Big, luscious curls. Tight, bouncy ringlets. Beachy, carefree waves. There’s no denying curly hair is gorgeous. People everywhere spend countless hours using curling irons, wands, flat irons, and even heat rollers to achieve the look.
But curling your locks with heat over time will only damage your hair. Let’s face it: we all could use a break from heat tools. Don’t know how to enhance natural curls without heat? You’re in luck! Here is our guide on how to curl hair without heat to create beautiful, flowy curly hair for that picture perfect snapshot.
Whether you’re starting with stick-straight hair or trying to tame naturally curly locks, these tricks on how to curl your hair without heat will give you gorgeous, glossy curls without burning your hair.
Pro tip: For smooth, frizz-free curly hair or waves, start with clean, slightly damp hair and work with a light styling foam before trying one of these heatless curly hair methods. In the morning, gently unravel your locks by separating your tresses with your fingers or a wide tooth comb. Then, scrunch and set your look with flexible hold hairspray.
“Start with clean, slightly damp hair and work with a light styling foam before trying one of these heatless curly hair methods.”
Braid it
Roll it
Wrap it in a bun
Try the robe belt method
Loop it through a headband
Pin it up
Use paper towels
Use a tube sock
For the smoothest, frizz-free curls, a good curly hair care routine is a must. Here are three methods for enhancing natural curls without heat.
Curly hair needs a lot of moisture, and shampooing too often strips your hair of its natural oils. Co-washing may help.
Co-washing means using conditioner to wash your hair instead of shampoo. This method is a lot less stripping than shampooing your hair.
However, this does not mean you should skip out on shampooing entirely, because it is necessary to shampoo your curls once in a while to get rid of buildup.
If you’re working with already curly or wavy hair, this is the simplest method for enhancing natural curls — and it’s fast!
Work a dime-sized amount of curl-reviving mousse or gel into your locks and scrunch upward to encourage your natural curl pattern.
Curly and wavy hair types are more delicate than straight strands, so they need extra care. If you’ve got naturally curly or wavy hair, plopping may be just right for enhancing your tresses. Here’s how it works.
Use a soft t-shirt or a microfiber towel after showering. Detangle with a wide tooth comb or just your fingers – never brush! Plop your curls onto the center of your t-shirt or microfiber towel.
Then, lift your head up, ensuring your choice of fabric covers your tresses. Twist the sides of your choice of fabric and tie at the back of your head. Plop for 10 to 20 minutes at the bare minimum, but feel free to experiment with the time!
Loving those natural, no-heat curls? Check out more John Frieda curly hair tips.