Hairstyling, Blow-Drying, and Thermal Styling
Wet styling
Every wet set is built on three parts of a curl: base (attachment to the scalp), stem (the arc between base and circle), and circle (the loop). Stem direction sets mobility - a stem directed forward falls forward. Base control determines volume: on-base gives maximum lift, half-base moderate, off-base or no-base minimum. Roller or curl diameter sets curl size: smaller tool, tighter curl; larger tool, wave or body. Pin curls are carved, formed, and secured without disturbing the circle; finger waves are formed with the comb and fingers in a ridge-and-hollow pattern, and the ridges must stay unbroken.
Blow-drying
Towel-blot to roughly 60 to 80 percent dry before blow-drying. Attachments matter: concentrator nozzle for smoothing and direction, diffuser for curl. Direct airflow from scalp toward ends to lay the cuticle flat and add shine; work in sections under tension with a round brush sized to the desired bend. Finish with a cool shot to set the shape.
Thermal styling
Choose tool temperature by hair texture and condition: fine, lightened, or damaged hair needs lower heat; coarse resistant hair tolerates more. Test a new iron on a tissue or towel before it touches hair. Thermal tools go on dry hair only, always with a thermal protectant, and heat is never held on one spot longer than a few seconds - pass through, do not park. Barrel size governs curl diameter; wrapping direction governs curl direction. Keep irons clean, cords inspected, and hot tools away from aerosol products, water, and the client's skin and ears. Unplug everything when finished.
Traps
- Curling iron on damp hair - wrong; it boils moisture and damages the cuticle.
- Bigger barrel equals tighter curl - backwards.
- Stem direction is often ignored in questions; it is the answer to which way the hair will fall.
Rule of thumb
Use the lowest temperature that does the job, on dry hair, with the smallest section the tool can hold evenly.