How to Curl Short Hair with a Wand: A Step-by-Step Guide
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If you're looking for a fun way to style your short hair, curling it with a wand is the perfect way to add volume and definition to your shorter hair. Whether you want tighter curls or perfect beachy waves, a wand can provide you with a variety of different styles. Here's how to curl short hair with a wand to get loose waves that will last for days!
How to choose your curling wand for short hair
If you have short hair and this is your first time achieving curls or waves using a curling wand on your thick hair or your thin hair, there are a few essential factors to consider when selecting a wand. Here are some things to look for:
Barrel Size: The barrel size of a curling wand will determine if your curls will be soft waves or tight curls. For short hair, it's best to go for a wand with a smaller barrel size, typically between 13mm to 25mm, as these sizes will give you a longer-lasting curl or wave in your short hair.
Heat Settings: Choosing a wand with an adjustable heat setting is important. This will allow you to adjust the temperature according to your hair type and prevent further heat damage. If you have finer hair, you want to set your curling wand's temperature at 280 - 320°F. Then if you course hair, you will want to set the curling wand temperature to 380-400°F.
Material: The material of the wand can also impact the final result of your curls. Ceramic and tourmaline wands are popular choices as they emit negative ions that help to reduce frizz and create a smoother finish. Titanium wands heat up quickly and can be good for thicker hair, but they may be too harsh for fine or damaged hair.
Shape: The wand's shape can also affect the curls you can create. A straight barrel will give you uniform curls, while a tapered wand can help you achieve a more natural look with different curl sizes. Or you can also go for a pearl-shared wand that is more of a unique shape and will give you textured beach waves.
Best curling wand for short hair
The Nume Pearl Curling Wand is the best curling wand for short hair due to its unique features and performance.
Its unique barrel is designed to provide bouncy curls or beachy waves, which are perfect hairstyles for shorter hair lengths. The pearl tourmaline ceramic barrel ensures even heat distribution and prevents hot spots, which is essential when wanting to achieve long-lasting beautiful curls.
The wand's temperature can be adjusted up to 410°F, allowing you to adjust the heat settings depending on your hair type.
The wand's clampless design also makes it easy to use and prevents unwanted kinks or crimps in the hair.
Overall, the Nume Pearl Curling Wand is an excellent choice for those with short hair looking for a high-quality curling tool.
You can purchase this wand in a set or alone. I have the Nume Octowand 8-in-1 set. This includes the pearl attachment. The set is great because it comes with so many different size curling wands, so if you are looking for more versatility,
I would invest in the Nume Octowand 8-in-1 set. However, if you are on a budget and just are looking for a go-to curling wand that can create amazing textured beach waves all the time, the single pearl curling wand is for you.
Nume Octowand 8-in-1 set
Use code Jen22 for 20% off.
NuMe Classic Pearl Curling Wand
Use code Jen22 for 20% off.
How to use a curling wand step by step
Step 1: Start by prepping your hair
Giving your hair extra attention before you begin is important to get the most out of your curling wand. Start by thoroughly washing and drying your hair.
However, starting with clean hair may not be the best option if your hair doesn't hold curls or beach waves well. In that case, creating your beach waves on second-day-old hair is best.
Now that we have that covered, before you start to wave your hair with the wand, you always need to protect your hair from heat.
Apply a heat protectant spray to your hair, then use a brush to evenly distribute the product.
Step 2: Divide your hair into sections
Divide your hair into sections before beginning to curl your hair with the curling wand. For best results, section off your hair into two or three sections depending on how thick your hair is.
Secure each section with a clip. Start with the bottom section and divide your hair into two sections vertically.
You will want to wave your hair starting from the back of the area and work your way forward. This will ensure you wave each section of hair and don't miss any hair.
Step 3: Take a section of hair and start to curl it
Once your sections are clipped and split, it's time to start waving your hair!
Take a section of your hair no wider than your curling wand's width, then hold the wand pointing down.
Starting at the top of the section, warp your hair around the wand going away from your face. Leave 1-2 inches of your ends off the wand for that beachy look.
If you want a super textured beachy look, alternate your waves in different directions.
Step 4: Hold the hair in place for a few seconds
Hold the hair in place for a few seconds. This will help to ensure that you get the desired wave you want.
Depending on the thickness of the section you wrapped around the wand, you might have to hold the hair on the wand a little longer to get an even curl.
Step 5: Unwrap the curl or wave
Once you have held the hair in place for a few seconds, slowly unwind the section away from your curling wand.
After your curl or waves is off the wand, please do not touch it. Let the wave set into its shape. This helps to beach waves last longer.
If your hair does not hold a wave or curl, spray each section with hair spray or texturizing spray after you have finished curling/waving it.
Step 6: Repeat the process
Continue to curl/ wave the rest of your hair until your whole head is completed.
Step 7: Finish off the look
After completing the whole process, wait until your hair and the curls have cooled down. Then, use a wide-tooth comb to brush out your curls or waves.
This will help make the waves look more relaxed. If you have any frizz, apply styling cream to your mid-lengths to ends to tame it down. You can also use any leftover styling cream on the top of your hair to smooth out flyaways.
Lastly, you will want to finish the look with a texture spray. This will give you extra volume and hold.
Curling Wand Tutorial
FAQ
Can you use a curling wand on short hair?
Yes, you can use a curling wand on short hair. When selecting a curling wand for shorter-length hair, it's best to choose a wand with a smaller barrel size, typically between 13mm to 25mm, as these sizes will give you a longer-lasting curl or wave in your short hair.
How do you curl your hair with a wand for beginners?
To curl your hair with a wand for beginners, start by selecting a curling wand with a smaller barrel size, typically between 13mm to 25mm, a larger barrel will be harder to work with on shorter locks. Before you begin, protect your hair from heat by applying a heat protection spray to your hair and use a brush to evenly distribute the product. Divide your hair into sections, and then take a section of hair and wrap it around the wand. Hold the hair in place for a few seconds, unwrap the curl or wave, and then repeat the process until you have curled all your hair. After curling or waving your hair, wait until your hair and the curls have cooled down, then use a wide-tooth comb to brush out your curls or waves.
How do you get beach waves with short hair with a wand?
Once your hair is prepped and ready, grab the curling wand. Make sure you choose the right heat setting for your hair type. Now, section off your hair into small sections (about 1 inch wide). Take one section at a time and wrap it around the wand's barrel from the root of your hair to the ends. When you get to the ends, leave out 1-2 inches to create beach waves inside of a perfect curl. Hold each section for a few seconds before releasing it from the wand. Repeat this process until all areas are curled. Run your fingers through each curl to create more texture and definition once they've cooled down completely. Finally, finish off the look by spritzing some hairspray or texture spray over your waves for extra hold.
What size curling wand for short hair?
For short hair, using a smaller curling wand with a thin barrel is best. A smaller barrel will allow you to create longer-lasting curls. Look for curling waves that's barrel size is between ¾ inch and 1 inch in width.
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