Texture in hair: it’s a trend that never goes out of style. From beachy waves to tight curls, achieving that perfect hair curling technique is the goal for many. But, what if you’re not a fan of the traditional curling iron? or, maybe you’re traveling and are short on the right tools for the job! Fear not, my cute adventure loving friends; there are alternative methods to add texture to your hair so you can go from day to night without a visit to the salon.
Join me on this hair curling technique journey as we explore five ways to create stunning curls without a curling iron. With the holidays just around the corner, these tips will have you party-ready, rain or shine.
Curling with a Flat Iron
Let’s start with a classic move that you’ve probably already tried before but maybe you didn’t love it because it wasn’t as easy as you’d thought. While not a groundbreaking revelation, the flat iron can create beautiful waves when used creatively. This technique can be a little tricky just remember, practice makes perfect!
Here’s how you can master this at home:
- Section it Right: Divide your hair into vertical sections that are easy to work with. Precision here makes the process manageable. Pick up sections that are a similar size as the heating plates inside your flat iron.
- Twist and Glide: Hold the flat iron at the top of a section(by the roots), perform a quarter to a half turn(forward or backward), and then gently glide it down. Think, curling a ribbon with scissors. It is literally the exact same idea. Remember, you’re aiming for waves more than cookie-cutter curls.
- Speed Matters: Adjust the speed of your glide to experiment with different wave tightness. Faster glides create softer waves, while slower ones deliver more defined results. Comb through your section first to help the flat iron glide through the section evenly all the way down. Any slow down or speed up will create even more inconsistencies.
Pro tip: Imperfection is the charm here. These waves are meant to look natural and carefree, so don’t sweat over uniformity. Finish off with a light hair spray like EVO Miss Malleable Flexible Hairspray.
Braids, Braids, Braids!
Braids aren’t just for playground nostalgia; they’re a practical styling tool that’s easy to execute. This technique does require time be on your side for deep consistent waves.
Here’s how to reclaim the ultimate wavy/crimped hair technique:
- Damp Hair is Key: Start with slightly damp hair for better pliability and definition. Mist it with water if needed.
- Experiment with Styles: French, Dutch, or classic three-strand braids each create different effects. Play around and see what works for you. Youtube university will be your friend.
- Overnight Magic: Sleep in the braids for effortless texture by morning. Just make sure they’re tight enough to hold but comfortable to sleep on.
Confession: I’m terrible at braiding my own hair, and honestly it’s not my strongest serviced to do behind the chair but that’s where a friend can help. I also think this is the perfect technique for the gym. Especially for my girls with wavy/curly hair that is a little on the longer side.
Practice makes perfect!
Foil Curls!
For those with fine or stubbornly straight hair, Foil Curls might be your secret weapon. This extremely unconventional technique delivers impressive results that literally anyone can do with just a few tools:
- Foil Prep: Tear small pieces of aluminum foil and shape them into cylinders.
- Wrap and Secure: Take small sections of hair, wrap them around the foil, and pinch the ends of the foil to secure.
- Heat It Up: Press a flat iron onto the foil-wrapped sections for a few seconds. The foil ensures even heat distribution. Don’t have a flat iron, use a regular iron. You just need something to heat the foil up. Do not use a flame of any kind!
- Cool Completely: Let the foils cool before removing them for long-lasting curls. Cool 10-15 minutes at a minimum.
Pro tip: Save those foil pieces! They’re reusable and perfect for your next styling session.
Twist and Tuck
Need something simple yet effective? The Twist and Tuck method is an excellent option for creating soft texture in an updo with minimal effort:
- Start Damp: Lightly mist your hair with water and apply a touch of anti-humectant cream to combat frizz. My absolute fav I use all foggy season long is Olaplex No. 6 Bond Smoother, Leave-In Styling Hair Cream.
- Add Styling Product: Use your favorite mousse or texturizing spray to enhance hold and definition. I recommend my favorite in the next section.
- Twist and Secure: Divide hair into sections, twist tightly, and secure with bobby pins.
- Dry and Tousle: Air-dry or use a diffuser on low heat. Once dry, undo the twists and tousle with your fingers.
This method is perfect for misty days when you want a quick, polished look that you can bet will look just as good when you get to your event as it was when you left the house. iykyk.
Salt Spray Beachy Waves
Dreaming of effortless, windswept waves? Here’s how to achieve that beachy texture at home:
- Dry Hair First: Ensure your hair is completely dry before starting.
- Apply Salt Spray: Use a high-quality sea salt spray. I’ve been loving the Kevin Murphy Beach Resort Spray, it can help add texture you can see and feel to any type of hair. Spray lightly for subtle texture.
- Scrunch and Twist: Work the product through your hair by scrunching and twisting small sections.
- Finish with Heat: Use a diffuser for added volume or let your hair air-dry for a more natural look.
Pro tip: Less is more. Overloading on salt spray can leave your hair feeling crunchy rather than tousled.
Final Thoughts:
As this post is being published we are in the middle of the holiday season and my hope is these techniques are your toolkit for creating stunning styles that stand up to the weather and last through evening festivities. Remember to always use quality products to tame frizz and enhance longevity. Whether you’re crafting waves with a flat iron, braiding for overnight texture, or experimenting with foils, you’re equipped to style with confidence even during your busiest days.
Enjoy your new hair curling techniques and step into the season with hair that’s uniquely yours. After all, your hair is your canvas, and there’s no better time to let it shine!
