7 Best Rollers For Natural Hair, As Per A Hairstylist – Buying Guide

Nothing better than classic rollers to give your curls a polished, soft, and defined look.

Reviewed by Jill Turnbull, Hairstylist Jill Turnbull Jill TurnbullHairstylist facebook_iconinsta_icon
Written by Shiboli Chakraborti, MA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach Shiboli Chakraborti MA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach linkedin_icon Experience: 4 years
Edited by Krati Darak, MBA, Certified Skin Care Coach Krati Darak MBA, Certified Skin Care Coach linkedin_icon Experience: 3 years
Fact-checked by Medha Deb, Integrated MA Medha Deb Integrated MA linkedin_icon Experience: 5 years
Last Updated on
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Curling your mane seems harmful, but not when you have the best rollers for natural hair. Jill Turnbull, a hair stylist, says, “These rollers create soft curls and are a safer alternative for curling hair. The rollers come in different sizes, shapes, and materials, making them perfect for all hair types.” Just put them on and go about your day. You will see the magic they do to your hair. Also, you can roll your tresses and take your beauty sleep. You will undoubtedly wake up to voluminous and beautiful curls the following day. So, if you are up for it, all you have to do is scroll down to find 7 excellent rollers for your natural hair.

Top Picks
CHECK PRICE
Best High-Quality Plastic:Afanso Perm Rods Set
Price on Amazon
Best Long-Lasting:Alimiriam Perm Rods Set
Price on Amazon
Best Non-Slip Design:RJM Jumbo Perm Rods
Price on Amazon
Best Sturdy:YMHPRIDE Cold Wave Hair Roller Perm Rods
Price on Amazon
Best For Dry Hair:Tifara Beauty Hair Curling Rods
Price on Amazon
Best Comfortable:Sass Décor Jumbo Hair Rollers
Price on Amazon
Best Lightweight:Spoolies Original Heatless Silicone Hair Rollers
Price on Amazon

7 Best Rollers For Natural Hair To Get Soft Curls (According To Reviews)

1. Best High-Quality Plastic:Afanso Perm Rods Set

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4.2

The Afanso Perm Rods Set features 100 color-coded pieces of rollers that are made from high-quality plastic. They help in creating symmetrical curls and voluminous waves in medium to thick hair. The pack contains 40 pieces of large orange rollers, 40 pieces of medium-sized purple rollers, and 20 small-sized gray rollers. The rollers have an elastic rubber band which helps to keep the rolled hair secure without slipping or falling off. You can also use these plastic rollers with heat-activated perm machines. These also have multiple positive reviews on trusted online platforms.

Material: Plastic | Number of Items: 1 | Hair Type: Curly|Package Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 8.3 x 7.1 x 3.7 inches| 1.45 Pounds

Specifications

  • Material: Plastic
  • Sizes: Purple – 3.29 x 0.77 inches, Orange – 3.53 x 0.87 inches, Grey – 3.23 x 0.5 inches
  • Pack Contains: 100 pieces

Pros

  • Light and compact
  • Easy to use
  • No-slip material
  • Easy to maintain
  • Pack includes a storage bag

Cons

  • Fragile elastic band

2. Best Long-Lasting:Alimiriam Perm Rods Set

The Alimiriam Perm Rods Set for natural hair are made from high-quality plastic that is durable and does not cause hair breakage. Reviewers on Amazon have noted that these rollers stay in place without slipping and provide long-lasting waves and natural curls. They feature multiple vents that ensure proper saturation so that you can create your desired hairstyles.

The 40 piece pack contains 4 types of color-coded rollers, allowing you to experiment with different styles. Their openable caps are attached with elastic rubber bands, which keep your hair rolled up in place without any help from additional hair pins or clips. These rollers are designed to keep your hair tangle-free and create salon-style curls.

Material: Plastic | Number of Items: 1 | Hair Type: Perm Rods Set for Natural Hair | Package Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 9.57 x 9.49 x 1.65 inches| Weight: 10.55 Ounces

Specifications

  • Material: Plastic
  • Sizes: Orange – 2.2 cm x 8.3 cm, Beige – 2.0 cm x 8.3 cm, Purple – 1.9 cm x 8.3 cm, White – 1.6 cm x 8.3 cm
  • Pack Contains: 40 pieces

Pros

  • Easy to use
  • Elastic band for a secured fit
  • Vents for saturation
  • Multiple and versatile sizes
  • Non-slip design

Cons

  • Not durable
  • Average quality

3. Best Non-Slip Design:RJM Jumbo Perm Rods

Make your hair look voluminous with the RJM Jumbo Perm Rods that come in a pack of 24 pieces. This roller set works great on wavy, curly, long, and straight hair. The rods are made from high-quality plastic that is sturdy, durable, non-slip, and can help you create long-lasting curl patterns. In addition, the rubber band attached to the rollers helps in keeping your hair intact and secure.

