Mornings can be a whirlwind of chaos, can’t they? Between hitting the snooze button one too many times, preparing breakfast, and trying to look presentable for the day ahead, time slips away faster than you’d like. If you have curly hair, this challenge often feels amplified.

Curly hair is beautiful, versatile, and full of personality, but it can also be unpredictable—prone to frizz, dryness, and tangles that seem to appear overnight. The good news? You don’t have to sacrifice style for speed. Over the years, I’ve experimented with countless routines and products to tame my own curls without spending hours in front of the mirror. In this expanded guide, I’ll share my top five tried-and-true ways to get ready faster with curly hair. These tips are practical, beginner-friendly, and designed to help you embrace your natural texture while saving precious minutes. Whether you’re heading to work, school, or a casual outing, these strategies will have you out the door looking fabulous in no time.

1. Invest in High-Quality Argan Oil for Instant Moisture and Shine

One of the biggest time-savers in my curly hair arsenal is argan oil. Often called “liquid gold” for its nourishing properties, argan oil is derived from the kernels of the argan tree native to Morocco. It’s packed with essential fatty acids, vitamin E, and antioxidants that deeply hydrate hair without weighing it down. Why is this a game-changer for busy mornings? If you skipped washing your hair the night before or simply don’t have time for a full shower routine, a quick application of argan oil can revive your curls instantly.

Here’s how to incorporate it effectively: Start by dispensing just one or two drops into your palms—remember, a little goes a long way to avoid greasiness. Rub your hands together to warm the oil, then gently apply it from mid-lengths to ends, focusing on drier areas. For extra vibrancy, lightly smooth it over the roots if needed, but be cautious not to overdo it there. This process takes less than a minute and transforms dull, lifeless curls into bouncy, shiny ones. The oil seals in moisture, reduces frizz, and enhances curl definition, making your hair look like you just stepped out of a salon.

My personal favorite is AG Hair The Oil, which strikes the perfect balance between quality and affordability. At around $20-30 per bottle (depending on where you shop), it’s accessible and lasts for months with daily use. If you’re new to argan oils, look for pure, organic options without added silicones or fillers—these can build up and require more washing later. Alternatives like Moroccanoil Treatment or Josie Maran Argan Oil are also excellent, but test a small amount first to ensure it suits your hair type. Curly hair types 3A to 4C benefit immensely, as the oil mimics natural sebum production, which curls often lack. By making this a staple, you’ll cut down on conditioning time and enjoy healthier hair long-term. Trust me, once you start, you’ll wonder how you ever managed without it!

2. Master the Diffuser for Quick, Defined Curls

If blow-drying sounds like a time commitment, think again—especially with a diffuser attachment. This bowl-shaped tool, which fits onto most hair dryers, disperses airflow gently to dry curls without disrupting their pattern. It’s essential for curly hair because traditional blow-drying can cause frizz and flatten volume, but a diffuser preserves bounce while speeding up the process.

To use it efficiently in the morning: First, apply a heat protectant spray like Tresemmé Thermal Creations Heat Tamer Spray to shield your strands from damage. Then, flip your head upside down for added volume, and place sections of damp hair into the diffuser’s prongs. Set your dryer to high heat but low speed to dry quickly—about 5-10 minutes total, depending on hair length and thickness. Hover the diffuser without pressing too hard to encourage lift at the roots. The result? Defined, frizz-free curls that look air-dried but take half the time.

If you’re a diffuser newbie, invest in a universal one like the DevaCurl Diffuser or the Dyson Supersonic attachment for precision. Practice on a weekend to get the hang of it—tips include scrunching as you dry and avoiding touching the hair too much to prevent frizz. This method not only saves time but also promotes hair health by minimizing heat exposure compared to flat irons or curling wands. For those with tighter coils, combine it with a leave-in conditioner for even better results. I’ve found that diffusing cuts my styling time by 15 minutes, allowing me to focus on makeup or outfit choices instead.

3. Embrace Damp Hair and Air-Drying with Smart Products

Who says you need fully dry hair to step out? Keeping your curls slightly damp and letting them air-dry is a low-effort hack that’s surprisingly effective and healthy. Air-drying reduces heat damage, preserves natural oils, and enhances curl formation over time. The key is using products that combat frizz and add texture without requiring additional tools.

After a quick rinse or misting with water, apply a curl-enhancing product like SheaMoisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie or Cantu Coconut Curling Cream. These add moisture and hold, preventing the dreaded “crunchy” feel. Scrunch gently to encourage curls, then use a microfiber towel or old T-shirt to blot excess water—never rub, as that causes breakage. If frizz is a concern, follow up with a diffuser on cool air for 2-3 minutes to set the style partially.

This approach is ideal for humid climates or active days, as damp hair stays hydrated longer. It’s also eco-friendly, saving energy from dryers. For variety, twist sections into loose buns while damp for defined waves later. I’ve relied on this during rushed commutes, and it always garners compliments on my “effortless” look. Plus, it’s forgiving—if your curls dry unevenly, a quick spritz of water revives them. Air-drying might take 30-60 minutes passively, but you can multitask, making it a true time-saver.

4. Opt for a Quick Updo to Harness Your Curls’ Natural Volume

Curly hair’s superpower? It lends itself perfectly to effortless updos that look polished with minimal effort. When time is tight, skip intricate styling and go for something simple yet chic. A messy bun, pineapple ponytail, or side-swept twist can be done in under two minutes and hides any second-day imperfections.

To create a basic updo: Gather your curls loosely at the crown, secure with a hair tie or claw clip, and let a few tendrils frame your face for softness. Use bobby pins to tuck in flyaways—opt for ones with a grip coating to hold curls better. For added flair, incorporate accessories like a silk scarf or headband to elevate the look. Products aren’t always necessary, but a light hairspray like Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Anti-Humidity Spray ensures it lasts all day.

This tip shines for professional settings or workouts, as updos keep hair out of your face while showcasing texture. Experiment with variations: A half-up style for shorter hair or French twists for longer locks. Curly hair’s volume means less teasing required, saving time and reducing damage. In my experience, updos have turned bad hair days into stylish ones, boosting confidence without the fuss.

5. Rely on Detangling Spray for Tangle-Free Mornings

Tangles are the enemy of quick routines, but a good detangling spray makes combing a breeze. These formulas, often infused with conditioners and slip agents, soften knots and add shine without a full wash.

Spritz generously on dry or damp hair, then use a wide-tooth comb or fingers to gently detangle from ends to roots. Favorites include Not Your Mother’s Knotty to Nice Conditioning Detangler or Honest Beauty Leave-In Conditioner. Follow with argan oil and scrunch for enhanced curls—this combo takes 3-5 minutes max.

Detangling sprays prevent breakage, distribute natural oils, and refresh styles. They’re especially useful post-sleep when curls mat together. For kids or fine curls, choose lightweight options; coarser types benefit from richer ones. This step has revolutionized my mornings, eliminating the need for lengthy conditioning sessions.