How to Scrunch Your Hair for Defined, Crunch-Free Curls, According to Stylists

There are many ways to approach styling wavy and curly hair, but scrunching is a tried-and-true method. By simply cupping and squeezing your hair (i.e. scrunching), it can help enhance your natural texture and definition. If you're ready to level up your routine and incorporate the beloved technique, we've got you covered. We tapped haircare experts Aaron Grenia and Iris Rubin to explain how to scrunch your hair step-by-step.

What Is Scrunching?

Hair scrunching is a styling technique for curly and wavy hair types. "This simple process involves using your hands or a towel to cup and [gently] squeeze wet curls or waves [in order] to enhance their natural shape," Dr. Rubin says. The beauty of this styling method is that it encourages the hair into its natural form and can help it settle into a more defined shape.

Who Should Scrunch Their Hair?

The best candidates for scrunching are those with hair types that veer more on the side of wavy and curly. Dr. Rubin says this styling method is about "optimizing the hair's natural curl pattern and texture." Grenia agrees, noting that "[scrunching is] particularly effective for those with natural waves or curls looking to amplify their texture."

Straight hair types can try the scrunching method too for a little added body, or as Grenia would say, "a more relaxed and tousled look," but don't expect the same firm hold as those with waves and curls. Those with tighter ringlets and type 4 curls will likely prefer other styling methods such as twisting, finger coiling, or a wash-and-go.

The Benefits of Scrunching

According to our experts, scrunching provides the following benefits:

• Enhances Natural Texture: Scrunching begins with wet, product-saturated hair, which helps the natural curl pattern separate.
• Increases Volume: Gently squeezing and cupping the hair at the root relies on the hair's natural body and separation for bounce and height.
• Reduces Damage: Scrunching involves hydrating, moisturizing products, little to no heat exposure, and minimal combing or brushing, which reduces the risks of damage such as breakage.
• Saves Time: This gentle styling method doesn't require much precision and is suitable for air drying. These factors alone will minimize the time spent in front of the bathroom mirror trying to dry and style your hair.
• Versatility: Depending on your drying method, scrunching can offer a range of looks, from subtle waves to more defined, bouncy curls.
  

How to Scrunch Hair

Begin with Wet Hair

Before scrunching, wash and condition your hair with nourishing yet lightweight haircare products like Seen's Shampoo and Conditioner. As a professional hairstylist, I also enjoy products that enhance my natural texture and increase volume, like Ouidad's Advanced Climate Control Defrizzing Shampoo and Conditioner.

Scrunch the Hair

"To scrunch, squeeze sections of hair with your palms in an upward motion from the bottom [ends] to the roots to encourage your hair's natural wave or curl pattern," Dr. Rubin says. "Feel free to scrunch specific sections again as the hair dries [to enhance volume]." If you don't want to use your hands, you can also use a microfiber towel or t-shirt to scrunch your hair.

Detangle and Define

Next, Dr. Rubin suggests detangling your hair with a wide-tooth comb and applying your desired styling products. Your product lineup will depend on your texture type, how often you wash and style, and how long you want your look to last.

A few expert-approved options include IGK's Class of '93 Curl Perfecting Whipped Cream, which offers great hold with a non-crunchy finish. Seen's Curly Creme is another must-have, as it helps keep textured hair soft and defined sans frizz. Those with tighter curls will want to use a stronger hold gel like Camille Rose's Curl Defining Gel or Pattern Beauty's Curl Gel.

Scrunch Again

After applying your styling products, it's time to scrunch again using your hands, towel, or t-shirt. Scrunching your hair a second time ensures you've eliminated excess saturation and achieved maximum definition and volume.

Choose Your Drying Method

You can set your scrunched hairstyle by air drying or using a low-heat diffuser. Your decision depends on your hair's needs and the desired outcome. Air drying is the best hands-off approach when you're not pressed for time or want to avoid heat entirely. While air-drying, it's okay to occasionally scrunch your hair as needed to maintain the shape, Dr. Rubin says.

If you want to speed things up, Dr. Rubin recommends using a diffuser attachment "on low heat when your hair is 70% dry." Using a diffuser will not only expedite the drying process but also help enhance volume. However, if you choose to diffuse, always apply a heat protectant first. "IGK's Good Behavior Spirulina Protein Smoothing Spray protects against high heat temperatures (up to 450°F) and tames frizz for up to 24 hours," Grenia says. Mizani Style Shifter Society Heat Screen Heat Protectant Spray and Gisou Propolis Infused Heat Protecting Spray are additional Byrdie-approved options.

The Final Takeaway

Scrunching is an easy, effective technique to incorporate into wavy and curly hair routines. Whether you use your hands or a microfiber towel, cupping and squeezing your hair can help promote definition and volume. Another plus? This haircare method can help you minimize heat exposure and styling time. In other words, there are no cons to scrunching your hair, and we love that.