While Homecoming-style ringlet curls were cute back in the day and “beachy waves” always end up crunchy, soft-mermaid curls are perfect for a ‘not-trying’ look or for a night out—and they aren’t hard to do. Whether it is with a curling iron or a flat iron, these elegant curls are just minutes away!
Preparation: when curling my hair, I normally shampoo and condition as normal and apply mouse and a smoothing serum before drying. Note: a heat-protecting spray is always recommended to prevent damage. Also, curling previously-straightened hair can be difficult, as the hair may be stubborn hair.
Curling Iron:
Depending on preference, some people choose to use the clamp on curling irons while others don’t. Some even use a wand, but I just like a good ol’ fashion curling iron (1”-1” ½ are best!). Also, depending on the length and thickness of your hair, you may choose to separate the hair into layers to simplify the process.
o With the barrel in one hand, grab a section of hair about an inch thick with the other.
o From an arms-length away, spray the section of hair with hairspray.
o Starting from the base, wrap your hair downward and away from your face. A trick: always make sure the elbow of the arm holding the iron is tilted up so the iron faces down. This will create curls that frame your face.
o Release after 5-10 seconds.
o After your whole head is curled and your curls are cooled, run your fingers through them to loosen them and add body.
o Spray the entire head with hairspray or shine serum and run your fingers through them again to avoid stiff curls.
Flat iron:
The best irons to use for curling hair are skinnier ones with rounded edges. I have found my 1” Chi straightener to work best because it gets hot on the outside, too. Just like a curling iron, some may prefer to divide hair off into sections or layers depending on their own hair type. Don’t forget a heat-protectant!
o Begin with a one-inch chunk and place the iron about ¾ of the way up the strand.
o Close the flat iron and twist it away from your face just one time.
o Slowing pull the iron down the rest of the strand while it’s remains clamped shut.
o For tighter curls, smaller sections and spending longer on the “pull-down” process will help.
o If your curls are kinked, you’re clamping the iron too tightly; close the iron gently for looser waves.
o To smooth the curls into waves, run through them with your fingers or a comb.
o Spray with hairspray as desired!
Youtube also has a ton of awesome tutorials on how to curl your hair. Here’s what NOT to do: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v…