How to Get Thick, Curly Hair

Achieving long-lasting hair volume is about how you style your hair but also about the formulas you choose. Using hair care products that are specifically formulated to boost volume without weighing down your curls is the first step to success.

Choose a Volumizing Shampoo and Conditioner

Just like with any hair type, the foundation of a great hair routine starts in the shower. Look for a lightweight volume shampoo and conditioner. Avoid products that are too heavy or contain a lot of moisturizing oils, which can weigh down your curls and make them look flat. Instead, opt for formulas that cleanse your hair thoroughly and add natural volume.

Tip: Apply your shampoo directly to your scalp and gently massage it in to remove product buildup and oil. When it comes to your conditioner, apply it from the mid-lengths to the ends of your hair, keeping it away from the roots to prevent weighing them down.

Use a Volumizing Mousse

A volumizing mousse is a curly-haired person’s best friend. Unlike gels or creams, a mousse is much lighter and can provide hold and lift without a sticky feel. A mousse can define your curls while also giving them the boost they need to look full and bouncy. To apply, start with a small, palm-sized amount and work it evenly through damp hair from roots to ends. For extra root lift, massage a bit more mousse directly into your scalp, then gently scrunch your curls to enhance their natural shape before drying. 

When it comes to adding volume, it is important to understand which ingredients can make the biggest impact. One of them gaining attention for its volumizing benefits is collagen.

Collagen is a protein that naturally occurs in the body, but it can also be found in hair care products that help strengthen and improve the hair’s structure. Collagen molecules are unique because they can bond to the hair cuticle, filling in any porous spots, and adding thickness to each strand. This process plumps the hair from within, making it feel and look fuller.

Look for products that contain hydrolyzed collagen, as this form is broken down into smaller, more easily absorbed particles. Adding a collagen-infused hair care product to your routine can provide a foundation of strength and volume for your curls, leading to longer-lasting results.

Once you have prepped your curls with the right products, it is time to move on to the styling techniques that really make them stand out. The way you dry and style your curls plays a major role in how much volume you can achieve – and using a diffuser is one of the most effective methods.

Diffuse Your Curls for a Major Lift

Using a diffuser is one of the best ways to get incredible hair volume and curl definition. It attaches to your blow-dryer and spreads the airflow evenly to dry curls without creating frizz or disturbing their natural pattern. 

Start with a low heat and low speed setting to prevent heat damage. Flip your head upside down or to the side to lift your roots away from the scalp, then gently place sections of your hair into the diffuser bowl, bringing it up toward your scalp. Hold for a few seconds before moving to the next section, repeating until your curls are about 80% dry. Avoid over-drying to keep frizz at bay, and finish with a cool shot of air to lock in your shape and smooth the cuticle for extra shine.

The Pineapple Method for Overnight Volume

The pineapple method is a popular overnight technique for preserving curls and adding volume. It is easy and prevents your curls from getting flattened while you sleep. 

To “pineapple” your hair, gather it into a high, loose ponytail on top of your head using a soft, fabric scrunchie. The goal is to keep the ponytail loose enough not to leave creases but secure enough to stay in place. This way, your curls rest above your pillow instead of being crushed underneath your head. 

In the morning, release the ponytail, gently shake out your curls, and enjoy instant lift and refreshed volume.

Sometimes you need a little boost on the go. The following quick fixes are perfect for reviving curls and adding volume between wash days.

Use a Pick to Lift Your Roots

A hair pick is a classic tool for creating instant lift in curly hair. Designed to raise the roots without disrupting your curl pattern, this helps refresh volume fast. 

Gently insert the pick at the roots and lift upward, avoiding combing through the entire curl length to prevent frizz. This simple method is ideal for thick, curly hair that needs extra lift at the crown.

Tease Your Roots (Gently!)

For an effective volume boost, try lightly backcombing your roots. Using a fine-tooth comb, take a small section at the crown and hold it straight up. Use a few short, downward strokes to tease at the root, creating a soft cushion of volume. 

Then, smooth the top layer with your fingers to conceal the teased section and finish with a light mist of hairspray to keep your style in place.

The final step to achieving long-lasting volume is making sure your style actually stays put. Look for a lightweight hairspray or texturizing mist that locks in shape without weighing curls down. A flexible-hold hairspray helps maintain volume and curl definition while keeping movement natural, so your hair never feels stiff or crunchy. 

On day two (or three), reach for a volumizing dry shampoo to absorb excess oil and add instant lift at the roots, reviving your curls with minimal effort.

Ultimately, long-lasting volume in curly hair comes down to consistency. With the right products, collagen-infused formulas, and a few smart styling techniques, you can create curls that stay full, soft, and bouncy from morning to night. Celebrate your thick, beautiful curls and let their natural volume take center stage.