Hair care

Heatless curlers: how to use them so your curls last all day

Salon waves while you sleep, with no straighteners or hairdryer. Here's how to put heatless curlers in step by step, plus the tricks that stop your curls dropping by mid-morning.

By The Missmimo team Updated 4 min read
Dos rulos sin calor de satén rosa sobre fondo crema
In shortFor heatless curls that last: start with hair that's almost dry (80-90%), detangled and with a little mousse or curl cream; wrap medium sections around the curler from mid-lengths to ends, always away from your face, secure with the clips and leave it in overnight or for at least 4-6 hours. Take it out only when your hair is completely dry and separate the curls with your fingers, never a brush.

Why heatless curlers?

Daily heat from straighteners and curling irons dries hair out and causes split ends. Heatless curlers create shape by letting your hair dry while wrapped: when it dries in that position, it keeps the wave.

Satin ones have another advantage: the fabric doesn't soak up your hair's moisture or cause frizz, and they're comfortable to sleep in. That's why heatless satin curlers are one of the most appreciated gifts for anyone who wants to look after their hair.

The key: how damp your hair should be

Hair conditionResult
Soaking wetIt won't dry overnight: limp curls or damp hair in the morning.
Almost dry (80-90%)The sweet spot: it dries in time and sets the wave.
Completely dryIt works, but the wave is softer. Lightly dampen with water or a styling spray.

How to put them in, step by step

  1. Detangle your hair thoroughly. A self-cleaning hairbrush is perfect because it doesn't pull.
  2. Apply a little mousse or curl cream from mid-lengths to ends.
  3. Split your hair into two halves and place one curler on each side, vertically, with the top end close to the roots.
  4. Take a medium section on the right side, near your face, and wrap it around the curler backwards (away from your face).
  5. Keep adding hair to the section as you work down, like a French braid, all the way to the ends.
  6. Secure the ends with the clip or the curler's fastener. Repeat with the second curler on the left side.
  7. Sleep in them – cover them with a satin scarf if you like.
Missmimo tip: the thinner the section and the tighter you wrap, the more defined the curl. For loose, beachy waves, use thicker sections and wrap with less tension.

How to release the curls without ruining them

  • Check that your hair is completely dry; if not, wait.
  • Remove the clips and unwrap gently, sliding the curler downwards.
  • Don't brush: separate the curls with your fingers, little by little.
  • To set them, a light mist of hairspray or a few drops of oil on the ends.

Tricks to make them last all day

  • Use a light-hold product before wrapping.
  • Don't touch the curls for the first hour.
  • If your hair is very straight, leave them in longer and use thin sections.
  • For day two, sleep with a loose high ponytail or a loose braid.
  • Rushed in the morning? An automatic hair curler does your curls in 15-20 minutes (here's how to use it step by step).

Most common mistakes

  • Hair too wet: still damp in the morning, and no curl.
  • Wrapping towards your face: less flattering; always wrap away.
  • Sections too thick: the inside doesn't take shape.
  • Taking them out too early: at least 4-6 hours.
  • Brushing when you release them: the curl turns into frizzy volume.

Frequently asked questions

How long should I leave heatless curlers in?

Ideally overnight. During the day, at least 4-6 hours, and always until your hair is completely dry.

Do they work on short hair?

They work best from shoulder length. With shorter hair there isn't enough length to wrap around the curler.

Can I use them on dry hair?

Yes, but the wave will be softer. Lightly dampen with water or a styling spray before wrapping.

Do they damage your hair?

No: they use no heat and satin reduces friction, making them one of the gentlest ways to curl your hair.

How long do the curls last?

Usually all day, and with a loose ponytail overnight they can last into the next day. It depends on your hair type and styling product.

The Missmimo team

We test every device before we sell it and write clear guides so you get the most out of your beauty ritual at home – no miracle promises.

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