how to curl your hair with a straightener

Introduction

Do you want gorgeous curls but don’t have a curling iron? Don’t worry, because you can curl your hair using a straightener! It may seem counterintuitive, but with the right technique and a little practice, you can achieve beautiful curls that will turn heads. In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of curling your hair using a straightener, so let’s get started!

Preparation

Before you begin curling your hair, it’s important to prepare your locks for styling. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Clean and Dry

Start by washing your hair to ensure it’s clean and free from any styling products that could weigh it down. Allow it to air dry or use a blow dryer on a low heat setting until it’s fully dry. It’s best not to straighten damp or wet hair as it can cause damage.

Step 2: Protect Your Hair

Apply a heat protectant spray to shield your hair from potential damage caused by the high temperature of the straightener. This step is crucial in maintaining healthy and beautiful hair.

Step 3: Gather Your Tools

Make sure you have all the necessary tools at hand, including a quality hair straightener with adjustable heat settings, hair clips to section your hair, and a comb or brush to detangle your locks.

Curling Techniques

Now that you’ve prepped your hair, it’s time to dive into the curling process. There are several techniques you can use to achieve different types of curls:

Technique 1: Basic Curls

Follow these steps for classic, bouncy curls:

Step 1: Section Your Hair

Divide your hair into several sections using the hair clips. The number of sections depends on the thickness of your hair, but start with four sections for a general guideline: two at the front and two at the back.

Step 2: Heat Up the Straightener

Adjust the temperature of your straightener according to your hair type. Lower heat for fine hair and higher heat for thicker hair. Let the straightener heat up completely before using it.

Step 3: Begin Curling

Take one section of hair and clamp the straightener near the roots, close to the scalp. Slowly glide the straightener down the length of your hair, while simultaneously rotating it away from your face. The rotation is key to creating curls rather than just straightening your hair.

Step 4: Repeat for All Sections

Continue working through each section, ensuring you rotate the straightener in the same direction each time for consistency. Be careful not to hold the straightener in one place for too long, as this can cause heat damage.

Technique 2: Beachy Waves

If you prefer more relaxed, loose curls, follow these steps to achieve a beachy wave look:

Step 1: Prepare Your Hair

Start with clean and dry hair. Apply a texturizing spray or sea salt spray to give your hair some extra texture.

Step 2: Twist and Curl

Take a small section of hair and twist it around itself from roots to ends. Clamp the straightener at the twisted section, then slowly glide it down the length of the hair while maintaining tension. This technique creates a more effortless and tousled wave.

Step 3: Repeat for All Sections

Work your way through all the sections, twisting and curling each one to achieve that beachy wave effect. Remember to rotate the straightener in the same direction for consistency.

Finishing Touches

After you’ve completed the curling process, it’s time to add some finishing touches and lock in those curls:

Step 1: Cool Down

Give your hair some time to cool down before touching the curls. This will help set the shape and make them last longer.

Step 2: Apply Hair Spray

Hold a can of hairspray about an arm’s length away from your head and mist it over your curls to provide hold and prevent frizz. Don’t apply too much, as it can weigh down your curls.

Step 3: Gently Separate Curls

Using your fingers or a wide-toothed comb, gently separate the curls to achieve a more natural and voluminous look. Avoid combing through the curls too much, as it can cause them to lose their shape.

Conclusion

Curling your hair with a straightener is a fantastic alternative if you don’t have a curling iron at your disposal. With the right technique and a little patience, you can create stunning curls or beachy waves that last all day. Remember to prepare your hair properly, choose the right curling technique, and finish off with some styling products to enhance and maintain your curls. Now, grab your straightener and start experimenting to find the perfect curly hairstyle for any occasion!