How to Style Jheri Curls

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Ngày cập nhật gần nhất: 15/11/2025

Content

Classic Jheri Curls

Chemical-Free Method

Classic Jheri Curls

Natural Curls

Sources and Citations

Do you still remember Michael Jackson's legendary hairstyle? Ever wondered how to blend this classic curly look with today's fashion trends? The Jheri curl was once a symbol of vitality and style. However, maintaining this hairstyle requires a complex process. If you desire smooth, glossy curls, you can achieve it by using a combination of nourishing products that soften your hair and help the curls last longer. Continue reading to learn how to create classic Jheri curls or opt for a chemical-free method to achieve voluminous, trendy curls.

Steps

Classic Jheri Curls

Purchase a Jheri curl kit. You can find this at most drugstores or beauty supply shops. A complete kit should include the following: a bottle of hair softener, a solution for setting the curls, and curl rods. Additionally, you’ll need an activator solution (also known as Jheri curl juice, which keeps the curls moist and tight) and a conditioning cap.

Classic Jheri curls require the use of multiple chemicals, which can damage your hair over time. If used improperly or excessively, your hair may become dry and brittle, and the roots may even break. Due to the high risk of severe hair damage, many people abandoned Jheri curls by the mid-90s. If you prefer a chemical-free Jheri curl method, proceed to the next section.
You can achieve the desired Jheri curls at a professional salon instead of doing it yourself. Styling your own hair requires skill and knowledge. If you choose to get this style at a salon, remember to return regularly for touch-ups and maintenance.

Softening the hair with a relaxer. Follow the instructions to properly apply the hair softening solution (included in the Jheri curl kit). Gently apply the solution evenly across your hair and leave it on for the specified time. This step loosens your natural curls, preparing your hair for the curling process.

Use the curl rods and prepared solution to roll each section of hair. As per the instructions, saturate your hair with the curling solution, divide it into small sections, and wrap each section around a curl rod. Ensure each rod is neatly placed and use plenty of the curling solution during the process.

Leave the curl rods in your hair for the recommended time. Avoid leaving them in too long, as the chemicals in the solution can damage your hair if overused.

Apply the curl activator to set the curls. Gently work the activator into your hair and use your hands to define the curls. It’s crucial to keep your hair moisturized throughout the day; otherwise, it may become dry and brittle. Use the activator at night and wear a plastic cap to prevent tangling while you sleep.

Chemical-Free Method

Use natural, refreshing shampoos. Many shampoos contain sulfates, alcohol, and resins, which are unsuitable for most African-American hair, often leaving it dry and prone to breakage. Opting for herbal, natural shampoos can help restore hair health, leaving it strong and your curls soft and manageable.

Apply a leave-in conditioner. Moisturizing is key to maintaining curl definition. While your hair is still damp, use a conditioner enriched with natural ingredients like shea butter and argan oil. These moisturizers help keep your hair soft and smooth.

Divide your hair into small sections. This makes it easier to style each curl. Each section should be treated individually. Use large clips to separate and hold the hair in place.

Apply curl-enhancing cream to the first section. Natural hair creams with nourishing ingredients will make your curls shinier and softer. Use your hands and a wide-tooth comb to evenly distribute the cream through each strand.

Twist your hair. Split each initial section into three smaller parts. Gently twist each part, then braid the three sections together.

Use a curl rod to roll the twisted hair. Start from the bottom and work your way up to the crown, securing each curl in place.

Repeat the process with the remaining hair. Twist and roll each section, one by one, using the curl rods to hold them in place.

Leave the curl rods in overnight. Wear a protective cap while sleeping to maintain the style and protect your hair.

Remove the curl rods and moisturize your hair with oils. Apply a mix of coconut oil and argan oil to your hands, then gently work it through each curl. Carefully unravel the rods and use a comb to detangle the curls. Your hair will now look shiny, voluminous, and well-moisturized, achieving the perfect modern Jheri curl look.