Thick hair holds curls well once they're set — the challenge is getting heat evenly through every section. Work in layers, keep sections small, and give curls time to cool.
- Step-by-step for curls on thick hair
- Variations and common mistakes
- Works with cordless tools — no socket needed
Tutorial card
- Time: 30–40 minutes
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Best hair length: Shoulder to waist
- Tools: cordless automatic curler, classic cordless straightener
What you need
- The cordless automatic curler
- The classic cordless straightener
- Heat protectant
- Sectioning clips
- A wide-tooth comb
Curlylooks Cordless Automatic CurlerFrom €32.99View productHow to do curls on thick hair: step by step
- Dry thoroughly. Thick hair often stays damp at the roots and underneath. Dry fully — damp hair won't curl.
- Section into four layers. Nape, middle, crown and top. Clip each away.
- Small sections, always. Split anything that feels thick between your fingers. It's faster overall — fewer redo passes.
- Start at the nape. Underneath layers take the longest; do them while you're fresh.
- Pin to cool. Pin curls up as you go, layer by layer.
- Release from the bottom. Release the nape first, top last.
- Remove bulk. Separate curls with fingers to reduce volume if needed.
- Smooth the ends. A quick pass of the straightener on any frizzy ends.
Variations to try
- Half-curl: Curl only the top two layers for a quicker version.
- Loose waves: Brush out for less volume.
- Curly ponytail: Tie up, curl the ponytail.
Common mistakes and quick fixes
| Mistake | Fix |
|---|---|
| Inside of section isn't curled | Use smaller sections |
| Takes forever | Layers + small sections = fewer redos |
| Too much volume | Separate gently and smooth the top layer |
Curlylooks Cordless Automatic Curler
€32.99
Blush pinkIvory whiteCharcoal blackAdjustable curl direction
Ceramic-coated chamber, adjustable temperature and curl direction, USB rechargeable — and it wraps the hair for you.
Small sections are non-negotiable on thick hair — and a cordless curler lets you work around the back without a cable fighting you.
✦ Pairs well with: The classic straightener for ends · Lots of clips
Best for: Thick, coarse and very long hair
Three ways to start
Get the kit for curls on thick hair
Just this look
The cordless automatic curler is all you need for curls on thick hair.
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
Why won't my thick hair hold a curl?
Usually sections are too big or the hair wasn't fully dry. Use small sections and pin-cool.
How long does it take to curl thick hair?
Usually 30–40 minutes for long, thick hair; working in layers keeps it efficient.
Is an automatic curler good for thick hair?
Yes, with small sections — split any thick section in two.
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.
