Eesha Kulkarni

Ever spent what feels like an eternity wielding a curling iron, only to step back and realise your hair is as lively as a Monday morning? We’ve all been there – the epic battle against flat, lifeless locks that refuse to cooperate, especially right before a party where you planned to dazzle. Well, buckle up, because the latest hair trend sweeping through TikTok might just be the game-changer you’ve been desperately seeking. Say goodbye to the struggles of lacklustre curls and hello to the enchanting realm of ‘contour waves.’ It’s not a magic spell, but it’s pretty darn close. Get ready to turn your hair into the ultimate accessory for stealing the show – no make-up brush required.

What are Contour Waves?

Contour waves are not just your average curls; they’re a strategic play on enhancing your natural features without a single swipe of make-up. The technique involves curling your hair to frame your face, offering two distinct options: inward for a mysterious allure or outward for an open, eye-catching effect. It’s like contouring, but with your locks.

Tools of the Trade

To start styling your hair into contour waves, arm yourself with a reliable curling tool, a heat protectant, and a hairspray for that extra hold. We’re not just curling here; we’re sculpting.

Step-by-Step Guide

Prep with Protection:

Begin with dry hair and apply a weightless heat protectant spray. Think of it as the superhero cape for your tresses.

Divide and Conquer:

Section your hair into bottom, middle, and top layers. For each section, take a one-inch piece, spray it with hairspray, and then curl it.

Normal vs. Contour:

Follow your usual curling routine for the bottom and middle sections. The magic happens at the top, where you’ll create those face-framing waves.

Front and Centre:

Focus on the front pieces by brushing through for a clean canvas. Lightly coat with hairspray and, using a curling iron, create three curls away from your face. This technique ensures attention to your eyes, cheekbones, and jawline.

Hold the Pose:

Let those curls set. Hold each for about 15 seconds before releasing. It’s like a mini photoshoot for your hair.

The Big Reveal:

Once your hair has cooled off, brush through those curls, and get ready for the jaw-dropping moment. The mirror doesn’t lie – contour waves bring out the best in your features, creating a natural, radiant look.

Why Contour Waves

Not only does this technique take no more time than your regular curling routine, but the results are also nothing short of transformative. It’s like having a personal hair contouring session without even going to the salon. The curls strategically draw attention to your eyes, cheekbones, and jawline, leaving you looking bright-eyed and ready to conquer the day.

Tips for Fine Hair

Contour waves aren’t exclusive to certain hair types. For those with fine hair, add bounce with a volumising hair mousse or spray on damp locks. Experiment with curling in different directions for a naturally voluminous look, and always start with a lower temperature setting on your curling tool, gradually increasing as needed.