Similar to a curling iron, a curling wand is a clipless tool with a heated barrel. It doesn’t have a clamp, which allows for more flexible styling. Curling wands are available in different sizes and are excellent for creating natural-looking waves and curls. This is an amazing article On Guide to Achieving Defined Curls for Natural Hair Check it out for all of the details.
Want to achieve those beautiful, effortless curls that hairstylists seem to effortlessly create? Look no further, because in this article, we will show you the professional techniques to curl your hair like a pro. Whether you have straight hair that needs some bounce or want to enhance the natural waves, we have got you covered. Say goodbye to mediocre curls and hello to salon-worthy hair with our tips and tricks. Are you ready to become a master at curling your hair? Let’s get started. Related Read: Natural Hair Curls
How do you curl your hair like a professional?
If you’ve ever wondered how professional hairstylists create those gorgeous, bouncy curls, you’re not alone. Curling your hair like a pro may seem challenging, but with the right tools and techniques, you can achieve salon-worthy curls right at home. In this article, we will guide you through the process of curling your hair with different styling tools, share tips for preparation and maintenance, and highlight common mistakes to avoid. So, let’s dive in and learn how to curl your hair like a professional!
What Tools Do You Need?
Before we get into the techniques, let’s first understand the different tools you can use to achieve that perfect curl. Here are the four main styling tools you can choose from:
Curling Iron
A curling iron is a classic tool for creating curls. It consists of a clamp to hold the hair and a heated barrel that you wrap the hair around. Curling irons come in various barrel sizes and materials, offering you a range of curl options.
Curling Wand
Hot Rollers
If you prefer a heatless curling option, hot rollers might be the perfect choice for you. Hot rollers heat up and then set the hair in place as they cool down. They are convenient for those who want to multitask while their hair curls.
Flat Iron
Although primarily used for straightening hair, flat irons can also be used to create stunning curls. With a little practice, you can master the technique of curling your hair using a flat iron, making it a versatile tool for both straight and curly hairstyles.
What Type of Curling Iron Should You Use?
Choosing the right curling iron is crucial for achieving your desired curl style. Here are a few factors to consider:
Barrel Size
The size of the barrel determines the tightness of the curl. Smaller barrels, around 0.5 to 1 inch, create tighter curls, while larger barrels, around 1.25 to 2 inches, give looser, more relaxed waves. Consider the length and thickness of your hair when selecting the barrel size.
Material
Curling irons can be made of different materials, such as ceramic, tourmaline, or titanium. Ceramic and tourmaline barrels help distribute heat evenly, reducing the risk of heat damage and frizz. Titanium barrels, on the other hand, heat up quickly and hold heat well, making them ideal for thick or coarse hair.
Heat Settings
Having adjustable heat settings on your curling iron allows you to cater to your hair’s specific needs. Fine or damaged hair typically requires lower heat settings, while thick or coarse hair may need higher temperatures for the curls to hold.
How to Prepare Your Hair
Proper hair preparation is essential for achieving long-lasting and healthy curls. Follow these steps to prepare your hair for curling:
Wash and Condition
Start by washing and conditioning your hair with products suitable for your hair type. Choose a moisturizing conditioner that helps protect your hair from heat damage.
Apply Heat Protectant
Before applying any heat tools, it’s crucial to protect your hair from damage. Apply a heat protectant spray or serum throughout your hair, focusing on the ends and any areas prone to heat damage.
Dry Your Hair
Make sure your hair is completely dry before curling. If you have time, let it air dry, or use a blow dryer on a low heat setting. Using heat tools on damp or wet hair can cause damage and uneven results.
Brush and Section
Gently brush your hair to remove any tangles and divide it into sections for easier curling. The number of sections depends on the thickness of your hair, but aim for about four to six sections. Use hair clips or elastic bands to keep the sections separate.
How to Curl Your Hair with a Curling Iron
Now that your hair is prepared, let’s move on to the techniques for curling your hair with different tools. We’ll start with the classic curling iron:
Preheat the Iron
Plug in your curling iron and set it to the desired temperature. Allow it to heat up fully before starting to curl your hair, as this ensures a consistent and even heat distribution.
Take Small Sections
Working with small sections of hair allows for better control and ensures that each curl is well-defined. Approximately 1-inch sections are ideal, but adjust the size based on the length and thickness of your hair.
Wrap the Hair around the Barrel
Clamp the curling iron onto the hair section near the roots and wrap the hair around the barrel, away from your face. Keep the ends of your hair out of the clamp to prevent creases.
Hold and Release the Curl
Hold the curl in place for about 10-15 seconds, depending on the heat setting and hair thickness. Then release the curl by gently opening the clamp and sliding the curling iron out.
Repeat on All Sections
Continue curling the rest of your hair, section by section, following the same wrapping and holding technique. Curl away from your face on one side and towards your face on the other for a more natural look.
How to Curl Your Hair with a Curling Wand
Curling your hair with a curling wand follows a similar process to using a curling iron, but without the clamp. Here’s how to achieve beautiful curls with a curling wand:
Preheat the Wand
Plug in the curling wand and let it heat up. Like with the curling iron, make sure it reaches the desired temperature before styling your hair.
