Crunchy Curls? How to Scrunch Out the Crunch for Soft, Defined Curls
If you want defined curls, but are worried about the crunchy, stiff finish many curl products can leave behind, you’re not alone. Many people with curly hair avoid gels because they fear crispy, crunchy curls - but there’s a reason for that crunch AND a simple hack to fix it.
Here’s the why, the how, and exactly how to do the “scrunch out the crunch” technique so you can have defined, soft, bouncy curls - every time.
Why Do Curls Get Crunchy in the First Place?
When you apply gel to your hair, it forms a cast as it dries. This cast:
Holds your curl pattern
Seals in moisture
Reduces frizz
But that firm cast can feel crunchy or stiff to the touch - and even more so if you used a lot of the product.
But, the good news. That crunch isn’t there to stay - see it as a cast that protects the curls during the drying process. And with the right method, you can easily remove the crunch.
What Does “Scrunch Out the Crunch” Mean?
Scrunch out the crunch is the step you do after your curl gel has dried completely.
As your curls dry, the gel forms a light shell (a cast). That cast is what gives definition - but you don’t want it once the curls are fully set.
So you break the cast gently, making your curls soft and touchable -without losing definition.Think of it like popping the outer shell while keeping the inside structure.
Step-by-Step: How to Scrunch Out the Crunch
1. Let Your Hair Dry Completely
Whether air-drying or diffuser-drying, make sure your hair is 100% dry before you scrunch.
If curls are even slightly damp, scrunching can cause frizz.
2. Flip Your Hair Upside Down
Gently scrunch your curls from the bottom toward the scalp - without raking or pulling them apart.
💡 Tip: Light, upward scrunches break the cast while preserving curl shape.
3. Use a Drop of Oil or Serum (Optional)
If you prefer extra softness and shine:
- Take a pea-sized amount
- Warm in palms
- Lightly smooth over curls or scrunch into ends
This step totally eliminates film or crunch while sealing moisture.
4. Fluff and Shape with Your Fingers
Now that the crunch is gone:
Separate clumps lightly if you want more volume. Lift roots gently for body. Avoid touching too much - this keeps frizz low
🌀 Top Tips for Perfect Results
Start With Well-Hydrated Hair
Gel grips better, and crunch is easier to scrunch out, when hair gets enough moisture.
Pro tip: Use the Hydrating Curl Creme before gel to lock in softness.
Don’t Overload on Gel
Too much product = more cast = more crunch to break.
Less is more when you’re aiming for soft, touchable curls.
Let Gel Dry Without Disturbing It
Avoid touching while drying - even light touching can create frizz and uneven crunch.
Final Thoughts: Crunch Is Not the Enemy
Crunch doesn’t mean hard wet looking hair until your next wash day.
With the scrunch-out-the-crunch technique, you get:
Long-lasting definition
Soft, bouncy curls
Less frizz
Results you actually want to touch
So go ahead - rock gel! And when curls feel stiff, just scrunch them out. Your curls will thank you.
Only Curls Mega Hold Curl Gel
An oil infused, curl defining gel with long lasting strong hold.
Why your curls will love it:
- Gives long lasting strong hold to curls, without st...
£10.00
Other articles you might like
Which Curl Cream Is Right for You?
•
Anna Neill
Which Curl Cream Is Right for You? Confused by the curl aisle? You don’t always need a five-step routine. From tight coils and long waves to short, low-maintenance styles, we’re...
Read more
Why Your Curls Are Dry and Frizzy: The Long-Term Impact of Sulphates and Silicones
•
Anna Neill
It’s no secret that curly and wavy hair requires a little extra TLC. If you’ve been struggling with frizz, breakage, dryness, or curls that have lost their natural shape and...
Read more
