Building a Better Curl (2)
To create the curl, the curling iron uses heat to break the physical side bonds and reshape the wave pattern as the hair is wrapped around the heated barrel of the curling iron. When the iron is removed and the curl is allowed to cool completely (an important step), the side bonds reform in the new wave pattern. The curls created this way are reasonably strong, especially when strong-hold styling products are used in the process.
Curling irons are now available in many barrel sizes and shapes to allow the creation of everything from pencil-thin curls to large, soft waves, and even geometrically-shaped coils. On the downside, curling hair with a curling iron is a labor-intensive process that requires careful attention to avoid scorching, singeing, or burning the hair.
As for the longevity of curling-iron curls, they don’t tend to hold up as well as roller sets. This is especially true with longer hair. The curls tend to go flat as the day wears on, and usually need to be redone if you want the style to last into the evening after a day at work.
Hot Rollers
Many women cheered when the first hot rollers were marketed. Finally, there was a tool that allowed women to use a familiar method of adding curl (rollers) without the time requirements of a traditional wet set. The hot rollers could be used to add curl where desired, just like a curling iron, but were much less likely to result in burns on the scalp and fingers.
However, the waiting period for cooling meant that the woman could put the hot rollers in, apply her makeup or continue getting dressed, and finish styling her hair once she was done and the rollers had cooled completely. It was a convenient and time-saving addition to the styling routine.
On the downside, the curls created with the hot rollers tend to be much softer and much less strong than the curls created with other methods. There is also the fact that, in general, curls created with hot rollers tend to loosen more quickly than curling irons, especially in warmer, more humid climates. But for those hairstyles that call for a soft, romantic look, hot rollers can be ideal. Even if the curls don't last for evening wear, the ease of use makes restoring the curl a simple task.
Styling Products
All of the methods above can be made more effective with the use of styling products. Different products are better suited to various styling methods, and can help to customize the type, strength and longevity of the curl you desire by simply choosing the right product.
Styling gels are thick, usually grease-free and somewhat-sticky products which are applied to damp hair before drying the hair or to help make wrapping hair onto a roller for a wet set easier. In roller sets, styling gel produces very firm curls which are often stiff and require breaking up before the hair can be brushed.
For use with curling irons and hot rollers, styling gel must be applied to wet hair and dried before the heated tools are used. However, the gel gives the hair more substance and helps make the curls created more durable and stronger.
Mousses
Mousses are usually foamy substances that give a softer finish to the curls. It can be used on damp hair when wrapping a roller set, or applied before drying for hair that will be heat styled. It helps to create longer-lasting curls that are still soft to the touch and easier to style. It's ideal for those who want a soft-looking style, but won't hold a curl as long as styling gel.
Hairsprays
In a wet set, hairspray is reserved for use after the hair has been dried and cooled on the rollers. Once the curls are combed out and the hair styled into the desired look, hairspray is applied to hold the finished style and help it stay in place. However, hairspray becomes a more active part of curl creation when using curling irons and hot rollers.
Hopefully, this information may help some women make more informed choices about how they curl their hair. Most of the time the choice of method is dependent on the amount of time available in the daily routine, but once you understand the pros and cons of each method, as well as what kind of results to expect, you may decide to try a different method.
And if you’re not happy with the results you’re getting with the method you currently use, maybe adding one or more of the styling products listed in the appropriate manner will give you results you can be satisfied with.
©Hairfinder.com
See also:
Are permanent curls right for you?
How to style curly hair and combat frizz