Finger coils are a popular styling technique among individuals with curly and coily hair textures. The method involves twisting small sections of hair around your finger to form tight, defined curls. It’s a technique that enhances the natural curl pattern, providing a sleek, voluminous finish. While finger coils offer a beautiful, long-lasting style, it’s important to consider their impact on your hair’s health and how they align with your hair care routine.
Benefits of Finger Coils
1. Defined, Long-Lasting Curls:
One of the biggest advantages of finger coils is the ability to define natural curls without using heat or harmful chemicals. This styling method enhances the curl pattern by working with your hair’s natural texture. As a result, it helps reduce frizz and makes your curls more uniform and polished. For those with Type 4 curls, finger coils are particularly effective in creating a more controlled, structured look that can last for days or even weeks with proper care.
2. Low Manipulation, Minimal Mechanical Damage:
Unlike more invasive styling techniques—such as heat styling, tight braids, or protective styles that may cause tension—finger coiling is considered a low-manipulation technique. It does not subject your hair to excessive pulling or stretching, making it less likely to cause breakage or damage. This makes finger coils a healthier alternative for those looking to avoid heat or tight styles while maintaining curl definition.
3. Moisture Retention and Hydration:
The process of finger coiling is often accompanied by the use of hydrating creams, gels, or oils that help lock in moisture. This added moisture not only aids in curl formation but also keeps the hair hydrated for an extended period. Well-moisturized hair is less prone to breakage and dryness, which are common issues for those with curly or coily hair. The ability to retain moisture also helps maintain the health of your scalp and prevents issues like flaking or dryness.
4. Encourages Healthy Hair Growth:
Because finger coils involve minimal manipulation and allow your hair to stay in a protected style for an extended period, they can indirectly contribute to healthier hair growth. Since you’re not subjecting your hair to daily detangling, brushing, or combing, you give your strands time to rest and recover, reducing the likelihood of breakage and split ends. Over time, this can result in stronger, longer hair.
Potential Issues with Finger Coils
1. Time-Consuming Process:
One of the significant drawbacks of finger coiling is the time commitment required to complete the style. Depending on the length and thickness of your hair, it can take anywhere from one to several hours to fully coil your hair. For individuals with thick, dense, or longer hair, this can be quite a labor-intensive process. While the results are often worth the effort, finger coils may not be ideal for those seeking quick, low-maintenance styles.
2. Shrinkage and Length Retention:
Shrinkage is a natural occurrence with curly and coily hair types, and finger coils can accentuate this phenomenon. While shrinkage is a sign of healthy, hydrated hair, it can make your hair appear shorter than its actual length. Some individuals may find this frustrating, particularly if they are trying to showcase the true length of their hair. This is something to keep in mind when opting for finger coils, especially if length retention is a priority for you.
3. Potential for Tangling and Knots:
Without proper detangling and preparation, finger coiling can sometimes lead to tangling, especially for those with coarser hair textures. If your hair is not detangled before starting the coiling process, the style may become difficult to maintain, leading to knots and matting over time. It’s essential to ensure that your hair is thoroughly detangled and moisturized before coiling, and that you carefully unravel the coils when it’s time to take the style down. Failure to do so can cause breakage and unnecessary stress on your strands.
4. Product Buildup on Scalp and Hair:
Achieving well-defined finger coils typically requires the use of styling products such as curl creams, gels, or mousses. While these products are great for enhancing curl definition, excessive use can lead to product buildup on the scalp and hair. Heavy products, when not washed out properly, can clog hair follicles, leading to issues like scalp irritation, dandruff, or even stunted hair growth. It’s important to balance product use with a proper cleansing routine to prevent buildup and ensure a healthy scalp environment.
5. Difficulty in Maintaining the Style:
Finger coils are a long-lasting style, but they do require some upkeep to maintain their definition over time. Frizz, tangling, and loss of definition can occur after a few days, particularly if your hair rubs against fabrics or if you don’t protect the style while sleeping. To prolong the life of your finger coils, using a satin or silk scarf or pillowcase at night is crucial, as these materials reduce friction and prevent frizz. Additionally, some people find that spritzing the coils with water or a light leave-in conditioner can help refresh the curls and bring them back to life.
Best Practices for Healthy Finger Coils
If you’re considering finger coils as part of your styling routine, there are a few best practices you can follow to ensure the health of your hair:
- Prep your hair properly: Detangle and moisturize your hair thoroughly before starting the coiling process. This will help prevent tangling and knots down the road.
- Use lightweight products: Opt for lightweight moisturizing products that will hydrate your hair without causing excessive buildup. Look for water-based gels or creams that will provide hold without weighing your hair down.
- Protect your hair at night: To maintain the longevity of your finger coils, always use a satin scarf or bonnet to protect your hair while you sleep. This will prevent friction and frizz.
- Keep your scalp clean: Regularly cleanse your scalp to remove product buildup and keep your hair follicles healthy. A gentle, sulfate-free shampoo can help maintain moisture while ensuring that your scalp stays clean.
Conclusion
While finger coils are a fantastic way to enhance your natural curls and maintain hair health, it’s important to remember that the foundation of healthy hair begins with a healthy scalp. For those experiencing thinning hair or hair loss, finding the right styling technique is just one part of the equation. Sometimes, a more lasting solution is needed.
That’s where Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) can make a real difference. At SCALPPRO, we offer a specialized SMP service that creates the appearance of thicker, fuller hair—perfect for those dealing with thinning edges or overall hair loss. Our Clients who live in Dorset, Somerset, Wiltshire, Hampshire, and Devon have trusted SCALPPRO for a seamless, natural-looking result to help them regain confidence in their hairline and scalp.
To learn more about how SMP can help you feel more confident, contact SCALPPRO today and book your free consultation.