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For those blessed with curly locks, achieving voluminous, bouncy curls can sometimes feel like an elusive goal. While many factors contribute to the perfect curl, root clipping is a simple yet effective method that can transform your curls from flat and lifeless to full and fabulous.
When combined with the right professional hair care products, root clipping can take your curl game to the next level. Let’s explore how to master the art of root clipping for various types of curls!
Understanding Root Clipping
Root clipping is a technique that lifts your roots away from your scalp as your hair dries, creating volume and preventing the dreaded flat-top look many curly-haired individuals struggle with. This method is especially effective for fine or thin hair, but it works for all curl types — from loose waves to tight coils.
The basic principle behind root clipping is simple. By holding the roots up and away from the scalp during drying, you’re training your hair to grow in a more lifted, voluminous manner. In addition to creating instant volume, it helps maintain that volume throughout the day.
Preparing Your Hair for Root Clipping
Before you start clipping, be sure to prepare your hair properly. This is where using the right products comes into play! DevaCurl Curly Hair Care Products are specifically formulated for curly hair, making them an excellent choice for this process.
Begin by cleansing your hair with a sulfate-free shampoo or a co-wash conditioner like DevaCurl’s No-Poo conditioning cleanser. This gentle cleanser removes buildup without stripping your curls of their natural oils. Follow up with a hydrating conditioner like DevaCurl One Condition to quench thirsty locks without weighing down your curls.
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After cleansing and conditioning, it’s time to apply your styling products. DevaCurl’s SuperCream is an excellent option! Apply this product using the praying hands method to ensure even distribution from roots to ends.
The Root Clipping Process
After prepping your hair, it’s time to start clipping those roots. Begin with damp, not soaking wet, hair. If your hair is too wet, the weight of the water will pull down your roots, defeating the purpose of clipping.
Section your hair into manageable portions. The number of sections depends on your hair’s thickness and what type of curls you have. Generally, those with looser curls or finer hair need fewer sections, while those with tighter curls or thicker hair require more.
Starting at the crown of your head, take a small section of hair (about one to two inches wide) and lift it straight up from your scalp. Place a root clip at the base of this section, as close to your scalp as possible. The clip should hold the hair up and away from your scalp at a 90-degree angle.
Continue this process around your head, focusing on where you want the most volume — usually the crown and areas around your face. If you have longer hair, you may also want to clip sections at the nape of your neck.
Be mindful of your curl pattern as you work. Different types of curls require slightly different clipping techniques. For instance, smaller sections work best for tight coils, while looser waves are better suited to larger sections.
Drying Your Clipped Curls
Air drying is the gentlest method for drying your clipped curls. However, you can use a diffuser on a low heat setting if you’re short on time. Whether air drying or using your blow dryer, leave the clips in place until your hair is about 80 percent dry. Depending on your hair’s thickness and porosity, this could take anywhere from 30 minutes to a couple of hours.
Removing the Clips and Finishing Your Style
When your hair is almost dry, remove the clips, taking care to avoid disrupting your curl pattern. Then, flip your head upside down and scrunch your curls to encourage more volume and definition.
At this point, you can apply a finishing product to enhance your curls and add hold. DevaCurl Ultra Defining Gel is an excellent choice for this step. It provides long-lasting hold without leaving your curls crunchy or stiff.
Use your fingers or a pick to gently lift your roots for an extra boost of volume. Be careful not to overdo this step, as too much manipulation can cause frizz.
Wrapping Up
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Root clipping is a powerful technique that dramatically enhances your curls’ volume and shape. When combined with high-quality, curl-specific products like those from DevaCurl, you can achieve stunning, voluminous curls that last all day.
Mastering root clipping may take some practice and experimentation, so don’t be discouraged if your first attempts don’t yield perfect results. With time and practice, you’ll learn to adapt this technique to your curl type and desired style, so feel free to experiment.
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