Curls For The Big Day: Tips For Making Them Last

There are many ways to make curls last longer, and this is especially important for brides who want to ensure their hair looks perfect throughout their wedding day. From the right products to the right tools, and some clever tricks, here's how to make curls stay for a wedding.

Use hairspray

Using hairspray is a great way to make your curls stay in place for a wedding. Here are some tips on how to use hairspray effectively to achieve long-lasting curls:

Choose the Right Hairspray:

Check the ingredients list on the hairspray bottle. If water is the first ingredient, avoid using it on curly hair as it can make your hair sticky and may even cause breakage. Opt for a hairspray that is designed for curly hair, such as the TRESemmé Compressed Micro Mist Hairspray Level 2 Curl, which releases less gas and comes in a smaller, recycled can.

Prepare Your Hair:

Before applying hairspray, start with damp hair. Wash your hair with a clarifying shampoo the day before, and then condition it well, focusing on the ends if your hair is fine, and from roots to ends if your hair is thick and coarse. Skip the conditioner or use a very light amount, as too much conditioner can make your hair too slippery for curls to hold effectively.

Apply Heat Protectant:

It is crucial to use a heat protectant before styling your hair with any heat tools. Choose a heat protectant that suits your hair type and apply it to damp hair. This will help prevent damage and protect your curls.

Spray at an Angle:

When using hairspray, hold the bottle at an angle to your hair. Spray it onto your damp hair after you've styled it, or spray it after showering if you plan to curl your hair while it's still damp. This technique will help define your curls and give them a boost before you start curling.

Use a Curling Iron:

After applying hairspray, use a curling iron to create defined curls. Hold the curling iron vertically and wrap small sections of hair around the barrel, starting from the top and working your way down. Hold for a few seconds, then gently release. Alternate the direction of the curl and the size of the sections for a more natural look.

Set the Curls:

Once you've created your curls, let them cool down and set before releasing them. You can use clips or bobby pins to hold the curls in place while they cool. This step will help your curls last longer and ensure they don't lose their shape.

Finish with a Light Mist:

After curling and releasing your curls, finish with a light mist of hairspray. Hold the hairspray bottle about 6-8 inches away from your hair to avoid making your curls crunchy and heavy. Spray a light mist all over your hair and let it dry before touching your curls.

By following these steps and using hairspray correctly, you can achieve beautiful, long-lasting curls for your wedding day.

Start with tight curls

To make curls stay for a wedding, it's important to consider your hair type, the products you use, and the tools you style with. Here's a step-by-step guide to achieving tight curls that last, specifically tailored to wedding hair:

Understand Your Hair Type:

Before styling, it's crucial to know your hair type. This ranges from 1A (straight, fine hair) to 4C (coily coarse hair), taking into account natural texture, thickness of strands, and overall volume. Understanding your hair type will dictate how long it'll take to curl, the most effective curling methods, and how well curls will hold.

Prepare Your Hair:

About five weeks before the wedding, deep condition your hair, especially if it's coarse, heavily processed, or colored. The day before the event, wash your hair with a clarifying shampoo, followed by a conditioner. If you have fine hair, avoid the roots, but if your hair is thick and coarse, let the conditioner sit for a few minutes.

Use the Right Products:

Apply a heat protectant, especially if you plan to use heat tools. For natural-looking curls, opt for a curling shampoo and conditioner. To enhance and define curls, use a curling cream or mousse. Avoid conditioners with this step as they can make hair too soft and slippery, causing curls to fall out faster. Instead, you want enough grit and texture to hold those curls in place.

Choose the Right Tools:

Invest in good-quality hot tools like curling irons or wands. Look for those coated with tourmaline or ceramic, which cause less damage to your hair. For short hair, a flat iron can provide more control and allow you to get closer to the roots. For longer hair, consider a larger barrel curling iron for looser waves, or heatless tools like rollers for a bouncy style.

Curl Your Hair:

For tight curls, use a smaller barrel curling iron or wand. If you have short hair, small curling rods (1/4-inch diameter) can create natural-looking curls. Section your hair, then wrap each section around the curling iron or wand, holding for a few seconds before releasing. Alternate the direction of your curls and the size of the sections for a more natural look.

Cool and Set the Curls:

Allow each curled section to cool down and set before releasing it. You can use clips or bobby pins to hold the shape. This helps the hair cuticle close and set in place, ensuring the curl lasts longer.

Loosen the Curls Slightly:

Once your curls have cooled, gently shake them out and use your fingers to loosen them a little. This is because curls will inevitably loosen over time, so starting with them a bit tighter will ensure they last longer and still look perfect by the time you reach your final destination.

Finish with Styling Products:

Apply a light mist of hairspray or, even better, a texturizing spray. Texturizing spray adds volume, neutralizes oils, and holds curls in place without weighing them down as much as hairspray.

By following these steps, you'll achieve tight curls that last, ensuring your hair looks perfect from the moment you start getting ready to the last dance of the night.

Use a curling wand or iron

Using a curling wand or iron is a great way to create uniform curls for your wedding day. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you achieve long-lasting curls:

Choose the Right Curling Wand or Iron:

Select a curling wand or iron that suits your hair type and desired curl size. Interchangeable wands with different barrel sizes offer more flexibility. Standard barrel sizes include 32mm, 25mm, and 19mm. The 32mm barrel is ideal for loose curls on medium to long hair, while the 25mm barrel works for all hair lengths and creates defined curls that relax over time. The 19mm barrel is perfect for short hair.

