How to Define Natural Curls Without the Crunch

Crunchy, stiff curls happen when a styler dries hard on top of your hair instead of moving with it. The fix is a lightweight mousse, damp hair and a little patience.

1. Start on soaking-wet hair

Apply styler right after washing, while hair is still dripping. Water helps the product spread evenly and lets curls clump together naturally.

2. Work in the Wave Whip mousse

Cantu Shea Butter Wave Whip Curling Mousse is whipped and airy, so it defines without weighing hair down. Rake a golf-ball-sized amount through each section, then scrunch upward.

3. Hands off while it dries

Air-dry or diffuse on low heat. Touching curls while they dry causes frizz — wait until fully dry before moving to the next step.

4. Scrunch out the crunch

Once dry, gently scrunch with your palms (a drop of oil helps). This softens any hold and leaves bouncy, touchable definition.