Do you fancy a change from your smooth straight hair? Do you love wild, free-spirited curls but weren't born with them? Fortunately, there are ways to encourage your locks to curl without letting go of your favorite hair straighteners.

Wait 24 hours after washing your hair. Keeping hair a little oily makes it easier to stay in the curl. If you must wash it, such as if your hair gets unbearably greasy, use only a very small amount of shampoo, and do not condition it
Apply a product to help hold the curl and protect your hair, making sure to avoid applying any on the scalp or roots because it might weigh it down too much. Mousse, gel, and hairspray are most commonly used. Try different products and brands.

The easiest way to get curls is to use a medium size straightening iron on dry hair. Toni&Guy and Vidal Sassoon have the best 1inch hair straighteners to use for curling hair.

One by one take a section of hair and beginning at the root, gently to start with hold hair in the straighteners and twist. Hold the hair tighter so it wraps around the edge of the plates and pull the straighteners to the ends of your hair while twisting. The best way to describe this technique is to compare it to curling ribbons on presents with a pair of scissors.

Why not have some fun with your hair straighteners and create some one off special effects for a really daring night out. Take one inch sections of your hair and wrap from top to tail in tinfoil; then starting at the bottom fold consortia style back up to the root; then take your straighteners and hold them on the folded wrap for a few seconds; allow to cool before removing the foil. You will have amazing zig zag effect in your hair.

An even easier way to create that special one off effect is to take sections of hair and braid from top to tip then take your hair straighteners and work the plates down the shaft pressing each section firmly between the plates; this will give you an amazing crimped effect on your hair. Don’t forget to allow your hair to cool off before unbraiding for a longer lasting curl.