. That’s normal! As you remove buildup and consistently moisturize, your curl pattern will return and become more defined.
Must-Have Products to Support the Transition
Here’s a simple starter routine you can follow, using clean, curl-friendly products:
Cleanser (Low-poo or co-wash):
Innersense Hydrating Cream Hairbath
As I Am Coconut CoWash
Jessicurl Gentle Lather Shampoo
Conditioner / Deep Treatment:
Innersense Hydrating Cream Conditioner
SheaMoisture Manuka Honey & Mafura Oil Masque
Curlsmith Double Cream Deep Quencher
Leave-In Conditioner:
Giovanni Direct Leave-In
Kinky Curly Knot Today
Styling Gel or Mousse:
Uncle Funky’s Daughter Curly Magic
Ecoslay Orange Marmalade
Innersense I Create Hold
Tip: Apply styling products on soaking wet hair using the “praying hands” and “scrunching” techniques for best definition.
Extra Boost: Salon Treatments
At our curly hair salon in Calgary, we offer treatments like:
Scalp exfoliation + detox
Steam hydration sessions
Curl shaping and hydration reset packages
These are especially helpful in the first few months of transitioning.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Transition
Sleep on a satin or silk pillowcase or use a satin bonnet
Use a microfiber towel or cotton t-shirt to dry your hair — never a regular towel
Avoid heat styling and chemical treatments
Get regular dry curl-by-curl cuts to remove damaged ends
You're Not Alone — We've Got Your Curls Covered
Transitioning to the Curly Girl Method can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. At CurlClub, we specialize in working with all curl types and guiding you through every step of your curl journey. Whether you're just starting or need help troubleshooting, we’re here to help.
Book an appointment with a curly hair specialist in Calgary today — and let your curls thrive!
