Heatless curlers are rods that can curl straight hair without needing to use heat.
Specifically, the hair is wrapped around the rod and fixed in place using clips and scrunchies. Which results in wavy hair once the rod is removed.
Heatless curlers are growing in popularity because, compared to traditional curling irons, they minimize hair damage.
One popular heatless curler generates approximately $131K/month on Amazon.
What’s Next
Heatless curlers are part of the HairTok meta trend.
TikTok has become home to a massive online community dedicated to hair care.
The #hairtok hashtag has 68 billion views on the platform.
And having a presence in this community has become a go-to marketing channel for many DTC hair care companies.
Rosemary oil and hair peptide serum are two examples of trending HairTok products.
Frequently Asked Question (FAQ)
Question: What are heatless curlers?
Answer: Heatless curlers are hair styling tools that create curls or waves without using heat. They usually involve wrapping damp hair around a rod, a fabric strip, a foam roller, or another device and leaving it overnight or for a few hours. Heatless curlers can protect the hair from heat damage and save time and energy.
Question: Why use a heatless curler?
Answer: Using a heatless curler has many benefits for your hair and your lifestyle. Some of the advantages are:
- It prevents heat damage to your hair, which can cause dryness, breakage, split ends and frizz.
- It saves time and energy, as you don’t need to plug in any appliances or use any styling products.
- It gives you natural-looking curls or waves that last longer and are more manageable.
- It is more affordable and eco-friendly than buying and using heated tools.
Question: How does a heatless curler work?
Answer: A heatless curler works by using different materials such as foam, fabric, or silicone to create curls in your hair without using heat. You can use them on wet or dry hair and leave them in overnight or for several hours.
Question: How does a heatless curler work?
Answer: A heatless curler works by using different materials such as foam, fabric, or silicone to create curls in your hair without using heat. You can use them on wet or dry hair and leave them in overnight or for several hours. Heatless curlers work by shaping the hair into curls or waves while it is damp or slightly wet. The hair then dries in the desired shape and holds the curl or wave until it is brushed out or washed. Heatless curlers can be used on any hair type, length, or texture.
Question: How do you use heatless curlers?
Answer: The exact method of using heatless curlers depends on the type and size of the curler, but generally, you need to start with clean, damp hair and apply some mousse or leave-in conditioner to help hold the curls. Then, you need to divide your hair into sections and wrap each section around the curler, starting from the ends and working your way up to the roots. You can secure the curler with a clip, a scrunchie, or a knot. You can leave the curlers in overnight or for a few hours until your hair is dry. Finally, you need to gently remove the curlers and shake out your curls with your fingers or a wide-tooth comb.
Question: How to choose the best heatless curler for your hair type and length?
Answer: There are many types of heatless curlers available on the market, each with different features and effects. To choose the best one for your hair type and length, you should consider the following factors:
- The size and shape of the curler: The smaller and tighter the curler, the smaller and tighter the curls. The larger and looser the curler, the larger and looser the curls. You should also choose a curler that matches the shape of your desired curls, such as spiral, ringlet, beachy or loose.
- The material of the curler: The softer and smoother the material, the softer and smoother the curls. The coarser and rougher the material, the coarser and rougher the curls. You should also choose a material that is comfortable to sleep on and easy to remove from your hair.
- The number of curlers: The more curlers you use, the more volume and definition you will get. The fewer curlers you use, the less volume and definition you will get. You should also choose a number of curlers that suits your hair thickness and density.
Question: What are the best heatless curlers for different hair types and lengths?
Answer: The best heatless curlers for different hair types and lengths may vary depending on your personal preference and desired outcome, but here are some general guidelines:
- For short hair, you may want to use smaller and tighter curlers that can create more definition and volume. For example, you can try the Kitsch Heatless Hair Curling Rod or the Hair Flair Curlformers Spiral Curls.
- For long hair, you may want to use larger and looser curlers that can create more natural and soft waves. For example, you can try the Pura Silk Heatless Hair Curler or the This Is Silk Silk Hair Curlers.
