How to Use Heatless Curlers: A Step-by-Step Routine

Cut down styling time and allow for some extra beauty sleep with a heatless curler. This styling method has become increasingly popular, allowing users to avoid having to restyle or re-curl their hair in the morning. Follow this step-by-step routine to become a pro at using a heatless curler.

There are various options available for curling hair, all with the purpose of creating long-lasting curls without using any heat, as well as the convenience of being able to style your hair overnight and save time in the mornings.

The exact method of how to use these varies between a long curling rod, flexible individual curlers and a curling scrunchie, so it's important to follow the instructions for each product to use them effectively and achieve the best results!

Before wrapping

• Confirm whether the curler is intended for dry or damp hair.
• Read the guidance for styling products used with it.
• Detangle with a suitable brush or comb.
• Decide where the final parting will sit.
• Choose section sizes that fit the curler.
• Keep supplied ties, clips or fastenings within reach.
• Test the tool’s position before wrapping all the hair.

Preparation matters because knots and uneven sections are harder to solve once the hair is wrapped.

The Brushworks Heatless Curler, Heatless Flexi Curlers and Heatless Curling Scrunchie are all designed to help you create long-lasting curls without using heat. Each product uses a different method to create curls, so they are not interchangeable. Be sure to check the individual product page for specific instructions on how to use each one effectively.

Step-by-step heatless curling routine

1. Prepare the hair. Start with hair clean and slightly damp hair.
2. Create the parting. Divide hair into two sections, use a large claw clip to secure curling rod in place.
3. Create the first section. Take a small hair section, wrap it around fully, and repeat.
4. Add hair as directed. Add new sections similar in size from side to side.
5. Secure the ends. Finish by tying off ends with scrunchies.
6. Leave for the recommended period. Allow hair to dry completely. Best used overnight.
7. Remover scrunchies and rod. Support the wrapped hair while you undo them.
8. Style as desired. 

Section size

Smaller sections of hair will generally create tighter, more defined curls, while larger sections create a softer, looser curl. However, the final result can vary depending on factors such as hair condition, tool diameter, styling products and setting time.

Keep the left and right sections similar in size if you want a more balanced, even result. If your curls look uneven, try adjusting the section size before changing other parts of your styling routine.

Wrapping direction

Direction changes how sections sit around the face and how the two sides relate. Follow the product tutorial. If the method allows a choice, decide whether both sides wrap away from the face, toward it or in an alternating pattern. Keep the choice consistent during your first attempt. 

Make sure not to twist or wrap so tightly that the tool pulls at the roots or presses uncomfortably.

Comfortable tension

There’s no need to pull or grip too tightly for a better result. In fact, too much tension can leave the hair feeling strained rather than creating a stronger curl. If the tool pulls:

• loosen and rewrap the section;
• reduce the amount of hair;
• change the curler position;
• check whether the fastening is too tight;
• stop using it if the design does not fit comfortably.

Before leaving your hair to set, make sure everything feels comfortable — especially if you’re planning to keep it in for a while.

Setting time and overnight use

Follow the timing stated for the product. Hair condition, section size and products influence how a style sets, so this doesn't mean a longer period is automatically better. Do not sleep in a heatless curler unless its instructions explicitly support overnight use and it remains comfortable in your normal sleep position.

If you plan overnight use, it's always handy to perform a shorter daytime test first. Check pressure around the head, ears and neck, and make sure fastenings remain secure without hard edges pressing into the skin.

Careful removal

Start with the final fastening. Support the section and unwind in the reverse direction. Remove each curler individually when using a multi-piece set.

After removing the curlers, allow the sections to settle before styling. Gently separate the curls using your fingers or a suitable finishing tool. Avoid brushing too aggressively, as this could affect the curls you have just created. Using the correct brush can also help to shape and define your finished curls.

What changes the result?

• starting hair condition;
• section size and consistency;
• curler shape or diameter;
• wrapping direction;
• tension;
• setting period;
• styling products;
• how the tool is removed;
• how much the sections are separated afterwards.

Tips for best results

Uneven sides. Compare the amount of hair, section size, wrapping direction and curler position.

Loose ends. Recheck the final wrap and fastening method. Do not solve it with painful tension.

Flat sections. Confirm that the hair was wrapped around the intended part of the tool and left for the stated period.

Uncomfortable wear. Stop, loosen or reposition. A style is not worth pressure or pain.

Tangled removal. Reverse the wrapping direction slowly and release trapped strands individually.

Inconsistent results. Write down the starting condition, sections and time before changing the method.

Cleaning and storage

Remove trapped hair and product residue. Follow the washing or surface-cleaning directions for the curler and securing accessories. Dry fabric or padded parts fully before storage. Do not fold, crush or bend a tool in a way that permanently changes its form unless it is designed for that.

Store all parts together so a missing fastening does not lead to an improvised substitute.