As curly hair aficionados, we know those vibrant & bouncy curls take a little time & effort to perfect. It all begins in the shower, where you probably follow a very specific conditioning routine that gives your tresses the juiciest moisture treatment while you relax in the steam (go ahead, take a minute).
But what if there was a way to enhance your routine for even better results?
Whether you’re looking for a method to mix up your conditioning routine or seeking an approach that consistently delivers, we've got you. The ultra-hydrating Squish to Condish technique is a complete game-changer for the curly & coily hair community. This revolutionary method enhances curl definition, delivering beautifully defined & hydrated curls. Once you know how to squish to condish, you may never go back.
What Is the Squish to Condish Method?
The squish-to-condition (aka squish & condish) method is a conditioning technique designed to boost the level of moisture in each strand of hair. The theory behind this simple yet effective conditioning strategy is straightforward: As you squish your hair, you push even more hydration into your curls. This penetrates the cuticle more deeply than simply combing through the conditioner with your fingers.
Not to mention, as you squish, you’re helping to define your curls rather than elongating them with your fingers or comb. This method encourages curls to clump together naturally, enhancing their shape & bounce. By focusing on the squishing motion, it maximizes moisture retention, supports more defined curls & reduces frizz. (Talk about benefits!)
Step-by-Step Guide to Squish to Condish
Ready to experience the advantages firsthand? After washing your hair with a product like the PATTERN Hydration Shampoo, follow these steps for the ultimate squish & condish sesh:
- Step One – Tilt your head forward so that your hair falls in front of your face. Apply a liberal amount of conditioner to the middle & ends of your hair while it’s still wet—we’re talking dripping wet.
- Step Two – Using your fingers or our Wide Tooth Comb, detangle your hair while making sure that no strand of hair is left behind on your conditioning crusade. When you’re done, your hair should have a slippery, seaweed-like texture.
- Step Three – This is where the squish comes in. After applying a conditioner, like the PATTERN Medium Conditioner or Lightweight Conditioner, use wet hands to squish it into your hair. Collect a handful of water in your palms & gently squish the conditioner into your hair. This will help your hair form natural curl clumps. As you scrunch your hair, you’ll hear a few very obvious squishing noises—this is a good sign!
- Step Four – Repeat step three until the majority of the conditioner is rinsed out of your hair. (A little left behind is like the gift that keeps on giving).
How Often Should You Squish to Condish?
There’s no set number of times you have to squish to condish your hair each month to see results. Generally, thicker curls may benefit from more frequent sessions, such as twice a week, while fine curly hair might only require a twice-a-month treatment. However, everyone’s hair needs are unique to their hair type, so experiment to find what works best for you. Consider incorporating a deep conditioner, such as the PATTERN Intensive Conditioner, into your routine to provide extra moisture.
Essential Products for the Squish to Condish Technique
For those on a curly hair journey, the Squish to Condish method can be a game-changer in enhancing your natural curl pattern. Regardless of the products you use, remember to apply significantly more conditioner with this technique. Doing so helps your hair form natural curl clumps & deeply hydrates each strand. By sealing the conditioner into the hair shaft, this technique locks in moisture & prevents frizz, giving you beautifully defined curls.
Here are a few product recommendations for squish to condish days, based on your hair type:
- For thin or fine curly hair – Our Lightweight Conditioner works wonders in the hydration department. The Coconut Oil & Irish Moss are known to provide ample moisture without weighing down your curls, even when using extra conditioner.
- For curly & coily hair – Our Medium Conditioner offers premium slip to easily detangle your hair. Ingredients like Jojoba Oil & Olive Oil prime your hair for defined, well-hydrated curls.
- For coils & tight textures – The Heavy Conditioner uses Avocado Oil, Shea Butter & Safflower Oil to provide deep conditioning & help you achieve flawless curl clumps.
Tips for Perfecting Your Squish to Condish Technique
Practice makes perfect, & with these squish to condish tips, you’ll have mastered this method in no time:
- Apply a generous amount of conditioner – We can’t stress this enough—don’t skimp on the conditioner. You want to coat all of your curls, especially the mid to ends of each strand.
- Work in sections – If you have long or thick hair, apply conditioner in smaller sections to ensure no tresses are left behind.
- Add water – Continue adding water to your hands as you squish. This will help the ingredients penetrate the hair, create more defined curl clumps & rinse out the conditioner.
- Adjust as needed – As you experiment with what works for your hair, you may find that you need more or less conditioner than you originally thought. The types of conditioner you use can also affect the amount needed. When your hair makes a squelching sound as you squish it, you’ll know you’ve found the sweet spot.
Condish Like You Mean It with PATTERN
The squish & condish method may not be brand new, but with its curl-defining results, it’s definitely here to stay.
With PATTERN, you can set yourself up for success the first go around by treating yourself to natural & effective products that keep your hair healthy & hydrated on wash day & every day in between.
From moisturizing shampoos & conditioners to curl-enhancing styling creams & hair tools made specifically for curlies & coilies, stock up on your hair care essentials with PATTERN.
Sources:
Cosmopolitan. How to Squish to Condish (S2C) for Moisturized, Conditioned Curls. https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/a37304107/squish-to-condish/
