Hairstyling and Finishing
This domain tests whether you can build a shape with heat or wet-setting tools, place volume where the design needs it, and finish a style that holds without looking heavy.
Thermal and blow-dry styling
Rough-dry to about 90 percent before picking up a thermal iron; ironing damp hair traps steam and can burn both hair and scalp. Temperature follows texture and history: fine or lightened hair needs the lowest setting the manufacturer allows. Thermal irons are described by base (where the curl sits on the head), stem (direction the hair travels away from the base) and curl or circle (the loop itself).
Wet setting
- Pin curls: flat curls give a ridge and a firmer pattern; barrel curls give a smoother, wider wave.
- Rollers: base placement controls volume. On-base builds the most lift, half-base is moderate, off-base is smooth and close to the head.
- Fingerwaves: alternating C shapes with ridges and indentations, set with gel and clips, then dried completely before removing clips.
Finishing
Backcomb gently at the scalp for lift, then smooth the surface. Spray at a distance so the mist settles rather than wets. A cool shot at the end sets the shape and reduces frizz.
Worked example
A client wants height at the crown with a smooth surface. Reasoning: volume comes from the base, so place an on-base roller or stand-up pin curl at the crown with the stem directed toward the crown. Backcombing alone would collapse; the base placement supports the shape.
Traps that cost marks
Ironing damp hair, using one temperature for every texture, brushing out a wet set before it is dry, and over-applying product so the finish looks stiff.