To style curly hair safely and effectively, start by using a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to detangle gently when the hair is wet and conditioned. Always apply a heat protectant if you plan to use heat styling tools. Opt for low-heat settings when using a hair dryer and use a diffuser to distribute the heat evenly and enhance your curl pattern. For heat-free styling, experiment with protective styles like braids or twists, which help form the curls without stress. Let your hair air dry whenever possible to minimize heat exposure.