How to Make Curls Last Longer for All Hair Types

Step 1: Wash Your Hair the Right Way

How you cleanse your strands can significantly impact the longevity of your curls. If you only do the bare minimum, like simply lathering up shampoo and rinsing it quickly, your hair might fall flat at the top and poofy at the bottom – a problem Ian used to encounter.

No matter how much hair gel, spray, and mousse you use, your curls won’t hold their shape without proper cleansing. Other than the usual shampoo and conditioner routine, Ian recommends adding Dove Advanced Keratin Treatment Mask to your arsenal. “I noticed the difference when I used it. My hair looks so shiny and volumized,” she says. Plus, it helps repair and protect your hair from the damaging effects of heat styling.

For naturally curly-haired ladies, you can try Cream Silk Salon Expert Treatment Keratin Damage Repair. It deeply penetrates each strand to help retain moisture and strengthen the hair fiber. 

Leave the hair mask on for a few minutes and rinse with cold water.

Step 2: Get Serious With Prepping

Hairstyling products are intimidating for some. Applying too many products at once often results in a greasy look. But if you don’t use any, your curls will droop in a matter of minutes. It all comes down to knowing which products to use for the style you’re going after. Ian says mousse and heat protectant are her two must-haves, especially for creating big, bombshell curls.

Whichever pre-stylers you choose, you need to layer them properly. The rule of thumb is to apply in order of consistency, much like how you do skincare. So, start with the lightest product first, such as heat protectant, and then follow with heavier products like mousse.

Hair mousse can add texture, grit, and volume to your strands.

Step 3: Have the Tool Ready

Select the right tool to create your desired look. Use a curling wand with a narrow barrel to achieve tight, defined curls. If you prefer loose, beachy waves, opt for a straightener or a larger barrel curling iron.

Once you’ve selected your “weapon,” adjust its heat setting. The thicker the hair, the higher the temperature. But don’t go over 200 degrees Celsius to prevent heat damage.

A smaller size curling iron or straightener gives tighter curls and more hold.

Step 4: Take Your Time

Patience is your greatest ally when learning how to make curls last longer.“Do not rush it! You have to make time if you want to look extra on that special day,” Ian advises. 

Begin by dividing your hair into four or more sections. This ensures every strand is curled to perfection. Take a small section of your hair and clamp the iron right in the middle. Turn it away from your face, hold for five seconds, then slowly slide it down to the ends of your hair. Repeat this process until all sections are covered.

Avoid holding your curling iron or straightener in one spot for too long as it can burn your hair.

Step 5: Cool Your Curls

If you need advice on how to make curls last longer in flat, fine hair, Ian recommends the old roll and tuck trick. She likes to clip her fresh curls with single-prong pins and let them cool down. You can also wrap the coils around Velcro rollers. Leave the pins or rolls overnight to have bouncy curls that will stay on-point for days.

Pinning down your curls not only extends their longevity but also enhances their shape.

Step 6: Hands Off Your Hair

As tempting as it is to run your fingers through your soft, bouncy curls, avoid doing so as this can mar your masterpiece. Instead, Ian suggests using a hair-setting spray. Anyone who knows how to make curls last longer will never go outside without it. “Use a firm hold hair spray to lock in the curvy shapes.”

Mastering how to make curls last longer will surely make you want to wear them more often. So go ahead and practice as often as you can – especially on blah days. The extra bounce in your locks will no doubt add a spring to your step, too!

Hold the hairspray can about 15 to 20 centimeters from your head and lightly mist over your curls.