How to Get Straight Hair Really Curly

Turn your straight hair curly.

Aside from turning to potent chemicals to perm--and quite possibly, seriously damage--your hair, you can invest in one hairstyling tool if you want tight, defined curls. If you've never used a spiral curling iron before, you can experiment with one without making the commitment to live with curly hair for a long time, like you would have to do with a perm. As long as you take precautions with this thermal styling tool, don't be afraid to at least try it. With a little practice, you can turn your straight hair curly more quickly than if you used hair curlers.

Things You'll Need

• Spiral curling iron
• Comb
• Thermal styling protectant
• Hairspray

Instructions

1. Invest in the spiral curling iron with the diameter appropriate to your needs. Mid-length hair is suited to a spiral curling iron that is 3/4 inch in diameter. Those with much longer hair can use a 1-inch spiral curling iron to accommodate the extra length.

2. Turn on your spiral curling iron and allow it to heat up. Comb your hair to eliminate any snarls or tangles that will get in the way of creating flawless curls. Spray a thermal styling protectant all over your hair to shield it from the heat of your curling iron. The ends especially should be coated with product since they are the oldest part of your hair and need extra protection from breaking and splitting.

3. Take a thin section of hair, 1 inch wide and 1/4 inch thick or slightly finer. Clamp down on the end of the section of hair, rolling the curling iron up so that the hair is wrapped around it. Wait about 7 seconds before releasing the hair in one fluid motion. You may have to experiment with the time it takes to curl each lock of hair to your satisfaction, since different hair types curl at different speeds, and each curling iron works differently as well.

4. Repeat Step 3 for your entire head of hair. When you are through and all your hair is curly, use your fingers to style your hair as you please. Do not comb or brush your hair, since this will loosen your tight curls and possibly add static to your hair. Mist hairspray lightly all over your curls to help them retain their shape throughout the day.

Tips & Warnings

• Have your hair cut in layers to show your tight curls off to their best advantage. Defined spiral curls look best with a long, layered haircut.

• Minimize damage to your hair by investing in a ceramic spiral curling iron rather than a metal or copper one, which causes the most damage. This is especially important if you will be using thermal hairstyling tools frequently.

Resources

• Examples of curly hairstyles