There’s something about a head of beautiful curls that makes any hairstyle feel a little more special. Whether you love soft, romantic waves, bouncy curls with plenty of volume or defined spirals that make a statement, curls are one of the most versatile ways to style your hair. And with hair extensions, achieving your desired look becomes even easier, giving you extra length, fullness and movement to work with.
If your natural hair struggles to hold a curl, or you simply want more volume and length for your favourite curly hairstyles, quality hair extensions can help you create a fuller finish. The secret is choosing the right curling method for your desired result and preparing your hair extensions properly before styling.
From classic heat-styled curls to overnight techniques that require no heated tools, there are several ways to create beautiful curls with hair extensions. In this guide, we’re sharing 3 easy methods, along with practical tips to help your curls last and your hair extensions stay looking their best.
“Beautiful curls start with the right preparation and a styling technique that works for your hair. Hair extensions give you the freedom to create everything from soft, natural-looking waves to fuller, more defined curls, adding length and volume to every look. Always to use heat protection, style at a maximum 180 degrees and handle your hair extensions gently to help maintain their softness, shine and longevity.”
– Tom Clark, CEO & Founder at SWAY
Can You Curl Hair Extensions?
Yes, many human hair extensions can be curled using heated styling tools, just like your natural hair. Because human hair extensions can be styled into different shapes and textures, they offer plenty of flexibility when you want to switch up your look.
However, there are a few things to consider before reaching for your curling wand. Always check the care instructions for your specific hair extensions, as styling recommendations can vary depending on the product and construction. At SWAY we recommended using a Heat Protectant and keeping styling tools at a maximum 180 degrees. Synthetic hair extensions may not be suitable for heat styling.
It's also important to remember that hair extension does not receive natural oils from the scalp in the same way as your own hair. This means gentle handling, using The Award Winning Hydrate System and keeping styling tools at a maximum 180 degrees.
Before curling, make sure your hair is clean, dry and thoroughly detangled. Apply a suitable heat protectant before using styling tools, and avoid excessive temperatures. If you wear salon-applied hair extensions, take care around the attachment points and follow your salon professional advice on which techniques are suitable for your method.
Once your hair is prepared, you're ready to choose your curl.
Method 1: Use a Curling Wand for Soft, Bouncy Curls
If you're looking for classic curls with movement, definition and a salon-worthy finish, a curling wand is a great place to start. This method gives you control over the size and shape of your curls, making it easy to create anything from loose waves to more defined spirals.
It's particularly useful when you want your natural hair and hair extensions to blend seamlessly, as you can curl both together to create a consistent texture.
How to Create the Look
Step 1: Prepare your hair. Start with completely dry, detangled hair. Apply a heat protectant, making sure it is distributed as directed before you begin styling.
Step 2: Divide your hair into sections. Working in smaller sections makes it easier to achieve an even finish. If you're wearing Clip-Ins hair extensions, make sure they are securely positioned before styling, and avoid applying direct heat to the attachment areas. For salon-applied hair extensions, follow your salon professional advice on sectioning and heat placement.
Step 3: Curl in manageable sections. Take a section of hair and wrap it around the barrel of your curling wand, keeping the tool away from your scalp and hair extension attachments. Hold for the length of time recommended for your tool and hair type, keeping the temperature at a maximum 180 degrees, then release gently. Avoid leaving the hair wrapped around the barrel for longer than necessary.
Step 4:Allow each curl to cool. This is an important step if you want your style to last. Rather than brushing through the curls immediately, allow them to cool and settle into shape before touching them too much.
Step 5: Finish with your preferred texture. For defined curls, leave the sections largely intact. For a softer, more relaxed look, gently separate the curls with your fingers or use a hair extensions friendly brush once the hair has cooled. Finish with a The Hair Hero, for UV protection and many more benefits.
How to Make Your Curls Look Natural
The key to beautifully blended curls is consistency. If your natural hair is noticeably straighter than your hair extensions, curling only the hair extensions can leave a visible difference in texture. Styling both together, where your hair extension method allows, helps create a more cohesive result.
