The Secret To Curling Fine Hair Like A Pro

If you have fine hair, you may have experienced the frustration of spending time and effort to curl your hair, only for the curls to fall flat. However, with the right techniques and products, it is possible to achieve bouncy, lasting curls in fine hair. This article will explore the best ways to curl fine hair, including the importance of using the correct products, tools, and curling methods, as well as post-curling strategies and maintenance tips to ensure your curls stay in place.

Use the right curling iron and barrel size

Using the right curling iron and barrel size is crucial for achieving and maintaining curls in fine hair. Here are some tips to help you select the right tools and techniques:

Choose the Right Barrel Size

The barrel size of your curling iron will determine the type of curls you achieve. If you want tight corkscrew curls, go for a curling iron with the smallest barrel option available. For loose waves, opt for a larger barrel size. For type 1A hair, which is very straight and fine, a smaller, 1" iron is recommended, as looser curls will fall out easily.

Opt for Ceramic Irons

When it comes to the type of curling iron, ceramic irons are a great option as they distribute heat more evenly across the iron, leading to more consistent curls.

Adjust the Temperature

It's important to use the right temperature setting on your curling iron to avoid heat damage. Fine hair is more susceptible to heat damage, so keep the temperature below 350°F. If your hair is particularly fine, you may want to go even lower, not exceeding 200°F.

Hold the Curl

Once you've created the curl, it's important to hold it in place until it cools down. You can do this by cupping the curl in your palm and holding it against your head for 15-30 seconds, or by pinning it up with a bobby pin or metal prong clip. This helps the curl set and prevents it from falling flat due to gravity.

Use Hairspray

To enhance the hold of your curls, use a lightweight hairspray. Spritz each section of hair before curling, and then again once all the curls are done and cooled down. Avoid using too much product, as it can weigh down your hair and make it look greasy.

Consider Other Techniques

If you're finding it difficult to achieve curls with a curling iron, you may want to explore other techniques such as heatless curls using rollers, the sock method, or cold rollers. Additionally, braiding your hair before bed and then unraveling it in the morning can result in loose, natural-looking waves.

Use the proper heat setting

Fine hair requires less heat than thick or coarse hair. If your curling iron allows you to adjust the temperature, start with the lowest heat setting. If your hair doesn't curl the way you want it to, gradually increase the heat until you find the lowest effective heat setting for you.

As a general rule, curling irons can be heated to 320 degrees for fine hair and 430 degrees for thicker hair. However, it is recommended to keep the temperature between 250 and 375 degrees, depending on your hair type.

It's best to go with the lowest temperature that does the job as this will damage your hair less. You can experiment to find the right temperature for you.

Before using a curling iron, it is important to apply a heat protectant to your hair. This will act as a barrier between your hair and the heat from the curling iron, protecting your hair from heat damage.

Let the curl set

Now that you've curled your hair, it's time to let the curl set. This is a crucial step in ensuring that your curls last and don't fall flat. Here are some tips to help you achieve this:

Hold the curl in place: Once you've removed the curling iron, hold the curl in your hand for a few seconds until it cools down. You can also use the "cupping" method, where you cup the curl in your palm and hold it against your head for 15-30 seconds. This prevents gravity from pulling your curls down as they cool.

Pin your curls: Another way to let the curls set is by pinning them to your head. Use metal prong clips to clip each coil to your head while they're still hot. This helps the curls last longer and won't leave an indent on your hair. Leave the pins in until your hair is completely cool.

Use hairspray: Apply a flexible or lightweight hairspray to your curls before and after curling. This will help hold the curls in place and prevent them from falling flat. Spray each section of hair before curling and then give your hair a final blast of hairspray after you've finished curling.

Avoid touching your hair: Resist the temptation to play with your curls before they're completely cool. Let your hair cool down completely and then gently run your fingers through the curls to add volume and break up any tight ringlets.

Let the curls cool completely: Be patient and let your curls cool down fully before removing any pins or clips. This helps the curls set and ensures they last longer.

By following these steps, you'll be able to set your curls and enjoy beautiful, long-lasting waves or ringlets.

Use hairspray

Hairspray is a great way to keep your curls in place, but it's important to use the right type of hairspray and apply it correctly.

Firstly, check the ingredients of your hairspray. If water is the first ingredient, it's not suitable for curly hair. This type of hairspray will make your hair sticky and may even break it. Instead, opt for a lightweight, non-aerosol hairspray that enhances your hair's natural shine without making it stiff and sticky.

When applying hairspray, spritz each section of hair right before curling it. This will help to ensure your curls last. Use a couple of spritzes of hairspray on each section, and then curl. If you hear a sizzling sound when you apply heat to your hair, you've used too much wet product.

Once you've curled all your hair, give your curls another quick blast of hairspray to help them retain their shape. Then, wait for your hair to cool down completely before touching your curls.

If you want to add volume and remove the dry feeling of the hairspray, you can run your fingers through your curls after applying hairspray. However, if you want to retain the shape of your curls and prevent tangles, avoid brushing them.

You can also carry a travel-sized hairspray product with you so you can secure any stray hairs throughout the day.

Prep your hair

The first step to curling fine hair is to prep your hair. Curls hold best with day-old hair, so if you plan to curl your hair, skip the shampoo and conditioner. If your fine, straight hair is in its natural state, the heat can work better. You can use dry shampoo on the day you plan to curl your hair.

Before curling your hair, spritz a curl-boosting spray onto damp hair to give it texture and grip. Blow-dry your hair on the coolest setting. It is also important to use a heat-protectant spray to prevent frying the strands.

If you do want to wash your hair before curling, use a volumizing shampoo and conditioner. These products will help breathe bounce into your strands.

If you have time, let your hair air dry until it is 90% dry before using hot tools.

Frequently asked questions