If you have curly hair and live in India, you know the struggle is real-heat, humidity, hard water, pollution. But wash day doesn't have to be overwhelming or time-consuming. With the right steps and the right products, it can be a self-care ritual that leaves your curls bouncy, defined, and nourished.
Let’s break down the ideal Indian wash day routine for curly hair, featuring the Ashba Botanics curl care system to make the process smoother and more effective.
Step 1: Pre-Poo or Scalp Oil Massage (Optional but Beneficial)
Why: This step helps nourish the scalp, reduce dryness, and prevent excessive stripping during shampooing.
How to Do It:
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Apply a light layer of oil to your scalp.
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Massage gently for 5–10 minutes to stimulate blood flow.
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Leave it on for 30 minutes to an hour.
Bonus: You can wrap your head in a warm towel for deeper penetration.
Step 2: Gentle Cleansing
Why: Many Indian cities have hard water and pollution, which leads to scalp buildup and dry curls. Cleansing helps reset your scalp without stripping natural oils.
What to Use:
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On regular wash days: Ashba Botanics Hydrating Shampoo – sulfate-free, gentle, and perfect for frequent washes.
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Once every 10–15 days: Ashba Botanics Clarifying Shampoo – to deep clean and remove buildup from oiling or heavy styling products.
How to Use:
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Focus on the scalp. Let the lather run through the lengths instead of scrubbing the curls directly.
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Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
Step 3: Condition & Detangle
Why: Conditioning helps restore moisture and makes detangling easier.
What to Use:
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Ashba Botanics Nourishing Conditioner – formulated for dry, curly hair and works well even in humid Indian weather.
How to Use:
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Apply from mid-length to ends.
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Finger detangle or use a wide-tooth comb.
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Let it sit for 3–5 minutes before rinsing.
Tip: If your hair feels extra dry or has been exposed to sun/pollution, consider a deep conditioning session with Ashba's Deep Treatment Mask once a week.
Step 4: Leave-In Conditioner
Why: This is a critical step for Indian curly hair as it helps maintain hydration, reduce frizz, and protect against environmental stressors.
What to Use:
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Ashba Botanics Leave-In Conditioner – lightweight, hydrating, and perfect for Indian climates.
How to Use:
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Apply to soaking wet or damp hair, section by section.
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Focus on mid-lengths and ends.
Step 5: Define & Style
Why: Styling products help hold your curl pattern and prevent frizz throughout the day.
What to Use:
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For soft hold: Ashba Botanics Curl Styling Serum
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For stronger hold: Ashba Botanics Curl Defining Gel or Flaxseed Curling Custard
How to Use:
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Glaze the gel over your hair or rake in the gel.
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Use the scrunching method to enhance curl shape.
Optional: Use the “praying hands” method to smooth product over your hair, then scrunch.
Step 6: Drying Techniques
Why: The way you dry your hair can make or break your curl definition.
Options:
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Air-dry: Best if you have time.
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Diffuse: Great for volume and faster drying.
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Plop with a cotton t-shirt or microfiber towel: Helps reduce frizz and enhance definition.
Step 7: Break the Cast (If Using Gel)
If your gel leaves a cast (a crunchy feeling), simply scrunch it out with dry hands or a tiny bit of oil once your hair is 100% dry. This will leave you with soft, bouncy curls.
Extra Tips for Indian Curly Girls:
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Avoid hard water: If possible, install a shower filter. Hard water can make curls dry and brittle.
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Silk pillowcases or bonnets: Reduce frizz and maintain definition overnight.
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Don’t skip deep conditioning: Especially important in cities with high pollution or extreme weather.
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Protective styling: On days you don’t want to wear your curls out, try pineapples, low buns, or braids.
Conclusion
A successful wash day routine sets the tone for the entire week. It’s not about piling on products it’s about layering the right ones in the right way. With Ashba Botanics' curl-friendly, clean, and effective products, your wash day can become a celebration of your natural hair instead of a chore.
Embrace the process, and your curls will thank you—glossier, healthier, and more defined with every wash!