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Image Credit: Serhii Tychynskyi / Getty ImagesHere’s a revelation: Achieving curly hair doesn’t require hot tools. As someone with naturally wavy hair, I’ve experimented with countless no-heat methods over the years—all in an effort to enhance my natural texture without relying on a curling iron. Some methods delivered flawless results, like voluminous, beachy waves that extended the time between washes (sometimes even three days!). Others, however, left me with uneven curls and awkward creases.
Good news: We’ve done the hard work for you and compiled the top eleven no-heat techniques for overnight curls. Keep reading to wake up with bouncy, beautiful hair!
1. Hair Plopping Technique
Though recently popularized on TikTok, plopping has been a long-standing technique in curly hair care routines for years. This method helps natural curls and waves absorb moisture and styling products as they set. Start with freshly washed and conditioned hair. Use a wide-tooth comb to distribute your favorite leave-in conditioner, followed by your preferred styling product (curl creams work wonders for curlier hair types to lock in hydration). Flip your hair upside down, scrunch it upward, and gather it at the crown of your head. Secure it with a microfiber towel or T-shirt, then let it dry for about two hours. Once released, allow your hair to air-dry completely. Finish by applying a nourishing serum from mid-lengths to ends to enhance hydration and curl definition.
2. Heatless Curling Headband
Another viral sensation on TikTok, the heatless curling headband requires a bit more investment than DIY methods, as you’ll need to purchase a kit. We recommend the Kitsch Heatless Hair Curler in Satin, which includes a satin-covered foam rod and two satin scrunchies. Begin with damp hair, split into two sections. Starting with the front, wrap your hair around the rod, moving away from your face. Continue adding hair as you wrap downward, securing it with a scrunchie. Leave it in overnight or until your hair is dry. When removed, you’ll be left with soft, natural waves.
3. The Leggings Technique
If you’re hesitant to spend money, the leggings method offers a cost-free alternative to the curling headband. Instead of a foam rod, use a pair of leggings. Braid your hair in two sections, incorporating the leggings as the third strand. Secure with a scrunchie and leave it overnight. While this method is budget-friendly, it does come with challenges: it’s trickier to set than a premade kit, and the leggings can feel awkward at the back of your head. However, if you’re looking for an inexpensive way to achieve curls at home, it’s worth a try—and the results speak for themselves.
4. Braiding Technique
Braiding is one of the simplest and most accessible methods for achieving curls. All you need is a ponytail holder (a silk scrunchie is ideal). The number of braids determines the curl size—more braids create tighter curls, while fewer result in looser waves. For example, a single braid typically gives soft, beachy waves rather than defined curls. Once you’ve decided on the number, braid your hair and let it dry completely before unraveling. It’s that straightforward!
5. Twist and Secure Method
Our top pick is the twist and clip technique. Start by parting damp hair into two sections. Twist each section backward and secure them together with a clip. For added detail, you can twist the front sections separately and clip them as well. Remember, tighter twists result in more defined waves. We highly recommend the Crown Affair Clips for this method. Though they’re an investment, their handcrafted design and hidden inner teeth ensure a secure hold, unlike other clips that may slip. The outcome? Effortless, beachy waves with minimal effort.
6. Flexible Curling Rods
For those seeking tight, defined curls, bendy rods are an excellent choice. With a set like the Vintage Cosmetic Company’s Pink Bendy Hair Curlers, you can achieve corkscrew curls overnight. Wrap small sections of hair around the rods, securing them close to the scalp by bending the ends together. If needed, wrap your hair with a scarf or bonnet for comfort. Once dry, remove the rods and apply curl cream for enhanced definition and hold.
7. The Sock Technique
The sock method, when executed correctly, can produce stunning, bouncy waves. Start by dividing damp hair into top and bottom sections, securing the top with a scrunchie. Take a clean sock and clip it toe-side up in the center of the bottom section. Wrap your hair around the sock, then fold the sock over to form a bun shape. Cover the bun with the remaining part of the sock to secure it overnight. Repeat the process with the top section. For a step-by-step guide, check out this video. While the curls may need some adjustment in the morning, they can easily be styled into shape (as shown in the follow-up video).
8. Robe Belt Curls
Robe curls follow a similar approach to the curling headband and leggings methods. Attach the belt of a robe to the top of your head, ensuring equal fabric length on both sides. Divide your hair into two sections and wrap each around the robe belt, starting with the front strands and gradually adding more hair. Secure each side with a silk scrunchie and leave it overnight for effortless waves.
9. Princess Leia-Inspired Buns
This heatless curling method is perfect for long, straight to wavy hair, inspired by a Star Wars icon’s iconic look. The Princess Leia technique uses three curling rods. Begin by lightly dampening your hair with a spray bottle to help set the style. Divide your hair into three sections: front, left, and right. Starting at the ends, roll each section around the rods, forming bun-like circles secured with clips at the top. Sleep in this unique style (trust the process!), and in the morning, remove the clips and rods. Gently finger-comb your hair for soft, voluminous waves.
10. The Scrunchie Hack
This method earns the title of the easiest heatless curling technique, perfect for those who prefer simplicity. It’s also highly customizable—use fewer scrunchies for loose waves or more for tighter curls. Section damp or dry hair into as few as two or as many as ten parts. Twist each section into a small bun and secure it with a scrunchie, or wrap the hair around the scrunchie like a sponge roller, rolling it up to the scalp. In the morning, gently release the scrunchies and shake out your curls for a natural, effortless look.
11. The Sleepy Tie Technique
The techniques mentioned earlier will help you achieve stunning heatless waves and curls. However, this innovative tool is designed to extend the life of your style. After a professional blowout or using one of the no-heat methods to create waves, this scrunchie-like product can boost volume and maintain your look—no heat or washing required. The process is incredibly simple and effective. Start by gathering your hair into a high ponytail with the SleepyTie, placing the thicker part of the scrunchie at the front. Bring the ponytail forward and loop it around the tie, repeating until all your hair is wrapped. Form a figure 8 with the tie, secure the other side around the bun, and you’re done! Sleep (or travel) comfortably and wake up to even more fabulous hair.
