How To Use Hair Rollers For The Perfect Curls

Ways to make the rollers work hard and give your bouncy, voluminous, and crimp-free curls.

Reviewed by Bill Schrlau, Hairstylist Bill Schrlau Bill SchrlauHairstylist facebook_iconlinkedin_iconyoutube_iconinsta_icon
Written by Anjali Sayee, BTech Anjali Sayee BTech linkedin_icon Experience: 7 years
Edited by Shatabdi Bhattacharya, BSc Shatabdi Bhattacharya BSc linkedin_icon Experience: 2.5 years
Fact-checked by Joyce Joyson, MA (Mass Communication & Journalism) Joyce Joyson MA (Mass Communication & Journalism) linkedin_icon
Last Updated on

Curly hair and red lips are a classic combination. Curled hair has been on the trend for a long time, and using hair rollers is equally popular because these can create splendid hairstyles. If you love to style your hair in curls but have no idea how to use hair rollers, then this article is for you. Scroll down to check out the tips to get a fab hairstyle with hair rollers.

Types of Hair Rollers

1. Velcro Rollers

Velcro rollers help achieve voluminous loose curls with ease. The rollers work well on all hair types. These are especially good for thinner hair as they give it more body.

2. Foam Rollers

Foam rollers are comfortable to use and work great on a variety of hair types. They are a great option if you want to style your hair overnight. The rollers’ soft and spongy body protects your head from the outer clips while you sleep. However, keep these rollers loose around your hairline should you plan to use them at night (to prevent hair pulling).

protip_icon Trivia
In 1923, Hugh and William Macdonald introduced a steam-powered hair curling machine, and in 1984, Richard Caruso improved that with plastic and foam rollers.

3. Flexi Rods

Flexi rods, also known as Norma brown rods, help you achieve the “ringlets” hairstyle. These can easily bend into any shape or form. They can also be used without any pins or clips. Flexi rods work great with shorter hairstyles and are ideal for stretching out tight curls.

4. Steam Rollers

Steam rollers use heat to curl your hair. They offer gentle and safe heat styling. They help achieve different types of waves and curl patterns.

protip_icon Did You Know?
In 1968, during the feminist Miss America protest, activists threw symbolic items into a “Freedom Trash Can.” These included hair rollers, bras, hairspray, makeup, corsets, false eyelashes, and other things representing enforced femininity.

5. Spoolies

Spoolies are easy to use. They help achieve pin curls without the need for bobby pins.

6. Hot Rollers

Hot rollers probably offer the quickest way to achieve instant curls and style. These rollers work on every hair type.

Sara, a blogger, tried hair rollers on a model and shared her experience in a blog post. She says, “…I used hair rollers for the first time. I sectioned the hair then started in the middle placing the rollers. I had to make sure they weren’t loose otherwise they wouldn’t curl the hair. Three down the middle then I started on the sides making sure I get each part of hair in a roller. Once they cooled I could take them out and start setting the hair.

The model I practiced the roller set on had perfect hair for the 20s era, I placed and set the hair as a flapper show girl. I will use this set for my 1920s assessment coming up next month (i)”.

7. Pillow Rollers

Pillow rollers have a foam-filled interior and bendable padded wires. These help you achieve crimp-free curls.

protip_icon Trivia
In 1930, Solomon Harper invented the first electrically heated hair rollers.

So this is how to curl your hair using some no-heat methods. Almost all types of hair rollers are used in similar ways. The following guide teaches you how you can use hair rollers the right way to get that hairstyle you have always wanted.

How To Use Hair Rollers – A Step-By-Step Guide

1. Wash Your Hair

Wash your hair
Image: Shutterstock

Start by washing your hair with a good nourishing shampoo and conditioner.

2. Dry Your Hair

Dry your hair
Image: Shutterstock

Towel-dry your hair and brush it gently with a wide-tooth comb. This step preps your hair for the rollers. You may also apply a serum to prevent frizz. Air dry your hair until it is slightly damp.

Note: The pre-dry will help create the foundation for your finish.

3. Apply The Rollers

Apply the hair rollers
Image: Shutterstock

Start by lifting one-inch sections of your hair. Place the roller at the end of the hair section, wrap the hair strands around, and roll towards the roots. Close the roller clip as you reach your scalp. Repeat this process for the rest of the hair.

