Curlies, gather round! We’re so back for 2026 — as if we ever left! Last year was another pivotal one for curls — full of deeper care awareness, texture-positive styling and smarter routines that truly respect natural movement. Let’s keep the good vibes going as I tell you about what I think you should keep in your 2026 curl routine.
Scalp Care Is (still) the New Skin Care
One of the biggest movements we saw in 2025 was the rise of scalp-first routines that treat the scalp like skincare, not an afterthought. Upside-down deep scalp massages, oiling, detoxing — pretty much the whole nine-step skincare routine, except now on the top of your head. This definitely shouldn’t be a momentary trend! It’s evolved into a core part of healthy curl care for a lot of Curlies — and it deserves a permanent place in your routine going into 2026!
Top Recommendations:
- Clarifying Shampoo
- Deep Conditioning Treatment or Too Shea! Extra Moisturizing Conditioner
- Stimulating Scalp Massage Oil
- Scalp Massage Brush
Hollywood Hair
The idea of looser, lived-in, day 2/3 curls, effortless waves and heat-free styling that enhances what you already have went BIG — pun intended — last year and shows no sign of slowing down. Whether you’re brushing out curls and adding a bit of pomade for a classic Hollywood look or using a cream based styler like Confident Coils Styling Solution for big but defined & frizz free curls, this trend can become a signature look for years to come!
Top Recommendations:
Heat-Free Everything!
One of my personal favorite trends for Curlies this year was an emphasis on heat protection and alternatives! Using low-temperature oils to seal and lock in moisture as well as protection against heat tools has never been cooler. We also saw a bunch of D.I.Y methods of at-home blowouts for not only looser curls, but tighter coils as well. A few large and medium-sized rollers, hairspray or gel, meticulous sectioning and patience are all you need to achieve salon-styled hair without using any heat on your curls. It’s worth preventing heat damage, I promise!
Top Recommendations:
Not Really a Trend, but Maybe Worth Trying
Bolder silhouettes like pixie cuts for curls are gaining buzz and shorter curly cuts have a refreshed place in 2026, but whether that’s your personal look depends on what you want. A big cut can be a really good reset for damaged curls, too! I got a mullet a couple years ago and, albeit not my best haircut, but my curls have seriously never looked better. Now.
Ultimately, 2026 isn’t about chasing every trend — it’s about integrating what works for healthy, touchably soft curls without compromising texture or health. The main “trend” you should keep is the education, the self-care mindset and the celebration of natural curls. Everything else? Use it if it supports your curl goals! Because always remember: you have the right to remain curly!