Styling fine or silky raw hair extensions to hold curls can be tricky. Whether you’re preparing for a special event, a photoshoot, or just want to change up your look, ensuring your curls stay in place is essential.
Silky textures often struggle to maintain curls, causing them to loosen or fall flat quickly. However, with the right methods, products, and tools, you can create beautifully defined curls that last all day—and even into the night.
In this guide, we’ll cover four key steps to help you achieve long-lasting, voluminous curls. Let’s get started!
Step 1: Begin with Fresh, Clean Hair
For curls that last, it’s essential to start with a clean foundation. Despite the popular belief that slightly dirty hair holds curls better, product buildup can actually weigh down fine or silky raw hair extensions, making them stiff and lifeless. The key to achieving soft, bouncy curls is ensuring your hair remains light and free-flowing.
Here’s how to properly cleanse your extensions:
- Use a mild, sulfate-free shampoo to gently remove dirt, oil, and product residue without stripping moisture.
- Follow up with a lightweight conditioner, applying it mainly to the mid-lengths and ends to prevent roots from becoming heavy.
With freshly washed and prepped hair, you’ll create the perfect base for curls that hold their shape while maintaining natural movement.
Step 2: Blow Dry to Enhance Natural Texture
When prepping fine or silky hair extensions for curling, the goal isn’t to achieve a pin-straight finish—it’s to create a lightweight, textured base that helps curls hold their shape. You want to eliminate any unevenness or kinks while maintaining natural movement that supports long-lasting curls.
Here’s how to do it effectively:
Skip the High-Tension Tools:
Avoid using paddle or round brushes, as they can smooth the hair too much, making it harder for curls to hold. Instead, use a wide-tooth comb or simply your fingers to guide the hair while drying.
Work with the Hair’s Natural Flow:
Dry in sections, directing the airflow downward to smooth the cuticle without over-straightening. Keep the dryer a few inches away from the hair and move steadily from root to tip.
Maintain Softness and Body:
Over-smoothing can make the hair too sleek for curls to grip, so aim for a finish that is smooth yet retains some natural texture. The right balance will ensure your curls last longer and look effortlessly voluminous.
This technique preps your hair perfectly, creating just the right amount of texture to help curls stay intact while keeping your strands soft and manageable. Plus, it’s a quick and effortless process—ideal for busy days or when you need a fast styling routine.
Step 3: Use High Heat & Pin for Long-Lasting Curls
With your hair properly prepped, it’s time to curl! The tools and techniques you use will determine how well your curls hold, especially on fine or silky hair.
Set the Right Heat Level
Silky or fine-textured hair often struggles to maintain curls, so using a high-temperature setting—around 450°F—is key. Opt for a curling iron with an adjustable heat setting to ensure even heat distribution. A titanium barrel works best for silky extensions since it heats quickly and provides consistent curls without excessive exposure.
How to Curl Properly
Section your hair into medium-sized parts using the narrow end of a comb.
Lightly mist each section with a heat protectant spray before curling.
Wrap the hair around the curling iron, keeping the ends smooth and untwisted.
Hold the hair on the barrel for 10-15 seconds, then carefully release it.
The Power of Pinning Curls
As soon as you release a curl, immediately roll it back into a coil and secure it to your scalp with a clip or pin. This step is crucial because hair retains the shape it cools in. By allowing the curls to set in place while they cool, you lock in their structure and prevent them from loosening too soon.
Repeat the process for all sections and let the pinned curls cool completely for at least 10-15 minutes before moving on to the final step.
Step 4: Lock in Your Curls with a Light-Hold Spray
To make sure your curls last, the final touch is setting them with a lightweight holding spray. Avoid heavy or sticky formulas, as they can weigh down fine hair and make it feel stiff. Instead, choose a flexible-hold spray that provides lasting definition while keeping your curls soft and bouncy.
How to Apply It Effectively:
Once your curls have fully cooled and the pins are removed, gently separate them using your fingers. Avoid combs or brushes, as they can break up the curl structure. -
Hold the hairspray 8-10 inches away from your head and mist lightly for an even distribution.
For extra volume, flip your head upside down and apply a light spritz to the roots before flipping back up.
The result? Full, airy curls that stay in place while still looking effortless and natural.