Hair Care Tips How Can I Use A Curling Iron To Achieve A Soft Curl Look? By Marilyn Atkins Posted on July 31, 2023 0 Are you tired of your usual hairstyle and looking to switch things up? Well, you’re in luck because in this article, we’re going to explore how you can use a curling iron to achieve a soft curl look. Whether you have long or short hair, this technique can give you those beautifully relaxed curls that you’ve been dreaming of. So, if you’re ready to transform your hair game, keep reading to learn all the tips and tricks you need to know! If you’re someone who has never used a curling iron before, don’t worry! We’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of using a curling iron to achieve a soft curl look. From selecting the right curling iron for your hair type to mastering the technique of curling, we’ll cover it all. You’ll also learn about the different products and techniques you can use to enhance and make your curls last longer. So, if you’re ready to step up your hair game and achieve those Instagram-worthy soft curls, keep reading! If you’re looking to achieve a soft curl look, using a curling iron can be a great tool to help you achieve the desired result. With the right technique and tools, you can create beautiful and long-lasting soft curls that enhance your overall hairstyle. In this article, we will guide you through the process of choosing the right curling iron, preparing your hair, different techniques for achieving soft curls, adding volume, setting and maintaining the curl, avoiding damage to your hair, tips for long-lasting curls, and common mistakes to avoid. Choosing the Right Curling Iron Consider the Barrel Size The barrel size of your curling iron plays a crucial role in determining the size and tightness of your curls. For soft curls, consider using a barrel size between 1 and 1 1/2 inches. This size will give you looser and more relaxed curls. Select the Right Material When choosing a curling iron, consider the material of the barrel. Ceramic and tourmaline barrels are excellent choices as they distribute heat evenly, reducing the risk of heat damage. These materials also help to seal the hair cuticles, resulting in smooth and shiny curls. Choose the Correct Temperature It’s important to choose the correct temperature setting on your curling iron. For fine or damaged hair, use a lower heat setting to prevent further damage. If you have thick or coarse hair, a higher heat setting may be necessary to achieve the desired curl. Always start with a lower heat setting and gradually increase if needed. Preparing Your Hair Wash and Condition Your Hair Before using a curling iron, it’s important to start with freshly washed and conditioned hair. Clean hair allows for better curl formation and ensures that your curls will last longer. Be sure to use a moisturizing conditioner to keep your hair hydrated and healthy. Apply Heat Protectant To prevent heat damage, apply a heat protectant to your hair before using a curling iron. This will create a barrier between your hair and the heat, reducing the risk of breakage and dryness. Detangle Your Hair Before curling your hair, make sure it is completely detangled. This will help the curls to form smoothly and prevent any knots or tangles. Use a wide-tooth comb or a detangling brush to gently remove any knots or tangles. Techniques for Achieving Soft Curls Section Your Hair To achieve even and consistent curls, it’s important to section your hair before curling. Divide your hair into smaller sections using hair clips or hair ties. This will make it easier to curl each section individually and ensure that all of your hair is evenly curled. Wrap Your Hair Around the Barrel Take a small section of hair and wrap it around the barrel of the curling iron, starting from the middle of the hair strand. Avoid clamping the hair in the curling iron as this can create creases and uneven curls. Hold the hair around the barrel for a few seconds to allow the heat to penetrate and form the curl. Hold and Release for the Desired Time The duration you hold your hair around the barrel will determine the tightness of the curl. For soft curls, hold the hair around the barrel for about 5 to 10 seconds. If you prefer tighter curls, you can hold the hair for a longer duration. Experiment with different hold times to find the perfect balance for your desired curls. Creating Variation in Curl Sizes Wrap Your Hair in Different Directions To create variation in curl sizes, try wrapping your hair around the barrel in different directions. Alternate between wrapping the hair towards your face and away from your face. This will create a more natural and effortless look with different sized curls. Alternate Barrel Sizes Another way to create variation in curl sizes is to use different barrel sizes. Along with your main curling iron, consider investing in curling wands with larger or smaller barrels. Using different barrel sizes will add depth and dimension to your curls, creating a more textured and voluminous look. Use Different Curling Techniques In addition to using different barrel sizes, you can also experiment with different curling techniques to create variation in curl sizes. For example, you can try curling only the bottom half of your hair for a more relaxed look or curling only the top layers for added volume. Don’t be afraid to get creative and try different techniques to achieve your desired soft curl look. Adding Volume to Your Curls Backcomb the Roots