Ever wondered why some Instagram curls look so organized and defined? That’s the magic of curl training—and it’s not just for influencers. Whether you’re a beginner or a few years into your curly journey, this post will help you understand how curl training works, when to do it, and how to make it part of your routine.
2 Easy Ways to Train Your Curls
- Finger Coiling
- Two-Strand Twists
| When to Do It | Finger Coiling | Two-Strand Twists |
| Deep Conditioning | ✅ | ✅ |
| Styling (Before Gel) | ✅ | |
| Spot Refreshes | ✅ | |
| Prepoo with Oil | ✅ | |
| Protective Styles/Updos | ✅ |
How I Got Started with Curl Training
I began my curly journey in 2017. Inspired by @hif3licia, I started training my curls in January 2018 by making two-strand twists with my deep conditioner. Then I discovered finger coiling—and I never looked back.
Much like swimming or driving, curl training takes practice. It took me 3 months to get the technique right. But I stuck with it, and now my curls fall into place naturally, even with no product! My wash days are easier, and my curls stay clumped. That’s the top benefit of curl training: less manipulation, more consistent curls.
Wash days got simpler; life got easier. I want this for you too. Here are a few ways to incorporate the training…
Where to Start: Curl Training in Each Phase
Beginner Tip
Start during conditioning (rinse-out or deep conditioner). Deep conditioners and hair masks offer better slip, making it easier to coil or twist. Once you see results, you’ll be motivated to keep going!
Curl Training at Prepoo Phase
▶️ Watch Prepoo Curl Training Video
This is ideal for coarse, color-treated, or grey hair—not fine or low-density hair.
- Section your hair, detangle and seperate curls gently
- Spray a little water, then apply oil to seal in hydration
- Brush and twist each section
- Wear a shower cap for 10–20 minutes (overnight for extra dry hair like bleached hair)
Deep Conditioning Phase
- Clarify first for best results
- Rake deep conditioner in small sections
- Brush to form curl clumps
- Finger coil or twist each clump
- Use a shower cap for 20 minutes
- Rinse out using the Squish to Condish method
🌀 Yes, water may unravel the coils—but remember, you’re teaching your hair a habit. Over time, your hair will revert to its natural pattern.
Which side do you think did better?
- I make two-strand twist when using “thicker“ deep conditioners (DC) or with my Bonding treatments.
- You can finger coil when using thinner consistency DC for better slip
Pro Tips for Curl Training at Styling Phase
- Hair must be detangled and wet
- Apply a coin-sized amount of leave-in or curl cream
- Part your hair either side ways, or half-up half-down. Finger coil in small sections to stay organized.
- Avoid using gel while coiling—most gels don’t offer enough slip
- Scrunch or apply gel after coiling
- Diffuse to dry for best definition and bounce.
I don’t recommend you finger coil with hair gel because not all gels are moisturizing. Some gels can cause flash drying which may discourage you from trying this again or worse, cause breakage!
Helpful Tips:
- Use any product with slip and/or add water to get more slip.
- When in doubt, use a brush first to create “potential” curl-family-clumps.
- For longer hair, use a different technique. Watch @thekirstyfiles highlights.
- Pulse and scrunch your coils to reinforce curl pattern, but be gentle.
- If scrunching breaks your curls, DON’T SCRUNCH next time.
- If it uncoils, don’t panic. Try a different direction; the natural direction will never unravel.
I gave it approximately 50 tries before I saw real results! Real results, as in, NOT having to do anything and curls falling in an organised fashion – effortless!
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does it take to finger coil? It takes me 6 minutes to do my entire head. Twists take even less time.
- Finger coil on wet or damp hair? Wet hair gives better slip. Avoid dry coiling—it can cause breakage.
- Can I finger coil with oil? Not ideal. Use conditioner-based products with slip for training. Stick to two-strand twists for dry or damp hair.
- What’s the right curl direction? If your coils unravel, try the other direction. Curls naturally fall a certain way—find it.
- How much hair should I coil? It depends on the definition you want. You can also train just the front or frizzy bits for a refreshed look.
- What if I want volume? Randomly train sections and leave the rest free. Avoid heavy products if you want bounce.
- How do I sleep with finger coils? Make sure hair is fully dry and wear a satin bonnet to protect definition.
- How do I find my curl clump families? Apply conditioner to soaking wet hair without brushing. Observe how it falls—those are your curl families. You can also brush style and discover the curl map!
Read about more curl training myths here.
What If You Have Wavy Hair?
Finger coiling and twisting might not work well for wavy hair. My daughters have wavy textures, and we’ve found other methods that work better.
Tip from my curl friend Julie: – “My wavy curls usually unravel when I try so if I have really wonky bits I add a bit of product and pin curl them until dry. I can do single twists that air dry into big barrel curls as a protective style though” ~ @juliedeccentricities
Finger Coiling Is NOT for You If…
- You already have consistent definition
- You have fine, low-density, or Type 2 waves (other techniques may suit you better)
Best Products for Curl Training
You’ll want products with slip:
- Deep conditioners
- Leave-in conditioners
- Creams
- Gels
Spiritual Takeaway
Remember the story in John 4 about the royal official? He believed first, walked the journey, and then saw the miracle.
Curl training is just like that.
Believe it will work.
Show up consistently.
You’ll see the transformation.
Experiment to explore what works for you.
Notice some of the best Instagram beauties have finger coiled their hair at some point. Let no one discourage you from trying it today. Here are my favorite videos for more inspiration.
Finger coils on Type 3 Hair
Kirsty shows the difference here – in the first photo she has finger coiled hair; the second shows her with minimal products and no coiling! I’m SHOOK.
Finger coils on Transitioning Hair
Sayria Jade is total hair goals! She uses the Denman Brush first to clump curls, making it easier to find the clumps “to coil”.
Here’s Bianca too!
Want Help?
📚 Check out my Curly Hair Products Guide
📌 Pin this post so you don’t lose it!
Tag me @honestlizhere or #HonestLiz if you try curl training! I’d love to see your results.