As someone with straight hair, I love utilizing hot tools to give myself curls. Unfortunately, I used to run into the problem of having limp, lifeless strands by noon [1]. I would go through the proper process: applying a heat-protecting product, letting the curls cool, and finishing off with hairspray [2]. It wasn't until I left out one key step in my haircare routine that I realized what needed to change.

One day, while washing my hair, I squeezed my conditioner bottle to find that there was nothing left. I had no choice but to skip out for the day. Once my hair was air-dried, I went on to curl it like I usually would.

I immediately observed that the waves were bouncier as I wrapped each piece around the barrel [3]. Once I'd finished styling, I went on with my day. When I came back home from work, I saw that my locks looked perfect, as if they were untouched. I even slept on them and had defined curls the next morning.

I couldn't believe it — even when I woke up on day three, the curls were still there. I quickly realized that my accidental conditioner-free wash had altered my usual results. Even though conditioners are great for quenching your strands [4], they can also weigh down your hair. The product may even prevent you from having volume and body. By leaving this step out when I plan to curl my hair, I have more buoyancy and life in my tresses. My curls truly last for three days with a little help from hairspray.

It is important to condition, so when I'm not curling my hair, I use a deeply moisturizing hair mask to make up for the days I skip. My locks are still very healthy and shiny. If you find that your styling is falling flat, I suggest only shampooing before adding curls. It made a huge difference for me, and now I consider it to be one of my best beauty secrets.