Lily Collins’ Rare Photos Spark a Fresh Conversation on Baby Curls

Lily Collins has marked her daughter Tove’s first birthday with a rare set of family photos — and, for hair lovers, one detail stood out: a glimpse of Tove’s curly brown hair. While celebrity parenting moments often come and go in the news cycle, this one opens up a genuinely useful discussion many UK families will recognise: what to do (and what not to do) when your baby or toddler starts showing early curl patterns.

At Hairporium, we’re always careful not to overstate what a single photo can “tell” you about hair. Babies’ curl patterns can shift significantly in the first few years as texture, density, and growth cycles change. Still, the images are a timely reminder that early curls deserve gentle handling, sensible expectations, and routines built around comfort — not perfection.

What we can (and can’t) infer from early baby curls

If you’ve ever looked at your child’s hair and wondered whether those waves will become ringlets — or whether they’ll “grow out of it” — you’re not alone. Many parents notice texture changes around the 6–24 month mark, particularly as hair becomes longer and begins to show movement and pattern.

That said, baby hair is not a reliable predictor of adult texture. Some children keep their curls; others develop looser waves or straighter hair as they grow. Hormonal changes, length, and even how frequently hair is brushed or tied up can alter visible curl formation. For this reason, many stylists recommend focusing less on “typing” a child’s curls and more on keeping hair and scalp comfortable, hydrated, and tangle-free.

Practical next step: if your child’s hair is starting to coil or wave, switch from frequent dry brushing to finger-detangling and a wide-tooth comb on damp hair — it’s often the easiest change that makes the biggest difference.

Gentle curl care for little ones: a UK stylist-led approach

Children’s hair and scalps are typically more sensitive than adults’. That’s why a “less is more” routine tends to work best, especially for curls, which can look dry when they’re simply being disrupted by friction and over-handling.

Many UK curl specialists suggest routines that prioritise softness and minimal breakage over strong hold or highly fragranced products. The everyday culprits for frizz and tangles at this age are usually towels, cotton bedding, and repeated rubbing (during bath time, naps, car seats, and prams).

• Detangle with care: Do it on damp hair, starting at the ends and moving upwards. If your child dislikes detangling, go slower and in smaller sections.
• Use soft, low-friction drying: Instead of vigorous towel rubbing, gently squeeze water out with a soft towel. Even a clean cotton T-shirt can reduce snagging.
• Keep styles tension-free: If hair is long enough for bobbles, keep them loose, vary placement, and avoid tight pulling at the hairline.
• Think comfort first at night: If your child moves a lot in sleep, reducing friction (for example, with smoother fabrics) can help curls look less “puffed” in the morning.

It’s also worth noting that not every child needs frequent shampooing. Many families do best with a gentle wash routine that suits activity level and scalp comfort, rather than a strict schedule. If you notice persistent irritation, flaking, or soreness, dermatologists often suggest seeking tailored advice rather than experimenting with lots of different products.

Why curly hair photographs so differently (and what parents should know)

A single set of photos can make curls look more defined than they appear day-to-day — or, equally, more “messy” than they truly are. Lighting, humidity, and whether hair has been recently washed can transform curl definition.

Here are a few reasons curls can look different from one day to the next — especially on toddlers:

• Humidity: Damp UK weather can lift the cuticle and increase frizz.
• Friction: Car-seat headrests, pram naps, and cuddles can rough up curls quickly.
• Length and weight: As hair grows, curls may stretch into looser waves (or spring up more if layers appear naturally).
• Handling: Dry brushing and over-combing can separate curl clumps, making hair look bigger and less defined.

Rather than chasing the “perfect curl day”, many stylists recommend building a routine that makes hair manageable and your child comfortable — then letting texture do its thing. Those habits often pay off as children get older and begin to take ownership of their own hair.

Celebrating texture — without turning it into pressure

Lily Collins’ post is sweet precisely because it’s a simple glimpse of family life. For parents, it’s also a reminder that hair can be part of identity from a very young age, and the language we use matters. Talking about curls as “wild”, “messy”, or “hard work” may be unintentional, but children absorb those cues.

A more helpful approach is to treat curls as normal and versatile. On practical days, that might mean a quick spritz of water and a gentle tidy. On special occasions, it might mean letting curls shine, using soft accessories, or choosing styles that don’t tug. The goal is a child who grows up feeling their texture is welcome — not something to be “fixed”.

Key Takeaways

• Baby and toddler curl patterns often change; focus on gentle care rather than trying to “type” the texture early.
• Detangle on damp hair with fingers or a wide-tooth comb to reduce breakage and discomfort.
• Friction (towels, bedding, car seats) is a major cause of frizz in little curls; softer handling can help quickly.
• A low-tension approach to styles supports a comfortable scalp and healthier-looking curls over time.
• Make it practical: swap dry brushing for damp detangling this week and see if curls look calmer and feel easier to manage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do toddler curls usually stay curly?
Sometimes — but not always. Many children’s hair texture shifts as it grows and thickens. It’s best to care for what you see now, without assuming it will stay exactly the same.

Should I brush my child’s curly hair every day?
For many curly textures, daily dry brushing can increase frizz and tangles. Many stylists recommend detangling on damp hair using fingers or a wide-tooth comb, and keeping handling gentle.

How can I reduce frizz on my child’s curls?
Start with friction control: avoid rough towel drying, reduce vigorous rubbing, and minimise dry brushing. Lightly dampening hair before detangling can also help curls sit together more smoothly.

How often should I wash curly hair on a toddler?
There isn’t one perfect schedule. It depends on activity level, product use, and how the scalp feels. If the scalp seems persistently irritated or flaky, consider seeking advice from a qualified professional.

What’s the easiest curl-friendly habit to start at home?
Switch to gentle damp detangling and stop scrubbing hair dry with a towel. This quick change often improves curl definition and reduces breakage without adding complexity to your routine.