Curls instantly add character to your hairstyle. Whether you go for loose waves, defined curls or a soft blow-out vibe: with the right preparation and technique, you can achieve results at home just as beautiful as at the hairdresser's. Whether you use curling irons or straighteners. The secret is in the basics and in how you handle your tool.
Good preparation makes all the difference
Before you start curling, it is important that your hair is well prepared. This is because curls stay better in hair that is not too smooth or heavy. A light texture and protection from heat are essential here.
Products that are handy beforehand:
- A heat protection product to protect your hair from heat
- A light volume or texture spray to create grip
- Possibly a blow-drying product that provides body at the roots
Using these products beforehand will ensure that your curls do not sag immediately and your hair stays healthy, even with regular styling.
making curls with the curling iron
A curling iron is ideal if you like clear, even curls. Depending on the thickness of the tongs, you can vary from tight to loose waves. This method is perfect for looks that need to last longer.
Giving curls with a curling iron:
- Often give a more defined look
- Are perfect for festive hairstyles or if you want your hair look to last longer
- Work well if you don't like very tight curls
After curling, let the curls cool down for a while before detaching them. This way they will retain their shape better.
How to create curls with a curling iron
So a curling iron is perfect if you want clear , even curls that last. Depending on the diameter of the tong, you determine how tight or loose the curls become: the narrower the tong, the tighter the curl.
Wrap a strand of hair around the curling iron and hold the tip of your hair while twisting the rest around the tongs. Let the tuft heat up for a few seconds and then gently roll it loose. Let the curl cool for a few seconds before touching it; this will help it retain its shape.
For a modern look, you can slightly loosen the curls after cooling or style only the lengths and leave the ends slightly straighter. This gives an airy look and prevents the hair from looking too curly.
Creating curls with a straightener
Creating curls with a straightener requires a bit more technique, but often gives a softer and more casual result. Perfect for beach waves or a modern, loose look.
By turning the straightener while sliding down, you create a curl or wave. The slower you move the more twist you make, the more obvious the curl becomes. With a straightener, you can also easily vary between blow, wave and curl, making for a playful end result.
Curling with a straightener:
- Often look more natural and less manufactured
- Its ideal for loose waves and an effortless
- Work well if you don't like very tight curls
How to make curls with straighteners
With a straightener you can create a surprisingly wide range of curls: from loose waves to soft natural curls. So the secret is mainly in the rotation of the tong and in the speed at which you glide through your hair.
Take a strand of hair and place the straightener slightly below the roots. Then turn the tongs a half to full turn away from your face and gently pull it down. The slower you move, the more definition the curl will get. Working faster actually creates a looser blow.
For a playful result, alternate the direction of the curls and comb them loose with your fingers afterwards. This way, you avoid a too "perfect" look and the hairstyle looks more natural and full. This technique is ideal if you like a casual finish with movement.
Finishing touches: how to keep your curls in place
Once your curls are in place, it's all about balance. Too much hairspray can make your hairstyle heavy, while too little will cause the curls to sag quickly. So choose a product that combines flexibility and hold.
A light hairspray or finishing spray will help to keep your curls in shape while maintaining their elasticity. Want more volume? Use your fingers to loosen the curls or gently brush them out for a softer look.
