How to Put a Natural Curl in a Horse's Hair

Horse grooming is one of the most enjoyable parts of horse ownership. Just as you like to play with and style your own hair, you can safely and gently add a bit of curl to your horses hair. Whether preparing for a show or simply looking for a new look for your horse, a few tips can help you add natural curl and wave to your horse's mane and tail

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Shampoo
• Towel
• Cream detangler
• Comb
• Hair bands
• Spray bottle with water
• Nylon or Lycra tail bag

1. Wet and wash your horse's mane and tail, squeeze or towel dry to remove the excess water and then add a cream detangler. There are many hair care supplies made just for horse's, but you may find that your own leave in conditioner makes a less expensive detangler for your horse.

2. Comb out the tail and mane, adding more detangler if necessary. The detangler is not only important to protect your horse's hair, it also adds conditioner and will help the to give the curls a natural, shiny look.

3. Stand to the side of your horse, particularly if she is not accustomed to you working on her tail. Separate the tail into various strands while the hair is still damp and braid them, holding the ends with hair bands. For tighter curls, make more braids or for loose waves, make less braids. Sprits the tail with water if it begins to dry and when finished, cover the braided tail is a nylon or lycra tail bag.

4. Braid the mane while still damp as well, rewetting as necessary. As in the tail, make the size of braid according to the tightness of curl you would like. Again, secure the ends of the braids with hair bands.

5. Allow the braids to set and dry overnight and then carefully remove the bands. Shake the braids out, avoiding combing as it can cause the hair to frizz. Enjoy the natural looking curls in your horse's mane and tail.