After curling your hair, you can set the curls to enhance their longevity, structure, and volume by pinning them while they cool.
Setting Curls with Clips: A Step-by-Step Guide
Here's how to effectively set your curls using clips:
- Wrap the Curl: Immediately after releasing a curl from your curling iron or wand, carefully wrap it back up in its curled shape.
- Pin the Curl: Use a silver curl clip (or duckbill clip) to secure the wrapped curl against your head. The clip should hold the curl firmly in place without creating creases.
- Repeat: Continue wrapping and pinning each curl until all sections of your hair are secured.
- Allow to Cool: Let the curls cool completely while pinned. This is crucial for the curls to "set" properly. The longer you leave them pinned, the more defined and lasting the curls will be. 15-20 minutes is a good starting point, but you can leave them for longer.
- Release and Style: Gently remove the clips, being careful not to pull or tug on the curls. Once all the clips are removed, you can gently separate the curls with your fingers or a wide-tooth comb for a more natural look.
- Finish with Hairspray (Optional): For extra hold and to combat humidity, lightly mist your hair with hairspray.
Why Setting Curls Works
Setting curls works because heat manipulates the hydrogen bonds in your hair, allowing it to be reshaped. Cooling the hair down while it's in the curled position allows those bonds to reform in the new shape, making the curl last longer. Pinning helps to maintain the curled form precisely as it cools.
Alternative Setting Methods
While pinning is common, here are some other techniques:
- Velcro Rollers: Use Velcro rollers after curling each section to hold the curl's shape as it cools. This adds volume and is gentle on the hair.
- Flexi-Rods: Similar to Velcro rollers, flexi-rods can be used to set the curls, especially for tighter curl patterns.
Considerations
- Hair Type: Fine or thin hair benefits significantly from setting, as it helps curls hold their shape better.
- Clip Choice: Avoid clips that are too tight or leave impressions on the hair.
- Patience: Don't rush the cooling process. Allowing ample time for the curls to cool completely is key to long-lasting results.
