Ever found yourself staring enviously at those perfect barrel curls on every other IG hair page? You know, the kind that cascade down the shoulders, framing the face just so, looking effortlessly chic?
I often thought to myself, “How can I get those gorgeous curls without making a mess of it?” especially as a beginner. You’ll be thrilled to know that by the end of this blog, you’ll know exactly how to achieve these curls and wear them with confidence for every occasion.
READ: 3 Easy Updo Hairstyles For Long Hair
1. The Classic Long Barrel Curls
Hair type and length: Ideally suited for long hair.
Occasion: Date night or any fancier occasion.
How to achieve it:
- Preparation is key. Before you begin, apply a pre-wash hair treatment for added softness and manageability. Avocado hair oil is a great choice, ensuring the hair stays moisturised and reduces breakage.
- Get the tools ready. Grab your large barrel hair curler. Make sure it’s fully heated.
- Section and Curl. Divide your hair into sections. Taking one section at a time, wrap it around the curler. Hold for a few seconds and release.
- Finishing touches. Lightly tousle with your fingers for a natural wavy hairstyle look. A spritz of hair texture spray will add some hold without making it look too ‘done’.
READ THIS: 8 Trending Hairstyles For Short Hair
2. Big Barrel Curls
Hair type and length: Best for medium to long hair.
Occasion: Ideal for a lazy day look or casual brunch with friends.
How to achieve it:
- Start with clean, dry hair. If you’re in a rush and can’t wait for your hair to air dry, using the technique to dry hair without a blow dryer can be a lifesaver.
- Heat it up. Your large barrel hair curler is your best friend here. Heat it up!
- Curl away. Starting from the nape of your neck, take thick sections and curl. The thicker the section, the bigger the curl.
- Seal the deal. Castor or almond hair oil can give your big barrel curls a beautiful shine and help maintain them throughout the day.
READ NEXT: 5 Hairstyle Ideas For Medium Length Hair
3. Triple Barrel Curls
Hair type and length: Works wonderfully on short to long hair.
Occasion: Perfect for a hair and makeup overhaul or a complete hair makeover.
How to achieve it:
- Hydrate. Begin with a hair hydration treatment. Trust me, this step will make all the difference.
- Triple the fun. Using a triple barrel curling tool, start curling from the roots to the tips.
- Add some flair. Face framing highlights can complement those triple barrel curls, making them pop even more.
ALSO READ: Hairstyles For Short Hair That Are Halo Friendly
4. Large Barrel Curls Hair Up
Hair type and length: Suitable for long hair or those wearing quality hair extensions.
Occasion: Ideal for a glamorous evening event or when you want to show off those new earrings.
How to achieve it:
- Foundation. Apply apricot kernel oil for added smoothness.
- Curl as usual. Using your large barrel hair curler, curl your hair in sections.
- Up, up and away! Gather your barrel curls long hair into a curly ponytail hairstyle. You can even add a twist or braid for added drama.
READ THIS TOO: 10 Hairstyles For Oily Hair So You Can Skip Wash Day
5. Expert Mermaid Waves
Hair type and length: From medium length to long.
Occasion: Mermaid waves for beach days, outdoor festivals, or anytime you want to channel a sea goddess.
How to achieve it:
- Prep your mane. Treat your locks with a mix of castor oil and avocado hair oil for that added shine and softness.
- Wave it out. Using wireless hair curlers can give you that breezy, beachy look without the fuss of cords.
- Brush it right. Finding the right hair brush for your hair type can enhance those waves. Brush gently for a more natural, tousled look.
READ: 8 Halo Hair Extensions Tips And Tricks You Need To Know
Some Barrel Curls Pro Tips
Minimise Hair Breakage
One of the most common woes many of us face is hair breakage. Those tiny, split ends or even more significant breaks can be the enemy of a perfect curl. However, there’s hope!
Heat Protectant is a Must: Every time you reach for that curler, make sure to spritz on a good quality heat protectant spray. This nifty product acts as a shield, protecting your locks from the direct heat of the curler, thus reducing the chances of damage.
Pillow Talk: You might not realise it, but the friction between your hair and the cotton pillowcase can be a cause for breakage. Switching to a silk pillowcase can be a hair game-changer. They’re smooth, reduce friction, and feel absolutely luxurious against the skin. Trust me; your hair will thank you!
Hydration is Key
Especially when the cold winds start blowing, hair gets dry in winter, and this can wreak havoc on your barrel curls.
Hydration Treatments: Think of these hair hydration treatments as a spa day for your locks. They infuse moisture, revitalising dry strands and ensuring that they’re soft, bouncy, and ready to be curled. Products enriched with peppermint hair oil or tea tree hair oil can invigorate the scalp and keep dandruff at bay during those dry months.
Oils Are Your Friend: Argan oil is hailed as liquid gold for hair. A few drops massaged into the ends of your hair can work wonders in keeping them moisturised. Not to mention, the shine it adds is unmatched!
Extensions for Extra Volume and Length
If you’ve been wanting those cascading, long barrel curls but your hair just isn’t there yet in terms of length, extensions are your answer.
Learn the Basics: It’s essential to understand how hair extensions work. They’re not just about adding length, but also about adding volume and giving a fuller look to your mane.
Opt for Halo Hair Extensions: These are the new favourites in the beauty community. Wearing halo hair extensions can be a breeze once you get the hang of it. They sit comfortably on your head, secured by a transparent wire, and blend seamlessly with your natural hair.
A Few More Handy Tips
Niacinamide and Hair Health: This fantastic ingredient isn’t just for your skin! Niacinamide for hair can boost scalp health, paving the way for healthier, stronger strands. Look for hair loss serums that list niacinamide as an ingredient.
Shampoo Choices: If you’ve got a sensitive scalp or are prone to allergies, a hypoallergenic shampoo can be beneficial. It cleanses without causing irritation, ensuring your scalp stays healthy.
Keep It Fresh: On days when you’re in a rush or want to give your hair a break from washing, dry shampoo is your hero. It soaks up excess oil, giving your hair a fresh look and feel, making it easier to style.
So, there you have it! Barrel curling made easy for all you beginners out there. Whether you’re aiming for that classic look with long barrel curls or wanting to try something edgier with triple barrel curls, there’s a style for every occasion.
Remember, practice makes perfect. So, grab your favourite barrel curling tool and start experimenting. And who knows? Maybe you’ll soon be the envy of all your mates, flaunting those bewitching curls with flair. Happy curling!