Set the Temperature:

Adjust the temperature according to your hair type. Starting at 350°F is recommended, but you can go up to 450°F for coarse hair. For fine hair, start at 300°F. Avoid tools with only an on/off switch, as they can damage your hair.

Consider the Material:

Titanium curling wands or irons are a great option due to their even heat distribution, negative ion emission (which reduces frizz), and ability to seal the hair cuticle for shinier and longer-lasting curls.

Prepare Your Hair:

About five weeks before the wedding, deep condition your hair, especially if it's coarse, heavily processed, or coloured. The day before the wedding, wash your hair with a clarifying shampoo and conditioner. If you have fine hair, avoid applying conditioner to the roots.

Use a Heat Protectant:

Apply a heat protectant spray or product to prevent heat damage. This step is crucial for natural hair or extensions. Some recommended products include Virtue Labs Curl Shampoo and Conditioner and The Doux's Mousse Def Texture Foam.

Section Your Hair:

Divide your hair into sections. For curling wands, gather a 1" section of hair. If you want larger waves, use a larger barrel. Avoid taking larger sections with a smaller barrel to prevent inconsistent curls.

Pinch and Wrap:

Pinch your hair a couple of inches down from the scalp and wrap it around the barrel, maintaining the pinch. Bring the wand or iron up and over so that the barrel is facing down. Continue wrapping the hair away from your face. Leave the last inch of hair off the barrel for a more natural look.

Release the Curl:

There are a few ways to release the curl from the barrel. You can tilt the wand or iron and let go of the curl, let the curl coil in your palm for a few seconds, or stretch the curl immediately to loosen it.

Set the Curls:

If you want tighter curls that last longer, consider using a setting foam and ensuring your hair is completely dry before styling.

Finish with Hairspray:

To keep your curls in place all day, finish with a flexible or firm hold hairspray.

Prep hair with mousse

To prep hair with mousse for curls that will last all day or night, you'll need to start with the right products and tools.

Choosing a Mousse

Mousse is a versatile styling product that can be used on wet or dry hair. It gives hair extra volume and texture, making it ideal for creating curls. When choosing a mousse, opt for a lightweight formula that won't weigh your hair down. If you have curly hair, look for a mousse that provides hydration and definition without harsh chemicals.

Preparing Your Hair

Before applying mousse, start with clean, damp hair. Wash and condition your hair with a light shampoo and conditioner, then towel-dry it until it's slightly damp. You can also re-moisten your hair after towel-drying to create a more slicked-back look.

Applying the Mousse

Take a small amount of mousse, about the size of a golf ball, and spread it evenly from roots to ends. Use your fingers or a comb to distribute the product throughout your hair. Avoid using too much mousse, as it can make your hair look flat and heavy.

Styling

Once the mousse is applied, you can style your hair as desired. You can braid, twist, twirl, or blow-dry your hair for added volume. If you're using a curling iron, wait until your hair is completely dry to avoid heat damage. For curly hair, scrunch the mousse into your hair in an upward motion to add volume and boost protein.

By following these steps and choosing the right mousse for your hair type, you'll be able to create beautiful, long-lasting curls for your wedding or any other special occasion.

Use hair accessories

Hair accessories are a great way to enhance your curls and create a beautiful bridal look. Here are some tips on how to use hair accessories to make your curls stand out on your wedding day:

• Opt for lightweight and flexible accessories: Choose accessories that are lightweight and flexible, such as hair pins, combs, or headbands. This will allow you to easily slide them into your curls without damaging your hairstyle or causing discomfort.
• Enhance your natural texture: Select accessories that work with your natural texture, enhancing your curls rather than hiding them. Delicate hairpins or flower hairpins can highlight your curls without overwhelming them. Avoid accessories that flatten or compress your hair.
• Choose the right size and style: Consider the size and style of the accessory in relation to your curl pattern. For example, a narrow headband can frame the face, while a hair comb with whimsical details can add interest without competing with the texture of your curls.
• Secure with metal hair accessories: To ensure that your accessories stay in place, opt for metal hair combs or clips. While hair pins can be used, reinforce them with bobby pins for extra security.
• Add a veil: A simple tulle veil, with or without a lace trim, is a classic way to frame your hairstyle without looking overstyled. It will complement your curls without competing with their texture.
• Flowers: Natural flowers tucked into your hairstyle can add a bohemian and romantic touch. Secure them with hair combs or U-shaped pins, which hold more hair than bobby pins.
• Keep it simple: When choosing hair accessories, remember that less is more. You don't want your accessories to compete with the texture of your curls. A simple hair comb or a delicate headband can create an elegant and effortless look.
• Experiment with placement: Play around with the placement of your accessories. For example, placing a headband or hair vine just above the hairline can create a stunning effect without weighing down your curls.
• Consider your dress and personal style: Remember that your hair accessories should complement your wedding dress and your personal style. Don't be afraid to experiment and find the perfect combination that showcases your unique taste.

Frequently asked questions