Professional Curls on Short Hair with Straightener: Techniques

Introduction

Hairdressers possess the skills and expertise to create stunning curls on short hair using various styling tools, including straighteners. If you want to achieve a salon-quality look at home, it is helpful to learn the techniques used by hairdressers. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the specific methods utilized by professional hairdressers to curl short hair with a straightener. From preparation to sectioning and effective styling techniques, each section will provide detailed instructions to help you master the art of hairstyling like a professional.

Creating Professional Curls on Short Hair with a Straightener: Techniques Used by Hairdressers

I. Preparing the Hair

1. Analyzing Hair Texture and Condition:

   • Before starting the curling process, hairdressers assess the texture, length, and condition of the client’s hair. This evaluation helps determine the appropriate heat settings and techniques to achieve the desired results.

2. Wash and Blow-Dry:

   • Begin by washing the hair and blow-drying it until it is completely dry. Ensure that the hair is free from excess moisture, as damp hair can affect the curling process and overall results.

3. Apply Heat Protectant:

   • Prior to using any heat-styling tools, hairdressers apply a high-quality heat protectant spray or serum evenly throughout the hair. This acts as a barrier, minimizing potential damage caused by heat.

II. Sectioning the Hair

1. Divide into Manageable Sections:

   • Hairdressers divide the hair into small, workable sections using clips or hair ties. This division facilitates smoother and more controlled curling, allowing for precise styling.

2. Start from the Bottom:

   • Begin by focusing on the lower sections of the hair and gradually work your way up towards the top. This systematic approach ensures that each section is thoroughly styled and no hair is missed.

III. Curling Techniques

1. Classic Curls:

   • To achieve classic curls, hairdressers take a small section of hair and clamp the straightener close to the roots. While holding the hair taut, rotate the straightener away from the face by 180 degrees. Slowly glide the straightener down the hair shaft, maintaining the U-shape created during rotation. Continue this technique on all sections, alternating curl direction for a natural-looking result.

2. Textured Waves:

   • For a more tousled and textured wave effect, hairdressers take a small section of hair and twist it away from the face. Clamp the straightener around the twisted section and glide it down towards the ends. This technique creates loose and effortless waves. Repeat on all sections, alternating curl direction for a more organic appearance.

3. Voluminous Curls:

   • To achieve voluminous curls, hairdressers take smaller sections of hair and clamp the straightener near the roots. While maintaining a firm grip, rotate the straightener multiple times, creating a corkscrew-like effect. Slowly glide the straightener down, allowing the hair to wrap around the tool. Repeat this technique on all sections, alternating curl direction for added volume and dimension.

IV. Styling Tips

1. Combining Curl Sizes:

   • To create more dynamic and natural-looking curls, hairdressers alternate between larger and smaller sections. Focusing on larger sections at the back and smaller sections around the face adds variation and depth to the overall hairstyle.

2. Varying Curl Direction:

   • For a more natural and effortless appearance, hairdressers alternate the curl direction on each section. This technique prevents the curls from clustering together and creates an organic flow throughout the hair.

3. Finger Raking:

   • After achieving the desired curls, hairdressers run their fingers gently through the hair to break up the curls slightly. This technique enhances the natural texture, adds volume, and creates a soft and lived-in look.

V. Finishing Touches

1. Light Hairspray Application:

   • Hairdressers lightly mist a flexible-hold hairspray over the styled curls to help set the hairstyle while maintaining movement and bounce. This finishing touch ensures that the curls last for an extended period.

2. Styling Products for Definition:

   • To enhance curl definition and texture, hairdressers may apply a small amount of texturizing or curl-enhancing product to the hair. This helps create separation and hold without weighing the hair down.

VI. Guidance for Home Maintenance

1. Maintaining the Style:

   • Hairdressers advise their clients to avoid excessive brushing or combing to preserve the shape and longevity of the curls. Instead, gently finger-comb the hair or use a wide-toothed comb to detangle any knots.

2. Nighttime Care:

   • To keep the curls intact overnight, hairdressers recommend loosely gathering the hair into a satin or silk scrunchie to minimize friction and prevent flattened curls. In the morning, gently reshape and refresh the curls by spritzing them with a curl revitalizing spray and scrunching them lightly.

Professional Tips and Tricks

1. Heat Setting Considerations:

   • Hairdressers pay careful attention to the heat setting on the straightener, ensuring it is appropriate for the client’s hair type and condition. Fine or damaged hair may require lower heat, whereas thicker or coarser hair may need a higher heat setting.

2. Adjusting Speed and Tension:

   • To achieve consistent and even curls, hairdressers adjust their speed and tension while working with the straightener. Slow, steady movements, with just enough tension to hold the hair, help create uniform curls.

3. Customizing Curl Size and Pattern:

   • Hairdressers often customize the size and pattern of the curls to suit the client’s preferences. They may create tighter curls near the roots and looser curls towards the ends or vice versa, depending on the desired style.

Additional Styling Techniques

1. Flat Iron Waves:

   • Hairdressers can effortlessly create soft, beachy waves using the flat iron wave technique. By taking small sections of hair and repeatedly bending the straightener in an S-shape as it travels down the hair shaft, they achieve loose, natural-looking waves.

2. Twist and Glide:

   • To achieve defined and elongated curls, hairdressers can twist small sections of hair tightly before clamping the straightener around the twist. This technique creates a spiral effect and delivers more pronounced curls.

VII. Conclusion: Mastering Professional Curling Techniques

By learning the techniques utilized by professional hairdressers, you can achieve salon-quality curls on short hair using a straightener. Prepare the hair properly, section it systematically, and employ the appropriate curling techniques to achieve your desired style. Employing styling tips and finishing touches will enhance the overall result while ensuring that the curls last longer.

Remember to maintain the style by minimizing excessive brushing, using suitable maintenance products, and adopting proper nighttime care. With practice and patience, you can become proficient at creating beautiful curls that rival those of a professional hairstylist.