Material: Plastic, Rubber | Number of Items: 24 | Hair Type: Curly | Package Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 11.1 x 9.76 x 2.17 inches | Weight: 9.17 Ounces

Specifications

  • Material: Plastic
  • Size: 3.25 x 0.98 inches
  • Pack Contains: 24 pieces

Pros

  • Easy and convenient to use
  • Durable and high-quality material
  • Non-slip design
  • Long-lasting tighter curls
  • Gives you textured hair

Cons

  • None

protip_icon ProTip
Spray a generous amount of foam on the ends of your hair to ensure smooth attachment to the perm rods without slipping.

4. Best Sturdy:YMHPRIDE Cold Wave Hair Roller Perm Rods

The YMHPRIDE Cold Wave Hair Roller Perm Rods, a product highly praised by many satisfied reviewers, are made from high-quality rubber that is durable and sturdy. These rollers for natural hair can help you create long-lasting waves and soft, bouncy curls, no matter your hair type. The matte finish, non-slip rollers have openable lid caps attached to a rubber band to keep your hair securely rolled. The extra-wide slots allow you to section out your hair conveniently. Best suited for styling damp hair, these rollers can help you create various salon-style curls, kinks, or even waves and work effectively on long and short hair.

Material: Rubber | Number of Items: 80 | Hair Type: Curly | Package Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 10.71 x 9.17 x 2.87 inches| Weight: 5.29 Ounces

Specifications

  • Material: Rubber
  • Sizes: 3.19 x 0.71inches
  • Pack Contains: 80 pieces

Pros

  • Non-slip material
  • Durable and high-quality
  • Built-in rubber band
  • Creates long-lasting curls
  • Easy to use

Cons

  • Highly expensive

5. Best For Dry Hair:Tifara Beauty Hair Curling Rods

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4.2
Tifara Beauty 7″ Flexible Curling Rods Image: Tifara Beauty

The Tifara Beauty Hair Curling Rods are made of flexible foam material, which allows you to experiment with different hairstyles. You can roll your hair around these lightweight rollers smoothly and secure it well without worrying about tugging or pulling. They can be easily molded and curled in different shapes as they are extremely flexible and soft.

The pack contains 42 pieces, and these foam rollers come in a set of 6 pieces, each in 7 different sizes. These rollers are ideal for short, medium, and long hair and are the perfect alternative to Velcro. The different sizes of the rollers allow you to experiment with different hairstyles. Also, you can also try wearing these flexible rollers overnight as they work effectively well on dry hair. This video takes you through the tester’s experience with the product and its specific details.

Material: Foam, Metal | Number of Items: 42 | Hair Type: Curly | Package Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 9.13 x 5.28 x 3.82 inches | Weight: 0.01 Ounces

Specifications

  • Material: Foam
  • Sizes: 7 x 8 inches, 11 x 16 inches, 5 x 8 inches, 9 x 16 inches, 1 x 2 inches, 7 x 16 inches, and 3 x 8 inches
  • Pack Contains: 42 pieces

Pros

  • Flexible and soft
  • Easy to use
  • Ideal for wet and dry hair
  • Damage-free curls
  • Salon-quality styling
  • High-quality and durable material
  • Includes a storage bag

Cons

  • Not suitable for fine or breakage-prone hair
  • Have an overpowering plastic fragrance

protip_icon Quick Tip
Rub a few drops of natural oil, such as coconut oil, on your fingers to reduce any frizz while separating your hair from the curling rods.

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Why We Think It's Worth Buying

It has gained over 38,330 positive reviews on Amazon, making it an all-time best-seller.

6. Best Comfortable:Sass Décor Jumbo Hair Rollers

Achieve voluminous curls and beachy waves at home with the Sass Décor Jumbo Hair Rollers for long hair. They come in a pack of 36 pieces, including 3 different sizes, a storage bag, a comb, and a pack of 12 acrylic crocodile clips. These rollers allow you to create tight and loose curls as per your preference without damaging your hair. They do not require heat styling and can be removed gently without tugging or pulling your hair to cause breakage.

