Highlights of the Blog:

• Common mistakes in curly hair routines that make curls look flat.
  

• Step-by-step curly hair routine for volume using XO Curls products.
  

• Beginner-friendly tricks to lift roots, refresh curls, and add bounce.

Introduction

We’ve all been there, you spend time styling your curls, but a few hours later, they look flat, lifeless, and stuck to your scalp. Instead of bouncy, voluminous curls, you’re left with droopy strands that don’t hold shape.

Flat curls aren’t just a styling issue—they’re a routine issue. The good news? With a few changes in your wash-day and styling habits, you can revive your curls and bring back volume.

Why Do Curls Go Flat?

Flat curls happen when your routine weighs them down instead of lifting them up. Here’s why:

• Over-conditioning: Heavy conditioners coat strands, making them limp.
  

• Using the wrong products: Oils and thick creams flatten curls instead of adding bounce.
  

• Styling mistakes: Brushing after drying, not scrunching, or skipping gel kills curl shape.
  

• Build-up from hard water or products: This makes curls lose elasticity and fall flat.

The Best Curly Hair Routine for Volume

Here’s a beginner-friendly, step-by-step routine designed to keep your curls full and bouncy:

Step 1: Pre-Wash Oil

XO Curls Pre-Wash Oil (Flax Seeds, Avocado Oil, Curry Leaves, Argan Oil, Eucalyptus)

• Preps your scalp and protects strands before shampoo.
  

• Adds strength and elasticity, preventing limp curls.

Step 2: Gentle Cleansing

XO Curls Hydrating Shampoo (Flax Seeds, Hibiscus, Lavender, Chamomile)

• Removes build-up without stripping natural oils.
  

• Lavender soothes the scalp, hibiscus strengthens roots.

Step 3: Lightweight Hydration

XO Curls Hydrating Conditioner (Flax Seeds, Hibiscus, Lavender, Chamomile)

• Detangles curls and restores moisture.
  

• Leaves hair soft but not weighed down.

Step 4: Leave-In Conditioner

XO Curls Leave-In Conditioner (Flax Seeds, Brahmi, Olive Squalane, Argan Oil)

• Keeps curls hydrated between washes.
  

• Brahmi strengthens roots for natural lift at the scalp.

Step 5: Curl Defining Gel

XO Curls All Day Definition Gel (Flax Seeds, Avocado, Nettle, Argan Oil)

• Creates a soft gel cast to hold curls in shape.
  

• Prevents volume from turning into frizz.

Styling Tips to Prevent Flat Curls

• Flip and diffuse upside down for extra lift.
  

• Scrunch instead of brushing—brushing breaks curl clumps.
  

• Use root clips while drying to create natural volume.
  

• Don’t overload products—start small and build up.

Day 2 & 3 Refresh for Volume

Flat curls don’t always need a full wash. Instead, refresh them with:

• Spritz of water + leave-in mix for hydration.
  

• Pea-sized amount of gel scrunched in for definition.
  

• Fluffing roots with fingers to bring back bounce.

Final Thoughts

Flat curls don’t have to be your reality. With the right balance of lightweight hydration, curl-friendly products, and styling tricks, your curls can look as bouncy on Day 3 as they did on wash day.

For a deeper dive into volume and frizz balance, explore our full curly hair volume guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why does my curly hair always look flat at the roots?
This often happens due to product buildup or heavy conditioners. Root clipping and lightweight leave-ins can help lift curls.

2. Can over-conditioning really make curls limp?
Yes. While curls need hydration, too much conditioner coats strands and weighs them down. Use lightweight formulas like XO Curls Hydrating Conditioner.

3. Should I use oil on my curls if I want volume?
Avoid heavy oils after washing—they weigh curls down. Instead, use XO Curls Pre-Wash Oil before shampoo for scalp health and elasticity.

4. How do I refresh flat curls without re-washing?
Spritz with water + leave-in, scrunch, and add a small touch of gel. This revives bounce without buildup.

5. Will cutting layers help with flat curls?
Yes. Layers reduce weight and allow curls to spring up. Blunt cuts, on the other hand, make curls look flat.

6. Is gel necessary for volume?
Yes. A lightweight gel like XO Curls All Day Definition Gel locks curl shape while preventing frizz from puffing up.