Have you ever attempted a new style only to see that your curl pattern is not where it should be? When this happens, it can definitely feel discouraging. Although you may have to change your hair plans for that day, there are a few things you should know in order to avoid the same mishap in the future. Here are seven ways that you could potentially be disrupting your curl pattern from being its best.

You’re touching it while it’s still drying.

We’ve said this time and time again, but we have to say it again: stop touching your hair while it’s wet. After you’ve applied product and have manipulated your hair to its desired style, keep your fingers away from your mane. Not only will you disrupt the curl pattern that you’re attempting to achieve, but you’ll also create frizz and lose moisture.

You haven’t figured out the correct products to use on your hair.

Though it may not seem like a big deal, knowing that your hair may not take well to the same products that your best friend uses can be the difference between you achieving your desired style or it being a flop. Knowing your hair porosity is a good way to figure out which products can work best for you.

Another thing to keep in mind is that your products should be adding moisture and for most naturals, should be sulfate-free to produce the best look. Luckily, Aunt Jackie’s products are all sulfate-free.

Using a brush consistently is still in your routine.

Still using a rough bristled brush to style your natural hair? No wonder why your curl pattern isn’t how you want it to be. Brushing — especially while your hair is dry — can absolute damage and disrupt the pattern of your mane.

You haven’t discovered steaming.

If you’re someone that hasn’t discovered steaming, where have you been? Your hair feeds off of moisture and steaming every now and again can help add that extra boost your hair needs. Steaming has been known to lift your cuticle, promote hair growth, reduce shrinkage and more. After you steam, follow up with our Quench — Moisture Intensive Leave-In Conditioner to help lock in the moisture.

You’re being heavy handed with your product application.

Though you may think adding more of our Seal It Up — Hydrating Sealing Butter may not cause any harm to your hair, if you overuse any product, it can definitely have a negative effect on your hair. Be sure that you avoid being heavy handed with your product application — regardless of which one you’re using.

You’re not applying product on wet or damp hair.

Trying to achieve definition can be nearly impossible if doing so on completely dry hair. Instead of towel drying and them applying product, add your product to your hair while it’s completely wet or damp so that you can avoid any frizz attacks.

And of course, you’re still using heating tools.

When curly hair has been damaged by heat, it’s difficult to achieve good definition whenever you’re wearing your natural pattern. Eliminating heating tools such as flat irons, curling irons, and even blow dryers can help you achieve your desired look.