The secret to beachy waves is actually in the heat management
In short: Achieving a soft, effortless wave isn't just about the curl itself; it is about how you handle the transition from heat to shape. By manipulating the barrel and the cooling process, you can transform rigid coils into a fluid, natural look that mimics a day at the shore.
The foundation of this technique relies on sectioning and preparation. Before using a curling iron, the hair is pretreated with a heat treatment that provides a slight hold. The hair is then divided into two main sections starting at the recession points of the head. For the most effective results, the stylist uses horizontal sections that are roughly the same width as the curling iron barrel—specifically a 1.25-inch iron for a universal, versatile result.
A key mechanical shift in this method is the placement of the barrel. Instead of the traditional method of curling under the iron, the barrel is laid on top of the hair section. The hair is wrapped from the root to the tips, straightening the root as it goes up. Crucially, the clamp is omitted for these large sections. The hair is heated only until the outside feels warm, as the exact time varies based on hair type and the specific iron used. Once heated, the section is dropped, creating a large S-curl.
The nuance of the 'loose' look lies in the cooling and finishing stages. While the top sections are left to cool in their shape to maintain volume, the sections near the face are scrunched in the hand to remove heat before dropping. This creates a more defined curl where it is most visible. Finally, the entire look is finished by brushing through with natural bristles and applying a nourishing oil. This process allows for the manipulation of different textures, whether the goal is to loosen tight curls or accentuate natural waves.
This technique prioritizes the top layer of hair because it is the most visible. By focusing on the upper sections and allowing the bottom layers to form together, the stylist creates a cohesive, soft wave that doesn't look overly structured or 'perfect.'
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Getting Loose Waves with a Curling Iron | Hair Tutorials
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