Why Your Curls Feel “Off” at Week 6 (And How to Fix It Without Buying New Products)

If Your Hair Feels Heavy and Dry — You’re Not Imagining It

Around week 5–7 after a curl cut, many clients notice:

• Dry ends

• Limp or undefined curls

• Frizz that doesn’t respond to product

• Hair that feels coated but thirsty

This is not damage — it’s usually hydration imbalance.

What’s Actually Happening

Over time:

• Styling products accumulate

• Water absorption decreases

• Curls lose elasticity

• Definition drops before shape does

Hydration issues often show up before your haircut wears out.

The Fix: Squish to Condish

This technique reintroduces water into the hair shaft — where curls actually get their bounce.

How to Do It

1. Shampoo as usual

2. Apply conditioner generously

3. Add water with your hands

4. Scrunch upward toward the scalp

5. You should hear a soft squishing sound

6. Rinse partially — not completely

That sound means hydration is entering the hair.

Why This Works

Water is the primary moisturizing agent for hair.
Conditioner helps seal it in — but it cannot replace water.

This method:

• Improves curl elasticity

• Restores definition

• Reduces frizz

• Prevents unnecessary product switching

Signs You Need This (Instead of New Products)

✔ Hair feels coated but dry
✔ Definition doesn’t last
✔ Ends feel rough
✔ Curls look dull

These are hydration cues — not shopping cues.

When to Reset Instead

If squish-to-condish doesn’t help after 2–3 washes:

• You may need a clarifying wash

• Or you may be approaching your 12-week shape refresh window

Both are normal parts of curl maintenance.

Why We Teach This

• Education prevents frustration.

• Frustration leads to impulse product buying.

• Impulse buying leads to buildup.

We’d rather you understand your hair than fight it.