We all seem to want what we don't have. Those with curls want straight hair, and those with straight hair just want pretty curls. Sometimes the thought of curling your hair is exhausting. You spend all that time, only to have it frizz and fro up like a clown or fall after just an hour or two. It can make you want to cry (or scream). Check out these tips to help you curl your hair like a professional and keep the look.
Difficulty: Average
Time Required: 30 - 60 Minutes
Here's How:
- Choose the Right Size Tool for the Job: The size barrel on your curling iron will make a big difference in the results. Smaller diameter curling irons (1" or smaller) create smaller curls. Larger curling irons (1.5" or larger) create larger curls and waves. The length of your hair in relation to the size of the curling iron will make a big difference in the amount of curl you achieve as well. The more times you can wrap your hair around the barrel, the more curl you will achieve.
Choose the Right Material for the Job: Curling irons come in a variety of materials including ceramic, tourmaline, gold, titanium, and chrome.
- Ceramic and tourmaline irons are the best choice. You'll get even heat distribution, frizz control, and a tool that's healthier for your hair.
- Gold and titanium irons get super hot and can deliver a decent curl, but aren't a great choice for heat and frizz protection.
- Chrome irons aren't a recommended choice, but are inexpensive and can be purchased at just about any drug store. You may notice curls fall, frizz, and your hair may become fragile after using a chrome iron.
- Prepare Your Hair Properly: For those that can't get a curl to hold, this is the step that's often missed. These tips and tricks can help you choose the right products to get your hair to hold a curl all day long. It's important to use a mousse, gel, or curl enhancing cream prior to drying your hair. A heat protection spray before curling your hair will help set your curl and protect your hair from getting burned.
- How to Curl Loose Waves: I recommend clipping all of your dried hair up except for a 2" section at the base of your neck. This will allow you to curl small sections, working your way up the head. Comb through each small section of hair, mist with a medium hold hair spray, and then wrap the hair around the barrel of a large curling iron (starting at the ends). Hold the curl for 15-20 seconds, release the curl, and mist again with hairspray. Continue until your entire head is curled. For a beachy look, use your fingers to style. For a soft romantic look, brush curls out gently.
- How to Curl Smaller Bouncy Curls: The technique for curling smaller bouncy curls is much the same as curling loose waves, except you'll want to use a smaller curling iron. Clip hair up except for the section you're working in. Smaller sections will create more curl. Start at the base of the neck, comb through hair, spray with hairspray, and wrap the hair around the barrel of the curling iron. Hold each curl for 15-20 seconds, release, and mist again with hairspray. Style by separating the curls with your fingers or a wide tooth comb.
Tips:
- Be sure hair is 100% dry before curling your hair. Wet or damp hair should never be curled. Besides the fact that wet/damp hair won't hold a curl well, it can cause serious damage to your hair.
- Allow curls to fully cool before styling.
- Don't over-style your curls. The less combing and brushing you do the longer they will stay and less frizzy they will look.
- Try alternating the way you wrap the curls on the curling iron. Wrapping the curls forward or backward can give you a completely different look. Experiment with the way you wrap your curls to achieve the look you desire.
- Practice makes perfect. If you don't get the exact look you're seeking, don't give up. It can take a lot of practice to get beautiful curls. Professionals practice a lot before getting it right.
What You Need
- Dry Hair
- Curling Iron
- Heat Protecting Spray
- Mousse, Gel, or Curl Enhancing Cream
- Hairspray
