Hair rollers...The different types and the differences between them

Hair rollers are among the most essential beauty tools in a woman's daily life. They serve the purpose of caring for and styling hair to suit a woman's preferences. Hair rollers are also a significant part of hair styling tools used in women's salons and at home. However, salons have started using specialized hair styling devices to create fine or broad, velvety waves. In this regard, we will introduce you to the various types of hair rollers and explain the differences between them in detail.

What are hair rollers?

Hair rollers are small tubes used to curl a woman's hair, straighten curly hair, or create a new hairstyle. This can be done manually or with heat. Curling hair involves winding a section of hair around the roller and leaving it for a few minutes (15 minutes) to take on the roller's shape. This results in natural curls or waves.

Different types of hair rollers

These days, there are several types of beauty hair rollers, and you are sure to find one that suits your hair type and the final look you desire. They include:

1. Hot hair rollers: 

These are a favorite among women. They are heated with water and used by taking a small, washed and dried section of hair. After spraying it with a heat protectant spray, the hair is wound around the roller in a vertical manner (not horizontal) to create a soft, natural effect. Leave it for about 15 minutes or longer, or even half a day, then use some hair spray, and gradually unwind. They are suitable for all hair types.

2. Sponge hair rollers:

If you want defined, fabulous curls without using heat, these are your go-to rollers. To use them, simply dampen your hair at night and then wrap small sections of your hair, starting from the ends up to the roots, securing them in place with clips before going to sleep. In the morning, remove all the sponge hair rollers to achieve a spiral or ringlet style.

3. Velcro hair rollers:

Velcro hair rollers can be used for all hair types and offer an economical way to get salon-like results at home. The process is very simple: just roll your hair on plastic Velcro rollers, wait for them to cool, and then unroll them to get curly hair. This is one of the oldest and easiest ways to achieve wavy hair. However, these rollers can sometimes cause hair breakage and split ends during sleep, especially if you toss and turn. As an alternative, you can use cloth strips instead of rollers, provided your hair is wet. Divide it into six sections, fold them into loops toward the scalp, and tie a knot at the bottom to secure the strands.

The size of the Velcro rollers also plays a significant role in the final appearance of your hair. If your hair is chin-length or shorter, use small to medium-sized rollers. For hair that reaches your shoulders or longer, opt for medium to large-sized rollers.

Differences Between Velcro Rollers and Hot Rollers:

Hot rollers provide performance similar to curling irons, resulting in long-lasting, large, and wide waves with a smooth and shiny finish. On the other hand, Velcro rollers provide basic volume for your hair. If you're aiming to achieve a salon-style look at home, Velcro rollers are your best choice.

4. Steam Sponge Hair Rollers:

Steam sponge hair rollers are similar to hot rollers but have the added feature of steam to help set the curls. Using steam gives your hair more strength, making your curls last longer.

5. Flexible Sponge Hair Rollers:

Sponge hair rollers with flexible, bendable rollers are highly effective in creating spiral hair curls without the need for pins, clips, or hairpins. These rollers are great for achieving loose, flexible, and elegant curls. You can use them by dividing your hair into sections, wrapping each section around the flexible roller towards the scalp, and securing it in place without any additional clips. These rollers are versatile and perfect for natural hair, available in various shapes and sizes.

6. Magnetic Hair Rollers:

Magnetic hair rollers are made of plastic and are named "magnetic" because wet hair clings and sticks directly to the rollers. These rollers quickly produce wavy and curly hair without the need for hot rollers. However, if your hair is not wet, you may need to secure the wrapped hair with hairpins since magnetic rollers are primarily designed for wet hair.

7. Comb Hair Rollers:

Comb hair rollers are regular rollers with handles that resemble combs. They are used by pulling the hair onto the roller in loops using a hairdryer. Once secured at the top of the hair, the handle is removed, leaving the hair hanging upward on the roller. After a few hours, you'll achieve beautiful, soft, and silky curly hair.

How to Use Hair Rollers:

1. Wash your hair: Begin by washing your hair with nourishing shampoo and conditioner.
2. Dry your hair: This is a preparatory step for placing the rollers on your hair. It's best to apply a hair serum when your hair is still damp.
3. Position the rollers: Divide your hair into several sections and then place the rollers at the ends of your hair. Pull the hair gently and roll it up to the scalp, securing it with clips. Repeat this process for all the rollers on your head.
4. Wait: After placing all the rollers, wait for a few hours if you want to achieve the desired results.
5. Remove the rollers: This is the most critical part of the process. To remove the rollers, do it slowly and smoothly, without using any force or being too aggressive. Make sure to maintain the curl's position in place using hair spray or a hair setting product.

FAQs About Hair Rollers and Curling:

• What type of rollers are best for fine hair?
  

Steam sponge hair rollers are the best choice for fine hair because they use steam to soften the hair without making it stiff.

• How can I keep my hair curls in place all day?
  

You can achieve long-lasting curls by using a light hold hairspray. Lightly spray it over your hair to maintain the curl's position and keep it soft to the touch.

• How can I make my fine hair curl?
  

For fine hair, start by lightly spraying 3 to 4 bursts of hair setting spray or using a small amount of hair gel or cream. Add more if needed, but be careful not to overdo it. When removing the rollers, handle your hair with extreme care to avoid damage.

In Summary:

If you want to achieve larger hair volume, use large-sized hair rollers as they help lift limp roots and create more volume than your natural hair size. If you desire tighter and more defined curls, it's best to use small rollers like sponge rollers.