Tired of wearing your hair straight every day? Good news—you don’t need a curling wand to get gorgeous, bouncy curls. With just a hair straightener and the right technique, you can achieve everything from loose waves to defined spirals. Add a little help from Hey Genie Define & Shine Styler, and you’ll have curls that look polished, last longer, and stay protected.

Here’s your step-by-step guide on how to curl hair with a straightener like a pro.

Step 1: Prep Your Hair

Curls last longer on clean, dry hair. Start by washing and blow-drying, then apply a heat protectant such as Hey Genie. Not only will it shield your strands from heat damage, but it also adds hold and definition for smoother, shinier curls.

Step 2: Section Your Hair

Divide your hair into manageable sections using clips or hair ties. This ensures even curls and keeps strands from tangling. Pro tip: The smaller the section, the tighter the curl; larger sections create looser waves.

Step 3: Clamp and Glide

Take one section and place the straightener close to the roots (without touching the scalp). Clamp gently, then twist the straightener away from your face while gliding it slowly down the length of your hair. Keep the tension steady for defined curls.

Step 4: Release the Curl

Once you reach the ends, let the hair slip out of the straightener and bounce into a curl. Don’t tug—let it fall naturally so it keeps its shape.

Step 5: Repeat & Alternate Directions

Continue curling section by section, alternating the direction of the twists for a more natural, voluminous look. Curling all sections the same way creates a sleek, uniform finish, while alternating directions gives that effortless, beachy vibe.

Step 6: Lock in the Look

After curling, let your hair cool completely. Then, run your fingers through the curls or gently shake them out for a softer style. Finish with a lightweight hairspray or a touch of Hey Genie to add shine and long-lasting hold.

Final Thoughts

Curling your hair with a straightener may take a little practice, but once you master the twist-and-glide technique, you’ll have endless styling possibilities. Whether you’re going for beach waves, loose curls, or tight spirals, all you need is your straightener, some prep, and a touch of styling magic.

✨ Pro tip: Always use a heat protectant like Hey Genie Define & Shine Styler to keep curls smooth, bouncy, and damage-free.