Cut the bendable top off of each straw you plan to use. If your straws are already straight throughout with no articulated ends, you can use them as-is. When using straight straws, scissors are no longer required. If your hair takes a long time to dry, you will also need a silk headscarf to sleep in. [5] X Research source
This hair roller method can prevent hair from drying completely. If your hair type retains moisture and you are styling ringlet curls, try to get your hair as dry as possible before you style. [6] X Research source This isn’t as important for the poofy look, however, since you will be removing the straws before your hair dries completely. [7] X Research source If you have natural textured hair, drying it completely before styling isn’t necessary. You can start your straw set while your hair is damp or wet if you choose. [8] X Research source
If you have fine hair, use a mousse or spray. If you have medium to thick hair with a natural wave, opt for a gel or cream. With relaxed hair, try a trio of leave-in conditioner, wrapping lotion, and castor oil.
How many parts you will section your hair into will be determined by hair length and thickness as well as the amount you feel comfortable working with at a time. You can do a few more sections if your hair is very thick or long.
Remember that the thicker the strand, the bulkier each curl will be. Use a lot of hair per roller if you want only a few curls. [9] X Research source For thin coils, use sections that are roughly an inch wide. These will be separated into smaller pieces later on. [10] X Research source
For the tightest ringlets, roll your hair flat onto the straw. [11] X Research source [12] X Research source If you are going for long, lean spiral, coil the strand around the straw. Instead of flattening your hair against the straw, keep the section rounded. [13] X Research source
While this method works with many different ringlet sizes and styles, you want each strand to be as similar as possible. Multiple curl types may be used by an experienced stylist when creating more adventurous hairdos, but it is a difficult look to pull off.
When drying overnight, wrap your hair with a silk scarf or a bathing cap. If you remove the straws while your hair is still damp, your hair will look more similar to a messy 1980s-style perm. While this is another great look, it’s very different from the ringlets you were probably going for. Don’t waste all the time you spent rolling and waiting by rushing at the end. [15] X Research source
Keep in mind that the hair texture you begin with will impact your hair’s final look. However, it’s not always possible to predict how this style will come out in your hair until you try it. If your hair is naturally straight and doesn’t tend to hold shape well, a little hairspray will help your curls to last longer. You must also be careful to avoid brushing out your new curls as you style. [17] X Research source
The smaller the sections, the more volume your hairdo will have. Keep in mind that this method works best for long, straighter hair that lacks natural volume.
Because of the chaotic, messy nature of this look, it’s ok if you miss a few strands and stray hairs.
Keep in mind that this method intentionally adds tangles and frizz to create volume. Combing it will be difficult. Use your fingers to arrange your hair for any final styling.