Curl power Learn to love, and look after, your natural locks plus top tips to get a great haircut

Put down the flat iron. These professional tricks and innovative products will help you fall in love with your hair’s natural beauty

Curls are in! So skip trying to tame your natural texture. Big, loose, tight, wavy – they’re all good. As long as you keep your hair hydrated and healthy, anything goes. Of course, getting your curls in top form may be a challenge (especially if you’ve opted to wear it straight in the past).

Here’s the deal Curly strands are naturally dry and fragile, so it takes extra TLC and plenty of moisture to avoid frizziness, dullness and a lack of definition. A routine of gentle cleansing and regular conditioning ensures the best look. You also need to choose the right styles and products for your unique curl pattern. Happily, the days of greasy serums and crunchy gels are over, replaced by a multitude of terrific options. This guide will get you started.

SHAMPOO 101

Nothing strips moisture from your curls faster than washing them every day or using regular shampoo. The good news is, di erent methods and formulas can protect them during cleansing. Learn the lingo and find out which will work best for you.

Low suds Reduce frizz with a sulphatefree or low-lathering shampoo. Another way is to skip your shampoo every second wash and just use a conditioner designed for curly hair.

Constant care Boost hydration by applying a leave-in conditioner prior to styling your hair. Always use curlfriendly creams and mousses and seal in moisture with an oil.

Co-wash Soften curls and coils by replacing shampoo with a co-wash, a low-foam cleansing conditioner, and use a clarifying shampoo once a month to remove oil, dirt and dead skin.

Dry shampoo

Clean greasy roots and freshen your scalp by applying a spray or powder with oil-absorbing ingredients. They're ideal for non-wash days or post-workout.

CONTROLLED CURLS COME FROM A GREAT CUT CORRECT LAYERING WILL REMOVE WEIGHT WHERE NEEDED AND ADD THE DESIRED SHAPE JASON FASSBENDER. CREATIVE DIRECTOR PRÉMA AND SCHWARZKOPF GUEST ARTIST

Embracing your curls involves trying di erent techniques and products until you find what makes your hair happy.

FINISHING TOUCH Dream Coat Supernatural Spray Curly 200ml, $49, WOW.

BOUNCING BEAUTIES Extra Care Curl Flex Crème, $8.99, Schwarzkopf.

LIGHT AND EASY Heads Will Roll Co-wash, $40, Evo.

NOURISH CURL FOOD Superfood Leave-in, $31.95, Schwarzkopf Professional.