For the first time in years, waves have finally overtaken the straight look. Nearly all of 2014 hairstyles are showing some kind of “bend”, with the most popular being soft, loose, curls of varying sizes.
There is a definite way to master the look, if you aren’t lucky enough to roll out of bed with those tousled, yet kempt, tresses. Here are a few pointers to kick-start your PhD in texture.
1. Own the Correct Tools
This may be the most essential tip in the bunch. The curling irons of today are NOT the same ones used back in the 80’s. Opt for ceramic ones, with a barrel of ½ inch to 1 ½ inch, depending on what size wave you want to create. (The smaller the barrel, the tighter the curl) In Beverly Hills, we are all crazy for curing wands, which have no clamp. Hair is twisted around the iron, and hair tips can be left uncurled to give a slightly unfinished feel. The barrel can be straight, or it can taper from wider to narrow. (which results in a more uniform curl vs one that goes from looser to tighter)
2. Make sure your hair is smooth to start out
If you have a curlier texture, this may mean blowing your hair dry straight, and then curling over it. The curls of 2014 start further down the hair shaft, not towards the crown of the head. (Never higher than the brow, preferably beginning at the cheekbone, depending on the hair cut)
YES:
UH, NO!!
3. Get a Perm or Relaxer
(If you have naturally wavy hair without a lot of frizz, you can skip this advice.)
The key to having curls that make it through summer humidity and heat, is to start with the right “base” texture. If your hair is stick straight, the curls won’t last. If it’s tightly curled, it will revert back the minute moisture hits it. There are lots of services to help- like a body perm, a keratin treatment, or a traditional sodium hydroxide based relaxer. Consult with a professional to see what might be right for your specific hair type.
4. Use the Correct Products
Curls need structure! To keep the hair from dropping or getting frizzy, start with a good spray detangler/defrizzer. Next layer a curl/texture cream onto damp hair, about 3 inches from the scalp. After hair is blow dried and curled, spritz with a sea salt texture spray for a messier look, or a light hold pomade and finish spray, for a smoother, more glamorous one.
5. Practice makes perfect
That’s just the plain fact- these looks are all attainable at home with enough practice, and a little skill!
