Squish to Condish: Your Ultimate Curls’ Best Friend

 

 

For all our curly-haired friends out there, you may have heard the term “Squish to Condish” echoing through the halls of the curly hair community. It’s not just a trend; it’s a technique that could potentially revolutionize your curl care routine. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down what Squish to Condish (STC) is all about, how to do it the right way, and why it might be the answer to many of your curl woes.  Join us in reading ‘Squish to Condish: Your Ultimate Curls’ Best Friend.’

Is Squish to Condish Right for Your Curls?

What is Squish to Condish?

Squish to Condish, or STC, is a method of conditioning curly hair that involves using water pressure to encourage moisture retention. While typically done in the shower, the unique aspect of STC is the technique of squishing (yes, a technical term) water and conditioner into the hair to promote hydration and curl clumping.

Why Should You Consider Squish to Condish?

STC advocates claim that the technique leaves curls more defined, less frizzy, and in better condition overall. The method helps your hair retain more conditioner and natural oils, making your hair softer, more manageable, and overall healthier.

Getting Started with Squish to Condish

The Essential Steps

To start with Squish to Condish, you’ll need a hydrating conditioner that works for your hair type, and a shower. That’s the basic requirement. However, there are certain other aspects to be taken care of:

• Wash your hair as normal with a sulfate-free shampoo to start with clean canvas.
• While in the shower, apply a generous amount of conditioner to your soaking wet hair.
• Use your palms and fingers to scrunch sections of your hair upwards towards your scalp, effectively squishing the conditioner into your curls.

Timing Is Key

The time you spend squishing also matters. Generally, the longer you can squish, the better. However, a common consensus among curly hair enthusiasts is to do this for at least 5 minutes.

Making the Most of Squish to Condish

Choosing the Right Conditioner

What Makes a Good STC Conditioner

When doing STC, it’s crucial to use a conditioner that you love and that provides your hair with the moisture and hydration it craves. Look for conditioners rich in fatty alcohols, natural oils, and emollients to help lock in moisture.

Ingredient Spotlight

Ingredients such as coconut oil, shea butter, and aloe vera are often recommended for curly hair types. The dense and viscous nature of these ingredients makes it ideal for emulsifying and spreading through your curls with the help of water and pressure.

Complementing Your Routine

Pre-Styling and Post-Styling

STC can be followed by your regular styling routine, whether it’s a leave-in conditioner, a curl cream, or a gel. The key is to use products that are curl-friendly and don’t disrupt your curls’ clumping, which STC can enhance.

Styling Technique

Once out of the shower, apply products in a similar squishing manner, ensuring each section of your curls is coated thoroughly. Then, either air dry or use a diffuser to set your curl pattern.

Tweaking for Your Hair

Adapting STC to Your Needs

Squish to Condish is not a one-size-fits-all technique. Play with timings, the type of conditioner, and even the level of water pressure to find what works best for you. Adapt the process to fit your curl type, the porosity and density of your hair.

Troubleshooting

If you find that your hair is overly weighed down or oily post STC, you might be over-conditioning. Try using less conditioner or rinsing out slightly more to find a balance that suits you.

The Aftercare

Maintaining Your Styled Curls

Sleep-Proof Your Curls

Nighttime can be the enemy of “perfect” day curls. Consider using a silk pillowcase or a satin bonnet or scarf to maintain moisture and prevent frizziness.

Refreshing Curls

On non-wash days, refreshing your curls can keep them looking and feeling great. Spritz your hair with a mixture of water and a little bit of leave-in conditioner, then gently Squish to Condish. Follow up with any other styling products as necessary.

Long-Term Benefits

Consistency Is Key

Just like any routine, the true benefits of STC will come from regular and consistent practice. Over time, you should notice an improvement in your hair’s overall health and manageability.

TL;DR – Mastering Squish to Condish

Squish to Condish: Your Ultimate Curls’ Best Friend — is a conditioning method for curly hair that focuses on retaining moisture and enhancing curl definition. It requires a good conditioner, plenty of water, and a willingness to spend a little extra time in the shower. With patience and some trial and error, it could be the game-changer your curls have been waiting for.