WHERE DID MY CURLS GO?!

[@deyaneria]

It sounds like you've become tired of all the documenting things. I don't think you are lazy, Courtney. I think you are exhausted. You're a mom, you work out, basically, run a biz, and have a house. Not to mention taking care of the house and making time for your family. I think you are tired, not lazy. Bless.

[@angelag669]

Courtney, I agree with @Brandi Schoch. You are not lazy! You are a mother and that in itself is a full time job. You take very good of your family and your house and you make time to try to take care of us as well. Taking time for yourself is not being lazy. As you always tell us, give yourself some grace.

[@tuesdaynyx]

Yep. Mom here. Can confirm. This is not lazy this is tired.

[@Irishrainy]

I’m retired at the moment (67) but I can’t even imagine working this hard on my hair when I get a job soon. I fought my curly hair for 65 years via blow drying and straightening it, but since I embraced the CGM 2 years ago it’s now curlier than it ever was. However, it’s 2c-3a with loose ringlets so it takes a lot of work to make it behave. So I completely understand her struggles. 😖

[@carlaperkins655]

Ha! I am dealing with coarse white thinning hair😜

[@melisapalermo711]

Yes, just wanted to add that I lost my curls completely when I had my first kid. 9 years later I'm trying to get it back but its changed so much.

[@amyblaine7624]

Wait I’m so glad you made this video!! My hair that used to be 3b-3a is now slowly loosening into 3a-2c. A lot of people don’t know or don’t talk about how hair texture can change at different points in our life simply due to hormonal changes. Our hormones can literally change the shape of our follicles and/or the texture. How crazy is that! Anyway, your hair is still so beautiful, and I’m endlessly thankful for your curly hair advice.

[@9melissal]

My hair used to be 3b-3c and in my late twenties inexplicably changed to 2c-3a. In some ways I miss my tighter curls but there's not really anything I can do about it.

[@jaquelyncaiello4569]

Same for me! I used to be mostly 3b and now my hair seems to be more 2c/3a with some 3b pieces. It's been very hard for me to get used to and I get really sad when I look at pics of how my hair used to be. All hair types are beautiful, it's just weird when you are so used to seeing your hair a certain way. I'm learning to embrace it, but it's honestly been a huge struggle for me.

[@ForeverFern19]

Same! I'm 51 and going through menopause. Hair has changed so much in the last 6 years..curls loosened, and hair has thinned a lot. Also, I grew out my grey and those hairs are like stick straight. I too look back at my hair when I was younger (not even that long ago) and can get so depressed that those days of glorious curls are gone. But there really is only so much you can do in the long run--so trying to embrace the changes.

[@gloryunderfoot700]

Yup. I had straight hair as a child, then it became a mixture of curly/wavy/straight at puberty, then sorta straight again through my 20s, and then full curly in my mid 30s.

[@jadevt1939]

Hair can only change like that as it grows out. 1 year of hair growth will not result in all her hair changing like this

[@apothekarya]

See this is why I just quit trying to find the perfect formula/technique/etc with my naturally wavy hair after messing around with the method for about a year. I learned some great tricks, like not using a towel, the benefits of leave-in conditioner, silk pillowcases, etc. But at the end of the day, I'm pretty low maintenance and it's just too much time to squish and apply products and diffuse and blah blah blah. As long as my hair is healthy, that's all that matters.

[@loren3220]

Same!!!! I just let it do whatever! After a year of just learning the basics to care for my hair I don’t stress over it. I have healthy hair now since I haven’t used a flat iron in over a year. That’s all that matters for me. I have a lot of other things going on so low maintenance hair is the way to go for me. 😃

[@rhl1537]

agree! I have found the perfect low maintenance routine for my hair! I only use aloe vera gel, argan oil and a shampoo bar, and of course sometimes I deep condition but only with a diy conditioner and my hair is looking super healthy!

[@apothekarya]

@@rhl1537 Ohhh thank you for reminding me about shampoo bars. I've just heard about them. What do you use?

[@deekayvixen]

Same! It was so much work to do all the things. My hair is now 2a and I’m just so over trying to emulate other people’s hair.

[@jessiestephens3943]

@@deekayvixen so true! I used to have thick albeit fine hair in my 20-40's. Now at 65, I have fine thin hair. It's a struggle to get it to curl much at all. Doesn't matter what stylers I use, it won't cooperate. So frustrating.

[@whitneybuckner2502]

Give yourself a break from all things curly girl. Take a break from all the product applications and product experimentation. Just wash and condition your hair and let her air dry with nothing in it. After a few weeks of your hair breathing from all the manipulation, you may find that it’s ready to hold a curl pattern again. You could also try some curl training after all this is done and learn to twirl the hair down the handle of a denman brush to help encourage those spirals and clumps. Good luck!

[@luckyDancer100]

My thoughts exactly.

[@AlienBabezz]

@@whitneybuckner2502 such awesome advice! I needed to hear it, thank you 💖💖

[@have3kidstoo746]

I agree 100%. Back to basics: wash, condition, towel dry and gel for me and go.

[@pratimamittal3899]

I want to lose my waves pattern can you tell something?

[@monicagroce2402]

Nurse here: thick coarse hairs can also be a sign of thyroid changes. Hormonal changes can also be a reason for excessive shed. I have experienced both of these issues. I am perimenopausal and my hair is much, much thinner than it was when I was younger. However, my hair has also gotten much curlier as I've gotten into my 40's.

