texturizing spray before or after curling

how to curl your hair with a curling iron

Curling hair is a popular hairstyle choice for both casual and formal occasions. While there are many different methods and tools to achieve curls, using a curling iron is one of the most effective and long-lasting options. 

This article provides you everything about how to curl hair with curling iron, including important information, step-by-step instructions, special tips and tricks, and key facts. So let’s get started!

What to know before you curl

Before jumping into the steps on how to curl your hair with a curling iron, it’s important to have a good understanding of the tool itself. A curling iron is a heated styling tool that creates curls by wrapping sections of hair around a heated barrel. The heat breaks down the hydrogen bonds in the hair, allowing it to reshape into a curled form. Curling irons come in various sizes, from thin barrels for tighter curls to thicker barrels for looser waves.

When using a curling iron, remember that heat can cause damage to your hair. It’s essential to always use a heat protectant product and not to apply too much heat for an extended period of time. Additionally, using a high-quality curling iron with adjustable heat settings can help minimize damage and give you more control over the level of heat applied to your hair.

What You’ll Need:

  • A curling iron
  • Heat protectant spray
  • Hair Brush or comb
  • Hair clips or pins
  • Hairspray (optional)

how to curl hair with curling iron for beginners

Step 1: Prep Your Hair

Start with clean, dry hair. To keep your locks safe from heat, spritz on some heat protectant spray. Use a comb or hairbrush to ensure your hair is knot-free and ready to roll.

Step 2: Heat Up Your Curling Iron

Plug in your trusty curling iron and give it some time to heat up. The temperature you choose depends on your hair type – thicker hair can handle higher heat, while fine hair should go for a lower setting. Always begin with a lower heat setting and adjust as needed to prevent any hair harm.

Step 3: Section Your Hair

Divide your hair into sections. If your hair is on the thicker side, you may want more sections, but remember that smaller sections will give you more defined curls. Use clips or pins to keep those sections separate.

Step 4: Start Curling

Take a small section of hair, roughly an inch wide, and hold your curling iron vertically. You can start close to the roots for some extra volume or leave a bit of space if you prefer a looser look. Wrap your hair around the curling iron’s barrel, ensuring that the ends are tucked under the clamp.

Step 5: Hold and Release

Hold your hair in place for about 5-10 seconds – the exact time can vary based on your hair type and the curl you’re going for. Release the curl by opening the clamp and gently sliding the curling iron out. Hold the curl for a few seconds to let it cool while it sets.

Step 6: Keep Curling

Continue curling different sections of your hair, working from the bottom layers to the top. Remember to curl away from your face for a more natural look. Mix it up by curling in different directions for added texture.

Step 7: Final Touches

Once you’ve curled all your sections and the curls have cooled down, use your fingers to gently separate and tousle your curls for a more relaxed look. If you want your curls to stay put, a touch of hairspray will do the trick.

Step 8: Finish the Look

Style your newly curled hair any way you like. Leave it down, put it up in an updo, or add some fun accessories for extra pizzazz.

Remember, curling your hair with a curling iron might take a bit of practice, so don’t worry if you don’t get it perfect on your first try. With a little time and patience, you’ll be a curling pro in no time!

Special Tips & Tricks

  • For a more natural and effortless look, alternate the direction of each curl, curling some sections towards your face and others away from your face.
  • If you have fine or thin hair, use a lower heat setting to avoid damaging your hair.
  • If you’re looking for more volume, start curling your hair at the root instead of the ends.
  • To achieve a looser and more beachy wave, use a larger barrel and wrap bigger sections of hair around the curling iron.
  • Don’t forget to clean your curling iron regularly to remove any product buildup and maintain its performance.

Key Facts

  • The smaller the barrel of a curling iron, the tighter the curls will be.
  • Curling irons with ceramic or tourmaline barrels are less damaging and create smoother, shinier curls.
  • It’s essential to let your hair cool down before brushing or running your fingers through it to ensure the curls stay intact.
  • Using a heat protectant is crucial to minimize damage and keep your hair healthy.
  • With proper care and maintenance, a high-quality curling iron can last for several years.

