If your scalp gets too oily, use some dry shampoo at the roots to soak up the grease. Leave the length of your hair alone, though. [2] X Research source

You don’t necessarily have to use a curl enhancing cream. There are sprays, gels, and mousses that are also designed to prepare the hair for curling.

Air drying your hair is best when you’re curling it because you don’t want to use any more heat than is necessary to style it.

For example, if you usually use a 1 ½-inch (4-cm) curling iron, opt for a 1 ¼-inch (3-cm) barrel instead. If your curls look tighter than you’d like after curling, don’t worry. You can comb through them with your fingers once they’re cool to loosen them up.

You can curl your hair is sections that are a little larger than an inch (2. 5-cm), but keep them around that size. That will ensure the curls are a little tighter so they don’t fall out as easily. Try not to curl your hair in sections that are larger than the diameter of the tool you are using. Doing so could result in uneven curls.

It’s best to start with curling with the section closest to your face. When you’re curling the hair around your face, wrap it around the iron in the direction away from your face for the most natural look.

If you have fine, thin, or short hair, 5 seconds is usually long enough. Be sure to keep the iron on a low to medium heat. For thick, coarse, or long hair, you’ll usually need to keep your hair on the iron for 10 seconds. This type of hair is best curled on a medium to high heat.

You can also use the cool setting on your blow dryer to hit the curls with cold air and help them set more quickly. Just know that this could cause some fly aways and frizz, and is best for a more beachy or effortless look.