The curly method is a care routine that enhances natural waves and curls: it combines cleansing, conditioning, styling and careful drying. Adapt these steps to your hair. You do not need every product in a range, and the routine does not turn straight hair into permanent curls.
This step-by-step guide uses Bouclème products, with adjustments for waves, dry curls and short hair. Learn what each product does, when to use less and what to change if your hair looks frizzy or feels weighed down.
Start with what your hair needs
Choose the starting point that sounds most like your hair. Adjust the combination according to how it feels once dry.
Unsure which step you need? Ask Biovardi for help, explaining your hair type, current products and what you would like to improve.
What you need to start the curly method
Look at what you already own: a suitable cleanser, a conditioner and a holding product are a manageable starting point. Add cream, a mask or oil when they serve a particular purpose. To remove excess water, gently squeeze with a cotton T-shirt or a soft towel instead of rubbing.
Low-poo shampoo, co-wash and clarifying: different functions
- Low poo: in curly terminology, a gentle shampoo wash, usually without sulfates. Read the full formula and directions; the label alone does not tell you whether it will cleanse enough for your needs.
- Co-wash: washing with a conditioning cleanser. Curl Cleanser is the example in this guide. Do not assume any conditioner is suitable for cleansing the scalp.
- Clarifying or “final wash”: often discussed when starting the method or dealing with product buildup. Assess whether your regular cleanser removes residue adequately. Everyone does not need an intensive wash on the same fixed schedule.
If you use gels, oils or creams and need a different cleanse, compare shampoos and hair cleansers by function. A scalp exfoliator is not a guarantee of removing every kind of residue. Follow the product directions and observe your hair's response.
What does “curly approved” mean?
Strict versions of the Curly Girl Method usually exclude strong sulfate cleansers, non-water-soluble silicones and certain drying alcohols. This is a routine criterion, not a medical certification or a promise of results. Alcohols have different functions: cetyl alcohol and stearyl alcohol are fatty alcohols used in conditioning.
Check the specific product and the ingredient list on its packaging, as formulas can change. “Natural”, “fragrance-free” and “glycerin-free” are different attributes. This guide explains each product's purpose and when you might skip a step.
A curly method routine with Bouclème
It is easier to build a routine when you can identify each step's role. Conditioner helps detangling, leave-in cream adds softness and gel adds hold. Start with modest amounts and change one variable at a time.
Linked products are from Biovardi's selection. Shipping is available only to mainland Spain and the Balearic Islands. Check each product page for current price and availability.
STEP 01 · CLEANSE
Wash the scalp and rinse thoroughly
Curl Cleanser is a creamy co-wash for curls that tend to feel dry. It does not foam. Massage gently into the wet scalp with your fingertips, work a small amount through the lengths and rinse thoroughly.
A co-wash and shampoo have different textures and cleansing behaviour. If you notice buildup, adjust cleansing rather than adding more cream. The Starter Kit contains Hydrating Hair Cleanser, a gently foaming cleanser different from Curl Cleanser.
BOUCLÈME · Curl Cleanser · 300 ml
Creamy, non-foaming cleansing for curls that tend to feel dry.
View Curl CleanserWhy choose this product? Its co-wash texture offers non-foaming cleansing and conditioning for the lengths. Consider it if your curls feel dry and you prefer a creamy cleanser.
STEP 02 · CONDITION
Detangle thoroughly wet hair
Apply Curl Conditioner in sections, focusing on lengths and ends. Detangle gently with your fingers without pulling knots. Add water if it is difficult to distribute rather than immediately adding more product.
For fine hair, start by rinsing it out completely. Bouclème allows partial rinsing or leave-in use for drier, thicker textures. Adjust the amount if you also use cream to avoid a heavy finish.
Why choose this product? You can adapt rinsing to your hair: rinse fully for fine strands or adjust for drier textures according to the instructions. A versatile option for gentle detangling.
STEP 03 · SOFTEN
Apply leave-in curl cream if needed
Curl Cream stays in the hair. Distribute a small amount through soaking-wet hair in sections, then cup the lengths and gently squeeze upwards: this is called scrunching.
For fine hair, the brand suggests starting with a pea-sized amount and increasing as needed. Dose and distribution matter as much as the formula. Cream conditions; add gel if you need more hold.
Why choose this product? It adds softness on wash day and can also be used for small refreshes between washes. Adjust the amount to your hair's thickness.
Compare curl creams and leave-ins. Seal + Shield Curl Cream is a glycerin-free alternative.
