Achieving lasting curls in fine hair can often feel tough, especially if you have naturally straight hair. With its soft texture and tendency to fall flat, fine hair needs specialized care when it comes to styling. But don’t worry: It's doable.
Understanding the nature and tendencies of fine hair is crucial for foolproof styling habits. Knowing how fine hair works is key to good styling habits. Handling your hair type gets simpler once you get the hang of it.
This guide will show you tips, tools and products that make holding curls in fine hair a success. It talks about how special styling methods matter and what problems you might face when curling your hair. We’ll break down how to get fine hair to hold curls that defy the odds.
In this article:
- Preparing fine hair for curling
- Curling tools for fine hair
- Curling techniques for fine hair
- Post-curling strategies
- Maintenance tips for curled fine hair
- Frequently asked questions
Preparing fine hair for curling
Getting a great curly look starts well before you heat up the curling iron. Here's how to prep before curling thin hair.
Shampoo and conditioner
When picking out products for thin hair, consider trying gentle shampoos and moisturizing conditioners.1 Look for descriptors like “volumizing” and “thickening.”
Consider shampoo products like L'Oréal Paris EverStrong Sulfate-Free Thickening Shampoo.
Importance of heat-protectant products
Heating hair can damage and weaken hair.2 So before styling, consider using a heat protectant to help protect your hair from high heat from curling tools. Choosing the right heat protectant can make a difference in protecting your hair's cuticle and keeping its moisture.
Consider products such as Pantene Pro-V Nutrient Boost Heat Primer Thermal Heat Protectantand Hairitage Play It Cool Heat Protectant Spray.
Effects of pre-styling hair mousse
Applying a volume-adding hair mousse to damp hair may provide texture, hydrate hair and help curls last longer.3
For example, pre-styling mousse products include Herbal Essences Curl Boosting Mousse, TRESemmé Tres Two Extra Hold Hair Mousse and OGX Locking + Coconut Curls Decadent Creamy Mousse.
Curling tools for fine hair
The tools you use can make or break your hair's curls.
The role of curling irons
For short hair, consider a small-barrel (about one inch) ceramic curling iron with adjustable settings to use the exact temperature your hair needs.4 Ceramic irons heat up evenly, lowering the risk of damage while smoothing your curls and helping them hold longer.5
For example, the Conair Double Ceramic Curling Iron has a one-inch barrel.
Alternative curling methods
Don't like curling irons? No worries. Try gentler products like rollers or clipless hair wands to get beautiful curls without too much heat. Or consider using no-heat options overnight, which can help prevent heat damage and give you curls by the morning.
For example, the Kitsch Satin Heatless Curling Set includes a foam curling rod and two scrunchies that gently secure your hair.
Curling techniques for fine hair
Curling fine, straight hair well takes patience and care. The following steps can help, according to Sarai Curry, licensed cosmetologist and esthetician.6
- Curl section by section —Small sections mean even heat and better curls.
- Hold the iron in the correct position —An upright iron creates looser waves, while holding your iron flat gives you tighter curls.
- Release curls the right way —Carefully let your curls out of the iron to keep their shape.
Post-curling strategies
What you do after curling is just as important, according to Curry.7
- Let the curls cool down —Curls set as they cool, which makes them last longer.
- Avoid combing or brushing immediately —Use your fingers to gently separate your curls.
- Use the right care products —A light hair spray or dry spray can help hold your hair without making it heavy.
- Change your method if needed —Try more than one way! This will help you figure out the best method for your own hair.
Maintenance tips for curled fine hair
There are several ways to take care of curled fine hair between styles. To ensure you're keeping your fine hair curly and healthy looking, try not to use high-heat tools all the time.8 Also, use silk or satin pillowcases to preserve curls and reduce friction, which can make your hair frizzy and easier to break.9
Achieving curly, fine hair can be possible when you prepare and use the right tools, best practices and consistent care.
Frequently asked questions
How do you make fine hair curls stay?
First, make sure hair is kept hydrated and isn't too heavy. Try a weekly deep conditioning treatment with a volumizing shampoo and a lightweight conditioner. Then apply a heat protectant before curling and choose a hair mousse for extra hold. When curling, use a lower heat setting on a ceramic curling iron and let the curls cool completely before touching them. Finally, finish with a light-hold hair spray or texture spray to set the style without weighing the hair down.10
Why does thin hair not hold a curl?
Thin hair may not hold a curl for a few reasons, including being too damp and the use of heavy styling products or the wrong curling methods. You should dry hair completely before curling, use only the products needed and set the iron to the right heat.11
Can certain hair products help fine hair hold curls better?
Yes, certain hair products are made to help fine hair hold curls more effectively. Look for volume-adding mousses, lightweight heat protectants and finishing sprays made for fine hair.12
This content is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Consult your health care provider before taking any vitamins or supplements and prior to beginning or changing any health care practices.
