Curling with a straightener uses a simple movement: clamp, turn the straightener half a turn, then glide slowly down. The slower the glide, the tighter the curl. It takes practice — here's the method, and when an automatic curler is the easier route.
- Step-by-step for straightener curls
- Variations and common mistakes
- Works with cordless tools — no socket needed
Tutorial card
- Time: 20–30 minutes
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Best hair length: Shoulder to mid-back
- Tools: classic cordless straightener, cordless automatic curler
What you need
- The classic cordless straightener
- The cordless automatic curler
- Heat protectant
- A fine-tooth comb
- Two sectioning clips
Curlylooks Cordless Hair StraightenerFrom €34.99View productHow to do straightener curls: step by step
- Prep. Dry, detangled hair and heat protectant.
- Take small sections. About two fingers wide. Smaller sections give more defined curls.
- Clamp near the root. Leave a safe gap from the scalp.
- Turn half a turn. Rotate the straightener away from your face so the hair wraps around one plate.
- Glide slowly down. Keep the rotation and move steadily to the ends. Slower = tighter.
- Let it drop and cool. Don't touch until cool.
- Alternate directions. Every other section, turn towards the face instead.
- Break up and set. Fingers through, flexible hairspray.
Straightener or automatic curler?
| Straightener curls | Automatic curler | |
|---|---|---|
| Learning curve | Medium — needs a twist-and-glide | Low — the tool wraps the hair |
| Curl type | Looser curls and waves | Defined, consistent curls |
| Also straightens | Yes | No |
| Best for | One tool for everything | Easy, consistent curls |
Variations to try
- Looser waves: Glide faster, larger sections.
- Ribbon curls: Full turn, slow glide, tiny sections.
- Ends only: Twist just the last third for a bend.
Common mistakes and quick fixes
| Mistake | Fix |
|---|---|
| Crease marks | Keep moving — don't pause with the plates clamped |
| Curls fall out | Glide slower, smaller sections, cool fully |
| Uneven curls | Same section size and speed every time |
Curlylooks Cordless Hair Straightener
€34.99
PinkGreenProtective capUSB rechargeable
Slim, cordless and capped — precise enough for a fringe, small enough for your bag.
A slim straightener is light and easy to rotate — the key movement for straightener curls. If the twist feels awkward, an automatic curler does the wrapping for you.
✦ Pairs well with: The automatic curler for easy curls · Flexible hairspray
Best for: Waves, loose curls, one-tool routines
Three ways to start
Get the kit for straightener curls
Just this look
The classic cordless straightener is all you need for straightener curls.
Curls and polish
Curl, then smooth the ends and front pieces — the Curl & Polish bundle puts both tools together.
Every look in this series
The Complete Collection covers all our tutorials: the curler plus both cordless straighteners.
Frequently asked questions
Can you curl hair with a mini straightener?
Yes, for shorter hair and looser bends. For full curls on long hair, an automatic curler is quicker.
Why does my straightener leave creases?
The plates paused in one place. Keep a steady glide.
Is it easier to curl with a straightener or a curler?
An automatic curler is easier to learn; a straightener is more versatile.
Try it with cordless tools
Cordless, USB-rechargeable curler and straighteners — style anywhere, no socket needed.
Shop all styling tools →See the bundles →Keep reading
Safety note: heat tools get hot. Always follow the operating and safety instructions supplied with your device, use on dry hair only, keep heated parts away from skin and scalp, switch off after use and store out of reach of children.
