This New Year Curly Routine is the one I’m carrying into 2026 — simple, hydrating, and easy to maintain. My hair care routine has taught me something important this year: patience.
For a long time, my hair felt like an accessory. The question was always, “What do I do with my hair?” How do I style it, fix it, make it look like something. Somewhere along the way, that mindset shifted. Now I see my hair as something that doesn’t need perpetual upkeep — it’s just part of my identity. Effortless care. Protective styles. And it’s good. This New Year reset isn’t about doing more—it’s about doing what actually fits my life.
What I’m keeping & letting go going into 2026
Hair doesn’t require constant modification. Outside of wash days, conditioning, and styling when I go out—it just needs intentional moments.
I’m keeping:
- Routines that remove decision fatigue
- Softness over perfection
- Habits that make my hair feel manageable, not controlled
I’m letting go:
- Goal lengths
- Constant comparison
- Treating my hair like a project
My New Year Curly Routine
This winter-friendly approach focuses on hydration, scalp care, and low-effort styling that fits everyday life.
Clarify (once a month)
Especially in winter, buildup happens faster than we realize. Clarifying once a month keeps my scalp comfortable and my curls responsive without stripping them dry.
Deep hydration (weekly reset)
This is non-negotiable for me. I do a deep conditioning or DIY mask once a week, usually with one of my favs like the Manuka Honey hair mask, especially after trims or when my ends feel tired. I leave it on, take my time, and let my hair soften properly. This one habit changed everything this year.
Wash day rhythm
Since becoming a mom, I love routines—they help me think less. My wash day stays predictable, and I’ve shared my full Simple Wash Day Routine here. It’s built around a gentle shampoo, hydrating conditioner or leave-in, a microfiber towel, and a satin scrunchie while drying. Quick and practical.
Hair Styling
I’ve stopped chasing perfect definition. I can’t be bothered dividing my hair into a million sections and defining each curl. My goal now is soft curls, touchable texture, and minimal manipulation. I keep styling lightweight and flexible, so my hair still feels like mine.
Night routine
Small habits, big difference: satin pillowcase, loose pineapple or braids, light refresh in the morning if needed. That’s it. I prepare for the hair I want in the morning. If I don’t want knots, I finger-detangle and do a braid.
Weekly scalp & growth rituals
2026 will be my scalp-care era.
I’ll keep it simple: scalp massage, occasional oiling, and DIY masks when my hair asks for it. I won’t overdo it — I’ll just stay consistent. Your scalp is your growth foundation, but it doesn’t need pressure to work.
Beauty rituals I’m bringing into 2026
This year, beauty feels softer and more intentional.
Morning (5 minutes)
Hydrating skincare. SPF. Lip balm. Quick hair refresh. Enough to feel put together—not overwhelmed.
Soft winter makeup
My everyday look is minimal: powder, blush, gloss, brows, mascara. Effortless, comfortable, and easy to maintain.
My travel & everyday pouch
I try to keep a few essentials within reach — in my bag or in the car. Mini skincare, a satin scrunchie, lip balm, a mini perfume, and a small hair brush. It makes on-the-go resets feel calm instead of stressful.
Quiet self-care rituals
Body lotion and self-massage in the evening. Warm showers. Hair mask Sundays. A few minutes of silence when I can. Lately, I’ve also been applying castor oil to my brows and lashes in the evening, using a clean transparent mascara tube. It’s become a small, calming habit I actually look forward to. Nothing fancy. Just grounding.
Going into 2026
Going into 2026, I want other women to know this: your hair is not a problem. The expectations are. Confidence isn’t comparison. It’s looking at yourself and accepting what you see. Who cares if someone’s hair is thicker or thinner than yours? Defined ringlets, loose waves, or a full fro — these are just details. No one’s hair looks the same every day, and it doesn’t need to. This New Year Reset isn’t about becoming someone new. It’s about finally letting go—and enjoying what already works.
A few things from my routine
- SheaMoisture Manuka Honey & Mafura Oil Mask — 🇺🇸 Amazon US | 🇫🇷 Amazon FR
- Castor oil (brows & lashes) — 🇺🇸 Amazon US | 🇫🇷 Amazon FR
- Satin pillowcase — 🇺🇸 Amazon US | 🇫🇷 Amazon FR
If you’re starting your own reset this year, I’d love to hear what you’re keeping — and what you’re letting go. <3