[@MrsSatori70]

Monica, I am SOOOOO glad you addressed this. I'm an APRN (CNM/WHNP), and my first thoughts were either hormonal or medication changes, possibly birth control or early menopause, vitamin deficiency, or even stress. I had severe endometriosis/adenomeiosis with fibroid tomorrow and ovarian cysts on the side in my late 20s through mid 30s. I tried a 6-month course of lupron depo, and 4 months in, my stylist ran her fingers through my hair and said "have you had a health change or started a new medication?" It was coarser (which isn't coarse at all with my baby fine hair!) and much drier. It's part of the reason I use a very low dose HRT. It was Graves Disease that gave me syperstraight, thinning hair, and the thyroid ablation didn't help. Now that my thyroid hormones are stable and within normal range, my hair is wonderful (as is my skin, my mood, my energy level!) So, hehehe, Courtney, get an annual wellness physical. At the very least, it's a good way to set your mind at ease, AND, you might find out you need to correct an imbalance. AND (🤣🤣🤣), don't forget your biotin! BTW--I-ve been following your channel for the last 9 months, and I have to thank you for the great advice and the opportunity to learn how to best take care of my hair as I watch your journey. I fought frizz like crazy until I learned what that meant! So, keep the faith, and roll with the changes. Your hair is gorgeous whether you're tightly curled or loosely waved. ❤

[@daniellewetherell8609]

I'm glad hormones got mentioned. I've worn my hair curly since I was 18. I'm 41 now and menopausal with lots of gray hair. My curls have loosened a lot.

[@vickyw520]

Yes! My hair was so much coarser and less mangeable when my thyroid acted up. Also a lot of shedding. No matter what I did (hair wise), it wouldn't improve. Only getting rid of my thyroid problem helped. And it actually took a while to get 'better' curls/hair.

[@BrittanyJean88]

Omg I write my comment then read others. And I also said thyroid! Then came across your comment! Only reason I said it was cause I've dealt with it a lot. Not a nurse but wow! I wonder if it has something to do with it 🤔 💗

[@sueblack5794]

Same experience except I like this thinning stage. I had so much hair before I couldn’t get a comb through it was so thick. It was very hard to style. I’m loving this season of my hair.

[@GreenMama93]

Oh Courtney, I hear the pain in your voice. I think you are absolutely beautiful and sweet, regardless of your hair. I have recently found you and you have been an incredible blessing to me! Your thoughtful, thorough information is truly invaluable. I have just started my curly girl hair journey after my hair became more and more curly as I have aged. Thank you for your vulnerability and for being real with us. I am a committed follower for life! 🙏🏼💜💜

[@rubylabianca4934]

This happened exactly to me! I figured out that I have been over-hyrdrating. Too much moisture in the hair can cause limp curls and very thick hair! When I went through that I just did a few intense protein masks and cut down on my hair routine a LOT, barely any leave in, no gel, nothing. And it actually was back to normal after a week or two! Keep up the journey, girl. You are gorgeous with whatever your hair looks like 💜

[@TheAtl198]

Too much moisture can cause very thick hair? What?

[@crystallowden3342]

I think when people cocktail too many products together it actually weighs it down more and neither product can do what its supposed to so it just makes a mixed mess

[@joseehill5994]

Same thing happened to me! My curls would loosen by the end of the day and I just stopped doing any products done a few weeks and now it’s holding it’s curl again

[@freezysyahz]

@@christinaobert5664 How to differentiate between the two?

[@sierraedds6907]

I feel like I can hear your voice breaking, on the verge of tears. I get it, I spent 25 years straightening it until I lost all my hair from bleaching. I decided to embrace it. Well now I found I have pcos lupus and thyroid issues and female pattern alopecia. So now I'm basically slowly going bald. So. I feel your pain.

[@TestaRosssa_]

I'm so sorry to hear that is happening to you but I must say you are very brave and caring for sharing this to relate to and possibly make others feel better. You are a kind, strong woman. 🥰 Also I'm not sure if you'll want to embrace no hair (which would be awesome looking) or if you're interested in wigs but it seems really fun to be able to have any color and cut that you feel like that day or even just that moment! That could be a really nice side to it if you'd like to do that. :) My mom has had cancer for years and used to have giant curly black hair so thinking of doing this with her. 💖 Please remember you're beautiful no matter what! 💕

[@sierraedds6907]

Aww thank you 🥰 I'm glad that there are people who understand that it might just be hair but it's not just hair. I love getting tips from everywhere

[@lhodgens]

You poor girl! You really won the autoimmune lottery, didn't you... no doubt you are one tough cookie!

[@MB-gv3zs]

But your hair still looks lovely! It's not all about tight curls but about healthy hair - which you have.

[@lhodgens]

^^^^^This! Yes!

[@heathers7265]

Yes! I love her hair with the looser waves! ❤️

[@darth_bagel]

So funny how people are recommending hydration overload as if Courtney hasn’t thought of this already! I learned everything I know about protein/moisture balance from Courtney!

[@avocado184nhs82]

For what it’s worth I think your loose beachy curls now are really pretty and glamorous looking !

[@tma4444]

I am 61 years old. I'm here to tell you that as we age, our hair changes over time which requires us to change how we care for it. Don't fret over it. And don't be a slave to the process either. Your hair looks great and healthy as is.

[@ourcozycorner8517]

I need more women in my life who are older than me lol thank you for this comment. I never expected this. Everyone usually just complains about wrinkles & weight. Never expected thinner less curly hair. 😞

[@ArtThatMakesYouSmile]

I think your hair is still pretty even with the looser wave, so many factors can make our hair change over time but you will still be beautiful regardless, just embrace the journey:)

[@LisaF_]

My wavy/curly hair has a sweet spot length wise. If it’s too short the curls don’t have enough length to develop to their best look... if it’s too long it’s heavy and the curls get pulled out. I have fine hair and when I put too many layers in it looks less full and nice

[@jkd2817]

I know exactly what u mean about that perfect length. I'm going thru now after a butchered ouidad that stylest must have gotten certification from a blind board. My hair is too short for the curls to lay right nd all I can do is wait for it to grow. 😞

[@kaylavancalster4466]

Sammmee

[@kirstensignar4581]

I agree on the layers I hate how hair stylists always give you layers, even if you tell them you don't want it. Because my hair is also very fine (and thin), so having layers just makes it look even more thin 😂 And, the curls can't clump together because they're all different lengths. The layers can look kinda nice from some angles, but only those specific angles. Lol I'm really trying to grow out my layers for awhile

[@LisaF_]

@@kirstensignar4581 Exactly! I’m currently almost finished growing out layers that made my hair look worse. I thought I was doing a thing that would make my hair look fuller and it did just the opposite. Ugh!

