For even better results, curl your hair on the second or third day after shampooing. Dirty hair can hold a curl better than squeaky clean hair, and it'll save you a lot of prep time, too.
Curling just-washed hair
A fresh wash makes your hair strands silky and smooth making it more difficult for the curls to hold. Always wash your hair a day prior to curling your hair to make the curls last longer. If you have no time to wash your hair consider using a dry shampoo a few hours before curling your hair.
By leaving sections slightly damp, your hair won't curl as well as it would if it were totally dry. In a similar vein, dirty hair curls much better than freshly-washed hair since your natural hair oils help curl to hold. 2.
Although it is best to curl second or third-day hair…you can curl your hair the same day you shower. Don't wash your hair right before curling it– Some people can wash and curl right away. If you hair has trouble holding curl, try washing it the night before so it can curl easier in the morning.
Scrunch Those Curls.
Cup your locks in the palm of your hand and scrunch your upward, working your curl styling gel, mousse or cream carefully into each strand. Scrunching adds volume and definition to your coils, leaving them bouncy and beautiful.
Several studies have demonstrated that curls are seen as attractive. In a survey by L'Oreal Paris, more than half of women use curling irons to style their hair. Many other studies have proven that curly-haired folks are seen as more attractive than those who wear their hair in different styles. What is this?
You're not using the right styling products before and after curling. One of the top reasons your hair won't hold a curl is due to the products you're using (or not using). Products that are too heavy on your hair will be counter-productive and weigh hair down, even if it's a specific curl-holding product.
The most common answer is to wash and dry your hair the day before a professional updo styling. It is best when one night's worth of natural oil buildup is on the hair. Why you ask? That's a very good question!
Unwashed hair is more malleable, pliable and will stay in the intended style longer over the course of the day relative to freshly washed hair. This is due to the buildup of oil, dirt, grit and salt that occurs through sweating.
It Will Be Easier To Style
You know how you always go to the hair salon with dirty hair the day of an event? Yeah — that's because dirty hair styles better. If you stop washing, you'll probably notice that your hair will hold curls better.
Dirty hair can hold a curl better than squeaky clean hair, and it'll save you a lot of prep time, too. If your hair feels greasy, start with a dry shampoo. Use a mousse and heat protectant before you blow-dry in order to give the hair more hold. Prepping with a setting spray is also great for locking in your curls.
Allow enough time for your curls to cool down or they will lose their form and fall out quickly. If you run your fingers or brush through curls too soon without giving them the proper time to set, your curls won't last.
Use a Texturizing Spray
A texturizing spray is a lighter version of hairspray. Therefore, it will keep your curls in place without weighing them down and causing them to lose their bounce. It also works like dry shampoo by eliminating oils from your hair and adding volume.
Mousse provides some hold as well as added volume, and can be an alternative to heavier hair sprays. Mousse is also a great product for those with natural hair to use, as it helps define natural curls or bring out some waves when using a curling iron.
Don't be afraid to brush out your curls
But do not, and we repeat, do not brush out your curls straight after curling your hair. Give the curls some time to cool down before you brush them. Then go in with a Tangle Teezer or wide toothed comb.
You are not applying products to soaking wet hair
You want to apply your stylers to soaking wet hair in order for it to set in place as it dries. Applying product to damp or dry hair will still provide hold but it will not revive your curl definition. Hydrated, healthy hair is the best foundation for all great styles.
Sleeping on your hair makes it lose its curl structure and become matted. So, tie your hair up loosely to keep its curl structure protected. You can tie your hair up in a pineapple, a bun, a buff, a headscarf, or a braid, or you can try plopping it.