How to Do an Updo With Natural Hair

Kinky hair types often experience extreme shrinkage, but it turns out the process to long ringlets begins in the shower. "When women say they don't get salon results at home, we find out they're using quarter-sized amounts of product," Dickey says. For natural textures, he recommends using an amount more along the lines of golf and tennis ball proportions.

So when it comes to applying conditioner, completely coat your strands with it. Use your fingers to detangle, pulling hair from roots to ends; this will help lengthen and clump curls together. You can also use this same technique when you put in a styling gel, such as the brand's Kinky Curling Cream ($18).