[@toriwillis8340]

same! this is exactly what happens to me too

[@beckr4235]

I had stick straight hair until I was 13, then it went curly... hormones could be responsible

[@cherub6958]

same! I had jet black silky straight hair till I was 11 which changed to dark brown wavy curly hair

[@eatmyfoot335]

With me I had very wavy hair and after 12/13 it went more n more straight. But I have been using better shampoo n conditioner for my hair since 15 , lately im using ethique and lush bars and my hair feels much better and softer compared to the other shampoos like dove, andrelon ( really not a nice brand for me..), nivea and uhh garniere idk i forgot the name. But yea

[@rohaaq]

omg me tooooo mine was so straight and then one day I got a haircut and it just turned wavy?

[@cherub6958]

@@rohaaq now i think about it..... it started curling off from the ends when i got a haircut which went wrong.. i had long tangle free straight black hair and I went for bangs and she cut my entire lengths till ear!!! idk I stopped enjoying my hair from that day that much or coz of the hormones or coz I had moved to a new place which had different type of water idk

[@staceypetro257]

Same! And now that I'm a "mature" woman my hair is changing again.

[@tigriss007]

Two things to get checked, your thyroid functioning and your hormones. Both can and do change hair, skin, and nails drastically. If you haven't had this done, then please go get them checked.

[@annmartin1376]

thats exactly what I said above. Agreed

[@JeanieD]

I’m hypothyroid, and I concur!

[@marinak5514]

Please, explain, how length can change because of hormones, i believe it can only affect new length, but noth the old, if that make sense.

[@annmartin1376]

@@marinak5514 my thoughts are esp if you are hypothyroid or going thru menopause--it affects your other hormones in your body.. hair strands can feel drier and drier with those two conditions and eventually break off as an example. same with good balanced diet with enough protein, good fats, B vitamins .--this def affected my hair. When my estrogen and thyroid were both low my hair shed alot and got dry and tended to split and break,,

[@marinak5514]

@@annmartin1376 but hair is "dead", it cant get anything from our body, only from the outside - humidity, products etc.. so i suppose hormones can only affect "new" hair.. not the already existing length. Am i wrong?

[@barenzhallie]

My hair is curlier when it’s shorter. When I grow it out and when it was super long, I only had very loose waves. When my hair is short, it’s like 2C

[@JenniSchaffer]

Omgosh when I see pics of my hair short? SO much more curl. And I didn't even know anything yet about how to do it.

[@dawnbaker7711]

Same. It’s not just you.

[@lhodgens]

That makes total sense because there is more weight to pull the curl straighter.

[@KindlyChristina]

my hair gets bored of being curly and then gets bored of going straight, it goes back and forth! wishing you the best!!

[@marisadaniela6]

I went through this curl pattern loosening just a while ago and I was feeling SO badly. It seems to be better now that my postpartum hair loss has subsided, not that mine are even related issues. But it is hard to go through, so thank you so much for speaking on your experience and feelings around it. ❤

[@sarahdowling3955]

I get it! After a move from a very warm, humid weather city to a very cold, dry weather city I went from consistent and easy 3b-3c to having to WORK for 2b-2c curls...and I was crushed. I have always been so proud of my curls and until they were “gone” I didn’t realize how much of my identity I attached the my signature curls. It took me a long time to come to terms with my new look. Every wash day I have to check my expectations so I’m not always disappointed.

[@taiterideout5668]

I want the nerd out video! My hair was much much straighter when I was washing it every day. Water is necessary but can be damaging when it’s swelling the cuticle up EVERY SINGLE DAY. I think olaplex, clarify, deep condish, lots of squishing, and only washing 1-2 times a week would help. I’m going to do the same!

[@ChocolateYmke]

Is it just me that is experiencing a weird audio on this video? It constantly goes louder for a couple seconds and then softer again, back to louder, back to softer, ... Anyway, great video!

[@nicoledambacher4660]

Yeah same for me

[@jessicabrewster6427]

I haven’t noticed that! At least not too drastically for my to notice as I’m listening to this getting ready.

[@TheAtl198]

Yes I got the same thing. Very noticeable.

[@yensid4294]

yep, kept having to adjust the volume

[@jedastach5312]

Yup. I keep adjusting. I thought it was my phone lol

[@deeda5147]

this makes sense as to why I don't have the waves I did in high school... granted, I didn't start the CGM until September, but I've noticed greater hair fall, looser waves, and even itchier scalp. not only did we have the worst year ever on a global scale, but my brother took his own life in February, which sent me (an already mentally ill person) into a deeper spiral.... so It's good to know that it's not something I'm doing wrong, but rather all I've had to endure for a year.

[@TheDancelover009]

I am so sorry to hear about your brother!🙏🏼❤️ I’m having these exact same hair issues right now too....

[@M3GPie]

I’m so sorry for your loss.

[@jessiestephens3943]

Oh no Kayla I'm so very sorry to hear that you lost your brother. My condolences my dear.

[@kaylasheppard7746]

You poor thing. I am so, so incredibly sorry about your brother. I hope your grief and pain eases soon, and when you think of him it will bring you joy rather than devastation. He isn't gone forever, he just isn't here in person right now❤

[@janna8864]

So glad you shared this! My hair also became a lot less wavy/curly after having kids, and after moving from a humid location to a drier one. I think part of embracing how we're fearfully and wonderfully made is being ok with hair that is sometimes straight-ish and sometimes wavy/curly, and both are great! I think there's no shame in enjoying your hair straight sometimes and doing everything you can to enjoy the curls sometimes. Do what brings you joy!

