A big part of that is what products I choose: I need a gentle, hydrating combo that nourishes my curls. Wellnesse’s Smoothing Shampoo and Enriching Conditioner manage to clean the scalp and strands with sulfate-free, plant-derived surfactants and then feeds the hair fiber loads of lipids and nutrients through a cocktail of botanicals. And in the case of these curl-enhancing formulas, it was. So recently I got my hands on another set, and Smoothing Shampoo and Enriching Conditioner were just as good as I remember. These lush cleansers are further buffered with coconut oil and shea butter, which add a protective layer to the cleansing process. See, physical wear can also tangle and damage the hair fiber. One way to help mitigate this is through using a pre-shampoo treatment (of which I’m a fan), as well as using a formula that cradles the hair while you’re lathering. As for the curl care, you’ll see soothing chamomile (to soothe any scalp irritation that’s common with those with tighter curl patterns), quinoa (to provide the hair fiber strengthening protein), and tomato fruit extract (which supports curl retention and antioxidants). I follow this with the Enriching Conditioner, dense formula rich in argan oil, shea butter, coconut fruit extract, and safflower. Argan oil is a classic botanical oil that is beloved for its antioxidant properties, conditions the hair fiber, and amps up shine. Shea butter is a classic hair ingredient that softens strands and is rich in lipids and antioxidants. The safflower boosts hydration and helps detangle the hair (a priority for curly girls). Immediately after I use it in the shower, my strands feel more quenched and softer. But the real results you have to wait to see after an air-dry session. After scrunching in my leave-in and curl cream, my texture is more defined, less frizzy, and looks practically luminescent.