- For thick hair, you may want to use more curlers and smaller sections of hair to ensure even distribution and better hold. You may also want to use stronger and sturdier curlers that can withstand the weight of your hair. For example, you can try the Silke London Silke Hair Wrap or the LilySilk Silk Scrunchies.
- For thin or fine hair, you may want to use fewer curlers and larger sections of hair to create more body and bounce. You may also want to use softer and gentler curlers that can prevent breakage and frizz. For example, you can try the Kitsch Satin Sleep Set or the Octocurl No Heat Curlers.
- For frizzy hair, Lily Silk’s silk scrunchies are wonderful as they create soft curls and reduce frizz and static.
- For straight hair: Hair Flair Curlformers are effective for straight, fine hair as they transform it into spiral curls that last for days and are easy to apply and remove.
Question: How long do heatless curls last?
Answer: The longevity of heatless curls depends on several factors, such as your hair type, texture, length, condition, humidity level, and how you care for your curls. The longevity of heatless curls depends on several factors, such as:
- The type and quality of heatless curlers used.
- The hair type, length, and texture of the user.
- The amount and type of product applied to the hair before and after using heatless curlers.
- The weather and humidity conditions.
- The activities and movements of the user.
Generally speaking, heatless curls can last from a few hours to a few days, depending on how well they are set and maintained. To make your heatless curls last longer, you can follow these tips:
- Use a good mousse or leave-in conditioner before wrapping your hair to add hold and moisture.
- Make sure your hair is completely dry before removing the curlers to prevent frizz and drooping.
- Avoid brushing or combing your curls too much as this can cause them to lose their shape and definition.
- Use a light hairspray or serum to seal in your curls and protect them from humidity and frizz.
- Sleep on a silk or satin pillowcase or wear a silk or satin bonnet to reduce friction and preserve your curls.
- Use heatless curlers that create tight and defined curls or waves that loosen over time.
- Use products that enhance and hold the curls or waves, such as mousse, gel, hairspray, or serum.
- Avoid brushing or combing your curls or waves, as this can make them lose their shape and bounce.
- Avoid touching or playing with your curls or waves, as this can make them frizzy and oily.
- Sleep with a silk pillowcase or a silk bonnet to protect your curls or waves from friction and flattening.
- Refresh your curls or waves with some water or a curl-reviving spray in the morning or throughout the day.
Question: How can I make heatless curls last longer?
Answer: To make heatless curls last longer, you can follow these tips:
- Ensure your hair is completely dry before removing the curlers.
- Use a lightweight hairspray or curl-enhancing product before and after curling to provide hold.
- Consider using a satin or silk scarf or pillowcase while sleeping to minimize friction and preserve the curls.
- Avoid excessive touching or combing of the curls, as this can disrupt the shape and cause frizz.
- Use bobby pins or hair clips to secure the curls in place if needed.
- If you want to add more longevity to the curls, you can lightly spritz them with a setting spray or water and then gently reshape with your fingers.
Question: What are the benefits of heatless curlers?
Answer: Heatless curlers have several benefits over traditional heat styling tools, such as:
- They can prevent heat damage that can cause dryness, split ends, breakage, dullness, and loss of elasticity.
- They can save time and energy as you don’t need to plug in any device or wait for it to heat up.
- They can save money as you don’t need to buy expensive heat styling tools or products.
- They can be more versatile as you can choose from different types and sizes of curlers to create different looks.
- They can be more comfortable as you don’t need to deal with hot surfaces or cords.
- They are gentle on the hair and prevent heat damage, split ends, and breakage.
- They are easy to use and do not require any skills or experience.
- They are easy to use and do not require electricity or batteries.
- They are versatile and can create various looks from loose waves to tight spirals.
- They are affordable and can be made from household items like socks, t-shirts, or leggings.
- They are affordable and reusable.
- They can create different types of curls or waves, from tight spirals to loose beachy waves.
- They can last longer than heat-styled curls or waves.
- They are eco-friendly and do not consume electricity or emit carbon dioxide.
Question: How to use heatless curlers?
Answer: The general steps to use heatless curlers are:
- Wash your hair and towel-dry it until it is damp or slightly wet.