[@SimplyStacyL]

Love this! I’ve recently started to straighten my hair again and found that it is MUCH faster than it used to be, and faster than styling my curls. Low maintenance (like washing and straightening once a week) is key for me right now while homeschooling 4 young kids - so I’m not going to feel guilty for just embracing what works for my current stage of life.

[@bLIVme54]

I can't tell you how much I appreciate you making this video! It truly shows that the curly life is far from perfect or predictable. It's nice to know I'm not alone in the struggle.

[@mama_ber7179]

I quit doing the curly girl method because I was losing my curls and my hair was actually thinning. Now I do my hair the way I used to, and my curls are slowly, but surely, coming back.

[@cassiespaz1]

I did the same. I watched manes by Mel and she explained that sometimes you need sulfates and my hair almost immediately bounced right back. I had so much buildup it was killing my curl pattern

[@mama_ber7179]

@@cassiespaz1 I watched it too. About once a month I'll use a clarifying shampoo. Plus I absolutely need a brush. Get my scalp's circulation going lol. Oh and I only use 2, occasionally 3, products in my hair.

[@cassiespaz1]

@@mama_ber7179 I use a shampoo brush AND a Detangler lol

[@anitakowalska5361]

@@cassiespaz1 i never did full on cg. I do it for a most part but once month i use sulfate shampoo and every week a gentle shampoo, no co-wash.

[@jedastach5312]

I did this too. CGM/WGM ruined the pretty waves I had. I quit and went to my old way and they're back.

[@baxter3877]

My curly hair is totally dependant on the level of humidity in the air. In Ontario, it's been humid for about 6 weeks and I have had great hair, this week the humidity is much lower and colder and my curl sucks!

[@jesspavlichenko5745]

Steam might help then for your refreshes. I use my humidifier but there are personal steamers available. I used to live in Ontario but i live in dry, cold Alberta now and 5 minutes applying humidity to my hair has really helped

[@LovemeGodforever]

Try to steam over a pot of water it’s magic

[@strawberry1025]

I hear you. My hair started shedding in June. Literally falling onto my shoulders. I have fine hair but used to have loads of it. Now it is so thin. This followed using Color B4, a so called 'gentle' process. Destroyed my hair. I have now accepted the change. I double wash only once a week, use a damage repair hair mask and let it dry naturally. Also moved from permanent to semi-permanent hair colour. It is recovering.

[@CraftingwithSlavie]

Girl, give yourself grace! I stopped doing curly for nearly two months and forgot to wash my hair more than once in 7 days. My scalp is/was not happy. It gets exhausting especially because of everything going on in the world, and everyone deserves a break

[@michelleyoung4918]

Yes I would love to learn about the hair growth cycle!

[@annasmelody]

Saameee!!

[@peytoncarter172]

Yes me too! :D

[@syltastic8876]

Me too!!!

[@josier9241]

Yes please!

[@Tracimakingwaves]

Thank you for the honesty and vulnerability in this video. It really does help to know that even "the pro" has struggles. I had red hair that was curly and full of volume. I now have white hair that is wavy with occasional curls. I also have one patch of coarse hair that does as it pleases...his name is No Regard Beauregard because he has no regard for the way of the wavy...Ol Beau for short. 🤣 All that said, I love my hair, quirks and all.

[@finecurls2291]

The curly method gives our hair to much hydration in return making our hair too soft which I strongly believe affects curl formation/retention. I have 3b 3c hair and after doing the Method for 2 years my hair was becoming straight and it scared me. I truly believe that too much of a good thing is definitely bad.

[@gailbennett7105]

I think your right!

[@imajenn3006]

I'm going through this right now. It seems like even protein deep conditioners are too much because my hair is so fine? What did you do to stop this from happening? I'm at a loss if how to recover and his to stop it...

[@finecurls2291]

@@imajenn3006 hey! I started using shampoos that are curly hair friendly but a bit harsh. For example Rizos curls shampoo contains Disodium EDTA the surfactant used is olefin sulfonate 14-16 which is great in removing product build up, hard water deposits etcetera. My hair is also fine so cowashing is a no no for me. So basically for me a shampoo that removed build up was enough to bring my hair back to life. I also alternate between a moisturizing deep conditioner and protein treatment every week. I started incorporating the Olaplex n° 3 into my routine. And finally I learned how to properly balance moisture and protein in my styling routine. As a curly girl it's very important to properly balance moisture and protein. I feel the problem is that most curl shampoos aren't cleansing enough. This is causing extreme product build up on our hair thus making it limp and lifeless. Our hair is basically being suffocated because we are not properly cleansing our scalp and hair strands.

[@anneerickson8614]

@@finecurls2291 I completly agree with you. I also stopped applying my products to soaking wet hair, that was wrecking my hair with all the scrunching in of products and water. I just denman in curl cream apply small amount of gel do a quick scrunch and thats it

[@jesspavlichenko5745]

For sure. CGM will give you poppin curls for about a year, maybe two tops - but eventually you will notice the changes. I've stopped CGM completely and my hair is benefitting from it

[@ShadowNutella]

Funfact: Your hair texture changes every 7 years (sometimes u notice, sometimes u don't, but it does)

[@freyjamulhall3615]

for real, thats crazy. Do you have any more info?

[@kaytie420]

That's so crazy

[@anushkakarandikar7232]

Can confirm my hair went from 2a-2c,3a

[@ShadowNutella]

@@freyjamulhall3615 not really its sth my hair dresser told me I just can tell you as a child I had straight hair now my hair is wavy/curly (my roots still are more straight but when I like style them they r wavy too)

[@catarena8031]

I just googled and ya- hair changes with age. I've noticed it in my mom's hair.

[@adoptinformed]

When I turned about 23, my wavy curly hair went totally straight...now that I'm 29 it has somewhat returned! So odd!!

