curly, Tips and tricks
Why Curls Fall More: Unraveling the Mystery
Jan
The Myth: Does Curly Hair Really Fall More?
Short answer: no. Curly hair doesn’t shed more than other hair types—your curls just trap shed hairs, so it looks like more. Here’s what’s really happening and how to keep curls thriving.
If you have curly hair, you’ve probably heard the myth that your hair falls more than straight or wavy hair. You might even notice what looks like “extra” shedding. Before you panic, let’s debunk it: curly hair doesn’t shed more. What you’re seeing is your curls’ unique behavior.
Curly Hair Traps Hair Better Than Straight Strands
Curly strands twist and spiral, which traps shed hairs. In a messy curly bun, shed hairs don’t slide straight down like they would on straight hair—they get caught in your curls.
With straight hair, a shed strand usually falls to the floor right away. With curls, that same strand can hang out until you wash, detangle, or restyle. This “trapping effect” makes shed hairs more visible, which is why it seems like you’re shedding more.
Shedding vs. Trapping: What’s Actually Happening?
All hair types shed daily as part of the normal growth cycle—often around 50–100 hairs per day (varies by person). The difference with curls is where those hairs go: curls hold onto them longer.
A Closer Look at How Curly Hair Grows
Curly hair grows like straight hair—the difference is the follicle shape. Curly follicles tend to be more oval/asymmetrical, creating bends and twists along the strand.
- More bends = more stress points → higher breakage risk if handled roughly.
- Harsh brushing, tight styles, and high heat can snap curls (breakage ≠ shedding from the root).
Why It’s Time to Stop Worrying About Hair Loss
Does curly hair fall more? No—the appearance of more fall is usually trapped shed hairs or breakage from routine habits. Focus on gentle care and strength.
Celebrate your curls. With the right routine, they’ll thrive beautifully.
Common Mistakes That Cause Curly Hair to “Fall” (and How to Fix Them)
Hover or tap each item to reveal what to do.
Over-Washing Your Curls
Over-washing can strip natural oils and cause dryness/breakage.
Not Using the Right Products
Using non-curl products can dry and weaken curls.
Using Heat Too Often
Frequent heat styling weakens curls, leading to breakage.
Tight Hairstyles
High tension styles can pull at roots and snap strands.
How Your Diet Affects Your Curly Hair Health
Your curls are little indicators of overall wellness. What you eat shows up in strength, shine, and bounce.
1) Nutrients That Feed Your Curls
- Biotin (B-vitamin): eggs, nuts, sweet potatoes.
- Protein: Greek yogurt, chicken, lentils—hair is mostly keratin.
- Iron & Zinc: spinach, legumes, red meat—support the follicle.
2) Stay Hydrated for Happy Curls
Low water intake → dry, frizzy, breakage-prone hair.
3) Avoid Crash Diets & Extreme Restrictions
Under-fueling shifts nutrients to vital organs—not hair. Result: shedding and lifeless curls.
- Balance proteins, healthy fats, and complex carbs.
- Include omega-3s (avocado, nuts, fish) for shine and elasticity.
4) Antioxidants for Curl Health
Antioxidants help protect follicles from oxidative stress.
- Vitamin C: citrus, bell peppers, strawberries—also supports collagen.
- Sources: berries, green tea, dark chocolate.
5) Sugar & Your Curls
High sugar can drive inflammation, weakening follicles.
6) Supplements: To Take or Not to Take?
Biotin, vitamin D, omega-3s can help if diet is lacking—always check with a healthcare pro first.
7) Meal Ideas to Feed Your Curls
- Breakfast: spinach + avocado smoothie; handful of nuts.
- Lunch: grilled salmon + quinoa salad with colorful veg.
- Snack: mixed berries with Greek yogurt.
- Dinner: hearty lentil soup with whole-grain bread.
Love Your Curls, Love Yourself
Your curls are your crown. Avoid the common pitfalls, trust the science, and embrace your natural beauty. With patience and smart care, your curls can thrive like never before.