FAQs

1. What type of curling iron should I use?

When choosing a curling iron, it’s important to consider the size and shape of the barrel. Smaller barrels (around 1 inch) create tighter and more defined curls, while larger barrels (around 2 inches) create looser and more voluminous curls. You can also choose between a clip or clipless curling iron, depending on your personal preference.

2. How do I protect my hair from heat damage?

Before using a curling iron, make sure to apply a heat protectant product to your hair, such as a spray or serum. This will help minimize damage and keep your hair healthy.

3. Can I use a curling iron on wet hair?

No, you should never use a curling iron on wet hair as it can cause severe damage. Make sure your hair is completely dry before using a hot tool like a curling iron.

4. How long should I hold the curling iron on each section of hair?

This depends on the thickness and texture of your hair, as well as the desired level of curl. As a general rule, hold the curling iron for 8-10 seconds for fine hair, 10-15 seconds for medium hair, and up to 20 seconds for thick hair.

5. How can I make my curls last longer?

To ensure your curls stay in place for as long as possible, apply a small amount of hairspray after each section of hair is curled. You can also use a texturizing spray or mousse before curling to give your hair more grip and hold.

Conclusion

Curling your hair with a curling iron may seem intimidating at first, but with the right tools and techniques, anyone can achieve beautiful curls. Remember to always prioritize the health of your hair by using heat protectant products and not applying too much heat for an extended period of time. With practice and patience, you’ll be a pro at curling your hair with a curling iron in no time!

15 CHIC HAIRSTYLES FOR GIRLS WITH CURLY HAIR

Curly hair is wild, free, and undeniably beautiful, making it worthy of showcasing! However, managing and styling curly locks can be more challenging than wavy hair. Environmental factors often leave curls frizzy, tangled, and lackluster. The right hairstyles can not only protect your curls but also highlight their full potential.

Celebrity hairstylist Emilio Uribe shares, “I personally think letting natural curly hair run loose and free is the most beautiful look when styled with the proper products.” He emphasizes that “hydrating your locks” is essential for maintaining their health, bounce, and sheen.

Before diving into styling, it’s crucial to choose hairstyles that complement your face shape and features. Read on to discover which curly hairstyles suit you best, and then scroll down for some stunning styling ideas!

HOW TO PICK A CURLY HAIRSTYLE ACCORDING TO YOUR FACE SHAPE

If you have a round face, the goal is to create the illusion of length. Hairstyles that add height, such as top knots, can help achieve this effect. For those with a square face, layered hairstyles are a great choice, as they soften the angles of your face.

Diamond-shaped faces look fantastic with short, edgy hairstyles that draw attention to the forehead and cheeks instead of the jawline. Oval faces can pull off virtually any hairstyle with ease.

If you have a heart-shaped face and want to minimize the appearance of your forehead, consider curly hairstyles with bangs, like arched side-swept bangs. For those with an inverted triangle face shape, bangs can help divert attention from the wider forehead.

Triangle face shapes shine with full, long hair featuring thick curls. Layered curly bobs, fringed bangs, choppy layers, and long layered hairstyles are all stunning options. Long faces look great with layered haircuts and side bangs.

For a high forehead, full side-swept bangs work well to draw focus away from it, emphasizing the cheekbones and jawline instead. A lob with thick bangs is particularly flattering in this case. If your forehead is short, long blunt hairstyles or side bangs can help make the cheeks appear smaller. Bouffant hairstyles can also add height to your face.

Remember, your curl type also influences which hairstyles will suit you best. Here’s a breakdown of the different types of curls to consider.

TYPES OF CURLS

Just as people come in all shapes and sizes, so do curls. Curl types vary, ranging from 2A, which is slightly wavy, to 4C, characterized by tightly coiled curls. Next, we’ll explore hairstyles that cater to various curl types, from soft waves to tight ringlets. And if you don’t have naturally curly hair, don’t worry! Grab your trusty curling irons, heat protectants, and styling products to try out these 15 best hairstyles for curly hair!