- Apply a small amount of mousse, gel, or leave-in conditioner to your hair to help hold the curls or waves.
- Section your hair and wrap each section around a heatless curler of your choice.
- Secure the heatless curler with a clip, elastic, or scrunchie if needed.
- Leave the heatless curlers in your hair overnight or for a few hours until your hair is completely dry.
- Unwrap the heatless curlers gently and shake your hair with your fingers to separate the curls or waves.
- Spray some hairspray to set the style and add some shine.
Question: How to use a heatless curler correctly?
Answer: The general steps for using a heatless curler are:
- Start with clean, damp or dry hair. If your hair is damp, apply a leave-in conditioner or mousse to help hold the curls. If your hair is dry, spray some water or a heat protectant to add some moisture.
- Divide your hair into sections according to the number of curlers you have. The smaller the sections, the tighter the curls. The larger the sections, the looser the curls.
- Take one section of hair and wrap it around the curler from the ends to the roots. Make sure to wrap it smoothly and evenly without any gaps or tangles.
- Secure the curler with a clip, elastic or tie depending on its design. Repeat with the rest of your hair until all sections are wrapped.
- Leave the curlers in your hair overnight or for a few hours until your hair is completely dry.
- Gently remove the curlers from your hair one by one. Do not pull or tug on them as this can damage your hair or ruin your curls.
- Shake out your curls with your fingers or a wide-tooth comb. Do not brush or comb them as this can make them frizzy or lose their shape.
- Apply some hairspray or serum to set your curls and add some shine.
Question: How to care for heatless curlers?
Answer: To keep your heatless curlers clean and hygienic, you should follow these tips:
- Wash them regularly with mild soap and water. Rinse them well and let them air dry completely before storing them.
- Store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Avoid folding or bending them as this can affect their shape and performance.
- Replace them when they show signs of wear and tear, such as holes, tears, stains or odors.
Question: What are some common mistakes to avoid when using heatless curlers?
Answer: Some of the common mistakes to avoid when using heatless curlers are:
- Wrapping your hair too tightly or loosely around the curler. This can cause uneven or unnatural curls, as well as headaches or scalp pain.
- Wrapping your hair when it is too wet or too dry. This can affect the drying time and the outcome of your curls. Ideally, your hair should be damp but not dripping wet, or dry but not brittle.
- Leaving the curlers in your hair for too long or too short. This can result in over-curled or under-curled hair, as well as damage or breakage. Generally, you should leave the curlers in your hair for 6 to 8 hours, depending on your hair type and length.
- Removing the curlers too roughly or hastily from your hair. This can cause frizz, tangles or snags in your hair, as well as pain or discomfort. You should remove the curlers gently and slowly from your hair, starting from the bottom and working your way up.
Question: What are some popular brands of heatless curlers?
Answer: Some of the popular brands of heatless curlers are:
- Kitsch: This brand offers a variety of heatless curlers in different colors, sizes and shapes. They are made of soft and flexible materials that are comfortable to sleep on and easy to use. They also come with matching scrunchies to secure them in place.
- Pura Silk: This brand specializes in silk heatless curlers that are gentle on your hair and skin. They are designed to create smooth and shiny curls or waves without causing any frizz or damage. They also have a zipper closure to prevent them from slipping off your hair.
- Silke London: This brand creates luxury silk heatless curlers that are handmade and hand-dyed. They are crafted to protect your hair from friction, moisture loss and breakage. They also have a hidden elastic band to keep them snug on your head.
- Lily Silk: This brand produces high-quality silk heatless curlers that are soft and breathable. They are suitable for all hair types and lengths and can create various styles of curls or waves. They also have a snap button closure to ensure they stay in place.
Question: Are heatless curlers safe for kids?
Answer: Heatless curlers are generally safe for kids as they do not pose any fire or burn hazards. However, some precautions should be taken, such as:
- Supervising kids when they use heatless curlers and making sure they do not swallow or choke on them.
- Choosing heatless curlers that are suitable for kids’ hair type, length, and texture.
