Darin ,a stylist at Bumble and bumble's downtown salon in New York City's Meatpacking District.

Q:What the heck is curl activator product? I see it and think it sounds gimmicky. Does it really make hair curlier?

A: Curl activator products aren't designed to make straight hair curly; they're designed to strengthen the bonds of already-curly hair so it doesn't look unruly. A lot of curl products have moisturizers in them that help control the hair and add moisture so hair won't be frizzy and curls will be defined. When you're using a curl product, smooth and twist 2-inch-square sections until you've completed your whole head, and then let your hair dry naturally. Don't touch your hair until it's 100 percent dry so it has time to set. If there is rain or cold temperatures, use a diffuser attachment while blow-drying.