Having beautiful, layered curls can enhance your overall look, giving you a stylish and voluminous appearance. While getting professional salon curls can be costly, with the right tools and techniques, you can achieve amazing results at home. In this article, we will explore step – by – step how to create your own layered curls.
Tools You’ll Need
Curling Iron or Wand:
There are various types available in the market. For layered curls, a curling iron with a medium barrel size (around 1 – 1.5 inches in diameter) is usually a good choice. A wand can also create more natural – looking curls. Make sure the curling tool has adjustable heat settings.
Heat Protectant Spray:
This is crucial as heat can damage your hair. Spray it evenly on your dry hair before using the curling tool. It forms a protective layer, reducing the risk of dryness, split ends, and breakage.
Comb and Brush:
A wide – toothed comb is great for detangling your hair gently. A paddle brush can be used to smooth your hair before starting the curling process.
Hair Clips:
These are used to separate your hair into sections for easier curling, especially when creating layers.
Preparing Your Hair
Wash and Condition:
Start with clean, dry hair. Use a shampoo and conditioner suitable for your hair type. If your hair is dry, you may want to use a moisturizing conditioner. Rinse thoroughly to remove any product buildup.
Dry Your Hair:
You can either let your hair air – dry or use a blow – dryer. If using a blow – dryer, set it to a medium – low heat setting to avoid over – drying your hair. Use the paddle brush to smooth your hair as you dry it.
Apply Heat Protectant:
As mentioned earlier, spray the heat protectant evenly throughout your hair. Make sure to cover all strands from roots to tips.
Sectioning Your Hair for Layering
Top Section:
Use a hair clip to separate the top layer of your hair. This section usually starts from the crown of your head. This will be the last part you curl, as it will rest on top of the other curls, creating a more voluminous look.
Middle Section:
Below the top section, create another section. This middle layer will add depth to your curls. Divide this section further into smaller sub – sections if your hair is thick.
Bottom Section:
The bottom layer of your hair is the first to be curled. This forms the base of your layered curls. Make sure to clip the other sections out of the way while working on this part.
Curling Technique for Each Section
Bottom Section
Take a Small Strand: Start by taking a small strand of hair from the bottom section. The width of the strand depends on how tight or loose you want your curls to be. For more defined curls, take thinner strands.
Position the Curling Iron: Place the curling iron close to the root of the strand. For a more natural look, you can slightly twist the strand before inserting it into the curling iron.
Curl the Strand: Wrap the strand around the curling iron in the direction you prefer. For layered curls, you can alternate the direction of the curls. For example, curl some strands away from your face and some towards your face. Hold the hair in the curling iron for about 10 – 15 seconds, depending on your hair type and the heat setting. If your hair is fine, a shorter time may be sufficient to avoid over – curling.
Release the Curl: Gently release the curl from the curling iron. Let it cool in your hand for a few seconds before letting it fall. This helps set the curl.
Middle Section
Repeat the Process: Follow the same steps as for the bottom section. However, when curling the middle section, you may want to make the curls a bit looser than the bottom ones. This creates a more graduated look. You can also use a slightly larger barrel curling iron if you have one.
Vary the Curl Direction: Just like with the bottom section, alternate the direction of the curls to add more volume and a natural look. Pay attention to how the curls blend with the bottom layer.
Top Section
Looser Curls: For the top section, create the loosest curls. This gives the illusion of more volume at the crown. Use a larger barrel curling iron or wrap the hair more loosely around the curling iron.
Frame Your Face: When curling the strands near your face in the top section, make sure to curl them in a way that flatters your face shape. For example, if you have a round face, you may want to curl the strands away from your face to elongate your features.
Finishing Touches
Separate the Curls: Once you have curled all the sections, use your fingers to gently separate the curls. This breaks up any clumps and gives a more natural, tousled look. Avoid using a comb as it can make the curls look too uniform.
Set with Hairspray: Lightly spray a flexible – hold hairspray over your curls. This helps hold the curls in place throughout the day. But be careful not to over – spray, as it can make your hair look stiff.
Adjust the Layers: Check if the layers of curls are blending well. If needed, use your fingers to adjust the position of some curls to create a more seamless look.
Tips for Maintaining Your Layered Curls
Sleeping with Curls:
If you want to preserve your curls overnight, you can either loosely tie your hair up in a silk or satin scrunchie or use a silk pillowcase. Avoid sleeping on cotton pillowcases as they can cause friction and frizz.
Refresh Curls:
The next day, if your curls have lost some of their shape, you can use a small amount of curl – enhancing product.
Gently scrunch your hair to revive the curls. You can also use a curling iron on just a few key strands to bring back the curl definition.
Protect from Humidity:
Humidity can cause curls to frizz. If you live in a humid environment, you can use an anti – humidity hair product before going out. This will help keep your curls looking smooth and defined.
Conclusion
In conclusion, creating your own layered curls at home is a fun and rewarding process. With the right tools, proper technique, and a little practice, you can achieve salon – worthy results that enhance your beauty and style. Experiment with different curl sizes, directions, and products to find the perfect look for you.