How to make your curls last for longer than an hour
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…trust me it is possible!
I’ve had loads of requests from both you guys and my clients in salon asking for tips to transform your hair into beautiful, face framing curls and how, more importantly, to make them last. So today I’m going to share all my insider knowledge to teach you how you can acheive the look at home. You’re welcome.
First things first, it all starts with the cut. One thing us hair stylists know for sure is that thick, blunt ends won’t hold a curl for long. Or, if you’re looking for that sought after beach wave look, long layers work best. Make sure you have a great consultatation with your stylist by letting them know how you like to style it at home. This will help them understand how best to cut your hair to acheive your desired look. Your hair’s health plays an important role too. In fact, the more damaged and split the ends of your hair are, the harder it will be to curl your hair. Make sure you use a conditioning masque on your hair at least once a week. I recommend Moroccanoil Intense Hydrating Masque to my clients as it deeply hydrates the hair whilst making it more manageable.
I know it goes against the grain, but it might be time to cut down on the shampoo and conditioner. If you’re trying to curl freshly washed hair you’re already making your job more difficult. Unwashed hair always holds a style better than freshly washed hair. Now is the time to get yourself a good dry shampoo. When you’re skipping the shampoo on certain days, a little dry shampoo will do wonders in adding some volume and getting rid of any excess oil. I tend to prefer L’Oreal Tecni Art Fresh Dust, just sprayed onto the root area.
Now it’s time to add some texture. My hero product is Redken Guts Mousse. It adds volume, texture and has a great amount of hold. Can’t ask for more than that. Just pop a walnut size piece into the palm of your hand and work into damp hair from root to tip.
Before you break out the curling wand, you need to make sure to apply a heat protector to your hair. No excuses. I find the best heat protectors are added to damp hair, not dry, as you can really make sure the product is evenly distributed. I reach for Pureology Strength Cure Fabulous Lengths.
This one seems a bit obvious, but make sure you’re using the right curling wand. Large barrel tongs will be the secret to Hollywood curls, whereas a curling wand will give you those beach waves you’re craving. Remember, the smaller the barrel of the wand, the tighter the curl.
Technique time; make sure you start from the top. Clients are always telling me how they start curling from the bottom up. Whilst this works best when straightening, curls work better from the top down. It’s much easier and quicker…give it a try and I promise you’ll be amazed.
If I could only give you ONE piece of advice about how to get your curls to last, it has got to be this: roll each fresh curl around your finger, fasten it to your head with a hair grip. When all of your hair has been curled and pinned, spray with hair spray, leave for 10 minutes, and remove the curls one by one. This will be a life-changer. Just make sure you don’t faff with the curls too much and you can say hello to bouncier curls that last all day long.
I’d love to hear which tips work best for you… let me know if you give any of these a go and tweet me your finished look @thesalonlook