Looking for how to make curls last longer? Bouncy curls are always in fashion. Given that there are so many products like rollers, curling irons, and flat irons on the market, you would think it’s an easy task. Clearly not! So, how do you make curls last all day? Now, that’s a real question most of us have a hard time resolving. Fret not, we have five tips to make your curls last longer. From choosing the right products to using the right tool for your hair, there are several factors to consider for curls that stay longer. These are the best ways to style your natural hair with curls and waves that last all day.
1. Prep Hair With a Thickening Mousse
Before you dive right into curling your hair, we recommend you prep it. Adding a thickening mousse to your prepping process will help your hair get volume and give you the big, bouncy curls you have always wanted. Thickening mousse contains alcohol that will remove moisture from your hair, essentially priming it for styling by giving it some hold and texture.
2. Count to 8 – 10 Seconds
If you haven’t already, it’s time to invest in good quality styling tools like a curling iron or hot rollers. Using quality styling tools will ensure your curls last longer than just 20 minutes. If you want your curls to last your hair needs to reach the right temperature in order to effectively take shape. The golden rule is that once your hair is wrapped around the barrel of a curling iron (Set no higher than 350 F), you should hold it there for 8 – 10 seconds. Exceeding the ideal temperature and time range can result in burnt hair so please pay attention. To avoid messy curls or inconsistent curls, it’s best to keep to this rule.
3. Pin Your Curls While They Cool Down
To achieve those perfect pin-up curls, you must pin them up without stretching them out. Always pin your curls up once you are done curling each piece to let it cool down and set properly. Pinning each piece allows the curl to set without gravity, weighing down the curl and stretching it out in the cooling phase. Ideally, it is best to let your curls set for 10-15 minutes, this will help your curls last longer. If you can’t wait that long use the cool shot button on your blow dryer to speed up the process.
4. Finish With Hairspray or a Texturizing Spray
Now that you have done all that work to create beautiful curls, it’s time to set them with either hairspray or texturizing spray. Hairspray gives curls the hold they need to stay all day, if you are going for that “my hair can last through a tornado” look, go with a firm hold; if you want the curls to stay but look natural go with a flexible hold hairspray or a texturizing spray. Texturizing sprays give your hair a slight grit, which works great for adding volume to your curls but also acts as a dry shampoo to neutralize the oils that make your curls go flat.
5. Use The Right Barrel Size
It’s imperative to choose the right barrel size. The tightness of your curls will depend on the size of the barrel you choose for your curling iron. It is recommended you use a 1″ or 1.5″ barrel if you want more defined and structured curls that will last longer. With a larger barrel, you will end up with loose beachy waves.
While these are not all of the tips and tricks to make your curls last longer, they are definitely a few of the key tips. We hope these tips will help you achieve the envious bouncy, pin-up curls you were looking for.