You can also vary the direction of your curls slightly for a softer, more natural-looking finish. For a classic, glamorous style, try curling away from the face around the front sections. If you prefer a relaxed look, alternate the direction through the lengths to create more movement.
A curling wand with a larger barrel generally creates looser curls, while a smaller barrel creates a tighter pattern. Remember that the final result also depends on your hair's length, thickness and ability to hold a curl.
Method 2: Create Heatless Curls for an Effortless Finish
If you prefer to limit heat styling, heatless curls are a useful alternative. They can create soft waves and gentle curls without relying on a curling wand or straighteners, making them a popular option for everyday styling.
The result depends on the technique you choose, how damp or dry the hair is when you begin and how long you leave the style in place. Heatless methods usually create a softer curl pattern rather than the precise definition of a heated tool, but that can be part of their appeal.
How to Create Heatless Curls
Step 1: Start with dry or almost-dry hair. Follow the instructions for your chosen heatless tool. Some methods work best on slightly damp hair, while others are designed for completely dry lengths. Avoid wrapping hair extensions while they are wet, and ensure the hair is fully dry before removing the curling tool or going to bed.
Step 2:Detangle carefully. Brush through your hair gently, working from the ends upwards. Removing knots before wrapping the hair helps create a smoother result and makes the curls easier to release.
Step 3:Wrap or twist the hair. Depending on your preferred technique, you can use a heatless curling ribbon, soft rollers or loose twists. Divide the hair into sections and wrap each section smoothly without pulling too tightly. If you wear Clip-Ins hair extensions, ensure the hair extensions are secure and positioned comfortably before styling.
Step 4:Secure the sections gently. Use soft scrunchies or the fastening supplied with your heatless tool. Avoid tight elastics that may leave unwanted dents or create unnecessary tension.
Step 5: Allow the hair to set. Leave the hair in place for the recommended time, ensuring it is completely dry if you began with any moisture. Release the sections carefully rather than pulling the curls apart.
Step 6: Shape your finished style. Use your fingers to separate the curls and create the amount of volume you prefer. Finish with a The Hair Hero, for added benefit and can help refine the look without weighing the hair down.
Which Heatless Technique Should You Try?
A heatless curling ribbon is ideal if you want loose, flowing curls with a relatively uniform shape. Soft rollers can offer more control over curl size, depending on their diameter. Loose twists or braids create a more relaxed, textured result rather than traditional ringlets.
For hair extensions, the most important consideration is gentle handling. Avoid wrapping the hair so tightly that it pulls at the attachment points, and choose a method that feels comfortable if you plan to wear it for a few hours.Heatless curls may not hold equally well in every hair type, especially in humid conditions. If your hair naturally drops out of a curl quickly, experiment with the technique and setting time before an important occasion.
Method 3: Use Rollers for Volume and Defined Curls
For a fuller, bouncier finish, rollers are a classic styling option. They can create anything from soft, voluminous waves to more structured curls, depending on the roller size, how the hair is wrapped and whether you use heated or non-heated rollers.
This method is particularly useful when your main goal is volume at the roots (away from the attachment area) and movement through the lengths. It can also help create a polished finish for events, special occasions or days when you want your hair to feel a little more styled.
How to Create Roller Curls
Step 1:Choose your rollers. Larger rollers generally create softer, looser waves and a fuller shape, while smaller rollers create tighter curls. Select a size that suits the result you want and the length of your hair.
Step 2: Prepare the hair. Detangle thoroughly and follow the instructions for your chosen roller type. If you're using heated rollers, check that they are suitable for your hair and hair extensions (keeping the temperature at recommendation). If you're using non-heated rollers, make sure the hair is at the appropriate level of dryness for the technique.
Step 3: Section the hair evenly. Divide the hair into manageable sections. Smaller sections usually provide more defined results, while larger sections can create a softer finish. Take care not to pull the hair tightly around your hair extension attachments.
