Mastering the Rake-and-Shake Method
The rake-and-shake method is a structural approach to hair styling designed to encourage natural curl clumping without the need for thermal tools. By applying consistent tension to saturated hair, you distribute product evenly while coaxing the hair into defined ribbons. This technique relies on the weight of water to prevent frizz during the initial application phase.
Mastery of this method requires patience and an understanding of your hair density. It works most effectively on damp hair that has been adequately hydrated. Follow these steps to standardize your styling routine.
- Difficulty
- Beginner
- Total time
- 20 minutes
- Cost
- Minimal
- Cadence
- Wash day schedule
Ingredients
- Lightweight styling cream: Provides hold without heavy residue
Tools List
- Wide-tooth comb for detangling
Step by step
Saturate and detangle
Ensure hair is dripping wet before beginning the styling process. Apply a detangling conditioner or leave-in product to remove all knots, as hair must be perfectly smooth to avoid breakage. Work in sections to ensure thorough saturation from roots to ends.
Tip: Use a wide-tooth comb only while hair is coated in conditioner.Rake through sections
Divide the hair into four manageable quadrants. Apply a styling cream or gel by 'raking' your fingers through each section, starting at the root and pulling toward the ends. The goal is to ensure every individual strand is coated in product and smoothed into alignment.
Tip: Use your fingers like a comb for maximum control.Shake the clusters
Once the product is distributed, grasp the ends of a small curl section. Shake your hand back and forth rapidly to encourage the hair to spring back into its natural pattern. This motion separates the clumps into uniform, individual curls rather than large, matted sections.
Tip: Keep the shaking motion rhythmic and consistent.Define and set
Allow the hair to settle into its shape without further touching. If you notice a rogue frizzy section, apply a minute amount of water and re-rake only that specific area. Avoid running your hands through the hair once the shaking is complete to prevent disrupting the structural formation.
Tip: Resist the urge to re-comb after this stage.Air dry undisturbed
Move to a space where you can remain stationary while the hair dries. Do not use a towel to dry hair, as friction causes frizz. Allow the hair to dry completely before touching it to break the cast formed by the styling product.
Tip: Gravity is your ally for volume at the roots.
Trouble
Why is my hair frizzy after drying?
You likely disrupted the curls while they were drying. Avoid touching the hair until it is fully set and the product cast has hardened.
Can I use a blow dryer?
Direct air flow often disturbs the curl pattern created by the shake. Air drying is the preferred method for this specific technique.
My hair feels weighed down.
You are likely using too much product. Reduce the amount of cream or gel by half and focus application primarily on the mid-lengths and ends.
The back of my head is not curly.
This area often requires more tension. Ensure you are sectioning the hair thoroughly and shaking from the root to ensure even distribution.
The success of the rake-and-shake lies in the transition from tension to release.
Consistency in your technique is the only variable that yields predictable results.