Quick SummaryThe Abbey Yung method is an 11-step hair routine created by a certified trichologist, which went viral on TikTok in summer 2025. It was designed for highly damaged and high-porosity hair, not specifically for straight hair or curls. In this guide: what the method truly involves, which steps are suitable for curly hair and which should be avoided, how to simplify it into 3 essential steps, and how it differs from the Curly Girl Method. |
What exactly is the Abbey Yung method?
Abbey Yung is a hair influencer and certified trichologist, known for her scientific and accessible approach, which helps her followers understand how to properly care for their hair.
How the method went viral
- Date: June 2025
- Platform: TikTok
- Impact: over 13 million views
Its popularity stems from its promise: repaired and strengthened hair, even after years of damage.
The method's objective
The method does not aim to make hair grow faster. It seeks to reduce breakage to maintain length and improve hair fiber health from the inside via bond repair – the repair of protein bonds damaged by heat or chemical treatments.
Expected result: more resistant, shinier, and less frizzy hair.
Can't define your curls? This often comes from bad habits. Discover The 7 mistakes that block their definition.
The method in numbers
- 11 steps in total
- 3 essential steps to get started: gentle shampoo, conditioner, and leave-in
- Other steps are optional, depending on your hair type and condition
The 4 phases of the method
The Abbey Yung method consists of four phases that work together to repair and strengthen the hair fiber.
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Phase 1: Before the shower
Apply a pre-shampoo treatment (bond repair spray) for 10 to 15 minutes, twice a week. For very dry hair, add a pre-shampoo oil to the lengths. This step prepares your hair for washing and limits breakage.
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Phase 2: In the shower
Alternate between a clarifying shampoo (at least once a week) and a gentle shampoo as needed. After washing, apply a post-shampoo bond repair treatment, then a conditioner or mask to nourish and strengthen the hair fiber.
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Phase 3: After the shower
On towel-dried hair, apply a leave-in to protect and hydrate. Depending on your needs, use stylers for styling, then a serum or light oil to seal in moisture.
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Phase 4: Between washes
Apply a scalp serum with peptides and growth-stimulating active ingredients. Adopt gentle practices: silk scrunchies, no aggressive brushing, to avoid weakening your hair.
Is the Abbey Yung method suitable for your curls?
The Abbey Yung method was designed for straight hair, but some steps can be adapted for curls to strengthen and repair the hair fiber. It's important to distinguish what is useful and what can be modified:
What can help your curls
- Pre-shampoo bond repair treatment (Phase 1): useful for protecting your curls before washing.
- Gentle shampoo and repairing mask (Phase 2): deep hydration and repair without weighing down your curls.
- Leave-in and light serum (Phase 3): protects curl shape and limits frizz.
What is less suitable
- Excessive heat or straightening stylers: these steps are not recommended for curls, as they can break their natural shape.
- Too frequent clarifying shampoo: can dry out curls; opt for once a month or as needed.
Abbey Yung Method vs. Curly Girl Method: Key Differences
|
Comparison Point |
Abbey Yung Method |
Curly Girl Method |
|
Sulfates |
Weekly clarifying recommended |
Completely excluded (mild sulfates sometimes tolerated) |
|
Silicones |
Not excluded — choose according to product |
Water-insoluble silicones excluded |
|
Heat |
Allowed with heat protection |
Not recommended, diffuser tolerated |
|
Bond repair |
Central to the method |
Not mentioned — focused on hydration |
|
Flexibility |
Adaptable framework, no strict rules |
Strict list of forbidden ingredients |
|
For whom? |
Damaged / high porosity hair |
All curly / coily / kinky textures |
Both methods are compatible if you choose products without water-insoluble silicones and harsh sulfates for the Abbey Yung steps, making them complementary rather than opposite.
3 mistakes to avoid when adapting the Abbey Yung method to curls
|
Mistake |
Explanation |
Tip for curls |
|
1 — Wanting to do everything from day one |
The method has 11 steps, but only 3 are truly mandatory (shampoo, conditioner, leave-in). Starting with all steps from the beginning can be daunting. |
Start with the 3 essential steps and gradually add others as needed. |
|
2 — Neglecting clarification |
Many curly-haired individuals avoid strong shampoos for fear of dryness. This creates build-up that blocks hydration and the effectiveness of treatments. |
Use a clarifying shampoo at least once a month to prepare your hair for reparative treatments. |
|
3 — Applying bond repair treatments to overloaded hair |
Repairing active ingredients do not penetrate properly if the hair is already laden with products. |
Always clarify your curls before using bond repair treatments to ensure flexibility and effectiveness. |
To complete your routine and learn more about restoring and defining your curls, discover our Ultimate Guide to Rediscovering Your Curls.
Conclusion:
The Abbey Yung method can be effective for repairing and nourishing your hair, but not all steps are suitable for curls.
By choosing the essential steps, clarifying regularly, and respecting the nature of your curls, you will achieve stronger, more defined, and frizz-free hair.
To help you in this process, Naturiam collections are formulated for each curl profile, without having to recreate a product list step-by-step.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
- Does the Abbey Yung method work on coily hair?
Yes, coily hair particularly benefits from bond repair treatments, especially if the hair fiber is weakened. Adjust the frequency according to your hair's condition.
- Can you follow the method without bond repair?
Yes, it is possible to focus on gentle washing, conditioner, and leave-in. Curls will remain defined and hydrated, with visible results gradually appearing.
- How long before seeing results?
Generally, 4 to 6 weeks are enough to observe more shine, less frizz, and better-defined curls. Consistency is key.
- Is the method compatible with the Curly Girl Method?
Yes, provided you replace products containing sulfates and silicones with suitable alternatives. The leave-in + hydration approach remains compatible with the Curly Girl method.
