For this third article in the Equipment Series, lets talk about rollers. With the straight flat hair that has been in style for a number of years, any rollers you may own have been gathering dust. Now that the more romantic fashion has become popular, rollers may be the vehicle that gives you the style you have been looking for or that provides the versatility that puts life in your style.

There are many kinds of rollers, each giving a different type of curl. I’ll talk first about the wet set variety. This type gives a lot of curl that lasts and lasts. Use smaller rollers and small sections for the most curl. Larger sections and small rollers give end curl. Use large rollers for softer waves. These have to be used on wet hair. Shampoo and towel dry well. Roll the hair using clippies to secure the roller. The hair must be completely dry before taking the rollers out. This means either wearing them for a long time or using a dryer with a hood that fits over the entire head. Brush out the curls with a vent brush or a regular hairbrush. These curls are resilient and bouncy.

Curls of almost equal intensity are created in about ten minutes with a Caruso molecular hair setter. It consists of a steamer on which you place one roller at a time to heat and then place the roller into the hair immediately. Pay close attention to the timing, fifteen seconds on the steamer. If the roller becomes too wet with the steam, the hair will become wet and have to dry to achieve the curl. When used properly the rollers can be placed in the hair and removed immediately after setting the entire head.

Hot rollers give lots of curl and body, but not as much as a wet set. They are used on thoroughly dry hair. Let the rollers heat to their full potential before using them. This means turning them on well in advance. Some sets offer a steam option you can use for slightly more curl. However, make sure the hair is dry before removing the rollers. For the most curl, let the rollers cool while they are still in the hair. For less curl or if your hair curls easily, take them out after a few minutes. The same rules hold true here, as with other rollers, small rollers and sections equal more curl.

Velcro rollers are the choice for lift and body without curl. These are the easiest rollers to use. Start inserting the rollers immediately after blow-drying the hair. Use large sections and just roll them up, no need for clips. Spraying each section with hair spray before rolling is helpful for giving more body to the hair. Warm each rolled hair section with a blow dryer and cool before removing. Separate the curls with just your fingers. Combing or brushing will relax the curl. You will get the lift and soft wave that today’s styles call for.

If more wave and control are what you are looking for in your hairstyle, dust off those rollers or shop for a new set and start experimenting for the look you want.

For tips on how to use rollers, click Here.