Curls instantly add more character to your hairstyle. Whether you’re going for loose waves, defined curls, or a soft blowout look: with the right preparation and technique, you can achieve results at home that are just as beautiful as those from a salon. Whether you use a curling iron or a flat iron, the secret lies in the basics and how you use your tool.
Good preparation makes all the difference
Before you start curling your hair, it’s important to prepare it properly. Curls hold better in hair that isn’t too smooth or too heavy. A light texture and heat protection are essential for this.
Products that come in handy beforehand:
- A heat-protective product to protect your hair from heat
- A light volumizing or texturizing spray to add hold
- Optionally, a blow-dry product that adds volume at the roots
By using these products beforehand, you can ensure that your curls don't lose their shape right away and that your hair stays healthy, even with regular styling.
How to Curl Your Hair with a Curling Iron
A curling iron is ideal if you like defined, even curls. Depending on the thickness of the barrel, you can create everything from tight curls to loose waves. This method is perfect for looks that need to last longer.
Creating curls with a curling iron:
- They often give a slightly more defined look
- They're perfect for festive hairstyles or if you want your hairstyle to last longer
- These work well if you don't like very tight curls
After curling your hair, let the curls cool down for a moment before letting them out. That way, they'll hold their shape better.
How to Create Curls with a Curling Iron
A curling iron is perfect if you want defined, even curls that last a long time. The diameter of the curling iron determines how tight or loose the curls will be: the narrower the curling iron, the tighter the curl.
Wrap a strand of hair around the curling iron and hold the end of your hair while you twist the rest around the iron. Let the strand heat up for a few seconds, then gently unroll it. Let the curl cool for a moment before touching it; this will help it hold its shape.
For a modern look, you can gently loosen the curls after they’ve cooled, or style just the mid-lengths and leave the ends slightly straighter. This creates an airy look and prevents the hair from looking too curly.
How to Create Curls with a Flat Iron
Creating curls with a flat iron requires a bit more technique, but often yields a softer, more effortless look. Perfect for beach waves or a modern, loose style.
By twisting the straightener as you glide it down, you can create a curl or a wave. The slower you move and the more you twist, the more defined the curl will be. With a flat iron, you can also easily switch between a wave, a curl, and a loose wave, creating a playful look.
Curls with a flat iron:
- They often look more natural and less contrived
- They're perfect for loose waves and an effortless look
- These work well if you don't like very tight curls
How to Create Curls with a Flat Iron
With a flat iron, you can create a surprising variety of curls: from loose waves to soft, natural curls. The secret lies mainly in the way you twist the flat iron and the speed at which you glide it through your hair.
Take a section of hair and place the straightener slightly below the roots. Then turn the straightener half a turn to a full turn away from your face and gently pull it downward. The slower you move, the more defined the curl will be. Working faster, on the other hand, creates a looser curl.
For a playful look, alternate the direction of the curls and then run your fingers through them to loosen them up. This prevents the style from looking too “perfect” and gives it a more natural, fuller appearance. This technique is ideal if you like a casual finish with movement.
The finishing touch: how to keep your curls looking great
Once your curls are set, it’s all about balance. Too much hairspray can weigh down your hairstyle, while too little will cause the curls to lose their shape quickly. That’s why you should choose a product that combines flexibility and hold.
A light hairspray or finishing spray helps keep your curls in place while maintaining their bounce. Want more volume? Use your fingers to loosen the curls, or gently brush them out for a softer look.
