Have you been trying and failing to achieve the perfect curl using your straighteners? You aren’t alone! Many of us struggle to curl our hair using straighteners, forcing us to carry straighteners and a curler when we travel, taking up precious space in our luggage. Well, no more! We have 3 fool-proof methods that allow you to achieve your desired curl or wave using a straightener!
Our top tips for curling with straighteners
Before you heat up your straighteners, take into account our top tips for a flawless styling experience:
- Prep your hair – using a heat protection spray to protect your hair from heat. You might want to use an anti-frizz or nourishing spray, depending on your hair type
- Work with dry hair – for best results, completely dry hair is needed
- Section your hair – into small sections that are easy for you to work with, using clips to keep the other sections out of your way
- Select the right temperature – instead of cranking them up to the highest temperature, consider what heat is right for your hair. Fine or damaged hair can be styled at lower temperatures, while thicker hair may need higher temperatures for the curls to hold
Creating bouncy curls with straighteners
Bouncy curls can be achieved with your straightener with minimal effort. You will follow a twisting technique that helps you achieve salon volume at home. You do need to handle the straighteners with your free hand more than you usually would, so a protective glove is recommended. To create your bouncy curls, follow the steps below:
- Add a heat protectant spray to protect your hair
- Divide your hair into sections, using clips
- Begin with a small section and close the straighteners around your hair where you want the curl to begin. Start at the top of your hair, near your scalp, to curl your entire hair, or start partway down for a more relaxed, beachy look
- Gently glide the straighteners down your hair as if you are straightening them. Where you want the curl to start, turn your straighteners 180 degrees (half turn) away from your face. Keep the plates closed around your hair as you do this.
- Keeping the straighteners in this twisted position, gently move them down your hair. Move as smoothly as possible, as this will avoid creases or kinks
- Repeat the above steps on each section of your hair until all of your hair is curled
- Separate your curls for a looser style if you wish, before adding hairspray to keep them in place
Creating smooth ‘S’ waves with straighteners
Achieving the Hollywood style ‘S’ waves can be done with your straighteners too! This style does require some skill, but with practice, you can create the perfect hairdo for any occasion. To create classic Hollywood waves, follow our steps below:
- Apply a heat protectant to ensure your hair is safe
- Start with a small section, 1-2 inches wide. Place your straighteners at the top of your hair and slide them along the length
- As you move the plates over your hair, twist the straighteners in your hand and outwards, in a ‘C’ motion. While the straighteners are moving, twist the tool to the back of your head, creating an ‘S’ shape
- After creating the first ‘S’ shape, twist your straighteners the other way to create a ‘C’ shape, then twist to make another ‘S’ shape. You can repeat this until you reach the end of your section
- Repeat this process until all of your hair has been curled
- Set with hairspray to keep your curls in place
Creating loose ‘C’ waves with straighteners
Straighteners can also achieve a wavy look, and this method works perfectly on mid-length to long hair. The twist and pull method is simple to do and can be achieved by following these steps:
- Apply heat protection spray to your entire hair
- Take a section 1-2 inches wide and position the straightener at the top of the section, as close to your scalp as possible. Start gliding the straightener down slowly
- As you move, twist your wrists slightly, creating an outward wave. This should be similar to a gentle ‘C’ shape. Continue in this motion until you reach the end of your hair
- Open the straighteners and place them at the top of the next section
- Repeat the process until all of your hair has been curled
- Add hairspray to ensure your loose waves last all day
Start styling your hair with straighteners today
Whichever method you choose, you will be able to curl your hair with straighteners after a bit of practice. While any straightener can be used, we recommend purchasing a GHD straightener to curl and straighten your hair. Their plates pack additional protection and their heat control helps prevent any hair damage. Shop the range of GHD hair straighteners to find your new tool for straightening and curling your hair.