4. Leave The Rollers In Place

Leave the hair rollers in place
Image: Shutterstock

Rollers take about 8 hours to give you the desired results. Hence, leave the rollers in place for that duration. You can use a scarf to prevent any frizz.

5. Remove The Rollers

Remove the hair rollers
Image: Shutterstock

Remove the rollers slowly. Loosen your curls with your fingers. Keep the curls in place with a hairspray.

Understanding how to correctly use hair rollers is important for achieving those gorgeous, bouncy curls. But being aware of all the options and deciding which hair roller to purchase is also equally important, as the quality and size of the rollers can also contribute to a better look and firmer curls. So, scroll down to check out the factors you should consider when choosing a hair roller for yourself.

How To Choose Hair Rollers

  • Choose rollers based on your desired curl size.
  • Opt for foam or velcro hair rollers for comfort.
  • Check the heat resistance and pick rollers suitable for your styling methods.
  • Opt for high-quality rollers that promise long-lasting curls.
  • Ensure there are enough rollers in the product for your hair volume.
protip_icon Did You Know?
Marilyn Monroe was among the first Hollywood actresses to pioneer and popularize stylish curled hairstyles using curlers.

Hair rollers help you achieve that classic ‘40s look you so badly wanted! With the right technique, using them is quite simple. We believe this article has motivated you enough to start using hair rollers today!

Isn’t it an amazing way to curl your hair? Hair rollers not only give you bouncy strong curls, but they are also gentle on your hair, unlike curling irons. So, if you wish to style your hair without heat, rollers are something you should go for without a doubt. But do not forget to wash your hair and detangle it before using the rollers. Also, make sure to follow a good haircare routine throughout. After all, you put some stress on your hair while styling it, making your strands weak.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do rollers damage hair?

If wound too tightly, rollers may damage the hair shaft. Moreover, heated rollers can overheat your hair and damage it.

Do you sleep with rollers in your hair?

Yes. You may sleep with rollers in your hair. However, you should secure them with a shower cap and bandana to avoid discomfort while sleeping or prevent hair spoilage.

How many rollers do you need for your hair?

It depends on the roller you use, the curls you want to achieve, and your hair volume.

Are rollers better than curling iron?

It depends on your preference. While curling irons give quicker results than hair rollers, they may also damage your hair because of the heat setting. It is best to learn the difference between hot rollers vs. curling irons to make an informed decision, keeping your hair type and styling requirements in mind.

Key Takeaways

  • Hair rollers are available in different types. For the quickest way to get curls, go for hot rollers.
  • Rollers take about eight hours to give you the desired curls. Use a scarf to prevent frizz.
  • Apply hair spray for the curls to last long.

In this video tutorial, discover how to achieve voluminous curls using hair rollers. Hit the play button to watch the tutorial and rock your curly hairstyle to turn some heads!

Personal Experience: Source

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Bill Schrlau
Bill SchrlauHairstylist
Bill Schrlau is a highly skilled hairstylist with more than 30 years of experience. He has worked both as a freelance stylist and as a part of salon teams in Connecticut, New York, and New Jersey. His impressive line-up includes styling for fashion shows, designer events, and music videos.

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Anjali Sayee
Anjali SayeeAssociate Editor
Anjali is an associate editor at StyleCraze. She specializes in hairstyles and hair and skin care and has written over 200 articles in these domains. She has 7 years of experience, and her philosophy about hair and skin care is simple: if you love and care for it, it will be healthy.

Read full bio of Anjali Sayee
Shatabdi Bhattacharya
Shatabdi BhattacharyaAssociate Editor
Shatabdi is an associate editor and an alumnus of Lady Brabourne College, Kolkata, where she honed her skills and developed a deep understanding of the world of literature and expression. She has worked with various organizations and websites operating in different industries, ranging from education to lifestyle, showing her adaptability and drive to learn.

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Joyce Joyson
Joyce JoysonBeauty & Lifestyle Writer
Joyce Joyson is a beauty and lifestyle writer with over a year of experience crafting short-form content for the beauty, fashion, and lifestyle niches. She has a triple majors bachelor’s degree in History, Political Science, and Geography from IIS University and a master’s degree in Mass Communication and Journalism from Kristu Jayanti College.

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