Hello Curlfriends. Let’s talk about something that doesn’t get enough love in the curly hair space but affects so many of us—hair loss. And I’m not talking about the normal shedding we all go through. I mean that moment when you notice your wash day hair ball is looking way too chunky, or when your edges start whispering “help me” every time you pull your puff too tight. Yep, we’re going there today.
So grab your satin bonnet, cozy up, and let’s break it all down together—how to treat hair loss on curly natural hair in a real, no-stress, girlfriend-to-girlfriend way.
Understanding Hair Loss on Curly Hair: What’s Going On?
First off, it’s totally normal to shed about 50 to 100 hairs a day. Our curly hair just makes it more noticeable because the strands like to chill together in coils before falling out, so you might see a clump after detangling. That doesn’t automatically mean you’re losing too much.
But when shedding turns to breakage, thinning, bald spots, or if you suddenly lose more hair than usual, it’s time to pause and figure out what’s really happening.
Common causes of hair loss on curly natural hair include:
- Stress and hormonal changes
- Nutritional deficiencies
- Tight hairstyles and tension (hello, snatched edges)
- Scalp conditions like dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis
- Product buildup clogging follicles
- Over-manipulation or lack of moisture
- Postpartum shedding (if you’ve recently had a baby)
Now let’s talk about how to actually fix it.
How to Fix Hair Loss.
1. Feed Your Scalp First
Your scalp is the foundation of your curls. If it’s not healthy, your hair won’t be either. Start by creating a healthy scalp care routine that clears buildup and stimulates growth.
Use a gentle cleansing shampoo at least every two weeks to remove buildup. Something like the Design Essentials Oat Protein & Henna Deep Cleansing Shampoo is perfect because it clarifies without drying out your scalp.
Massaging your scalp with a nourishing oil like the Tropic Isle Living Jamaican Black Castor Oil ought to be part of your scalp care routine. Massage it into your scalp 3–4 times a week to stimulate circulation and awaken those sleepy follicles. Trust me, your scalp will thank you. The scalp massages are not only relaxing, feel good but they do also stimulate hair growth.
2. Ditch Tight Styles and Give Your Hair a Break
Sis, if you’re constantly rocking tight ponytails, puffs, buns, or braids that pull at your edges, you’re asking for trouble. Traction alopecia is real, and once those follicles are damaged, it can be hard to bounce back.
Instead, go for looser styles like chunky twists, two strand twists, flat twists or low-tension updos. And give your edges some room to breathe. Use edge-friendly gels if you need to, like the Camille Rose Curl Maker that won’t dry them out or cause flaking.
Also, try not to over-style your hair. Let it rest. Protective styles are called “protective” for a reason but only when done right.
3. Keep Your Hair Moisturized and Strong
Dry, brittle hair snaps like twigs, and curly hair is naturally drier than straight textures. That means moisture is everything. Start with a good leave-in conditioner like the Camille Rose Curl Love Moisture Milk Leave-In Conditioner , follow up with a curl cream if you are looking to define those coils and curls then seal it in with an oil or butter. Use the LOC or LCO method depending on your hair’s porosity.
Also, balance is key. If your hair feels too soft or mushy, you may need a protein treatment to strengthen it. The Aphogee Two-Step Protein Treatment is intense but a lifesaver for hair that’s breaking.
4. Be Gentle When Detangling
Detangling curly hair is a whole workout, I know, but rushing it or ripping through knots can lead to unnecessary breakage. Always detangle with a wide-tooth comb or your fingers, starting from the ends and working up to the roots.
Do it when your hair is damp and loaded with slip, like after applying conditioner or a detangler. I love the African Pride Moisture Miracle Pre-Shampoo Hair Detangler it gives great slip and smells amazing.
5. Take Care of Your Body, Too
What’s going on inside reflects on the outside. If you’re not eating well, staying hydrated, or sleeping enough, your hair is gonna let you know. Focus on foods rich in biotin, iron, zinc, omega-3s, and protein. Leafy greens, nuts, eggs, avocados, and berries should be in regular rotation. And drink your water. No shortcuts here, babe.
If you’re still experiencing excessive hair loss despite doing everything right, talk to your doctor. It could be hormonal (like thyroid issues or PCOS) or something that needs medical attention.
6. Try a Growth-Stimulating Treatment or Serum
Sometimes we need an extra push, especially when we’re dealing with thinning edges or bald patches. The Carol’s Daughter Goddess Strength 7 Oil Blend Scalp and Hair Oil is a cult favorite for a reason. Use it on your edges and massage it in 3–4 times a week. Another gem is the Wild Growth Hair Oil. It’s thick and smells a bit strong, but it works like magic when used consistently.
7. Track Progress and Stay Consistent
Hair regrowth doesn’t happen overnight. Stay patient and consistent with your new routine. Take progress photos every 2–4 weeks so you can actually see the changes. It helps keep you motivated on the hard days when it feels like nothing is working.
Bonus Tip: Don’t Forget the Satin
Sleep with a satin bonnet or on a satin pillowcase every night. Cotton dries out your curls and causes friction, which leads to breakage. This small habit goes a long way in protecting your strands and preserving length.
Final Thoughts: You’re Not Alone
Hair loss on curly hair can feel super emotional and frustrating, but you’re definitely not alone. The good news is, with the right care, most types of hair loss can be reversed or at least managed.
Be kind to your hair. Love on it. Speak life over it. Give it the nutrients, rest, and moisture it’s asking for, and you’ll start to see a difference—little by little.
And remember, I’m rooting for you every step of the way. We’re curl sisters in this together.