[@bdebarbara4981]

You have beautiful hair, so shiny and soft! It doesn't matter if straight, wavy or curly, you just keep taking CARE of him

[@jaquelyncaiello4569]

thank you sooo much for talking about this! I've been struggling this year with my curl pattern loosening. It's been more difficult, mentally, than I thought it could be. I was thinking about it a few weeks ago and was almost in tears at my hair change, and began to wonder if there was a support group for something like this (yeah, I'm a bit melodramatic). Point is, I was feeling very alone in all of it. I'm so thankful to know that there are other people struggling with this issue. It's weird to have hair envy of my own hair from years ago. Your hair is still beautiful!

[@lilas5264]

I have been having this same problem for the past 2 years, but I never found anyone else going through the same thing!! Thank you so much for this video!

[@TruthinLove]

Your hair is still beautiful! Also, side note: I love that you are now looking at us (the camera) instead of so often looking at the monitor. Trust yourself! You’re doing great!

[@quarterpint3730]

Thank you for being so transparent with your struggles! It’s so frustrating when you put so much care and effort into your hair and you aren’t getting the results you’d like. I’m pretty new to the CG method and it’s encouraging for me to see that it’s okay to be frustrated at times AND you can still love your natural hair at the same time. And for whatever it’s worth, your hair is SO beautiful! Super wavy, slightly wavy, stick straight-it’s all beautiful. And it really shows that you take good care of your hair because it looks so healthy ❤️

[@niccic.]

My hair goes through phases. When I was pregnant I lost all my curl. Then it eventually came back. When my hair gets longer my curls get looser (which makes sense for some curl patterns). Thus, when my hair is shorter it curls much much more. Also, if I get a haircut from someone that doesn't understand my wave pattern it can mess up my curls. I also notice what my hair wants. If my hair isn't curling right then I know to wear it straight for a while. I give my hair a break. Then when it's being weird straight, I scrunch it up for curl. Just my curl issues. I'm thinking it might be the length for you. Maybe hormones? Diet is a big part. Dairy is a known culprit to mess up our hormones. (See Dr John McDougall Death by Dairy.) Also, all the ingredients in these products can breakdown our hair. My breakage ended when I switched to homemade shampoo. OR maybe....God wants your focus somewhere else? Hang in there! Meow 😸

[@punyadapadhy4550]

Your hair looks lovely irrespective of your curl pattern. Please don't lose heart. You need to remember why you started this journey, to embrace your natural hair. Girl you are awesome irrespective of anything..and it's really brave of you to share your honest journey ❤️

[@sarahjames5176]

This totally could be hormones, but it sounds a little like your scalp might not love the products or heavy lipids in a lot of CGM products have (diva curl damage)

[@MomJeansReads]

You’re hair is gorgeous no matter what, Curly, wavy and straight! Thanks for all your hair help!

[@gingerhealerstefany]

Your hair right now is stunning, straight is also amazing, amazing that it’s naturally like that. No matter the turn out it’s perfect 💖👌👏

[@songbirdyy]

I can totally relate to this, especially in regards to length affecting your curl! Please never stop creating your amazing content. There are so many of us with your hair type, both then and now! ♥️

[@candacewalker7375]

I never comment on KZbin but I just need to say "thank you" for this. I am experiencing the same thing and feel like I'm failing hard because I can't keep up with influencers. Thanks for sharing your struggles.

[@terrigram9595]

I love your honesty, Courtney. I really believe your looser curl pattern is due to the length. Your hair has gotten so long! And your loose curls are beautiful, but, I get how you feel!

[@SwavyCurlyCourtney]

I totally agree!

[@marianaptks9933]

Hey there Courtney, we don't know each other but to me it feels like you're a good friend of mine who has helped me SO much. I think we all have been struggling, last year and lately, and i've seen a big increase of people with the same problems you just told us about in curly girl facebook groups. Please take time to check on yourself and on your health, both physical and mental. You aren't less beautiful or special or skilled or knowledgeable because you're going thru a less wavy spell, it's just your hair telling you to slow down. Hope it gets better. A big hug from Portugal

[@LaceysLittleHomestead]

I completely understand. For years I had tight curls that were the size of my pinkie finger, but now it is loose and wavy. On the sides it is almost completely straight. I know that mine is most likely hormonal. It's amazing how stress can cause hair loss, and hair loss can cause stress!

[@hannahpowell6847]

I've noticed that every once in a while I have to lather up the lengths of my hair with a clarifying shampoo to get the curl back, instead of just letting the suds run down it.

[@jflo2012]

Interesting. Makes sense. I’m going to try that.

[@alyseandrews1066]

Yes! I was going to suggest this as well! A gentle clarifying treatment, maybe a big trim to lessen the weight! That always brings my waves back fresh!

[@amiel5487]

Girl...I feel you...My hair has changed drastically since my three children came along. I didn’t know what to do anymore because it was so wild. Thankfully I found your channel which helped me like my hair again! Thank you for all you do! Your hair is beautiful!

[@Alice-ym8tu]

I’d imagine if your life is immersed in the cgm community, it’s a lot of pressure to place on a physical attribute. I’m sure there’s a sense of loss if you begin to lose your curly hair. But our hair texture changes naturally over our lifetime - it might not always be curly, and that’s okay!

