Crunchy Curls? How to Scrunch Out the Crunch for Soft, Defined Curls

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