7 Steps to ‘Free the Curl’: Breaking a Curly Cast

 

 

You’ve done the hard work—scrunched in your beloved gel, spread the cream, and gently plopped your curls into the perfect cast. But now what? How do you set those curls free without causing frizz or losing your curl definition? By identifying the right steps and best practices, you can break the cast on your luscious curls without a worry. Here’s a curated list of techniques tailored for the curly-headed rebels on their quest for the bounciest, shiniest locks.  Read on for 7 Steps to ‘Free the Curl’: Breaking the curly cast!

Understand the Power of the Scrunch

1. What is a “Curl Cast” and Why Break It?

You’ve probably heard of the term “curl cast” or “gel cast” from stylists and fellow curlies—it’s that stiff, crunchy feeling on your curls post-styling. This cast is your curl definers’ way of keeping shape and frizz at bay. But to achieve a natural, soft, and movable head of curls, you need to break the cast after the product has dried.

2. What Causes the Cast?

When your styling products dry, they create a film around your hair strands. This film seals in moisture and defines the curls, resulting in a crunch. Yet, if this film isn’t broken correctly, it can limit hair movement and lead to frizz.

3. When Should You Break the Cast?

Be patient! Breaking the cast too soon can lead to frizz and loose curls. You should break it only after your hair is fully dry. Wondering when that is? Allow at least 2 to 3 hours, or even overnight, depending on your hair’s porosity and the products you’ve used. Your hair is dry when it no longer feels cool to the touch.

Mastering the Art of Cast Breaking…Once your hair is dry, cup your hands around the ends

of a clump of hair where the gel cast is most noticeable.

Mastering the Art of Cast Breaking

4. The Gentle Unveiling

Once your hair is dry, cup your hands around the ends of a clump of hair where the gel cast is most noticeable. Gently press your hands together, then slide them down the length of your hair. This motion helps the cast to break without disrupting the curl pattern too much.

5. No Comb, No Problem

Keep those combs and brushes away! Curly hair is significantly more prone to breakage when dry and when brushed. Instead, use a wide-tooth comb on your hair in the shower, while it’s wet and conditioned, for the easiest detangling.

6. Amplify with a Diffuser

For an added oomph of volume and definition, use a diffuser on your hair dryer to break the cast. With your dryer set to low or medium heat, gently cup your curls in the diffuser and move it closer to your head to allow warm air to circulate.

7. The Fluff and Shake Method

Once the cast is mostly broken, flip your hair and give it a shake to separate the curls. Continue this with your hands if needed. Make sure not to over-fluff, as this can cause frizz.

A Touch of Oil

An additional step that can be added to your cast-breaking routine is using a small amount of oil on your hands before scrunching out the crunch. This can help add shine and moisture to your hair while also helping to break the cast more easily.

When choosing an oil, opt for lightweight options such as argan or jojoba oil, and avoid heavy oils like coconut oil that can weigh down your curls.

In conclusion, breaking the cast on your curly hair is an essential step in achieving a natural, soft look. By understanding the science behind it and following these steps and tips, you can free your curls without losing definition or causing frizz.

TL;DR Summary

7 Steps to ‘Free the Curl’: Breaking the curly cast—To enhance the natural beauty of curly hair, ensure it is completely dry before gently scrunching out any stiffness with your hands. Skip brushes or combs, and consider a diffuser for extra volume. Let your curls shine in all their bouncy glory – they’ll appreciate it!