Take Small Sections
Just as with the curling iron, work with small sections of hair for more manageable curls. Adjust the section size based on your hair’s thickness and length.
Wrap the Hair around the Wand
Starting near the roots, wrap the hair section around the wand, away from your face. Hold the ends of your hair with your fingers to protect them from the heat.
Hold and Release the Curl
Hold the hair around the wand for approximately 10-15 seconds, depending on your hair thickness and desired curl intensity. Gently release the curl by slowly unwinding the hair from the wand.
Repeat on All Sections
Repeat the process on all sections of your hair, taking care to curl in different directions for a more natural look. Remember to adjust the wand’s temperature according to your hair type.
How to Curl Your Hair with Hot Rollers
Hot rollers provide a heatless alternative to curling your hair. Follow these steps for fabulous curls with hot rollers:
Preheat the Rollers
Plug in the hot rollers and wait for them to reach the desired temperature. Most sets have an indicator that tells you when they’re ready to use.
Section Your Hair
Divide your dry hair into sections, similar to the previous techniques. Start by clipping the top section of your hair, leaving the bottom section loose.
Roll the Hair onto the Rollers
Take a small section of hair and wrap it around a hot roller. Roll the hair up towards the scalp, securing the roller in place. Repeat this process for all sections of your hair.
Secure the Rollers
Once all the rollers are in place, use any provided clips or pins to secure them tightly against your scalp. This will help the curls to set and cool down evenly.
Wait for the Rollers to Cool
Allow the rollers to cool completely before removing them. Read the instructions that came with your hot roller set to determine the recommended cooling time.
Remove the Rollers
Once the rollers have cooled, carefully remove them one by one, allowing the curls to fall naturally. Use your fingers to separate and loosen the curls for a more voluminous look.
How to Curl Your Hair with a Flat Iron
If you own a flat iron, you can also use it to create beautiful curls. Here’s how to curl your hair using a flat iron:
Preheat the Flat Iron
Plug in your flat iron and let it heat up to the desired temperature. Ensure that the plates are clean and smooth to prevent snagging on your hair.
Take Small Sections
As before, work with small sections of hair to achieve the best results. Adjust the size of the sections based on your hair’s thickness and length.
Twist the Hair
Before wrapping your hair around the flat iron, give it a little twist. This helps create a more defined curl and adds texture to your hair.
Wrap the Hair around the Iron
Starting near the roots, wrap the twisted hair section around the flat iron, away from your face. Be careful not to get too close to your scalp to avoid burns.
Glide the Iron Downwards
Slowly glide the flat iron down the twisted hair, maintaining a gentle and steady grip. The slower you go, the more time the heat has to set the curl.
How to Make Your Curls Last Longer
Now that you know how to curl your hair like a professional, let’s explore some tips to make your curls last longer:
Use Heat Protectant
Before curling your hair, always apply a heat protectant to minimize the damage caused by styling tools. This will help preserve the health and integrity of your hair.
Apply Hair Spray
After curling each section, lightly spray it with a flexible-hold hairspray. This will lock the curl in place and ensure it lasts throughout the day.
Avoid Touching the Curls
Avoid running your fingers through your curls or constantly touching them. The natural oils from your hands can weigh down the curls and make them lose their shape.
Sleep with a Loose Braid
To keep your curls intact overnight, consider sleeping with a loose braid. This helps prevent excessive movement and friction that can flatten the curls.
Use a Satin Pillowcase
Swap your cotton pillowcase for a satin one. Satin causes less friction, reducing the likelihood of your curls becoming frizzy or unraveled while you sleep.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your curls turn out perfect every time, avoid the following common mistakes:
Using the Wrong Heat Setting
Using a heat setting that is too high for your hair type can lead to heat damage, while using one that is too low may not effectively curl your hair. Find the right temperature balance for your specific hair needs.
Not Using Heat Protectant
Skipping the heat protectant step can result in damage, causing your curls to look dull and lifeless. Always use a heat protectant to shield your hair from unnecessary harm.
Curling Hair with Product Buildup
Buildup from styling products can hinder the curling process and prevent your hair from fully absorbing the heat. Make sure to start with clean, product-free hair for the best results.
Not Waiting for the Curls to Cool
Removing the curling tool too quickly before the curls cool down can cause them to fall flat. Give your curls enough time to set and cool before letting them go.
Overusing Heat on the Hair
Excessive heat can damage your hair’s structure, leaving it dry and prone to breakage. Avoid using heat tools too frequently and ensure you’re using them at the correct temperature.
So, there you have it! You now have all the knowledge you need to curl your hair like a professional. Whether you choose a curling iron, wand, hot rollers, or a flat iron, remember to prepare your hair properly, follow the techniques explained, and take care of your curls to make them last. With practice and the right tools, you’ll soon become a master at creating beautiful curls that will turn heads wherever you go. Happy curling! We wrote this article on What Curls Your Hair The Best: Tools or product Check it out for all of the details.