- Avoiding heatless curlers that have sharp edges, metal wires, or small parts that can hurt kids’ scalp or hair.
- Removing heatless curlers gently and carefully to avoid pulling or tangling kids’ hair.
Question: How long do I need to leave heatless curlers in my hair?
Answer: The duration you should leave heatless curlers in your hair depends on various factors, such as the type of curlers used, the desired curl/wave intensity, and your hair’s natural drying time. As a general guideline, it is recommended to leave the curlers in your hair until it is completely dry. This can typically range from a few hours to overnight. It’s important to follow the instructions provided with the specific heatless curlers you are using to achieve the best results.
Question: Can you use heatless curlers on dry hair?
Answer: You can use heatless curlers on dry hair, but the results may not be as good as on damp or slightly wet hair. Dry hair may not hold the curls or waves as well or as long as damp or slightly wet hair. Dry hair may also be more prone to frizz, flyaways, and static when using heatless curlers. To improve the results, you can spray some water or a curl-enhancing product on your dry hair before wrapping it around heatless curlers.
Question: Can I use a heatless curler on wet hair?
Answer: Yes, you can use a heatless curler on wet hair. In fact, some people prefer to use them on wet hair as it can create tighter curls.
Question: Can I use heatless curlers on short hair?
Answer: Yes, heatless curlers can be used on short hair to create curls, waves, or add volume. For shorter hair lengths, it’s recommended to use smaller-sized curlers to achieve tighter or more defined curls. Flexi rods, twist-flex rods, or foam rollers are often suitable options for short hair. You can wrap small sections of hair around the curlers and secure them in place. Leaving them in until the hair is dry will result in beautiful curls or waves even with shorter hair.
Question: How do I use heatless curlers on damp hair?
Answer: To use heatless curlers on damp hair, first, towel-dry your hair to remove excess moisture. Apply a styling product like a mousse if desired, and then wrap small sections of your damp hair around the heatless curler. Secure the curler in place and allow your hair to air-dry completely or leave the curlers overnight for the best results.
Question: Are heatless curlers better for your hair?
Answer: Heatless curlers are generally considered better for your hair than heated styling tools, as they do not expose the hair to high temperatures, which can cause damage, breakage, and dryness. Using heatless curlers helps to maintain the health of your hair while still achieving beautiful curls and waves.
Question: How often can I use heatless curlers?
Answer: You can use heatless curlers as often as desired since they do not cause heat damage to your hair. However, ensure that you handle your hair gently and avoid using tight hair elastics or clips when securing the curlers, as they can cause breakage or stress on the hair shaft.
Question: Can heatless curlers create different types of curls?
Answer: Yes, heatless curlers can create various types of curls, depending on the size and shape of the curler used and the technique applied. For example, large foam rollers create loose, voluminous waves, while smaller hair rods or spiral curlers can produce tighter, more defined curls. Adjust the size and type of curler to achieve your desired curl style.
Question: Can I sleep with heatless curlers in my hair?
Answer: Yes, you can sleep with heatless curlers in your hair. Many heatless curlers, such as foam rollers or fabric strips, are designed with comfort in mind, allowing you to sleep with them securely in place. Sleeping with heatless curlers also helps to produce longer-lasting curls since the hair has more time to set.
Question: Are heatless curlers suitable for fine or thin hair?
Answer: Heatless curlers can be suitable for fine or thin hair, but it’s important to use them with caution to avoid excessive tension or strain on the hair strands. Opt for lightweight heatless curlers, such as foam rollers or fabric hair curlers, which put less pressure on the hair. Additionally, using a heat protectant or a volumizing mousse before curling can provide some extra protection and help the curls hold better. It’s advisable to experiment with smaller sections of hair to prevent overloading and ensure the curls are not too heavy for fine or thin hair.
Question: Can I achieve different curl sizes with heatless curlers?
