How to Curl Hair That Won’t Hold Curls

Step 1: Ditch Silicones in Your Shampoo

Most shampoos and conditioners contain silicone (hint: you can find it under names ending in “-cone”) to give your hair that silky feel. It does so by coating around each strand, creating a shiny surface. However, too much of it can weigh down your already fine, straight hair. There’s just not enough grip to hold those curls.

For better styling results, switch to silicone-free products. In addition to boosting volume, it keeps the hair soft and smooth while providing ample hydration. You can try Dove Botanical Anti Hair Fall Shampoo Silicone Free Primrose to start your hair prep. It’s made with 100% botanical oils and primrose that strengthen weak, brittle strands and promote healthy growth. Follow up with Dove Botanical Anti Hair Fall Conditioner Primrose to make your locks more manageable.

If your hair tends to get greasy after a day, using a silicone-free shampoo can help manage oiliness.

Step 2: Prep Like a Pro

The key to mastering how to curl hair is selecting the right styling products and applying them in the correct order. Start with a mist of heat protectant on damp hair. Then, slather a handful of mousse from roots to ends for extra hold and volume. If you’re in the mood for “beach waves” hair, put on some curl-enhancing starting from the mid-lengths. Be careful not to overdo it, as too much product can grease up your tresses.

For shorter hair, a golf ball-sized mousse should be enough.

Step 3: Blow Dry with a Diffuser

Skip the round brush and go to town with a diffuser. This hair-drying technique helps bring out the natural texture of your locks. Plus, it adds more definition for bouncy curls that won’t quit.

Let the diffuser do its magic and scrunch up your strands with your other hand. Remember to take it slow as you want to make sure your hair is completely dry before you tango with the curling iron. If you want to smooth out some tangles, use your fingers instead of a comb.

If you don’t have a diffuser attachment, you can use a regular hair dryer.

Step 4: Set the Right Temperature on Your Curling Iron

Hotter is not always better. You don’t want to end up with burnt hair and end up having to wear hats for months. However, you also don’t want the temperature to be too low, or else your curls will go flat in the blink of an eye. The rule of thumb is to never go above 200 degrees Celsius (400 degrees Fahrenheit)even if you have insanely thick strands.

If your current curling iron only has one heat setting, it might be time to get an upgrade. Modern models come equipped with adjustable digital temperature displays and are made with a variety of materials that distribute heat evenly.

Don’t forget to also divide your hair into sections before using a curling wand.

Step 5: Use a Smaller Barrel

An often-overlooked step in how to curl hair, your choice in barrel size can turn droopy waves into perky curls that stay put day and night. The trick lies in selecting a barrel that’s about half to an inch smaller than your desired curl. Don’t worry, the tight ringlets will eventually loosen up and settle into Hollywood waves.

Start curling your hair from the roots and work your way downward.

Step 6: Pin Those Curls Up

If you know how to curl hair using rollers, this step is pretty much the same. After curling each section of hair, roll and clip the warm coil toward your scalp with a duckbill pin or a Velcro roller. Wait for five to 15 minutes for the curls to cool down. In the meantime, do your makeup and assemble your outfit!

Who knew that learning how to curl hair could be so relaxing?

Step 7: Finish with a Little Hairspray

Once the clips or rollers are off your head, fan out your curls and coat each section with small spritzes of hairspray. That way, every strand is coated without making your hair all stiff and crunchy. Break up any clumps with a brush and add a final mist of hairspray to lock everything.

Whether it’s for prom night, a date, or a wedding party, follow these tips on how to curl hair that will look stunning until your next hair wash day. Don’t be shy to flip those gorgeous waves.

Hold the hairspray about 15 centimeters away from your hair.