Help: Under-layer shrinks more than top

Calendula

Forgive me if I'm not using the correct terminology, but the under-layer of my hair (is there a name for that?) shrinks more than the layer on top, so it makes the bottom few inches of my hair look really thin.

I don't know if it's a different curl type or just that the hair on top has lost some curl from sun exposure, etc.

I think they're both pretty, but since I want my hair to look longer, I would like to maximize the length of the under-layer so it matches. My stylist suggested putting metal clips on the bottom of the curls I want to stretch as they dry, but that's a lot of curls!

Currently, I put KCKT onto my wet hair, comb it through, scrunch out excess water with a flour-sack towel and sit under a hard-bonnet dryer until it's nearly dry. When I have the patience, I clip at my part before drying.

Suggestions? I'd appreciate any advice!

tricello

When I first got my hair cut as I started going curly, I had this problem. For me, it is a combination of 1) my hair being finer underneath so there is less weight to pull it down; 2) my hair hitting my collar which causes the underneath hair to bunch up; and 3) a big nasty cowlick near the nape of my neck. My fix was to take two duck bill clips – stretch my underneath hair down and put one on the right and left side to hold it in place. Then I would diffuse the area for about 5 minutes. That helped A LOT.

Now that my hair has grown in a couple of inches, there is enough weight to pull down on its own – except for the nasty cowlick which still puffs up my hair unless I tame it.

Calendula

Thanks so much, Tricello! I think the collar thing applies to me too. I never thought of it.

I will try your suggestion tomorrow.

kathymack

Top layer is called the canopy. Your assumption about it being less curly because of exposure (not only sun, but wind and other elements, too) is correct.

I find that frequent haircuts help a lot. My fine/low porosity hair loves protein. I do at least one PT a week and use a lot of products with protein. You might find that helps a bit. Keeping the moisture/protein balance right helps, too. I use minute amounts of really rich products, in addition to moisturizing PTs, so don't need to DT.

My hair didn't find KCKT moisturizing enough. Using a protein and more moisturizing products might get the curl to match--but the other way around. Your canopy may become healthier and match the underneath!

Calendula

Thanks, kathymack!