About Curling Irons for Fine Hair

Fine hair can give you an ethereal, otherworldly beauty, but it can also be a real pain in the neck to style. If you have fine hair naturally or due to excessive coloring or bleaching, then you are probably aware of the problems that come along with styling this type of hair. You may have trouble holding curl, avoiding frizz and not scorching your hair while curling. To style fine hair in a way that is good for the hair and for your looks, you must cater to your fine hair in several different ways.

History

In ancient Babylonia men curled and crimped their beards using tongs heated in the fire. This practice was adopted by women and persisted for centuries, and often resulted in seriously singed locks instead of beautiful ringlets. With the advent of the electric curling iron, many people were able to curl their hair in relative comfort and safety. However, fine haired people still run the risk of singing their tresses because the hair is so delicate and fragile.

Types

There are several different types of curling irons that cater directly to people with fine hair. Curling tongs or flat irons allow you to wave your hair without clamping it down on a hot roller, which can help limit the amount of heat that actually hits your hair. Steam irons emit a puff of steam that can moisturize and protect hair while you curl. Foam rollers also can help minimize the damage and breakage that curling fine hair can lead to.

Considerations

If you have fine hair, then you will have to accept a limited amount of damage if you want to curl it regularly. It might be wiser to limit curling to special occasions. There are may products that you can use to help your hair hold curls, such as sprays, mousses and even gels. However, these are also hard on your hair and can cause damage with regular, repeated use.

Time Frame

When you curl fine hair, you will be working on a limited time frame. Even heavily treated hair that is shellacked with product will only hold a curl and its volume for so long. Try to schedule your beauty regimen so that you curl your hair last, then use styling products known for hold and volume to preserve your look. If you plan to wear your hair up or partially up, then put it up before curling. With care, you may be able to maintain your curls for several hours. If you choose to use foam curlers and heavy mousse, do not brush the curls but finger-comb them instead. These curls will last all day if you can avoid touching them.

Effects

With proper care and preparation, you will be able to enjoy having your fine hair in curls whenever you wish. Heavy mousse will lead to longer lasting curls, but they will not look particularly natural. Using hair spray leads to a more natural look and greater volume, but your curls will fall out sooner.

Warning

While it may be tempting to try to curl your hair while it is damp, do not do it. You can singe your hair right off. At best, you will make it extremely dry and brittle.