Friday Faves: My Ride-Or-Die Product for Dreamy Curls (and Bouncy Blowouts!)
- Lisa@NorthStarMakeup
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
Welcome back to Friday Faves, your weekly dose of NorthStar Luxe insights! This week, we're diving deep into a topic near and dear to my heart (and head!): hair, specifically the magic of curly hair.
Growing up, all I ever wanted was a head full of gorgeous curls. My mom, sister, and dad all had these beautiful, bouncy spirals, and I, with my stubbornly straight locks, envied them fiercely. I even tried a perm in fifth grade – trust me, it was not cute and a monumental mistake!
Then, something incredible happened the summer before eighth grade. One day, I stepped out of the shower, and to my absolute astonishment, my hair was curly! I was ecstatic! What I quickly learned, however, is that curly hair isn't just a gift; it's a glorious, sometimes challenging, commitment. It requires care, the right products, and a routine that respects its unique nature.
After years of trial and error (and believe me, there were many errors!), I discovered my ultimate holy grail: the Paul Mitchell Sculpting Foam. This isn't just a product; it's a game-changer. And if I'm looking for extra body and bounce, I reach for the Paul Mitchell Voluminous Sculpting Foam.
As a professional hairstylist, esthetician, and makeup artist with over a decade in the industry, I've had my hands on countless products. I've used them on myself, on bridal parties, for photoshoots, and for everyday transformations. Through it all, this foam remains my absolute ride-or-die. Whether I'm creating a stunning, voluminous blowout or defining a client's natural waves and curls, this product consistently performs, even under the pressure of a busy wedding day.
As a mom of four, a busy hairstylist, esthetician, makeup artist, and business owner, the last thing I have is hours to spend on my hair. Younger me could play with her hair for ages, but now? Efficiency is key. That's why I'm sharing my streamlined, foolproof routine to achieve my perfect curls every single time.
My NorthStar Luxe Curly Hair Routine: Wash Day Edition
Soaking Wet Start: Whether it's a full wash or just wetting my hair to refresh my curls, my hair must be soaking wet to start. No exceptions!
Shampoo: Gently cleanse.
Rinse Shampoo: Rinse thoroughly.
Double Wash Bonus Tip:Sometimes I do a double wash. If you do, use less shampoo the second time!
Conditioner: Apply your favorite conditioner.
Brush in Conditioner: While the conditioner is still in my hair, I use a brush (or a wide-tooth comb) to detangle everything. This helps distribute the product and ensures smooth curls.
Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse out all the conditioner.
Leave-In Hydration: After rinsing, I apply a dime-sized amount of leave-in conditioner. My curls get very dry, and this step is crucial for keeping them soft, hydrated, and frizz-free.
Paul Mitchell Sculpting Foam Magic: I step out of the shower, flip my head upside down, and grab a generousamount of Paul Mitchell Sculpting Foam. I distribute it evenly throughout my soaking wet hair, then continue to scrunch upwards with my hands, encouraging those curl clumps to form.
Styling Cream Seal: While my head is still upside down, I apply my favorite styling cream in the same scrunching motion, using slightly less than the sculpting foam. This helps to seal in moisture and provide extra hold.
The Towel Scrunch (My Real-Life Hack): I then take a regular towel (yes, the one I just used!) and gently scrunch upwards, absorbing excess water. I've tried the t-shirt method, but honestly, I can rarely be bothered to find a clean shirt to sacrifice, so the towel works perfectly for me!
Refreshing Your Curls: Non-Wash Day Quickie
I can only wash my hair a couple of days a week; otherwise, it turns as dry as the Sahara! On the days I don't wash, I simply re-wet my hair in the sink. If I'm styling on a non-wash day, I usually skip the leave-in conditioner, but if my hair feels particularly parched, I'll add a tiny bit. The beauty of the sculpting foam is that my curls truly last for days!
Pro Tip: For the Perfect Bouncy Blowout!
The Paul Mitchell Sculpting Foam isn't just for curls! When giving a blowout, I add a small amount of Paul Mitchell Voluminous Sculpting Foam to my client's wet hair before drying. If you want a bouncy, beautiful, long-lasting blowout, this is a secret weapon that performs wonderfully.
Seriously, if I could only pick one styling product for the rest of my life, it would be the Paul Mitchell Sculpting Foam. It's the NorthStar of my hair routine, helping me get out the door looking polished and confident, even on the busiest days.
Ready to discover your own hair NorthStar? Give this a try and let us know your favorite Paul Mitchell products!
Keep shining!
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