STEP 04 · HOLD
Define curls with gel
Distribute Seal + Shield Curl Defining Gel through soaking-wet hair in sections. Its glycerin-free formula provides medium-to-strong hold and is designed to help maintain definition in humid conditions.
A firm coating called a cast may form as it dries. Wait until your hair is completely dry, then gently squeeze the curls with your hands to soften it without disturbing the shape while damp.
BOUCLÈME · Seal + Shield Curl Defining Gel · 300 ml
Medium-to-strong hold in a glycerin-free formula.
View defining gelWhy choose this product? It combines medium-to-strong hold with a glycerin-free formula. An option for more hold and support in keeping definition in humid conditions.
For a fragrance-free alternative, compare Fragrance Free Curl Defining Gel, with medium hold. Both options are in our curl gels collection.
STEP 05 · DRY
Protect before diffusing and minimise touching
Air-dry or use a diffuser at moderate heat and low airflow. Avoid rubbing with a towel or continually handling the curls while they set.
If using a dryer, Curl Defence Spray is a heat-protection option: shake and spray from roots to ends on clean, damp hair. Bouclème says it can be used before or after styling products. It does not replace gel.
BOUCLÈME · Curl Defence Spray · 200 ml
Heat protection when you use a diffuser. An additional step rather than a requirement for air-drying.
View heat protectantWhy choose this product? Its water-based, non-greasy formula is designed for heat protection. Consider it if you dry your curls with a diffuser.
STEP 06 · REFRESH
Restore shape between washes
Dampen your hands and work only on curls that have lost their shape. If they need softness, mix a little Curl Cream with water in your palm and apply locally. You do not need the full wash-day amount again.
If the shape holds and you just want to soften the dry finish, a small amount of Revive 5 Hair Oil is an optional finishing touch. Oil does not replace cleansing or turn an unsupported curl into a long-lasting style.
BOUCLÈME · Revive 5 Hair Oil · 100 ml
An optional finishing oil for softness and shine on dry hair.
View hair oilWhy choose this product? Use it to soften the finish and add shine once the curl shape is established. It also has a pre-wash use; follow the instructions for each application.
When should you add a curly hair mask?
If the lengths still feel rough or difficult to detangle, consider more intensive conditioning. Add a mask according to your hair's response rather than automatically at every wash.
For mask use, Bouclème advises applying Intensive Moisture Treatment after cleansing, leaving it for 20–30 minutes and rinsing. Adjust the subsequent conditioner and cream to the softness you already have.
BOUCLÈME · Intensive Moisture Treatment · 250 ml
Optional treatment. Check the product page for current availability before planning your routine.
Check availabilityWhy choose this product? More intensive conditioning for dry lengths that need softness and easier detangling. It can be used as a mask, pre-shampoo treatment or leave-in, following the specific directions.
Adapt the routine to waves, short hair or dry curls
Curl shape is only part of the picture. Thickness, density, condition and styling habits can change how much product two similar curl patterns need.
| Your hair | Where to start | What to observe |
|---|---|---|
| Waves or fine curls | Rinse conditioner well. Try little or no cream if hair is already soft; adjust gel. | If waves fall flat and feel coated, reduce layers before adding products. |
| Short curls | Match amounts to actual length and distribute beyond the roots. | Check coverage at the sides and crown rather than using long-hair quantities. |
| Dry, frizzy curls | Focus on conditioning and sufficient water when distributing stylers. | Distinguish roughness from lack of hold; more cream does not always solve both. |
| Low-porosity curls | Start with few layers and small amounts. | Do not choose the whole routine from a porosity label: observe the dry result. |
Choose products for curly and wavy hair by the function you need: cleansing, softness or hold.
Fructis, Cantu or Bouclème: what to compare
Compare specific products rather than brands as a whole. A defining cream, curl activator and gel may serve different roles even when all mention definition.
| Product | Brand directions | What to compare |
|---|---|---|
| Garnier Fructis Método Rizos leave-in defining cream | Styling cream for damp or dry hair without rinsing. Garnier suggests Flexi Gel as a possible next step. | Whether you mainly need conditioning or an extra layer of hold. |
| Cantu Moisturizing Curl Activator Cream | Shea-butter curl activator aimed at enhancing waves and curls. | The exact product, packaging directions and your response to the amount used. |
| Bouclème Curl Cream | Leave-in cream for styling and refreshing; can be combined with gel. | The amount for your thickness and whether you prefer the original, glycerin-free or fragrance-free option. |
This comparison uses the directions from Garnier, Cantu and Bouclème; it is not a comparative performance trial. Explore Biovardi's Bouclème selection to build your routine.
