Things You'll Need:
- curling iron, any size
- hair gel/mousse
- hair spray
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Step 1
Prepare hair for curling. While you may want to wash your hair just prior to curling, it is actually better for your hair (and your curls) to start with less-than-clean hair. Why? "Dirty" hair holds style better than freshly washed as the oils in your hair stiffen the shaft. Also, these same oils coat and protect your hair from the combing, twisting and heat of styling. So if you are curling your hair in the evening, wash it that morning. Doing your hair in the morning? Shower the night before. An added benefit: letting your hair air dry prevents more damage done by a hair dryer.
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Step 2
Separate hair into sections for curling. Splitting your tresses up into smaller working areas allows you to focus on one area at a time. Clip each section up onto your head, leaving the section furthest back on your head first. Working front to back is easier; you don't have to reach around already finished curls.
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Step 3
Using your favorite gel/mousse/spray styler, apply some product to the section of hair you ready to curl. Allow to dry a few moments so it will not singe or stick to your curling iron. Comb product through to ensure no tangles.
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Step 4
For smaller, tighter curls, using a smaller barrel curling iron and just a few pieces of hair. For larger, looser curls use a larger barrel and a larger chunk of hair. Once all hair in that section is finished, unclip the next section of hair and repeat.
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Step 5
Once all sections are finished, examine front and back of hair with a mirror to ensure no pieces of hair were missed and curls are even. If happy with the look of your hair, use hairspray to set the style. If, however, you prefer softer waves, brush out with hair pick or wide toothed comb.
