These days, heatless curls are quite popular on social media. On Instagram and TikTok, people can do it with different methods without an iron or straightener. I also used to find it a bit confusing how one can have curly hair without heat.
Then I saw about different methods and understood that the idea of this trend is very simple. The hair is wrapped around a soft tool or fabric and is left to remain in the shape for some more time.
If you also want to try Heatless Curls, then here I am telling in simple words what they are, how they are made, how long they have to be kept and how long the curls can stay.
What are Heatless Curls?
Heatless curls are small curves or waves which are created without a heat tool.
In this method, there is no need for an iron straightener or hot roller. You can do your hair normally using a ribbon, robe belt, soft headband, socks or any specially made heatless curling tool.
Some people also keep them overnight and after opening them in the morning, they get the results. Results may vary from person to person depending on the hair type and wrapping method.
Why heatless curls are trending?
In my opinion, the most interesting thing about the trend is that it does not use a heat styling tool.
Even on social media, people are sharing this method by making it a part of their beauty or morning routine. Another reason for this could be that for heatless curls, some soft items available at home can also be used for it, but not every method gives results on every hair type.
Someone’s hair can get defined curls while someone else’s hair can only get soft waves.
How to make heatless curls?
There are different methods to make heatless curls. The biggest method is to make it using ribbon or soft fabric.
Step 1: Prepare the hair
Be it clean hair or second day hair, Heatless curls can be tried on both. First of all, comb the hair gently and remove the knots.
Some people can get the desired shape, but for many people, wrapping on wet or damp hair may be uncomfortable.
Step 2: Divide Hair into Sections
Divide the hair into two sections from the middle. Place the curling ribbon on the top part of the head. Take small sections of hair on both sides and start wrapping them around the ribbon.
Step 3: Wrap the hair
Quickly wrap each area around the ribbon. There is no need to pull the hair too tightly. If the wrapping is too tight, it can be uncomfortable while sleeping. When you reach the end, gently tie the ends with a scrunchie.
Step 4: Leave for some hours
Let the hair remain for some time. If you do the overnight method, then you can wrap it before sleeping and open the hair in the morning.
You can try different durations and see which timing gives the desired results on your hair.
Step 5: Open the curls
Remove the ribbon or fabric gently. Separate the curls slightly with fingers. If you brush immediately, the curls may become loose. For defined curls, gently separating them with fingers is a simple option.
How long should you keep heatless curls?
There is no fixed time for this, usually heatless curls are kept for some hours. The overnight method naturally takes more time.
Can you do heatless curls overnight?
Yes, overnight heatless curls are a common method of this trend. Sleep with the hair wrapped at night and open them in the morning, but the wrapping should be comfortable for sleeping. Using a very tight ribbon or hard material can be uncomfortable.
How long do heatless curls stay?
This is one of the biggest questions about heatless curls, How long will the curls stay?
It can depend on the hair type, hair texture, weather, humidity and the shape of the curls.
In some hair, the curls can last longer, while in straight or very smooth hair, the curls can get loose quickly, so if someone’s curls stay all day and your curls become loose in some time, then it does not mean that the method is wrong.
Heatless Curls vs Overnight Curls
Both these terms are common in the trend but it is easy to understand their difference.
Heatless curls means making curls without heat.
Overnight curls means letting the curls set overnight.
Heatless Curls vs Heat Curls
With heat styling, curls are made relatively quickly, while the heatless method may take more time for setting.
The result of heatless curls does not have to be exactly even like that of heat curls. The heatless method often gives soft curls or waves, but the final shape depends on the hair type and wrapping technique.
What can we do for heatless curls?
Common Options
- Heatless curling ribbon
- Soft headband
- Robe belt
- Soft socks
- Fabric strip
- Special heatless curling sets
The method you use should be comfortable and gentle for your hair. For the first time I also started with a simple method and for me this was easy.
How to keep heatless curls longer?
If you want the curls to not get loose quickly, then do not brush the hair immediately after opening them. Separate them lightly with fingers and let the curls remain in the natural shape.
It is not necessary to get the same results every day.
FAQs
What are heatless curls?
Curls or waves made without heat tools are called heatless curls.
How long should you keep heatless curls?
Usually for some time, but the duration depends on the type and method.
Can we do heatless curls overnight?
Yes, it is a common method.
Can heatless curls work on straight hair?
Yes, but the result may vary according to hair texture and wrapping method.
How long do curls stay?
It depends on hair texture, weather, humidity and the curling method.
Is a curling ribbon necessary for heatless curls?
No, a soft headband, belt or other suitable soft material can also be used.
Want to learn more about Natural Hair Growth? Read our guide on Natural Hair Growth Tips