Lazy Girl’s Guide to Gorgeous Curls

Time-Saving Curly Hair Hacks

Let’s be real—some days we just don’t have the time (or energy) for a full curly hair routine. Lucky for us, there are plenty of tricks to save time while keeping your curls looking amazing. Here are my go-to hacks for lazy days or busy mornings.

1. Plopping: Your Multitasking BFF

Plopping is a game-changer when you need to do other things while your curls dry. This technique involves wrapping your hair on top of your head during styling

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• Wet plopping (with a shower cap) encourages product absorption and curl definition.

• Dry plopping is my lazy-day favorite. Wrap your hair in a long-sleeved T-shirt, let it sit for about 30 minutes, and then finish drying your curls while you tackle breakfast, emails, or literally anything else.

Microfiber towels can also speed things up, but might create a bit more frizz.

2. Hair Spray for Extra Hold

A light mist of hairspray can shave 10–15 minutes off your dry time while giving your curls a longer-lasting hold. This is perfect for those mornings when you’re in a hurry.

3. Wash Now, Style Later

Sometimes, I don’t have time to style right after washing. My trick? I wash my hair at night and style it the next day while it's still damp. This method saves time, reduces stress on my curls, and lets me experiment with different techniques.

4. Let Your Curls Evolve Naturally

The biggest time-saver might just be embracing your curls’ natural evolution. I focus on getting my best set on Day 1 and let my curls transform over the next few days. Defined curls might loosen and become more voluminous—and that’s totally okay. By Day 4 or 5, I might throw my hair in a ponytail or pop on a hat.

5. Minimalist Refreshing

I keep touch-ups simple. Instead of re-wetting all my curls, I spot-treat frizzy or misshapen pieces by dampening, finger-curling, and pinning them to dry while I get ready. Fast-drying foams are perfect for this because they don’t require much water.

6. Hats, Clips, and Accessories

Lazy-day essentials: hats, clips, and fun accessories. Hats are great for hiding areas where definition has faded, especially at the crown. Big claw clips lift hair out of your face without tension, while headbands and bobby pins can add a stylish twist to simple looks.

7. Dry Shampoo to the Rescue

Dry shampoo is a lifesaver for extending the life of your curls between washes. It adds root volume and keeps hair looking fresh, even on the busiest days.

8. Quick Updos

When time is tight, go for an easy updo: messy buns, low buns, braids, or the ever-reliable pineapple (a high, loose ponytail that keeps curls intact). For extra flair, wrap a bandanna around your pineapple and tie it in a bow—it’s effortless and cute.

With these hacks in your arsenal, you can save time, keep your curls healthy, and still look fabulous—even on your laziest days.