These Velcro rollers are gentle on hair, add volume and bounce to your hair instantly, and ensure that your curls remain soft and smooth. They feature a self-grip that ensures your hair remains securely rolled up and the roller does not slip away. Damp your hair slightly before using the rollers and give a blast of cool air with your hair dryer for safe and damage-free results. You can also wear these rollers overnight without worrying about tangled strands.

Material: Nylon, Plastic | Number of Items: 50 | Hair Type: Curly | Package Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 11.57 x 6.61 x 2.36 inches| Weight: 0.63 Ounces

Specifications

  • Material: Nylon, and Plastic
  • Sizes: Large 2.44 x 1.73 inches, Medium 2.44 x 1.42 inches, and Small 2.44 x 0.98 inches
  • Pack Contains: 36 pieces

Pros

  • Easy to use
  • Non-slip grip
  • Durable and high quality
  • Ideal for dry and wet hair
  • Comfortable

Cons

  • None

7. Best Lightweight:Spoolies Original Heatless Silicone Hair Rollers

Love those beautiful beachy waves? Try the Spoolies Original Heatless Silicone Hair Rollers and create some gorgeous curls. These multifunctional and versatile rollers are made from medical-grade silicone. It is lightweight, soft and comfortable, easy to use, and enables you to carry it even while traveling. These flexible rollers are compatible with heat styling tools like dryers and are heat-resistant to over 350 degrees.

These hair styling tools require no pins or clips and can easily style hair up to the length of 20 inches. You can also use these snap on rollers to style hair extensions. They are easy to use for tension-free styling; just wrap a section of hair around the stem and snap the top over. You can wear them overnight or use a hairdryer for instant results. This video offers a more detailed explanation of the product.

Material: Silicone, Plastic | Number of Items: 15 | Hair Type: All | Product Dimensions: 8 x 5.5 x 3 inches | Weight: 6.38 Ounces

Specifications

  • Material: Silicone
  • Size: 10 x 7 x 3 inches
  • Pack Contains: 15 pieces

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Travel-friendly
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Odorless
  • Non-slip material
  • Easy to use
  • Includes a storage mesh bag
  • DEHP-free
  • PVC plastic-free
  • Latex-free

Cons

  • Highly expensive
  • May slightly tug or pull hair

protip_icon ProTip
Remove the leftover hair strands from the hair rollers with tweezers or a toothbrush, soak the rollers in a mix of lukewarm water and apple cider vinegar, and shampoo for 20 minutes. Rinse the roller with clean water to make it new and fresh.

*The prices provided in this article are based on the latest available information. However, they may vary due to changes in pricing by the seller and/or promotional offers.

Hair rollers provide you the freedom to style your hair without worrying about breakage. Here are a few more benefits that this curling tool offers –

Benefits Of Hair Rollers For Natural Hair

Using heat to deep condition or style the hair with any product leaves your hair dehydrated. However, rollers require no heat styling, thus keeping your hair moisturized and healthy.

  • They help in reducing the risk of hair fall or breakage due to heat styling.
  • Hair rollers are easy from the comforts of your home.
  • Most rollers are suitable for dry and wet hair.
  • They give you more defined and voluminous curls.
  • Rollers can be used overnight to ensure long-lasting and voluminous curls.
  • Curls styled with rollers tend to last longer than those styled with curling rods or flat irons.
  • Rollers come in different sizes and allow you to experiment with various types of hairstyles, from tight curls, spirals, beachy waves, and vintage curls.

Want to ensure the best results? Read the following section for some tips and tricks that will help you use your hair rollers more efficiently –

