FLUFFY CURLS
A.K.A. Fluffy hair, brushed-out coils, neo Afro
WHAT IT IS A ’90s throwback of sorts, fluffy, textured hair comes in a wide variety of cuts and silhouettes. “We’re seeing a lot of mixed styles, like highly worked roots with a voluminous fluffy ponytail or slicked back on top with a cotton-candy puff in the back,” explains Janet Jackson, L’Oréal Paris Hair expert and owner of Toronto’s JouJou Hair Studio.
WHO IT’S FOR Consider the shape of your face and your hair type before presenting the fluffy-curl option to your hairstylist. Jackson also recommends factoring in your lifestyle, personality and personal style; in fact, you may want a full consultation before jumping in feet first.
STARS WHO ROCK IT Pumped up on Tracee Ellis Ross, Beyoncé and Gabrielle Union; gently defined curls and ringlets on Emily Ratajkowski, Kerry Washington and Megan Thee Stallion.
REAL-LIFE VERSION The good news is that hot and humid weather has positive effects on volume and texture, so don’t fret about that fabulous fluff! “Colour-wise, I always advise my clients to avoid products and formulas that alter the texture and shape of hair,” says Jackson. “Brush-dyeing and balayage are excellent techniques for enhancing Afro-textured hair for a truly radiant look.”
THE PLAY-BY-PLAY Apply your preferred curl product (cream, mousse, gel, spray) to wet hair, making sure that it’s spread evenly from root to tip if you have a thicker mane or just on the ends if you have finer hair. Dry hair without contact using a diffuser and keeping your head down. Once they’re dry, undo any ringlets that look too perfect with a light oil, serum or butter, and finish by lifting the roots with a wide-tooth comb and applying a spritz of texturizing spray.
PRO TIP “Keeping curls hydrated with a nourishing shampoo/ conditioner combo is the secret to a fabulously textured, healthy head of hair,” says Jackson.