Curls for Girls - How to Scrunch Your Hair

This is a simple, and great to know, blow drying technique for bringing out the natural curl in both long and short hair. Anyone, with the possible exception of those with fine, very straight hair, can get an amazing amount of volume and curl if you will try this. You do not have to wash your hair, just make sure it is wet, and add a little gel or mousse to it if you would like. In fact, unless your hair is very fine and prone to being weighed down by hair products, leaving it just a little dirty will actually add volume to your curls! You also might want a place to sit while you do this.

Step 1: Holding your hair dryer in one hand, bend at the waist, and flip your hair upside down, so the ends are all hanging towards the ground. With your free hand, grab a handful of the ends of your hair and bring your hand up towards your head, gathering up hair as you go. You should have a big handful of hair. Hold it loosely in your hand, and aim the warm air all around your hand for 15 seconds or so. Release that hair, and repeat with another section of hair. Move all around your head! You should be able to get all of the way around your head with about 5 handfuls.

Step 2: When you have had a go at all of your hair, take a few seconds and aim the dryer at your scalp. Rub your free hand in small circles all over your head while aiming the dryer at your scalp. This will create volume in your hairstyle, and even when you wear it straight it is a good technique to use. No one looks good with hair flat to their scalp.

Keep repeating these steps until your hair is mostly dry. The tighter you squeeze your hair as you dry it, the more curl you will get, and the longer it will take to dry. This can take from 5-20 minutes, depending on how long and thick your hair is. When your hair is nearly dry, add a little hairspray at your scalp, and through the rest of your hair, and do one more quick round with the hairdryer. I would love to see what you all can do with this-please send your before and after pictures to me!

Tips: Try having some layers cut into your hair if you don't have them, to maximize your "curl power!" Also, the more frequently you scrunch your hair, the easier it is. Embrace your curls!