15 AMAZING HAIRSTYLES FOR CURLY HAIR FOR GIRLS

LOOSE BEACHY WAVES

What You Need

  • Heat protectant
  • Sectioning clips
  • Comb
  • Curling iron
  • Texturizing spray

Procedure

  • Start by ensuring your curly hair is clean and damp.
  • Apply heat protectant to shield your hair from heat damage.
  • Use sectioning clips to divide your hair into manageable sections.
  • Wrap small sections of hair around the curling wand, holding for a few seconds before releasing. For a more natural look, alternate the direction of the curls.
  • After curling, gently run your fingers through your hair to loosen the curls.
  • Finish with a spritz of texturizing spray and scrunch your hair to enhance that beachy effect.

YouTube vlogger Sophie Marie shares her tips for styling curly hair using a banana clip. She suggests, “The best hack I can give you is to actually tie it first so tying your hair up just in a loose scrunchie… Do not close the clip too far apart, so go a little closer to reduce the amount of hair you’re pulling. Now clip at the top, putting the tie around the ball.” This technique creates an easy hairstyle for curly hair.

Curly hair is more susceptible to damage than other hair textures due to its coiled structure, requiring extra moisture to stay nourished and hydrated. While straight hair allows oil to distribute evenly, curly hair struggles because the coil shape prevents the ends from receiving enough oil. Here are some tips to maintain your curls for a consistently beautiful look.

THE BRAID AND TWIST

What You Need

  • Hairpins
  • Elastic bands
  • Comb

Procedure

  • Begin by separating the front section of your hair and securing the rest of your hair at the back with a clip. Part this front section to one side.
  • Braid the front section into two side French twisted braids, or feel free to experiment with other braid patterns. Pin the braids at the back to secure them in place.
  • To complete the look, gather the hair at the back and tie it into a half ponytail.

THE VOLUMINOUS PONYTAIL

What You Need

  • Hairpins
  • Elastic bands
  • Comb

Procedure

  • Quick Start: This hairstyle can be done in just a minute! Begin by parting your bangs to one side.
  • Ponytail: Comb through the rest of your hair and gather it into a high ponytail, securing it with an elastic band.
  • Wrap It Up: Take a small section of hair from the ponytail and wrap it around the base of the ponytail to conceal the elastic band.
  • Secure: Tuck the ends of the wrapped section into the elastic band to hold it in place.

THE SCARF PINEAPPLE

What You Need

  • Head scarf
  • Elastic bands
  • Comb

Procedure

  • Ponytail: Start by tying all your hair into a high ponytail at the crown of your head using an elastic band. Your curls will likely fall in various directions.
  • Add the Scarf: Take a scarf and tie it around the top of your head, positioning it near the base of the ponytail.
  • Spread It Out: Spread the scarf out at the back to cover the back of your hair.
  • Secure the Scarf: Take the loose ends of the scarf hanging in the front and tie them at the back, ensuring the knot is tucked beneath the scarf.
  • Final Touch: Let your hair cascade over the scarf for a stylish and chic look.

THE SOPHISTICATED PONYTAIL

What You Need

  • Elastic bands
  • Comb

Procedure

  • Detangle: Start by detangling your hair using a wide-toothed comb to enhance your curls’ natural texture.
  • Half Ponytail: Tie the top half of your hair into a high half ponytail.
  • Lower Ponytail: While holding the half ponytail up, take the lower half of your hair and tie it into another ponytail directly below the first one. Ensure both ponytails are aligned with each other.
  • Blend: Let the half ponytail fall over the lower ponytail and arrange your hair to create the appearance of one large, voluminous ponytail.

