There’s something special about a head full of soft, bouncy curls or defined, romantic waves. While heat styling tools are quick, using hair curlers can give you a beautiful, long-lasting set with a more natural-looking finish. If you’ve ever been intimidated by a set of rollers, you’re in the right place. Let’s walk through the simple steps to get the gorgeous hair you’ve been dreaming of.
Choosing Your Curler Type
Not all curlers are created equal! For soft, loose waves, velcro or fabric rollers are a great choice and are very gentle on hair. If you’re looking for tighter, more defined curls that last for days, consider traditional foam or magnetic rollers. Heated rollers are fantastic for a faster set that adds volume and bounce, while flexi rods are perfect for creating beautiful spiral curls without any heat at all.
Prepping Your Hair for the Perfect Set
Preparation is the secret to curls that hold. Start with hair that is completely dry or just slightly damp. Applying a light-hold mousse or a setting lotion to each section before rolling will help your style last much longer. For extra volume and texture, a light spritz of texturizing spray at the roots can work wonders.
The Step-by-Step Rolling Technique
Begin by dividing your hair into sections. Start with the bottom layer at the nape of your neck and work your way up. Take a section of hair about the same width as your roller. For volume at the roots, lift the section straight out from your head and roll the hair down toward your scalp, securing it in place. If you’re using heated rollers, allow them to cool completely in your hair before removing for the best hold.
Finishing Your Curled Style
Once all the curlers are out, resist the urge to brush through your curls immediately. This can create a frizzy, undefined look. Instead, gently separate the curls with your fingers starting from the ends and working upward. For a softer, more blended look, you can then use a wide-tooth comb to lightly run through the ends. Finally, mist with a light-hold hairspray to lock in your beautiful new style.
With a little practice, using hair curlers will become a simple and enjoyable part of your routine. The results are often more timeless and less damaging than other methods, giving you beautiful, healthy-looking hair that turns heads.