Getting the perfect curls or waves is often the result of painstaking efforts, whether it's achieved with a curling iron, a straightener, or other techniques. However, once the hairstyle is finished, it's not uncommon to see the curls sag or the waves lose their shape within a few hours. So, how do you make your curls and waves last longer?
In this article, discover our tips and advice for extending the life of your curly and wavy hairstyles, whether for a day at work or an evening.
1. Start with clean hair but not too "slippery"
One of the biggest challenges in getting curls or waves to hold is keeping your hair from being too clean or too slippery. Freshly washed hair can lack texture, making it difficult for curls to hold. To improve hold, it's often best to curl your hair the day after shampooing, when your hair has a little more natural texture.
Tip: If you need to curl your hair right after washing it, apply a volumizing treatment like color wow xtra large mousse or a dry shampoo like Authentic Beauty Concept dry shampoo to add volume and hold before you start styling.
2. Choose the right styling products before and after curling
Using styling products is essential to help your curls and waves last all day. Apply a heat protectant spray such as Ghd bodyguard spray before using a hot tool to protect your hair and give it hold. You can also apply Ghd hold spray to protect your hair from heat, but also improve the hold of your curls once done. Then, once the curls or waves are formed, seal your hairstyle with a flexible fixing spray so as not to weigh down the hair while keeping the shape of the curls intact. I recommend the flexible spray from Authentic Beauty Concept, a gem to hold your curls without a cardboard effect and with a light fragrance!
Tip: Opt for a flexible hold spray rather than an ultra-fixing spray that can make your hair stiff and stiff.
3. Prepare your hair with a good hair dryer
Before you jump into the curling iron or straightener, it's important to prep your hair with a proper blow-dry. Blow-dry your hair upside down to add volume at the roots, and always finish with a blast of cool air to close the hair cuticles, making them smoother and better able to hold the shape of the curls.
Tip: Use a diffuser attachment if you already have natural waves. This helps dry your hair without breaking its natural movement.
4. Use a suitable curling iron at the right temperature
The size of your curling iron or straightener plays a crucial role in how well your curls hold. An iron that is too large will create looser curls that are more likely to come undone quickly, while a thinner iron will create tighter curls that tend to last longer.
Tip: If you are looking for a wavy effect, I recommend the new product from Ghd: the Ghd Chronos . A little gem of technology that will make your styling easier thanks to uniform temperature control and unmatched speed of execution. As for the temperature, it is recommended not to exceed 180°C to avoid damaging your hair while ensuring good hold.
5. Let your curls cool before touching them
One of the secrets to long-lasting curls is to let your hair cool completely before touching or styling it. Once you've created a curl with your iron, hold it in place with a clip for a few minutes until it cools. This process allows the curl to set in its shape and hold better throughout the day. Once cooled, you can lightly detangle it using a wide-toothed detangling comb or your Tangle Teezer for a natural, airy effect. No more Marie Antoinette hair!
Tip: You can also wrap the curls around your fingers and secure with pins while they cool.
6. Don't neglect nighttime preparation
If you want your curls or waves to last overnight, how you prepare your hair for the night is crucial. Tying your hair into a loose bun or pineapple ponytail can help preserve the shape of your curls overnight. Also, use a silk pillowcase to reduce friction and prevent frizz and flyaways.
Tip: Avoid tying your hairstyle too tightly at night so as not to flatten your curls.
7. Avoid humidity and water
Humidity is the number one enemy of curls and waves. If you know you're going to be exposed to humid conditions or rain, use an anti-humidity spray like Color Wow's Dream Coat or a protective serum. This will help seal the hair cuticle and reduce the impact of humidity on the hold of your curls.
Tip: Always carry a little touch-up spray or serum in your bag to keep your curls looking fresh throughout the day.
8. Use rollers or curlers for longer lasting curls
If you're looking for a heat-free method for long-lasting curls, try rollers or curlers. Wrap your locks around the rollers before bed or after lightly dampening your hair, and leave them in overnight. This method will give you tightly formed curls without damaging your hair.
Tip: Use Velcro rollers or foam curlers for added comfort at night.
9. Adapt your techniques to your hair type
Not all hair responds the same way to curling, and it's important to adapt your techniques based on your hair type. If you have fine hair, opt for volumizing products before styling and avoid heavy products that weigh down your strands. For thick hair, use hot tools with higher temperatures and richer products to help lock in curls.
10. Protect your hair from damage for better long-term hold
Healthy hair always holds curls better. To do this, take care of your hair with regular moisturizing treatments, nourishing hair masks, and avoiding excess heat. The stronger and more hydrated your hair is, the better it will be able to hold its shape.
