Impart definite, polished curls on straight hair for a look so gorgeous you’ll never want to wear it any other way. And the only secret weapon you’ll need is a quality curling iron.

Issues of Size

Jumbo curling irons are best used to create bends and flips on shorter styles and to create face-framing waves on longer hair.  Large and medium barreled irons are great for creating big defined waves and softer curls with volume.  Smaller irons are ideal for making tight curls and ringlets for super curly results.

Turn Up the Heat

The barrel of the curling iron transforms straight hair into beautiful twists, but it is actually the heat that locks in the style and adds shine. When creating curls, leave iron clamped to hair for at least 10 seconds—but don’t go overboard or you strands may be singed. Be sure your curls are completely cool before touching them or finishing with hairspray.

PREP HAIR

Start by applying a mousse like Nexxus GORGEOUS CURLS or MOUSSE PLUS FOAM STYLER in order to help the hair hold up to moisture and humidity. Be sure to distribute the mousse evenly throughout the hair, from the roots to ends.

Creating Curls

Begin with a lower section of hair and work up to the top, front sections.  Hold the iron vertically and spiral each section of hair around the barrel.  Hold the curl for several seconds and then release.  If you want softer waves, extend each curled section with your hand.

A Good Iron Isn’t Hard to Find

Look for these features in a curling iron before making your next purchase:

• Temperature Gauge — coarse hair requires higher settings, while fine hair needs much less heat
• Swivel Cord – reaching hair on the back of the head is hard enough, but at least with a swivel cord you have a better range of movement
• Ceramic barrel – heats hair faster and more evenly than traditional metal and doesn’t dry it out