Before replacing everything, identify what you want to improve. For soft curls that lose shape, examine hold and drying. For heavy hair, reduce amounts and layers.
Definition and frizz: useful adjustments
- Flat curls: try less cream, rinse conditioner better and avoid daily all-over refresh layers.
- Good wet shape, little dry definition: review gel distribution and handle hair less during drying.
- Stiff finish: check that hair is fully dry before softening the cast.
- Rough, dry curls: review conditioning and whether the regular cleanse suits your hair.
- Localised frizz: work on that section with water and a small amount of an appropriate product.
Record combinations and approximate quantities. Compare the dry result and the following day, changing one detail at the next wash.
Between washes: refreshing, sleeping and adjusting
A refresh does not require reapplying everything. Work locally on a misshapen curl with damp hands before deciding whether more product is needed. If hair is coated or the scalp needs cleaning, another layer of cream does not replace a wash.
A loose high ponytail —a “pineapple”, when length allows— or a loose braid can reduce overnight friction. Avoid tension. Release your hair in the morning and check which sections need attention before wetting the whole head.
Your simple routine log: note cleanser, approximate cream and gel amounts, drying method and next-day result. Change one thing at the next wash to distinguish softness from hold.
Frequently asked questions about the curly method
What are the steps for beginners?
Cleanse, condition and detangle; add leave-in cream only if you need softness, apply gel for hold and dry without rubbing or constant touching. Soften the cast once completely dry. Refreshing and masks depend on need.
How often should I wash my hair?
There is no universal schedule. Adapt washing to your scalp, activity and products. Do not delay cleansing just to follow a rule when there is discomfort or buildup. For persistent itching, flaking or irritation, consult a healthcare professional.
How long does the curly method take to work?
We cannot promise a timeframe. Assess softness, definition and styling duration after each wash. Results depend on hair condition, application and drying; a cosmetic routine cannot reverse every change caused by heat or treatments.
Does it suit waves, short hair or men?
Adapt the steps to length, thickness and conditioning needs rather than gender. Start with smaller amounts for fine waves or short hair. The method does not create permanent curls in naturally straight hair.
Is a curl activator the same as a defining cream?
The names can overlap. Read the purpose and instructions: does it condition without rinsing, provide hold or need a gel afterwards? The name alone does not tell you how much hold it gives.
Can I define curls without mousse?
Yes. This routine uses cream if softness is needed and gel for hold. Mousse is another styling option, not a compulsory step; different mousses give different finishes.
How do I condition curls without weighing them down?
Start with conditioner and assess how hair feels after rinsing. Add a little cream only if needed rather than automatically layering mask, leave-in and oil. Adjust to length and thickness.
Does the curly method create permanent curls?
No. It cares for and styles the existing texture. A salon perm uses a different process; cream and gel do not replace it.
How can I restore curls that have lost their shape?
First distinguish styling-related flatness, product coating and changes after treatments. Adjusting cleansing, conditioning and hold may improve appearance, but cannot guarantee a previous pattern or a fixed recovery time.
Are there fragrance-free products for curls?
Bouclème's Fragrance Free line includes a cleanser, conditioner, cream and gel. Check the specific ingredient list if you need to avoid an ingredient.
What should I check for natural or silicone-free curl products?
Read the composition and claims of the specific product as well as its function. “Natural”, “sulfate-free”, “silicone-free” and “fragrance-free” describe different things; none alone determines the result.
Is there a starter kit?
The Bouclème Starter Kit 4 × 100 ml contains Hydrating Hair Cleanser, Curl Conditioner, Curl Cream and Curl Defining Gel. Its cleanser and gel differ from the co-wash and Seal + Shield options shown in this guide. Check the kit contents before choosing.
Choose the products your routine needs
Start with missing steps and adapt amounts to your hair. Compare cleansing, conditioning and hold.
Shop products for curls and waves
Shipping only to mainland Spain and the Balearic Islands.
Need help choosing? Contact Biovardi or explore our selection at our Marbella shop. Tell us what you use and what you want to improve for cosmetic product guidance.
Sources and preparation: Biovardi Team. Product directions checked on 4 October 2026 against our catalogue and Bouclème's official pages for Curl Cleanser, Curl Conditioner, Curl Cream, Seal + Shield Gel, Curl Defence and Revive 5. Always follow the packaging directions.
Guide expanded on 5 October 2026. General care and overnight guidance draws on the American Academy of Dermatology's curly hair care guide. The adaptation to our product selection is editorial, not a comparative trial or a diagnosis.