THE FRO HAWK

What You Need

  • U-pins
  • Bobby pins
  • Elastic bands
  • Comb

Procedure

  • Section Your Hair: Start by dividing your hair into four sections down the center of your head.
  • Create Ponytails: Tie each section (except the first one near your hairline) into ponytails using elastic bands.
  • Connect Sections: Use U-pins to connect each section of hair with the others. Adjust your hair and fluff it up to create a mohawk effect.
  • Secure: Use bobby pins to pin the sections of hair in place, ensuring they stay intact. Don’t forget to pin up any loose strands.
  • Final Touch: Adjust the front section so that some of it falls over your face, while pinning the back to another section of hair for a polished look.

TWISTED FISHTAIL BRAID

What You Need

  • Hairpins
  • Elastic bands
  • Comb

Procedure

  • Detangle: Start by combing your hair to detangle it thoroughly.
  • Twist Sections: Take two small sections of hair from both sides of your head and twist them together. Tie them at the back of your head, creating a half ponytail.
  • Fishtail Braid: Begin weaving the loose hair from the half ponytail into a fishtail braid.
  • Braid to the End: Continue braiding the half ponytail until you reach the end and secure it with an elastic band.
  • Pancake the Braid: Gently pancake the braid to make it look fuller and neater, completing your curly blonde hairstyle.

THE DOUBLE BOHO BRAID

What You Need

  • Hairpins
  • Clips
  • Elastic bands
  • Comb

Procedure

  • Detangle: Start by combing your hair to detangle it thoroughly.
  • Divide Hair: Divide your hair vertically into two halves.
  • Dutch Braid One Side: Begin weaving one half into a Dutch braid just above your ear. Braid it down to the nape of your neck and clip it to keep it in place.
  • Repeat on Other Side: Repeat the same process on the other side of your head.
  • Combine Braids: Join the two braids together and tie them in a low ponytail.
  • Messy Ponytail: Fluff up the ponytail to create a messy, voluminous look.
  • Pancake the Braids: Gently pancake both braids to enhance their fullness and achieve a boho chic vibe.
  • Wrap Hair Around Elastic: Take a small section of hair from the ponytail and wrap it around the elastic band to cover it, then tuck the ends within the band to secure.

THE BOHO BRAID

What You Need

  • Hairpins
  • Elastic bands
  • Comb

Procedure

  • Choose the Right Hair: Start with hair that hasn’t been washed for two days for added texture.
  • Tease the Hair: Pick up half of your hair and tease it to create volume.
  • Fishtail Braid: Braid this teased section into a fishtail braid and secure it at the end with an elastic band.
  • Pancake the Fishtail: Gently pancake the fishtail braid to add dimension and fullness.
  • Regular Braid: Braid the rest of your hair into a regular braid and secure it at the end with an elastic band.
  • Pancake the Regular Braid: Similarly, pancake this braid to enhance its appearance.
  • Combine Braids: Wrap the fishtail braid around the regular braid and tie them both together at the end with an elastic band.

WARRIOR PRINCESS

What You Need

  • Hairpins
  • Elastic bands
  • Wide-toothed comb
  • Curl defining cream

Procedure

  • Detangle: Start by detangling your hair using a wide-toothed comb.
  • Divide Hair: Divide your hair into two parts: a top half and a bottom half.
  • Braid Top Section: Braid the top section of hair and secure it at the end with an elastic band.
  • Create a Bun: Wrap the braid around itself to form a bun and pin it in place with hairpins.
  • Define Curls: Apply curl defining cream to the rest of your hair for enhanced texture and hold.

SOCK BUN

What You Need

  • Hairpins
  • Elastic bands
  • Comb
  • Hair donut

Procedure

  • Detangle Hair: Start by detangling your hair thoroughly with a comb.
  • Create a Ponytail: Tie your hair into a high ponytail using an elastic band.
  • Insert the Hair Donut: Take the hair donut and place it at the base of your ponytail.
  • Wrap Hair Around Donut: Carefully wrap and roll your ponytail around the donut until it is completely concealed.
  • Secure the Style: Use hairpins to pin the rolled hair in place, ensuring a secure hold.

