curl my hair with me: college grwm😇

Okay, so you've seen my super quick curl routine, but let's be real, as college students, we need those curls to last through lectures, study sessions, and then a night out! Nobody has time to re-curl their hair every few hours. So, I wanted to share some extra tips and tricks I've picked up to make sure those gorgeous waves stay put. First off, the prep is key. While I love my Ouai hair oil for shine and protection, a good heat protectant is non-negotiable. If you don't have the Ouai, there are amazing drugstore options like the Tresemmé Thermal Creations Heat Tamer Spray that work wonders without breaking the bank. Make sure your hair is completely dry before you start curling – even a little dampness can make your curls fall flat almost immediately. I usually blow-dry mine or air-dry it while I'm doing my makeup. When using the Beachwaver (or any curling iron!), technique matters. For uniform curls like mine, I section my hair into 1-inch pieces. For the Beachwaver, I usually alternate the direction of the curl away from my face on each side. If you're using a regular curling iron, hold it vertically and wrap your hair around the barrel, leaving the ends out for a more relaxed, beachy look. Don't hold it for too long – 5-10 seconds is usually enough, especially if you have fine hair. The key is to let the curl cool completely before touching it! This brings me to my absolute favorite tip for longevity: pinning your curls. As soon as you release a curl from the iron, gently take it and re-roll it back up towards your scalp. Secure it with a duckbill clip or a bobby pin. Let these pinned curls cool down for at least 10-15 minutes, or even longer if you have time. This locks in the shape. Once they're cool, gently unpin them, and only then run your fingers through them to break them up. Avoid brushing them out immediately unless you want a more voluminous, softer wave. For extra hold, a light spritz of hairspray is your best friend. I'm a fan of the Living Proof Flex Hairspray for a flexible hold that still lets my hair move, but for a budget-friendly option, the L'Oréal Elnett Satin Hairspray is a classic for a reason – it holds without feeling crunchy. Don't overdo it, though; a little goes a long way. Finally, let's talk about making them last overnight. If I want my curls to survive until the next day, I gather my hair into a loose 'pineapple' on top of my head using a scrunchie (silk or satin is best to prevent frizz!). This keeps the curls from getting flattened while you sleep. In the morning, just let it down, maybe a quick refresh with a texturizing spray, and you're good to go! For those days you don't have your Beachwaver, don't forget heatless options like silk curlers or even just braiding damp hair overnight can give you beautiful waves. Being a student means being resourceful, right? Hope these extra tips help you rock amazing hair all semester long!