Answer: Yes, you can achieve different curl sizes with heatless curlers by selecting the appropriate size and type of curler. Smaller-sized curlers, like thin flexi rods or small foam rollers, tend to create tighter curls or ringlets. On the other hand, larger-sized curlers, such as jumbo foam rollers or thick flexi rods, produce looser, more voluminous curls or waves. You can mix and match different sizes of curlers throughout your hair to create a more varied and natural-looking curl pattern. Experimentation and practice will help you determine the curl sizes that best suit your preferences.
Question: How long should I leave a heatless curler in my hair?
Answer: You should leave a heatless curler in your hair for at least 4-6 hours or overnight for best results.
Question: How do I remove a heatless curler from my hair?
Answer: To remove a heatless curler from your hair, simply unwind the roller or headband from your hair. Be careful not to pull too hard as this can cause damage to your hair.
Question: How do I care for my heatless curlers?
Answer: To care for your heatless curlers, you should wash them regularly with warm water and mild soap. You should also store them in a cool dry place when not in use.
Question: Are heatless curlers damaging to hair?
Answer: Heatless curlers are generally considered to be less damaging to the hair compared to hot styling tools. Since they do not involve heat, there is no risk of heat-related damage, such as dryness, breakage, or split ends. However, it’s important to use heatless curlers properly and avoid excessive tension when rolling or securing the hair, as this can cause unnecessary pulling or strain. It’s also essential to ensure that the hair is completely dry before removing the curlers to prevent frizz or hair damage.
Question: Can I use a heatless curler on all hair types?
Answer: Yes, you can use a heatless curler on all hair types including straight, wavy, curly, and coily hair. Heatless curlers can be used on all hair types, including straight, wavy, curly, or coily hair. However, the results may vary depending on the natural texture and thickness of the hair. For straight hair, heatless curlers can create more defined curls or waves, while for naturally curly or wavy hair, they can enhance and reshape the existing texture. It’s important to select the right size and type of heatless curlers that suit your desired curl size and hair length.
Question: Can you use heatless curlers on extensions?
Answer: You can use heatless curlers on extensions, but you should make sure that the extensions are made of human hair and not synthetic hair. Synthetic hair may not curl or wave as well or as naturally as human hair when using heatless curlers. Synthetic hair may also melt or damage if exposed to heat or friction. To protect your extensions, you should:
- Use gentle heatless curlers that do not tug or pull on your extensions.
- Avoid wrapping your extensions too tightly or too close to the roots or the bonds.
- Use a mild shampoo and conditioner to wash your extensions and keep them moisturized and detangled.
- Brush your extensions gently with a wide-tooth comb or a soft-bristle brush.
Question: How to make your own heatless curlers at home?
Answer: If you don’t have any heatless curlers at hand, you can make your own using some household items, such as:
- Socks: Cut off the toes of some clean socks and roll them into donuts. Wrap your hair around them and tie the ends together.
- Straws: Cut some drinking straws into shorter pieces and thread a bobby pin through each one. Wrap your hair around them and secure them with the bobby pins.
- Paper towels: Cut some paper towels into long strips and fold them in half. Wrap your hair around them and knot the ends together.
- T-shirts: Cut an old t-shirt into long strips and twist them into ropes. Wrap your hair around them and tie the ends together.
Question: How to style your heatless curls for different occasions?
Answer: You can style your heatless curls for different occasions by adding some accessories or changing up your parting, such as:
- For a casual look, you can wear your heatless curls down and loose with a middle parting. You can also add some clips, pins or headbands to keep them out of your face.
- For a formal look, you can wear your heatless curls in a low bun or ponytail with a side parting. You can also add some pearls, jewels or flowers to glam them up.
- For a fun look, you can wear your heatless curls in a high bun or ponytail with a zigzag parting. You can also add some ribbons, bows or scrunchies to make them pop.
Question: How to refresh your heatless curls the next day?
Answer: If you want to extend the life of your heatless curls for another day, you can refresh them by following these steps:
- Spray some water or dry shampoo on your roots to absorb any oil or dirt.
- Spray some water or leave-in conditioner on your ends to add some moisture and bounce.
- Scrunch your curls with your fingers or a diffuser to revive their shape and volume.
- Apply some hairspray or serum to smooth out any frizz or flyaways.