To add volume to your curls, try backcombing the roots of your hair before curling. This will create a lifted and voluminous base for your curls. Take small sections at the crown of your head and tease the hair by gently combing it towards the roots. This will create a slight “bump” and add extra volume to your curls. Use a Texturizing Spray Another way to add volume to your curls is by using a texturizing spray. Apply a small amount of texturizing spray to your roots before curling. This will give your hair extra grip and hold, allowing your curls to last longer and appear more voluminous. Gently Separate the Curls After curling your hair, gently separate the curls with your fingers to add volume. Avoid using a brush or comb as this can disrupt the curl pattern and make the curls appear frizzy. Instead, loosely run your fingers through your curls to create separation and volume. Setting and Maintaining the Curl Apply a Holding Product To set and maintain your curls, apply a holding product such as hairspray or mousse. This will provide extra hold and prevent your curls from falling out throughout the day. Apply the product evenly throughout your hair, focusing on the ends and any areas prone to frizz or flyaways. Allow the Curls to Cool After curling your hair, allow the curls to cool completely before touching them. This will help to set the curl and make it last longer. Gently clip the curls in place while they cool to ensure they maintain their shape. Comb Through with Fingers Once the curls have cooled, comb through them with your fingers to create a softer and more natural look. Avoid using a brush or comb as this can make the curls appear stiff and unnatural. Instead, lightly run your fingers through your curls to loosen and soften them. Avoiding Damage to Your Hair Use a Heat Protectant To prevent heat damage, always use a heat protectant before using a curling iron. This will create a barrier between your hair and the heat, reducing the risk of breakage and dryness. Apply the heat protectant evenly throughout your hair, focusing on the ends where it is most vulnerable. Avoid Excessive Heat Using excessive heat on your hair can cause damage and lead to dryness and breakage. It’s important to find the right temperature setting for your hair type and always start with a lower heat setting. If needed, gradually increase the heat, but never exceed what is necessary to achieve your desired curl. Limit Frequency of Curling Curling your hair too frequently can cause damage and lead to dryness and breakage. It’s important to give your hair regular breaks from heat styling. Aim to curl your hair no more than two to three times per week and always make sure to properly condition and nourish your hair in between styling sessions. Tips for Long-lasting Soft Curls Sleep with a Silk Scarf To maintain your soft curls overnight, consider sleeping with a silk scarf or on a silk pillowcase. Silk is a smoother fabric that creates less friction, helping to prevent frizz and maintain the integrity of your curls. Wrap your hair in a silk scarf or swap out your regular pillowcase for a silk one to wake up with beautiful and long-lasting curls. Avoid Touching or Brushing Your Curls Throughout the day, avoid touching or brushing your curls excessively. This can disrupt the curl pattern and cause frizz. Instead, gently reshape the curls with your fingers if needed, but avoid excessive manipulation. Embrace the natural movement and texture of your curls for the best results. Refresh with Dry Shampoo To refresh your curls in between washes, use a dry shampoo. Dry shampoo will absorb any excess oil at the roots, giving your hair a refreshed and voluminous look. Apply the dry shampoo to the roots of your hair and gently massage it in. This will revive your curls and give them a boost of volume. Common Mistakes to Avoid Using Too High Heat One common mistake when using a curling iron is using too high of a heat setting. This can cause damage and make your curls appear dry and brittle. Always start with a lower heat setting and gradually increase if needed, but never exceed what is necessary to achieve your desired curl. Overusing the Curling Iron Overusing the curling iron can lead to damage and breakage. It’s important to give your hair regular breaks from heat styling. Aim to curl your hair no more than two to three times per week and always make sure to properly condition and nourish your hair in between styling sessions. Not Allowing Curls to Cool Not allowing your curls to cool completely before touching them can cause them to lose their shape and fall out more quickly. It’s important to be patient and allow the curls to cool before styling or manipulating them. Gently clip the curls in place while they cool to ensure they maintain their shape. Conclusion Achieving a soft curl look with a curling iron requires choosing the right tools and techniques, preparing your hair properly, and mastering the curling process. By following these tips and avoiding common mistakes, you can achieve beautiful and long-lasting soft curls that enhance your overall hairstyle. Whether you’re attending a special event or simply want to switch up your everyday look, a curling iron can be a versatile tool for achieving the soft curls you desire. Experiment with different barrel sizes, techniques, and hair products to find the perfect combination that works for you. With practice and care, you’ll be able to achieve soft and glamorous curls whenever you desire.