4 Reasons Why Your Curl Pattern Might be Changing

Hair is dynamic. It shifts with us—growing, stretching, changing—as we move through life. If you've ever looked at your reflection and thought, "Why did my curl pattern change?" you're not alone. Curl changes are real, and they’re often a natural part of your hair’s lifecycle. 

At Cécred, we believe that understanding your hair is one of the most powerful steps in caring for it. So let’s walk through what we know: why your curl type might evolve, when it happens, and how to best support your hair along the way.  

Is It Possible to Change Curl Pattern?  

The hair follicle’s shape is what determines whether hair grows out straight, wavy, or curly. A curl pattern change is possibly influenced by biological factors like hormonal shifts, changes in follicle shape as a result of medications, and external stressors like chemical treatments or excessive heat styling. If that shape changes, due to internal or external factors, your curls can loosen, tighten, or take on a completely new pattern over time.  

Why Did My Hair Pattern Change?  

- Hormones. Hormones are one of the biggest factors. Hormonal shifts during puberty, pregnancy, postpartum, and menopause can affect the shape of your hair follicles, which in turn impacts your curl pattern. For example, increased estrogen levels during pregnancy often lead to thicker, shinier hair, while the drop in hormones postpartum can cause hair shedding or a noticeable change in texture.

- Health reasons. Medical conditions and nutritional deficiencies also play a role. Thyroid imbalances, whether hypo- or hyperthyroidism, have been linked to changes in hair thickness, texture, and growth cycles. Deficiencies in nutrients like iron, vitamin D, and B vitamins can impact the health and integrity of your hair, potentially altering how it grows in.

- Stress. Then, there’s physical or chemical stress. Frequent heat styling, color processing, relaxers, or perms can weaken the protein bonds (keratin) that give your hair its natural shape. Over time, this structural damage can make your curl pattern appear looser or less defined.

- Environmental factors. Even environmental factors like extended sun exposure, hard water, and dry climates can affect your hair’s elasticity and bounce. Harsh sulfates can strip natural oils and compromise curl definition. A hydrating, sulfate-free cleanser like like Cécred’s Hydrating Shampoo helps maintain moisture while gently removing buildup. Then, follow up with a conditioning treatment to restore moisture levels and elasticity. Cécred’s Moisturizing Deep Conditioner is infused with nourishing oils and butters to rehydrate curls from root to tip.

In short, your hair is dynamic and it responds to what’s happening both inside your body and in your environment. Understanding what might be causing the shift is the first step toward creating a routine that supports the hair you have now, and the hair you want to maintain moving forward.

Can Curl Pattern Change with Age?  

Hair texture often changes several times across a person's life cycle.

As we age, hormonal shifts, slower cell regeneration, and changes in the hair’s internal structure (like the production of keratin and sebum) can all contribute to curls loosening, tightening, or becoming less defined. Your hair, like your skin and body, evolves with time.  

How Can I Help Support My Curl Pattern?   

While some texture changes are biological and may be long-lasting or permanent—particularly those caused by hormonal shifts or damage to the follicle—many curl patterns can be restored or improved with intentional care and consistency.

If your hair has been affected by heat damage, chemical processing, or over-manipulation, it may have lost some of its natural elasticity and protein structure. In these cases, your curl pattern isn’t necessarily gone—it’s just in need of recovery and support. Incorporating treatments like the Rice & Rose Protein Ritual can fortify the hair shaft which may help support curl retention. 

Start by eliminating or reducing the source of damage, such as excessive heat styling or chemical treatments. If you must use heat styling tools, use a styler like Cécred’s Moisture Sealing Lotion on towel-dried hair to seal in moisture and enhance softness. Then, apply a heat protectant before heat styling to protect against thermal damage. 

Incorporate deep treatments that replenish lost keratin and help repair the internal structure of the hair. Cécred’s Reconstructing Treatment Mask is a powerful option. It’s clinically tested to repair damage and reduce breakage by 2x* and is formulated with Bioactive Keratin Ferment and moisture-balancing ingredients that work to promote elasticity and enhance shine. With regular use, this treatment can help improve definition and your natural curl pattern over time.

*Tested in a 3rd party clinical laboratory using hair tresses.

It’s also important to keep your hair hydrated. Use Cécred’s Moisturizing Deep Conditioner weekly for added softness and manageability, and seal in moisture with the Moisture Sealing Lotion to maintain curl integrity and reduce frizz.

Patience is key. And depending on the level of damage, it may take several weeks or even months for curls to bounce back. But with a consistent routine focused on strength and hydration, you can begin to support your natural texture and support healthier, more defined curls.

Can your curl pattern change naturally? Absolutely. Hair isn’t static. It’s a reflection of your journey. Every stage of your hair’s evolution deserves to be celebrated.

*Tested in a 3rd party clinical laboratory using hair tresses.