The beauty about spring and summer is that it’s perfect for experimenting with curly, wavy styles. But when most women hear the term “spiral curls” images of Shirley Temple often come to mind. Spiral curls have come a long way since the 1930s. They are no longer considered frilly and outdated-and in fact, have taken on a fresh and modern approach. But if you’re not too familiar with how to wear (or achieve) this style, the look can be a little daunting. Depending upon your hair, length, and texture there are are a number of ways in which to create spiral curls that will fit your particular style.
Hair Style: “Super” Spirals
Spiral Method: Straw Set
If you’re ready to go all out with an extreme spiral look, you might want to opt for a straw set. This style works particularly well on African American hair, as these textures often respond pretty well to this method. The key to achieving soft and shiny spiral curls is to make sure that you are applying the right product before curling the hair on straws (yes, real drinking straws.) Setting lotion, or any other styling lotion typically works well. Just try not to use products that leave a heavy residue. Curl the hair vertically along the straws and secure with bobby pins. The overall result is a set of really defined spiral curls.
Hair Style: “Traditional” Spiral Curls
Spiral Method: Magnetic Rollers
Perhaps the most traditional way of achieving ordinary spiral curls with a good set of magnetic rollers. Magnetic rollers come in different shapes and sizes. The, the size of the spirals greatly depends upon the size of the hair rollers you select. Start by sectioning the hair as usual; apply product (either a curling wax, pomade, or even water.) Use a diagonal motion when rolling the hair, as rolling directly under or over will alter the curl’s direction. It is important to note that you should not comb through the curls, but rather finger combing and arranging them manually in order to achieve the most natural look.
Hair Style: Loose Spirals
Spiral Method: Bending Rods (also called Flexi-Rods)
To craft spiral curls that are loose and slightly wavy, use Flexi-Rods-bendable rods covered in a spongy outer material. The good thing about using these particular curlers as that their flexibility allows you control the amount of curl in each section of hair. For instance, the larger the bending rods, the looser the spirals will be. Make sure to bend the rods just slightly on the ends if you are attempting to wear a more relaxed set of spirals. This particular method is great for chin length bobs or shoulder-length hair of all textures.
Hair Style: Ultra Modern Spirals
Spiral Method: Manual Pin Curls (no rollers or rods)
If you don’t have any curling tools at all, the best thing you can do is use your fingers and a set of bobby pins. Moisturize the hair thoroughly making sure to reach the ends. When utilizing this particular method it is very important that the ends are moisturized so as to prevent fly-aways and frizz. Once that hair has been treated, take a small section and twist around your finger vertically all the way to the end. Then roll the hair gently towards the scalp and secure with the bobby pin. Creating spiral curls with this method is great if you want to skip using a hood dryer or heating tool to set the style. Simply wrap the hair with a silk scarf, and allow the curls to set overnight as you sleep.
Hair Style: “Custom-Made” Spirals
Spiral Method: Curling Irons
If you’re in a hurry, one of the easiest ways to achieve spiral curls up with a curling iron. This isn’t really the best way in terms of hair health, considering that heat is the biggest culprit for dry and damaged hair. However, there are many products on the market to help keep damage to a minimum. Be sure to pull any hair styling product all the way to the end in order to prevent additional dryness during the curling process. Using curling irons is great if you have long hair that extends past the shoulders, and you are looking for a quick fix. Depending upon the styling products you use, one heat styled application should last for several days.
SOURCES:
www.longhaircareforum.com
www.essence.com
www.marieclaire.com