Step 4:Roll each section smoothly. Starting at the ends, position the roller and wrap the hair evenly towards the head. Secure it gently, following the roller manufacturer's instructions.
Step 5: Let the curls set. Allow heated rollers to cool before removing them. For non-heated rollers, follow the recommended setting time and ensure the hair is fully dry before releasing the sections.
Step 6: Remove and style. Unroll each section carefully, avoiding tugging or pulling. Allow the curls to settle before using your fingers or a hair extension friendly brush to shape the final look. Finish with a The Hair Hero, for added benefit and to complete the look.
How to Get More Volume from Your Curls
If you want extra lift, consider the direction in which you place your rollers. Rolling sections away from the face around the front can create a flattering, open finish, while varying the placement through the rest of the hair can add movement.
Once the rollers are removed, avoid brushing through the curls too soon. Letting them cool and settle first can help preserve their shape. When you're ready, gently lift the roots with your fingers and separate the lengths to create a fuller silhouette.
How to Make Your Hair Extension Curls Last Longer
Creating the curls is only half the process. If you've spent time styling your hair, you'll naturally want the finished look to last as long as possible. While curl retention varies between hair types, hair extension textures and weather conditions, a few simple habits can help.
Start with a suitable base. Hair that is thoroughly detangled and correctly prepared is easier to style evenly. Follow the aftercare Hydrate System, always use heat protectant and keep styling tool temperatures at a maximum 180 degrees creates a suitable base to prepare styling.
Let curls cool before brushing. This applies particularly to curling wands and heated rollers. Handling curls while they're still warm can disturb their shape, so give them time to cool before separating or brushing them out.
Choose the finish you want. For defined curls, minimise brushing and separate the sections gently with your fingers. For softer waves, use a hair extension friendly brush once the curls have cooled and settled.
Consider the weather. Humidity and rain can affect both your natural hair and your hair extensions. If the forecast is damp, a loosely pinned style or a more relaxed curl pattern may be easier to maintain than highly structured ringlets.
Keep up with your salon maintenance appointments. Regular appointments are essential for keeping your hair extensions looking their best and maintaining the health of your natural hair. Your salon professional can assess the condition of both your natural hair and hair extensions, check the application and recommend when your hair extensions should be refitted or replaced. Following a consistent maintenance schedule helps ensure your hair extensions remain beautiful, secure and healthy-looking.
Find Your Curl with SWAY Hair Extensions
Whether you're drawn to soft, romantic waves, defined curls or a bouncy, voluminous finish, the right styling technique can help you create a look that feels completely your own. A curling wand offers control and definition, heatless techniques provide a gentler alternative, and rollers are ideal for building body and movement.
Hair extensions give you even more flexibility by adding the length and fullness needed to experiment with different styles. The key is to choose a method that suits your hair, prepare your hair extensions correctly and handle them with care throughout the styling process.
At SWAY Hair Extensions, we believe great hair should work with your individual style and routine. With the right approach, you can enjoy beautiful curls that complement your natural hair and give you the freedom to switch up your look whenever you feel like it.
How to Get Curly Hair with Hair Extensions: FAQs
1. Can I curl SWAY Hair Extensions with a curling wand?
Human hair extensions can generally be curled with heated tools, but always check the care instructions for your specific SWAY product first. Use heat protection, follow the recommended temperature guidance and avoid applying direct heat to attachment points.
2. What is the easiest way to curl hair extensions?
A curling wand is a straightforward option if you want defined curls and control over the finished look. For a heat-free alternative, try a curling ribbon or soft rollers, following the instructions for your chosen technique.
3. Do curls hold in hair extensions?
They can, but how long they last depends on the hair type, styling method and weather conditions. Allow curls to cool or set fully before brushing, and finish with The Hair Hero.
4. Can I curl my hair extensions overnight without heat?
Yes, heatless curling ribbons, soft rollers and loose twists can create curls without heated tools. Follow the instructions for your chosen method, avoid excessive tension and make sure your hair extensions are completely dry before removing the curlers.
