Heatless curls are curls or waves made without a curling iron, by wrapping slightly damp hair around something soft and leaving it to dry, usually overnight. Here's what sets them apart, who they suit, how to do them and how to make them last.
Heatless curls at a glance
- Time: 5 minutes to wrap, plus drying overnight
- Difficulty: Easy
- Best hair length: Shoulder length or longer
- Holds: 1 to 2 days
What makes them different
They avoid heat damage and save time in the morning. The result depends on how damp the hair is, how tightly it's wrapped and how long it's left.
Who they suit
Straight and wavy hair. Fine hair takes a curl quickly; thick hair needs more time and smaller sections.
How to do them
- Start with hair that's about 80 to 90 percent dry.
- Place a soft rod, robe belt or pair of socks over or beside your head.
- Wrap sections of hair around it, away from your face, and secure the ends.
- Leave for several hours or overnight, unwrap and separate the curls with your fingers.
Tips
Hair that's too wet won't dry and won't hold. Add a little mousse before wrapping, and finish with a light hairspray or oil.
Variations
- Curling rod or ribbon: one long soft rod over the head.
- Robe belt curls: the same method with a bathrobe tie.
- Sock curls: hair wrapped around socks.
- Braid waves: braid damp hair and sleep on it.
- Flexi rods and rollers: for tighter, more defined curls.
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FAQ
What are heatless curls?
Heatless curls are curls or waves made without a curling iron, by wrapping slightly damp hair around something soft and leaving it to dry, usually overnight.
Who suits heatless curls?
Straight and wavy hair. Fine hair takes a curl quickly; thick hair needs more time and smaller sections.
How long do they take?
5 minutes to wrap, plus drying overnight.