[@catwmn14]

This is such great timing. When I got pregnant the second time my hair got VERY curly. I finally started embracing it, which was difficult especially since it ended in a loss and I was struggling with loving myself. but the longer I go, the straighter it gets again! Half is curly and half is straight and so it always just looks terrible. I absolutely understand your feelings and I know it’s about “loving the hair you have” but it’s still hard to lose a part of your identity. You are beautiful and kind and I hope this doesn’t mess with your head too much! Well still be here even if you end up doing videos about something else! (Possibly check into iron deficiency! It can cause hair loss, and it can absolutely affect how your hair looks)

[@drizzledrain]

I know that you stated you were dxed with RA last year - not only is RA associated with more hair loss, but so can RA meds. I’m not sure if you went onto anything but some of the drugs for RA to suppress it are very, very much hair suppression too. I started watching your videos after my hair completely changed from stick straight to wavy with the occasional curl after chemo; your videos have been a true blessing! When your hair changes, it changes and one of the things we always see touted in the community is to accept what your hair is and what you can not change. This loss may be one of those things you can not help and that’s ok. Anyways, I will keep watching and loving your videos, no matter how things work out! Hold in there!

[@John-jv2lo]

I was going to say the same thing!

[@loriroemer1122]

This seems obvious.

[@elizabeth-2213]

Weird. The lady that cut my hair at Ulta last was telling me about how her hair wasn't very curly but after she went through chemo & lost all her hair it all grew back super curly. Her hair looked to be 3c.

[@loriroemer1122]

@@elizabeth-2213 Differnt conditions and meds, differet reactions

[@laurenbreskovich2507]

This is why they call it the curly hair journey. Just when we think we've figured it out, your curly hair throws you a curve! I feel your pain. It's frustrating when what you know worked, no longer does the trick.

[@brittanysnyder5795]

Thank you so much for being telogen effluvium awareness! I had some this past fall from stress I think, but I had it before. In college, I got a very high fever with mono and had thyroiditis for months after-I lost about 60% of my hair! Every few years now, I feel like I go through a shedding cycle similar, but not as severe. It’s important to reflect and try and figure out what could cause shedding. In middle school, my hair was thin due to iron deficiency! Also, I switched to a blunt cut as opposed to layers because I felt like that the layers were causing some breakage/thinning.

[@christyporter238]

You are a sweetheart, and I love your honesty and your investigations and curiosity! Thanks for helping the rest of us so much! Rock on curly girl!

[@sunlovinglady8562]

My hair is happiest when it's shoulder length. It can go a few inches longer, but beyond that, it's just not flattering on me. It's amazing how heavy it becomes. It literally starts to look like a Christmas tree in shape. Layers help me a lot too.

[@jenclark16323]

I discovered your channel recently and have been catching up on older videos in my spare time. I watched your Curl Clump Hacks video and it LITERALLY changed my life. My hair looks amazing with beautiful ringlets and frizz free curls/waves. Thank you! I know you are having struggles right now with your hair, but I thought you should know that you are still helping others like me! Embracing what we have, right? Whether it's tight curls, waves, or a little less than that, it's all beautiful!

[@BebaK]

Maybe our hair becomes overwhelmed with all the experimenting while on CGM. At least that's what I did for 2 years straight. Also, what was helpful to me was cutting my hair shoulder length. It helped. A lot.

[@amytozser8224]

Oh Courtney. I'm so sorry you're struggling. Its hard to hide the sadness in your eyes. We're ALL here for you, and I'm SO here if you ever want to vent or whatever. Thank you for your honesty, your humility, and all around loveliness. Thank you for all the help you have provided for me and thousands of others. THANK YOU FOR BEING YOU! 😘💞💞💞💞💞

[@hilarybreedon3429]

The same thing happened to me as I got older. My hair became less curly, just as I started to embrace it! Our stories are the same! I have hypothyroidism- you should get tested for that!

[@annikarian1720]

Courtney - I consider myself a big fan of yours. I think I've seen every video you've made. Some many times. With that said, this is my favorite one. I learned a lot, I felt extremely connected to you and your issues are my issues in this case. I cried at the end. You make me feel like i know you... Thanks for being so candid and amazing. I'm really grateful for you.

[@angel-chan4689]

My fine wavy 2B hair gets like that when I let it grow too long. I’ve found that I need to have it shorter and have my layers cleaned up with routine haircuts to make it bounce back. That being said, your hair still looks lovely regardless of the curl intensity ☺️

[@emilypatel9339]

Thank you for posting this. My hair has been doing the same thing. I’m embarrassed to say I broke down and got a perm. The look of my hair was adding more stress to my already stressful life. One side of hair was going almost straight while the other side was staying wavy. It was taking me a lot longer to wash and style. Even though the perm was tighter than I was expecting the ease of styling and the more even look has helped with the stress.

[@catsav1]

Courtney, the sound was going loud to soft a lot in this video. Just wanted to let you know 😉

[@sujathashanmugam6601]

That’s may be because she is choking as she talks

[@mariahersch9634]

@@sujathashanmugam6601 no, the audio is changing with the editing.

[@SwavyCurlyCourtney]

That is so weird. I am not noticing ANY change in the volume on my end. I watch every video all the way through before and after uploading to make sure things uploaded correctly. I'm sorry about this. Not sure how to fix it.

[@sproutingbeansandsweetpeas3545]

I am experiencing that too. I thought it was my phone.

[@deansgirl1369]

Same...wondered if my phone was being stupid.

[@lisa6191]

Make sure you get a full blood panel when you check your hormone levels. I was losing a lot of hair and it turned out I was anemic. Whenever my iron drops below a.certain level I shed much more 3 months later. Thyroid imbalance can also play a part. I'm guessing those things can affect curl pattern also.

[@lauras2065]

I had a lot of coarse dark hairs in my mid twenties. Soon after that I lost a lot of thickness permanently. It might be hormonal (I've had some issues) which also affects the curl pattern.

[@debypoole7079]

It's refreshing to see you talk about this. I had a very similar hair texture to you when I subscribed. And now I am dealing with the same thing. It's heartbreaking. But I try to just love what God gave me and hope for the best.

[@giblin593]

hi i believe that deva damage is still effecting her hair mask well as other things.I always do protein treatments and i always am on top of things. but my hair is still going crazy. I still believe that deva damage is one of the big reasons for loose hair texture!!!!