BRAIDED LOW PONYTAIL

What You Need

  • Hairpins
  • Elastic bands
  • Comb
  • Fancy headband

Procedure

  • Detangle and Part Hair: Start by detangling your hair and creating a side part.
  • French Braid: Take a section of hair from the side with more volume and French braid it along the curve of your head, continuing until you reach your ear. Braid the remaining hair down to the end and secure it with an elastic band.
  • Gather Hair: Take the rest of your hair, including the braid, and tie it into a low side ponytail using another elastic band.
  • Accessorize: Finish the look by accessorizing with a fancy headband.

HALF UP CROWN BRAID

What You Need

  • Hairpins
  • Comb

Procedure

  • Detangle Hair: Start by combing your hair to detangle it.
  • Braid Hair: Take a section of hair from one side of your head and braid it all the way to the end. Repeat this step on the other side.
  • Secure Braids: Lay the braids across the back of your head and pin them behind your ear on the opposite side to secure them in place.

WATERFALL BRAIDS

What You Need

  • Hair pins
  • Elastic bands
  • Comb

Procedure

  • Prep Hair: For best results, try this hairstyle a day after washing your hair. Use a wide-toothed comb to detangle your hair.
  • Part Hair: Part your hair in your natural parting.
  • Start Braiding: Take a section of hair from the front on one side and divide it into three sections. Weave about three stitches of a normal braid to secure it.
  • Add Sections: Drop the top section of the braid and add a new section from the front of your hair, making it the top section. Weave two more stitches of the braid, then repeat this process.
  • Continue Weaving: As you braid, make sure to weave it along your head like a halo until you reach the other side.
  • Secure the Braid: Once you reach the other side, pin the braid in place. If your hair is long, you can either leave the rest of your hair loose or braid it to the end and let the rest fall naturally.

Pro Tip

Hide the pins by covering them with a few strands of hair that fall naturally over the pins. You can also enhance the look with flowers or other hair accessories for added flair!

TWISTED HALF PONYTAIL

What You Need

  • Curling iron
  • Hair clips
  • Elastic bands
  • Comb
  • Ribbon

Procedure

  • Curl Hair: Use a curling iron to curl all your hair for added texture.
  • Twist Sections: Take a section of hair from one side, twist it tightly, and secure it with a hair clip. Repeat this on the other side, taking an identical section of hair and twisting it.
  • Create Half Ponytail: Use an elastic band to tie both twisted sections together, forming a twisted half ponytail. If needed, use hair pins to keep the twists intact.
  • Pancake Twists: Gently pancake the twists by pulling them apart to add volume and create a fuller look.
  • Accessorize: Finish off the style by tying a colorful ribbon around the base of the twists or the ponytail for a fun touch!

CURLY HAIR MAINTENANCE TIPS

  • Avoid Heat Styling Tools: Steer clear of heat tools, as they can damage your hair and ruin your natural curl pattern.
  • Use Leave-In Conditioner: After washing your hair, apply an organic leave-in conditioner to moisturize and maintain hair thickness.
  • Opt for Gel: If you have thick, curly hair, use gel for styling. It spreads easily on curls compared to mousse, helping to define your curls without weighing them down.
  • Try Heatless Curling: Instead of heat styling, use rollers along with a curl defining or enhancing cream for beautiful, defined curls.
  • Heat Protectant: If you decide to use heat styling tools, always apply a generous amount of heat protectant to shield your hair from damage.
  • Dry Gently: Avoid vigorous towel drying, which can lead to breakage. Instead, pat your hair dry with a microfiber or cotton towel for a gentler approach.
  • Use a Diffuser: When blow-drying, use a diffuser attachment. This helps distribute heat evenly and enhances curl definition.

CONCLUSION

As you’ve seen throughout this article, there are countless ways to style curly hair and celebrate its unique beauty. From effortless updos to glamorous waves, the possibilities are endless. So, embrace your curls, experiment with different styles, and most importantly, have fun! Your natural beauty shines through when you feel confident and comfortable in your own skin.