DIY’ing new hairstyles can be challenging, especially when it comes to curling short hair. Whether you’re a #shorthairdontcare newbie, or a tried-and-true member of the cut life, with the right tools, practice, and step-by-step instructions from helpful YouTube tutorials, you can become a pro.
Maybe you’re already slaying a chic short haircut, but you're in the mood to switch it up and need at-home styling tips. Or maybe, you've been rocking short hair forever, and you're on a quest to find the best techniques to curl your hair. You can find quick and easy tutorials that explain how to get the curly locks of your dreams in under five minutes.
If you're worried about breakage and damage from heat tools, like curling wands and flat irons, we’ve included heatless hair techniques that transform textured tresses into a mane of defined curls. The best YouTube tutorials share the 411 on the best tools and methods to use, but they also confirm the best products to help achieve your desired 'do.
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Are you ready for curls to transform your short hair? We’ve compiled the best quick and easy tutorials that will teach you how to get the curly locks of your dreams in under five minutes.
Volumized Waves
If you're looking for a laid-back wave that won't fall flat, this tutorial will be your savior. It's the perfect mix of beachy and polished, plus you can duplicate the look with a 1" wand or a curling iron (more on that in the video). Make sure to curl each strand in a different direction for a messy, natural look.
L'Oréal BOOST IT Volume Inject Mousse
Hot Tools XL Barrel Brush with Mixed Bristles
TRESemme Thermal Creations Heat Tamer Spray
Bantu Knots
This trusty hack has been around for hundreds of years, and for good reason. It's easy, heat-free, and won't damage your delicate strands. You can use Bantu knots to curl any length of hair overnight – just twist up a few buns and then go to sleep. If you haven't done it before, watch this step-by-step tutorial from beauty YouTuber Jaleesa Moses. She lays out every single step and gives her recommendations for the best-textured hair products.
Creme of Nature Argan Oil Perfect Edges Control
Moroccanoil Hydrating Styling Cream
slip Pure Silk 3-Pack Scrunchies
Loose Waves
This tutorial offers a two-in-one look at how to properly curl your hair with a 1" iron. The first half shows how to get gorgeous loose curls, while the second gives steps on how to bring them down to Instagram-ready waves. The secret: curl, then straighten for a look that's perfectly undone.
Paul Mitchell Flexible Style Hot Off The Press Thermal Protection Hairspray
pattern Wide Tooth Comb for Curlies, Coilies and Tight Textures
Redken Oil for All
Straightener Curls
This curling method is super fun and chic. It's just as easy as straightening your hair and gives you glossy, loose waves. To see exactly how it's done, watch the above tutorial.
OGX OGX Smoothing + Shea Sleek Humidity Blocking Hairspray
Chi Chi Original 1'' Ceramic Hairstyling Iron
OUAI Hair Oil
Messy Ringlet Curls
Messy, ringlets – two words you probably thought you'd never see used together. Actually, it is possible to pull off a tight spiral that still looks edgy. It's a great way to amp up a super-short haircut. She used a .75-inch wand on the right half and a bubble wand on the left to show the difference in style.
Mielle Organics Mongongo Oil Thermal & Heat Protectant Spray
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Kelsey is Seventeen.com's fashion expert and resident Harry Potter nerd. At the office, she spends her day writing about style, beauty, and literally every move Kylie Jenner makes. On the weekends, you can find her sifting through vintage shops and hunting for the perfect burger. Follow her on Instagram at @klstieg.
Jasmine Washington is an Assistant Editor at Seventeen, where she covers celebrity news, beauty, lifestyle, and more. For the past decade, she has worked for media outlets, including BET, MadameNoire, VH1, and many others, where she used her voice to tell stories across various verticals. Follow her on Instagram.