[@nancydavis5857]

SAME!!!! Hairs finally growing back but I have wet frizz and I can’t get rid of it. Tried cutting it, olaplex, cgm...nothing. Wet frizz = dry frizz. It’s a nightmare ☹️

[@Irishrainy]

@@nancydavis5857 My wet frizz is also driving me nuts. It’s mainly in my most damaged hair where I had highlights for years. It’s been 2-1/4 years since I started CGM and I’ve had 4 haircuts in that time so you’d think the damaged hair would be gone by now. 😖

[@PunkRockerFairy]

A video on the growth and shedding cycle would be great! Also, thanks so much for this video. Your insights are always so helpful

[@faitgrace]

I also noticed dark coarse hairs showing up on my head in my late 20's - I now have a mix of coarse, fine and super fine hairs...and I shed a lot...so maybe the comment about age and hormones is the thing

[@deeecanta]

You are fearfully and wonderfully made! Absolutely! Amen!!! This video is like me talking - the same exact things happened years ago and are happening now. Love that I happened upon your channel. You have so many followers, I'm sure my comment is unimportant, but I am a new sub and thankful I am here!

[@KindlyChristina]

being a wavy is harder than being a curly I SAID WHAT I SAID edit: thanks for the likes, i love u 🥺

[@Mamado88]

I agree, my hairs a combo of ringlets and tight waves and it’s the wavy sections that are far more temperamental than the curls!

[@belen1036]

Yes girl

[@menekshee]

absolutely! exhausting! it's not straight, it's not really curly ( you know what I mean), usually fine hair and lots of frizz!!!!

[@kirstensignar4581]

It sure seems that way. I don't understand how people who claim to have "wavy fine" hair can just go upside down for s2c, flip their head back up, and be done (plopping or not). It makes no sense to me! My hair is very fine, and also thin, plus I have gray hairs which are very course mixed throughout. My hair is all of type 2, and some type 1 and some 3a all combined. ...I can't s2c or plop because I get bald spots and my hair sticks too much to my head in weird directions. It messes up my part and I can't comb or brush it. I can't get day 2 or 3 or day "x" hair because I need to wash every day. I can't use products because my hair gets weighed down, and I can't not use products because of the frizz. I also can't co-wash. And my course grays always stick outside of the curl clumps - they don't like all the ultra fine hairs. So ...after almost a year on CGM I'm starting to embrace a minimalistic approach - reduce frizz "enough" that it looks like I groomed myself (but I don't worry about it being perfect), and I stop trying too hard. And, my hair actually looks pretty good on most days, compared to what it used to! :) And that's good enough for me.

[@amrinmim6321]

Agreed! I have wavy hair, niece has curly hair. Guess who never has a good hair day! Not the niece!

[@lanas4676]

I cannot believe you are struggling with the same thing! Unbelievable!! I even did so many of the things you did in this video and will try to do all the other things you talked about. I am really thankful you are sharing your journey and can’t wait to hear how it goes! You ARE fearfully and wonderfully made 🥰🥰🥰

[@sophiablank325]

To be very honest, my hair is curlier when it's transitioning vs when it's very healthy

[@alissaspafford8846]

same

[@ms.empower7946]

Ya! A little higher porosity from highlights gives my fine hair a little bit more volume.

[@sarahball9478]

Same

[@Pixiezor]

The timing on this video is perfect. I’ve been losing so much hair too, and as my hair has gotten quite long, the waves are SO stretched. This made me feel a lot better, thank you!

[@windyacresfarm1122]

I just got goosebumps, I'm only 7min in and this is EXACTLY what is happening to me (though I already have thick hair but my hair that is shedding is thicker and darker... im also shedding a lot more that usual). I'm 19m postpartum from my twins and thought maybe it was just bc my twins are nursing less. I even had my thyroid checked... And omg, stress...goodness my twins didn't sleep the last 4 months and it wasn't until a month ago that I started shedding like crazy. Then my hair got very frizzy.

[@melaniebergeron7739]

Thank you for being so honest and real with us on this Courtney! It helps to know that doing the CGM is not always perfect even after 3 years

[@mojoholo9529]

I found it really interesting to hear you talk about what you’re not doing so much and how it is affecting how you hair looks. Hair growth cycle interests me, too. I had very curly ringletted hair as an infant. I had thick black hair when I was born. I got my hair cut when I was about 18 months old. Since then it’s been dark ash blond and poker straight. Until I changed my shampoo and conditioner around a year ago. My initial concern was the fact that I’ve gone blond to hide the white and salt n pepper mess that my hair colour has become. The thought of losing what little wave has come back hurts so much. I hope your hair gets better. xxxxx

[@juliannafelkoski9507]

I needed to hear this. I've had a really similar experience with stress and hair loss this past year. My curl pattern had also losened. Thanks for sharing.

[@rhl1537]

Hair is super weird, when I was a child my hair was bone straight, during my eraly teenage years it became super curly and now I'm 18 and its kind of wavy or even almost straight

[@baylimusicfanclub7772]

I can relate. I’m 18 too and my hair is wavy/curly although it used to be super straight when I was a child

[@pweber806]

Many years ago I was diagnosed with graves disease, which is an auto immune disease like RA. My hair came out in handfuls, probably last at least half of it -so scary! When I discovered the link between gluten sensitivity/celiac and all autoimmune diseases, I stopped eating gluten. This made a HUGE difference in my health, and therefore my hair health. Now that I follow CGM my hair is the healthiest it has ever been. But the turning point was eliminating gluten, and greatly improving my gut health. If you havent already, you should research the connection - your science-y mind will totally understand! I enjoy your videos and have learned so much from you! 3 John 2

[@shaunaferguson6102]

Interesting, I wonder if it has anything to do with your recent RA diagnosis and the medication?? You're beautiful Courtney! ♥️

[@TheVentBench]

This was honestly the MOST relatable video ever and I am so glad you made it! I don’t feel like I have seen anyone really addressing this kind of thing of the curly hair people I follow, but I have had struggles like this too. I think we have a pretty similar hair type. Anyway thank you!

