Getting those gorgeous curls to cooperate, especially at the back of your head, can be tricky. This guide offers several techniques to achieve this, focusing on different hair types and styling tools.
Using Heat Styling Tools
This method works best for achieving defined curls, particularly on straight or slightly wavy hair. The key is using the right tools and technique for even heat distribution:
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Curling Wand: Using a curling wand, section your hair into manageable pieces. As demonstrated in this video, wrap each section around the wand, away from your face, holding for 10-15 seconds. This guide provides additional helpful tips. Remember to use a heat protectant spray to minimize heat damage (reference: Protect Curls From Heat).
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Curling Iron: Similar to a wand, a curling iron allows for controlled curls. However, it’s important to not clamp the hair down too tightly to avoid creases. Use a heat protectant spray (reference: Protect Curls From Heat).
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Difficult-to-Reach Sections: For the back of your head, using a mirror or asking for help can greatly improve your styling accuracy. Practice makes perfect!
Enhancing Natural Curls
For those with naturally wavy or curly hair, the focus is on enhancing the existing curl pattern rather than creating curls from scratch.
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Product Selection: Choose products formulated for curly hair, avoiding sulfates, silicones, and parabens (reference: The Curly Girl Routine recommends using hair products that have no sulphates, no silicones, no parabens). Experiment with different mousses, gels, or creams to find what works best for your hair type (reference: Experiment With Curl Styling Products).
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Styling Techniques: Once you've applied product, consider techniques like:
- Pineapple Method: Gather your hair high on your head before bed, and sleep on a silk pillowcase (reference: Look into pineapple if you can get enough of it up, silk bonnets and pillow cases).
- Plopping: Wrap your hair in a microfiber towel or t-shirt to absorb excess moisture and gently shape your curls while they dry.
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Addressing Build-up: Ensure you're effectively cleansing your hair to remove product buildup (reference: Get Rid of Build-Up. Build-up is common with curly hair, especially when co-washing, as products tend to collect at the roots). Deep conditioning treatments (reference: Make Masks a Focus) and regular washing can help.
Dealing with Specific Issues
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Hair Doesn't Curl in the Back: This might be due to your hair's natural texture variations. If heat damage is suspected, give your hair a break from heat styling and focus on hydration (reference: So I have naturally curly hair, but it doesn't curl in the back. I don't know if this is because of heat damage or what, but it won't curl).
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Restoring Curls After Chemical Straightening: Restoring curls after chemical straightening requires patience and a focus on hair health. Avoid heat completely and use nourishing oils and gentle shampoos (reference: How To Get Your Curls Back After Chemical Straightening).
