If you’re tired of using hot styling tools that can damage your hair, consider trying hair towel curls—an easy, heatless method that creates beautiful, voluminous curls.
This technique not only offers an effective way to style your hair, but it’s also gentle on your strands.
In fact, hair towel curls have become a favorite for those seeking to protect their hair from the damage caused by regular heat styling.
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What Are Hair Towel Curls?
The process of towel curling may sound simple, but there are a few tips and tricks that can elevate the results.
First off, choosing the right towel is crucial.
A soft, absorbent microfiber towel, like the Aquis Microfiber Hair Towel, works wonders for curly hair.
This type of towel is gentle on the strands, helping to reduce frizz while absorbing moisture without roughing up the cuticle, which is key to keeping your curls smooth and defined.
Step-by-Step Guide to Towel Curls
- Start with damp hair: While some methods might recommend starting with wet hair, it’s best to towel curl your hair when it’s damp, not soaking wet. Damp hair is easier to curl and is less prone to frizz. After washing your hair, gently pat it dry with a microfiber towel or allow it to air-dry slightly until it’s damp but not dripping. This ensures that your curls will hold their shape longer.
- Section your hair: Divide your hair into sections to make the rolling process easier. You can part your hair in the middle or on the side, depending on your preferred curl pattern. For finer or shorter hair, smaller sections might work best. For longer hair, larger sections can help achieve looser curls. If your hair tends to tangle easily, applying a leave-in conditioner or lightweight styling cream, like Ouai’s Leave-In Conditioner, can make the process smoother and help prevent frizz.
- The rolling process: Lay the towel flat on a surface, such as your bed, with the short edge facing you. Gather your hair into a loose ponytail or keep it in sections, placing the ends of your hair at the edge of the towel. Begin rolling the towel around your hair, moving from the bottom of your hair to the roots. The trick is to keep the towel parallel, rolling it evenly so the curls are uniform. Take your time with this step to make sure that the towel is snug but not too tight. This ensures that your curls will have volume without being too stiff.
- Secure the towel: Once you’ve rolled your hair into the towel, secure it with a scrunchie or a clip to hold it in place. You may want to avoid using an elastic that’s too tight, as it can leave an imprint in your hair. Instead, opt for a gentle scrunchie or a soft clip that won’t pull or cause tension.
- Sleep on it: This is where the towel curl method shines—no need to worry about the curling process during the day. Simply leave the towel in overnight and let your hair set while you sleep. This is also where you can get creative. For tighter curls, you can make the sections smaller. For looser, beachy waves, use larger sections and roll the towel loosely.
- Unwrap and style: The next morning, gently remove the towel from your hair. Don’t rush this part—be careful not to pull at your hair too roughly. As you release the towel, your curls should cascade into place. You can use your fingers or a wide-toothed comb to separate the curls and add a bit of volume. If you want extra hold, a light-hold hairspray, such as Bumble and Bumble’s Spray de Mode, can help lock in the curls without making them stiff.
Photo credits: Chris Renshaw