Curls can add a touch of style and personality to a guy’s look. Whether you’re aiming for a casual, tousled appearance or a more refined and polished style, knowing how to curl your hair can open up a world of new hairstyle possibilities. In this article, we’ll explore the different methods and tips for achieving great curls.
Tools for Curling Hair
Curling Iron
A curling iron is one of the most common tools for creating curls. When choosing a curling iron, consider the barrel size. For looser, beachy waves, a larger barrel (1.5 – 2 inches) is ideal. For tighter curls, a smaller barrel (0.5 – 1 inch) works better.
Make sure the curling iron has adjustable heat settings. Different hair types require different heat levels. For fine hair, a lower heat setting (around 300 – 350°F) is usually sufficient to avoid damage. For thicker or coarser hair, you may need a higher heat setting (up to 400°F).
Curling Wand
A curling wand is similar to a curling iron but without the clamp. It gives a more natural – looking curl as the hair wraps around the wand freely. The same principles of barrel size and heat settings apply. Some guys prefer the curling wand because it can create a more tousled look. However, it may take a bit more practice to get used to wrapping the hair around the wand without the clamp.
Heat – Protectant Spray
Before using any heat – styling tool, it’s crucial to apply a heat – protectant spray. This product forms a protective layer on the hair, reducing the damage caused by the high heat of the curling iron or wand. Spray the heat – protectant evenly over dry hair, focusing on the mid – lengths to the ends. This step is especially important if you curl your hair frequently.
Preparing Your Hair for Curling
Wash and Condition
Start with clean, well – conditioned hair. Use a shampoo and conditioner that are suitable for your hair type. If your hair is dry or damaged, choose a moisturizing conditioner. If your hair is oily, look for a lightweight conditioner that won’t weigh it down. After washing, gently towel – dry your hair until it’s damp.
Comb Through
Use a wide – toothed comb to detangle your hair. Start from the ends and work your way up to the roots. This helps to prevent breakage and ensures that the curls will form evenly. Avoid using a brush, especially if your hair is curly or wavy naturally, as it can disrupt the hair’s natural texture and cause frizz.
Apply Product (Optional)
Depending on the look you want to achieve, you may want to apply some styling product before curling. For a more defined curl, a curl – enhancing cream or mousse can be used. Apply a small amount evenly throughout your hair, focusing on the areas where you want the curls to be most prominent. If you’re aiming for a more tousled look, a texturizing spray can add some grip and volume.
Curling Techniques
Sectioning the Hair
Divide your hair into sections. You can start by creating a horizontal part from ear to ear across the top of your head. This separates the hair into an upper and lower section. Then, further divide each section into smaller sub – sections. This makes it easier to curl the hair evenly and ensures that you don’t miss any strands. Clip the sections you’re not working on out of the way.
Using a Curling Iron with a Clamp
Take a small section of hair (about 1 – 2 inches wide). Place the end of the section at the base of the curling iron’s barrel, close to the clamp. Then, close the clamp gently over the hair.
Wind the hair around the barrel, away from your face for a more natural look. For a more uniform curl, make sure the hair is wrapped evenly around the barrel. Hold the hair in place for about 5 – 10 seconds, depending on your hair type and the heat setting. The thicker your hair, the longer you may need to hold it.
Slowly release the clamp and let the curl fall. Don’t pull or tug on the curl as it can cause it to lose its shape. Repeat this process with each section of hair, alternating the direction of the curls for a more natural – looking result.
Using a Curling Wand
For a curling wand, take a small section of hair and hold the wand vertically. Wrap the hair around the wand, starting from the bottom and working your way up. You can use your fingers to guide the hair as you wrap it.
Since there’s no clamp, you need to hold the hair in place around the wand for the appropriate amount of time. Again, this depends on your hair type and heat setting. Be careful not to burn your fingers. You can use a heat – resistant glove if you’re new to using a curling wand.
Once the time is up, carefully unwind the hair from the wand. Let the curl cool and set for a few seconds before moving on to the next section.
Styling the Curls
Letting the Curls Cool
After curling each section, let the curls cool completely. This helps to set them in place. You can speed up the cooling process by using a cold – air setting on your hair dryer or by fanning the curls with your hand.
Separating the Curls
Once the curls are cool, use your fingers to gently separate them. This gives a more natural, voluminous look. Avoid using a comb or brush, as this can make the curls look too uniform or cause frizz. If you want more defined curls, you can skip this step or be more gentle when separating them.
Applying Finishing Product
To hold the curls in place and add shine, you can apply a small amount of hairspray. Hold the hairspray about 6 – 8 inches away from your head and spray evenly over the curls. If you prefer a more flexible hold, look for a light – hold hairspray. For a more polished look, a stronger – hold hairspray may be used. You can also add a small amount of pomade or wax to the ends of the curls to give them a more defined shape.
Maintaining Curled Hair
Avoiding Water and Humidity
Try to keep your curls away from water as much as possible. Water can cause the curls to lose their shape. If you live in a humid environment, consider using anti – humidity products. These products help to keep the curls intact even in high – humidity conditions.
Sleeping on Silk or Satin
When you sleep, the friction between your hair and the pillowcase can cause the curls to flatten or frizz. To prevent this, use a silk or satin pillowcase. These materials are smoother than cotton and reduce friction, helping to maintain your curls overnight.
Touch – Ups
If your curls start to lose their shape during the day, you can do some quick touch – ups. Use your fingers to reshape the curls or use a small curling iron to touch up any areas that need it. You can also apply a little more styling product if necessary.
Conclusion
Curling your hair as a guy can be a fun and rewarding way to change up your look. With the right tools, techniques, and products, you can achieve great – looking curls that suit your style. Remember to take care of your hair to keep it healthy, especially when using heat – styling tools. Experiment with different curl sizes, styles, and products to find the perfect combination for you. Whether you’re going for a casual day – out look or a more formal appearance, curled hair can add that extra touch of charm.