National Curl Crush Day

National Curl Crush Day is traditionally celebrated on March 16. This day focuses on self-love and the appreciation of natural hair textures, specifically targeting those with wavy, curly, or coily locks. The goal is to shift the focus from “hair envy” toward “hair pride,” encouraging individuals to embrace the unique patterns of their own follicles rather than trying to conform to straight-haired beauty standards.

History of National Curl Crush Day

The haircare brand Carol’s Daughter founded National Curl Crush Day in 2021. Lisa Price, the brand’s founder, established the holiday after observing that a significant majority of women with textured hair reported feeling dissatisfied with their natural patterns. A 2021 survey conducted by the company revealed that 82% of Black women experienced “curl envy,” frequently wishing for a different hair texture than the one they were born with. Price created the day to empower these individuals to become their own “crush.”

The holiday is part of a larger historical trajectory involving the Natural Hair Movement, which began in the 1960s and 1970s as a rejection of chemical relaxers and heat styling. By the 2000s, this movement gained mainstream momentum through online forums and the popularization of specialized maintenance routines like the “Curly Girl Method.” The official proclamation of Curl Crush Day in the early 2020s solidified these cultural shifts into an annual national observance that celebrates diversity in beauty and supports the growing market for specialized textured haircare.

Why is National Curl Crush Day important?

This day is important because it challenges long-standing societal prejudices regarding what constitutes “professional” or “neat” hair. For decades, many individuals felt forced to use damaging chemicals or high-heat tools to straighten their hair to fit into corporate or formal environments. By celebrating natural curls, the holiday helps dismantle these biases and promotes a more inclusive definition of beauty. It fosters a sense of community among people who share similar maintenance challenges, such as managing moisture levels and protecting hair from breakage.

The observance also serves as an educational platform for younger generations who may struggle with their self-image. It provides visibility for various curl types, from loose waves to tight, springy coils, showing that every variation is valuable. This visibility is crucial for building confidence and encouraging people to invest in the health of their hair rather than its modification. Furthermore, the day highlights the economic impact of the “curly hair economy,” supporting businesses and entrepreneurs who prioritize the unique needs of the textured hair community.

Encourages people to stop using damaging chemical straightening treatments.
Boosts the self-esteem of children and adults with textured hair.
Highlights the biological diversity of hair follicles and growth patterns.
Promotes awareness of the CROWN Act and anti-discrimination laws.
Connects a global community through the sharing of styling techniques.

How to Celebrate National Curl Crush Day

Celebrating this day involves showcasing your natural texture in its truest form without the use of heat tools or smoothing treatments. Many participants share photos on social media to document their “hair journey,” detailing the products and routines that helped them transition from processed to natural hair. It is a common time to experiment with new styling techniques, such as “plopping,” “finger coiling,” or using diffusers to enhance volume and definition.

Another way to observe the holiday is to audit your haircare products and switch to formulas that are free from sulfates, silicones, and drying alcohols. Communities often host workshops or virtual meetups where experts share advice on scalp health and moisture retention. You can also celebrate by supporting Black-owned beauty brands or local salons that specialize in curly cuts. For those without curly hair, the day is an opportunity to learn about the history of the natural hair movement and the importance of hair equity in schools and workplaces.

Wear your hair in its natural, un-straightened state for the day.
Try a deep conditioning mask to provide your curls with extra hydration.
Share your favorite curl-friendly product recommendations with friends.
Watch a tutorial for a new protective style like braids or twists.
Follow influencers who provide tips for your specific curl pattern.