The hair sponge, also known as the curl sponge, is a device that defines curls and makes getting your natural hair ready each day a breeze. We’ve taken an in-depth look into what a hair sponge actually is and how it works for your hair.

What Is A Hair Sponge?

Hair sponge

Manually twisting your natural hair can take hours, but this sponge-like brush has small holes that make hair look finger-curled within minutes. Typically flat on one side and ridged on the other, it can come in different shapes and versions, such as oval or rectangle.

They also come with different-sized holes, which are good if you want to work on just a small area of the hair or your entire head. Essentially, small holes are for tight coils while bigger holes are meant for bigger curls. If you’re totally new to curl sponges, the pros recommend starting with a mini-sized one to gain better control before mastering the technique.

How To Use Hair Sponge

It’s best when done on moisturized, slightly damp hair that has been fully detangled so the sponge can move easily through your hair. Ideally, hair is freshly washed and conditioned, but you can spritz with a combination of water and leave-in conditioner from a spray bottle if you need a touch-up.

Next, remove your hair’s natural curl definition with a wide bristle brush, like a paddle brush, a pick, or a wide-toothed comb to avoid snagging hair during the coiling process.

To sponge brush hair, you’ll want to gently go over the surface of the hair in the same circular motion. Move across your hair one section at a time. For a uniform look, you’ll go in the same circular direction all over your head, such as totally counter-clockwise, for one to five minutes, or until you’ve achieved your desired look.

Keep your pressure gentle. Pressing down too hard on the hair can only cause damage to the coils, so keep the sponge on the top of the hair.