Lately I’ve been trying to figure out different ways I can style my hair and look presentable in public since my SLAP is not quite suitable for all occasions. One thing I didn’t take into consideration when I started this hair journey was how hard it would be to style my hair as I transition. My go to style being relaxed had always been letting my hair down, and the occasional buns. In my quest for finding new hairstyles that I’d be able to rock as I transition, for the first time ever last weekend, I attempted curling my hair with perm rods.
I wanted to curl my hair, so I went digging on youtube and found a tutorial on how to achieve beautiful curls using perm rods. It was time to give it a try. I must tell you though, for a first timer like me, these tutorials look a lot easier than they really are. I had no idea what was in store for me once I decided to give it a try.
I’m sure you’re curious, so continue reading below to find out how I did.
First I washed my hair and air dried it. Once my hair was about 70% air dried, I decided it was time to get to work. I used two different sizes of perm rods (purple and white). I got a great deal buying them as Sally’s (Buy 1 get 1 free). My product of choice was the: As I Am leave-in conditioner. Although a bit higher in cost than other brands out there, I am absolutely in love with these products. They smell great, and help keep my hair looking beautiful and moisturized (I have really dry hair, and need all the extra help I can get to keep it moisturized throughout the day).
Unfortunately, it took me a good 2 hours to complete the process (you heard right, 2 hours), but I got through it. After these 2 painful hours, I had no desire to do anything else but sleep. So I decided to allow them to dry overnight instead of using heat (which I’ve been trying to avoid lately anyway). Sleeping was another problem (I wonder how you ladies sleep comfortably with the rollers on). It was so painful to sleep with these rollers pressed against my skull.
The next day, it was finally time to undo the rollers and see the results. I think I did a pretty decent job for a first timer. I was expecting different results but I think I did pretty good. My friends liked the look, my fiancé didn’t really seem to be too keen of my curly hair. I think when you’re used to wearing your hair straight, having a head full of curls takes some getting used to.
I went back and looked at more tutorials to figure out what I could’ve done better. Now I believe I have an idea. Next time I attempt this look again, I will be sure to use a curl defining cream and a setting lotion as well to help get more definitions with the curls.
So in light of my first attempt at curling my hair with perm rods, here are some tips for you, should you ever decide to attempt to achieve curls on your transitioning hair using perm rods.
Step one: Start with semi air dried hair. You want your hair to be kind of wet, but not soaking wet. It will be easier to manage that way and allow the curls to form.
Step two: Use a curl defining cream. Some people use a leave-in conditioner (like I did). But I think the curl defining cream will get you better results. I purchased the As I Am Twist Defining Cream, and I can’t wait to use it.
Step three: Use a Foam wrap lotion. It will help set your curls and get more definition as well.
Step four: Allow your hair to dry completely. If you don’t have time to sit under a dryer for a couple of hours, your best bet is to let it dry over night. Do not undo the curls until you are absolutely sure they are 100% dry.
Bonus tip: Make sure your gel manicure is not peeling off as you are twisting and putting on your perm rods. You will literally pull out strands of hair involuntarily. That seems obvious right, but leave it to me to do such stupid thing.
So here you have it my friends. These are my tips on achieving beautiful curls using perm rods. Hope you found these tips useful. Don’t forget to tell me what you think.
What is your favorite method of curling your hair? Have you had any failed hair styles in the past? What are your secrets to a good perm rods set? Share with me below ⇓
XOXO
♥Miss Coily♥
