Irish Curls, Uncovered

Irish Curls are blowing up on social media, leaving many wondering if they’re a curly girl or not. But let’s get down to it – what are they? 

Irish Curls are curls that are wavy or curly underneath but straight on top. This hair pattern is not only fascinating but also quite common among people with mixed hair textures, especially among those with Irish or Celtic roots. This unique combination can create challenges but won’t stop you from achieving those gorgeous styles. Let's explore why this happens, how to work with it and tips to help you embrace the best of both textures! 

Why do people have Irish curls? 

Irish Curls stem from genetics, however, can be developed through damage. For those of Irish or Celtic descent, it’s common to have a mix of textures as the hair follicles themselves may vary, creating a combination of straight and curly strands. You can sometimes confuse Irish Curls with curls that are damaged, as damaged curls usually don't hold or define like undamaged curls. The top of the hair is more likely to be damaged, as it is the most exposed, with the under layers being protected. This will result in waves and curls staying healthier underneath, creating the effect of Irish Curls.

Irish Curls stem from genetics; however, they can also develop through damage from bleaching or heat damage. For those of Irish or Celtic descent, it’s common to have a mix of textures as the hair follicles themselves may vary, creating a combination of straight and curly strands. The top layers of hair are more exposed and prone to damage, while the under layers remain better protected. 

Styling Tips for Irish Curls 

1. Encourage definition through styling products 

To bring out the curls underneath, try using lightweight curl-enhancing products such as a mousse, gel or curl cream on the lower layers of hair. Our Curl Jelly would work perfectly as it has a medium hold and will keep those curls looking strong and defined all day. Make sure to avoid thick, heavy products as these can weigh down the straighter strands on top. 

Apply the product to damp hair and scrunch the bottom layers. Let it air-dry or use a diffuser for added volume to the curls without disturbing the straight top layer. 

Products:

Curl Jelly Scrunching Jelly – Our No.1 Best Seller perfect for de-frizz and defining those curls. 

Curl Foam Anti Frizz Styling Mousse – This product is designed for a flexible hold and hydrated voluminous curls. 

2. Use Heat-Free Curling Methods for the Top Layer

For a consistent curl pattern throughout your hair, try a heatless curling method on the straighter sections of your hair. Methods such as overnight curls, hair rollers or braids are gentle ways to add curls to the top layer without damaging your hair with heat. You could use our Boho Beach Waves Coconut Oil Texture Spray to enhance the curls for maximum volume. 

Products:

Boho Beach Waves Coconut Oil Texture Spray – Perfect for bringing volume and texture to your curls. 

Heatless Curls Curler Set – Designed to protect your hair whilst giving you voluminous waves. 

3. Use Moisturising Products 

Curly hair usually needs more moisture than straight hair. Use a lightweight leave-in conditioner such as our Banana Butter Leave In Conditioner for the curls, while keeping the straighter top layer light with a volumizing or hydrating shampoo that won’t weigh it down. 

Curly hair typically requires more moisture than straight hair. Apply a lightweight leave-in conditioner, like our Banana Butter Leave-In Conditioner, to nourish the curls. For the straighter top layer, opt for a volumizing or hydrating shampoo that adds moisture without weighing it down. 

Products:

Banana Butter Leave-In Conditioner – Designed to bring bounce and shine back to textured and frizzy hair, repairing any out-of-control curls. 

Curl Jelly Wash Shampoo – The perfect gentle shampoo to cleanse your curls. 

 

4. Try a Layered Cut to Blend Textures 

Sometimes products alone cannot give you that desired look, and a haircut is the answer for easy styling of your curls! Hairstylist’s can cut your hair in layers that encourage a seamless blend between the curly and straight sections. Layers will help to distribute the volume evenly, giving the curls underneath a chance to shine whilst softening the transition to the top layer, creating that dreamy, desired look.