Tips For Using Hair Rollers

  • When it comes to using hair rollers, it is best to avoid conditioning your hair post shampoo. Conditioners are meant to make your hair smooth and soft, which may make it difficult for your hair to hold on securely. Rollers may easily slip through the soft and smooth hair.
  • If you have naturally smooth hair, then Velcro rollers are the best option for you. Velcro rollers are less likely to get tangled in your hair.
  • Always detangle your hair and remove knots to achieve perfect curls that do not seem messy.
  • If you are using rollers on dry hair, it is best to moisten your hair slightly for better results.
  • Always create smaller and thinner sections of hair. This enables you to create prominent and defined curls that are sure to last for a long time.
  • After removing the rollers, use the right kind of leave-in conditioner or a few drops of oil to achieve healthy hair with defined curls.
  • If you plan on using heat styling while using the rollers, make sure that the temperature of the heat styling tool is kept at a minimum level or on cold air blow to avoid heat damage.
  • For those planning to wear rollers overnight, always wear a satin sleep cap or use a silk pillow to avoid friction.
  • Choosing the right size of rollers is essential to make your style look more natural. For those with long hair, opt for large or medium size rollers. And if you have shorter hair, switch between medium and small-size rollers.
  • If you have frizzy and coarse hair, use Velcro rollers or foam rollers, as they will not pull or tug your strands.
  • When using rollers with hair pins or hair clips, always put a tissue between the clip and your hair. This makes sure that your hair does not end up with a dent impression from the pin or the clip.
  • When removing the rollers from your hair, always start at the bottom and work your way up to prevent tangles.
  • Once you remove the rollers, always comb or loosen up your curls with your fingers. Avoid using combs as they may make the curls frizzy and messy.
  • Use a setting spray after removing the rollers to keep your curls intact.
  • For those who want volume at the crown, use a wider or larger roller only at the required section of hair.
  • Always wash, air dry, and store your rollers properly for future uses.
  • Curls form and hold better in a day’s old hair. So always curl your hair a day before the event.

Rollers are often used as a damage-free alternative to heat styling tools, and they surely work wonders! If you have been struggling to find the right sets amidst the numerous options, then we hope our list of the 7 best professional-grade rollers for natural hair helps you!

Infographic: How To Use Rollers For Natural Hair

If using curling irons on your hair seems risky, invest in hair rollers for natural hair curls. These less damaging options help achieve beautiful curls from the comfort of your home. They are ready to use right away, ensuring you get on with your day. Check out the infographic below to learn how you can use rollers safely on natural hair.

How To Use Rollers For Natural Hair (infographic)

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

The Bottom Line

We are obsessed with the Afanso Perm Rods Set as it offers a wide range of rollers for a full head makeover. You may also try the Tifara Beauty Hair Curling Rods for their flexibility, making for charming curls as you work or sleep. While these are standout options, it’s essential to explore other roller sets for natural hair, each bringing its own set of benefits and considerations. You can go through the pros and cons to pick the best one that caters to your needs. So, get your hair curls ready!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are rollers good for natural hair?

Compared with heat styling tools and curling irons, rollers cause less damage, therefore, are better for natural hair.

How do I curl my natural hair with rollers?

Moistening your hair slightly, place a roller at the end of your hair and start tightly rolling upwards. Once the roller reaches close to your roots, you can clip it or pin it there and leave it for a couple of hours to work its magic.

How long should I leave the rollers on my natural hair?

It is best to leave rollers in your hair for around 15 to 20 minutes to achieve well-defined voluminous curls.

Do rollers work better on wet or dry hair?

Velcro rollers will work better if you have slightly wet hair so that it can dry and leave the curls on your hair. But if you are using a foam roller then your hair must be blown out.

How long do you keep rollers in?

Keep the rollers in your hair for at least 10-30 minutes. You can also opt for leaving it overnight for fresh curls right after you wake up.

Why Trust StyleCraze?

The author, Shiboli Chakraborti, is a hair care enthusiast who loves trying out different products. For this article, she has researched the best rollers available on the market for natural hair. She has carefully browsed through online reviews and listed products that will help you get soft curls without any hassle. The products listed are lightweight, easy to use and come in multiple sizes as per your hair volume and needs.

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Jill Turnbull
Jill TurnbullHairstylist
Jill Turnbull is an internationally acclaimed freelance hairstylist, colorist, and makeup artist with over 47 years of experience. She founded her own beauty brand and her work has been featured in editorial magazines worldwide.

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Shiboli Chakraborti
Shiboli ChakrabortiCommerce Editor
Shiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor, she guides her team members on the best practices to create crisp and authentic content.

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Krati Darak
Krati DarakAssociate Commerce Editor
Krati is an associate commerce editor, a certified skin care coach, and a beauty enthusiast. She has a master’s degree in advertising and publishing relations from DAVV University and three years of experience in writing and editing for different niches.

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Medha Deb
Medha DebCommerce Editor
Medha Deb is a commerce editor with a master's degree in applied linguistics from the University of Hyderabad, which has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts. She specializes in the areas of beauty, health, and wellness and is committed to ensuring that the content on the website is of the highest quality.

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