Crimping hair is a popular styling technique that adds texture and volume to your locks. By creating small, undulating waves throughout your tresses, this method offers a fun and unique look that can be worn on various occasions. While crimpers specifically designed for this purpose can be found in stores, there are alternative methods for achieving the desired effect without the use of a crimper.
One tried-and-true approach to attaining crimped hair is by utilising the braiding method. This process begins with damp hair, achieved either by showering or using a spray bottle to wet the strands. Applying leave-in conditioners or oils on wet hair can enhance the final result by providing additional moisture and protection.
Another approach involves using a curling iron instead of a crimper. This method relies on clamping down sections of hair with the curling iron without twisting the strands around the barrel. By carefully applying heat to small segments of hair, crimp-like waves can be formed, delivering a similarly textured appearance.
Hair Preparation
Before you begin crimping your hair without a crimper, it is essential to prepare your hair for the styling process to ensure the best results. In this section, we will cover how to get your hair ready for crimping with sub-sections on washing and conditioning, detangling and drying, and applying heat protectant.
Washing and Conditioning
Start by washing your hair with a gentle shampoo and conditioner suitable for your hair type. Clean hair will help achieve a more defined and long-lasting crimp. Be sure to rinse well to remove any product residue that could weigh your hair down or make it difficult to style.
Detangling and Drying
After washing, gently detangle your hair using a wide-tooth comb or a brush designed for wet hair. This will prevent any knots or tangles that could interfere with the crimping process. Then, towel-dry your hair using a patting motion, leaving it damp but not wet. For best results, you can also air dry your hair or use a blowdryer with a diffuser attachment to minimise frizz.
Applying Heat Protectant
Before you start styling, it is crucial to use a heat protectant spray on your damp hair. This will safeguard your hair from potential heat damage, especially if you choose to use a curling iron for crimping. Apply the product evenly throughout your hair, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends, where most heat damage tends to occur.
Crimping Techniques
Using Braids
One popular method for crimping hair without a crimper is by using braids. To achieve this, start with damp hair, apply leave-in conditioners or oils if necessary, and divide your hair into small sections.
Spray each section with a hair setting spray like VO5 Waves Creation Hairspray and tightly braid them. Secure the braids with clips or hairbands and let your hair dry naturally or speed up the process with a hairdryer. Once your hair is completely dry, gently untie the braids, and you’ll have a crimped effect.
Using Hair Iron
You can also achieve crimped hair using a regular curling iron by following these steps:
- Brush your hair and apply a heat protection product.
- Section your hair for easier styling.
- Clip the end of a hair section and wrap it around the curling iron barrel.
- Hold your hair on the barrel for 5-10 seconds, then release it.
- Repeat this process for each hair section until your entire head is styled.
Utilising Hair Rollers
Hair rollers can also be used to produce a crimp-like effect. To do this technique, follow these steps:
- Begin with clean, towel-dried hair, and apply a styling product that works well with your hair type.
- Section the hair and select the size of the rollers based on the desired level of crimp.
- Starting from the roots, wrap the hair around the roller and secure it in place.
- Allow your hair to air dry completely or use a hairdryer for quicker results.
- Carefully remove the rollers and use your fingers to separate the curls into a crimped texture.
Finishing Touches
Once you have successfully crimped your hair without a crimper, the final step is to ensure a long-lasting and polished look.
Applying Hairspray
To ensure your crimped hairstyle lasts throughout the day, apply a high-quality hairspray. Start by sectioning off small areas of your hair, and lightly mist the hairspray on each section. This will provide your hair with the necessary hold and keep the crimps in place for an extended period of time.
Adding Accessories
Crimped hair is the perfect base for a variety of accessories. Incorporate headbands, hair clips, or hairpieces to accentuate your unique style. This can add an extra level of flair and personalisation to your crimped hair.
Headbands: To complement your crimped hair, you can choose from a wide range of headbands, from simple and minimalistic strips to more elaborate and decorative pieces. Headbands not only help keep your hair out of your face but also add an extra dimension to your hairstyle.
Hair Clips: Small and decorative hair clips can be strategically placed throughout your crimped hairstyle to embellish your look. You can opt for jewel-encrusted clips or more understated options depending on your style preference.
Hairpieces: If you’d like to take your crimped hairstyle to the next level, consider adding braided or twisted hairpieces. These can be easily incorporated into your existing style, offering added versatility and impact.
By applying hairspray and incorporating stylish accessories, you can achieve a perfectly polished, crimped hairstyle that lasts all day.
Maintaining Crimped Hair
Crimped hair can be a fun and fashionable style, but it’s important to take care of your hair properly to keep it looking its best. In this section, we’ll discuss how to maintain your crimped hair by avoiding frequent washing, using silk or satin pillowcases, and gentle brushing.
Avoiding Frequent Washing
It’s important to limit how often you wash your crimped hair, as frequent washing can strip your hair of its natural oils and cause it to become dry and frizzy. Aim to wash your hair no more than 2-3 times per week, and when you do wash it, use a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo.
You can also consider using dry shampoo in between washes to help absorb excess oil, keep your hair feeling fresh, and maintain the crimped texture.
Using Silk or Satin Pillowcases
Sleeping on silk or satin pillowcases can greatly benefit your crimped hair. These materials reduce friction between your hair and the pillowcase, helping to prevent tangles and breakage.
Additionally, silk and satin pillowcases can help retain moisture in the hair, which is important for maintaining the health and appearance of your crimped style. Consider investing in a high-quality silk or satin pillowcase to protect your hair while you sleep.
Gentle Brushing
When brushing your crimped hair, it’s essential to be gentle to avoid damaging the delicate crimped texture. Choose a wide-tooth comb or a brush with soft bristles, and always start detangling your hair from the ends, working your way up towards the roots.
This method helps to minimise breakage and keep the crimped style intact. Additionally, avoid brushing your hair when it’s wet, as this is when hair is most prone to damage. Instead, use a wide-tooth comb to detangle your hair while it’s damp, and wait until it’s fully dry before giving it a gentle brush.
Conclusion
Crimping your hair without a crimper is not only achievable but also allows you to explore different techniques to create a unique and trendy look. By dampening your hair and braiding it in small sections, you can accomplish a crimped hairstyle using minimal heat or even no heat at all.
Additionally, the use of various hair styling tools such as curling irons or straighteners can also help you achieve crimped hair without the need for a specific crimper. This versatility allows you to experiment and find out which method works best for your hair type.
Remember to protect your hair during this process by using hair care products like heat protectants, mousses, or leave-in conditioners. By following these simple steps, you will be able to create a crimped hairstyle that is sure to turn heads and bring a modern twist to a classic ’90s look. Keep in mind that practice makes perfect, so don’t be afraid to try out different methods and find the one that suits you the best.
I’m Jennifer a beauty and wellness expert. I believe in promoting a sustainable and healthy lifestyle from within. Helping people feel good is my passion; whether it’s teaching yoga or offering skincare advice.