[@Nobbejo2]

I actually have a bad shedding right now as well. Also I feel like during winter my hair is always flat and less curlier, almost straight and I hate it! I think it's because the humidity is so low.

[@klskin]

I second that! Doing the best I can until April.

[@anikaenger]

I'm there with you after starting in August, we've moved and I wonder if the stress of that was causing me issues. But we have very hard water and I had a trim as well and my wavy hair has been so saaaaaaad. I'm there with you trying to figure it out and missing it, even though I haven't been in this long. Thank you for your honesty and love. We ARE "fearfully and wonderfully made", yes! I love you and your channel. It's always as if I were chatting with a friend

[@marjorieibarra3924]

I completely get being frustrated at the change, but I just wanted to pop in and say you’re hair looks killer amazing beautiful today even though it’s less curly!!

[@caseyportman]

For what it's worth, I think your hair in this video is beautiful! It's healthy, shiny, bouncy - and I would love my hair to look like that! (I know that doesn't really help when you're frustrated and just want you curls.) Just beautiful!

[@jenniferprice9971]

I know my hair went from straight with a little wave and so straight that it wouldn’t curl with a curling iron and no amount of hair spray would change that to gradually more wavy and curly around the time of puberty. We always thought that it was because around the same time my hair was cut short for the first time since it had grown out but hormonal changes would do it. And as I learn more about hair I realize that things aren’t set in stone.

[@meganguttman3920]

Thank you so much for your transparency! I can’t imagine the identity battle going on internally for you! But don’t forget, you are known to us all as SWAVY Curly Courtney! We are on this journey together and your experience is going to help so many!

[@ms.empower7946]

Things I do: I wear my hair “straight.” I apply whatever stylers, microplop, then I hit my roots all over with the hair dryer on low heat for less than five minutes. No diffuser. I tousle my roots to break everything up as I’m doing it. Totally a straight hair habit. 😉 Then I air dry the rest of the way, and it dries very quickly. My hair looks great! It’s still wavy but just straighter on top. I get a great couple days of refreshes too by scrunching in water and gel or hairspray. Something else I do is apply dry shampoo at night. Hope this helps somebody 😌

[@sammmci9]

My hair was so much curlier when I was transitioning and becoming curly. Now I feel like my hair found it’s natural pattern and is happy where it’s at.

[@heidiullrich966]

Could be hormones. I had straight hair until I got pregnant . My hair started being curly after giving birth. Weird, but true

[@amyschultz7103]

Mine too

[@rld1278]

Yes, this is common. Happened to me too.

[@sketcharts]

Me too

[@allisonmedford9883]

Mine has gotten less curly since I had kids. Hormones are crazy!

[@ladyjessica23]

Same for me! I had a very slight wave before pregnancy and have 2C hair now.

[@thendrix58]

I can't tell you how much you have helped me with your previous videos. And to see this video makes me feel like I'm not alone because the EXACT same thing has happened to me! But I know that the cause, in my case, is stress. Make that the stress of 2020. I know this for myself because I had the same situation happen years ago while working for a stress-inducing company. Anyway, I wanted to say to keep your chin up, keep that pretty smile on your face because everything is going to be alright! Hugs!

[@donnagent6046]

I pretty much lost all my curl after a few years on the Curly Girl method.

[@MollyFitzBrown]

After I gave birth I lost a TON of hair and it seemed to grow in a lot curlier than before my birth shedding and regrowth. That curl did relax over time, I’m still wavy/curly but mine has always been pretty thick and corse and I always shed a ton but also I also lost extra after losing my Mom :( it’s hard not getting lazy but I just got a cut today and it always helps my bounce!

[@VengefulAngeI]

I honestly think once people get their healthy again thru CGM, most people are better off if they start slowly incorporating non CGM products back into their routine. I personally quit CGM due to excess hair fall and my 2C/3A hair loosening to 2B. After quitting CG 7 months ago, my hair is now dominantly 3A, with 3B pieces (and 2C).

[@aperson5261]

What types of non CGM products do you mean? It’s all working well for me now but it would be nice to know if it ever happens to not work anymore, thanks!

[@KE-hr4sb]

Curly Susie just did a video about quitting the CGM. She teamed up with scientists to break down the science behind the rules and why they can at times be misleading.

[@VengefulAngeI]

@@aperson5261 I have some conditioners in my rotation that have amodimethicone and/or dimethicone in them that my hair has always loved (great drugstore option is the loreal damage repair I think it's called - black bottle with golden yellow cap and says something about having ceramide in it. Works great. I like biolage hydrasource when I need a sulfate shampoo. Plus Aveda be curly curl enhancer is an EXCELLENT lightweight cream that has a couple cones too) I don't go nuts, but I don't turn away a product just cuz of the marketing frenzy that truly drives the CGM as the end all, be all, ONLY possible way for healthy curls, because it's just not true. You have to listen to your hair, and see what it responds to and what it doesn't. There's plenty of oils and butters that are WAY worse for buildup and definitely require sulfates to remove than the occasional cone. But hey, if following CGM works for you, & you don't feel restricted or like you may be missing out, then keep up what works! Sorry for the super long post!!

[@aperson5261]

@@VengefulAngeI don’t be sorry for writing so much I was about to thank you for everything u said!!! So thank you :) it’s very helpful

[@rachaelkennedy2134]

I needed to read this I'm struggling after 3yrs CG.....i can't even remember what routine or products I used before i did before CG now tho! 🤣🙈 x

[@neen42]

My hair wasn't wavy at all in the winter before I used the Curly Girl Method. Cold here, so low dew point (currently 23°F, dp 11°). My hair has hit max hydration too (after a year), so I've started adding a bit of protein. Adding gel after plopping as well as when wet (after leave-in) has helped a lot too.