How to Curl Really Short Hair without Heat

Have you been struggling to find a way to curl your very short hair?

If you’ve just had a dramatic chop or are looking to try your hand at curling your short bob, you may find it intimidating!

Curling hair can be difficult when you have less hair to work with. There’s just not enough length to hold onto when using heat-styling tools like curling irons and hot rollers.

But it doesn’t have to be a struggle. 

With the right hairstyle, tools, and styling products, you can have sultry curls — without all the heat. 

This article will give you some tips and tricks about how to curl really short hair without heat!

They’re great for creating volume and bounce in short hairstyles since you don’t have to worry about getting too close to the scalp with heated styling tools.

To make it easier for you to follow through, we’ve rounded up these video tutorials that will teach you how, step by step. Great if you need a little hand-holding. 

Here are four easy tutorials that show you how to achieve heatless curls. 

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4 Ways How to Create Heatless Curls When You’ve Got Short Hair

1. Overnight Flat Twist Braids

You want to start with wet hair. You can either wet your hair or take a shower and start with clean hair. 

For prep, wrap your hair in a towel and let it soak out the excess moisture. Do this for approximately 15 minutes or until your hair is damp.

Once damp, remove the towel from your hair. Apply an oil treatment such as L’Oreal Paris Elvive to help soften hair and reduce frizz. 

Then we’re ready to get started.

1. For this look, you’ll need four hair ties. Start by parting your hair in the middle. 
2. Section off your hair into two sections on each side. 
3. Grab a small section from the top part of your hair. Just a pinch is enough. Take a second section underneath it and begin twisting the two sections around each other. 
4. While you’re twisting each section, grab more hair from underneath and include this in the twist, as you do with a regular braid. Keep braiding until all the hair on one side is finished. Tie the bottom of the braid with your hair tie. You can use two hair ties to make the knot tight. 
5. Repeat on the other side. 
6. Leave your braids in overnight or until they are dry. 

Once your hair is dry, remove your hair tie and unravel your braids. You can keep the center part or part hair to the side for a different look. To finish the look, scrunch your curls for a bit of volume. 

CHECK OUT: Our Ultimate Guide on How To Curl Short Hair

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2. Curlformers by Milabu

Curlformers is a type of curler that gives you waves without any heat. It’s actually a good heatless curler to sleep in!

They have different-sized curlers that can help you achieve a range of curls, from smaller tight ringlets to looser voluminous curls. 

For tighter curls, you can use either the green and blue curler. While for loose waves, I recommend using the red and orange Curlformer.

You want to start with wet hair or slightly damp hair. Section off your hair before you start curling.

1. Place one Curlformer onto the hook. 
2. Grab a small section of hair between your fingers and pull your hair through the Curlformer hook. Push downwards. 
3. With your other hand, pull the curler upwards. Once the hook is all the way through, the curler will tighten around your hair. Remove the hook.
4. Repeat until there’s no hair left to curl. You’ll want to use as many curlers as possible. 
5. Once finished, wait until your hair completely dries. 
6. When your hair dries, unravel the curler and pull it out. 

READ: No Heat Curls for Short Hair

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3. Bathrobe Curls for Loose Beach Waves 

You’re on holiday, sitting in your hotel room thinking, I wish I could curl my hair, but I have no tools. 

Little did you know that the bathrobe hanging behind the door is your ultimate styling tool. 

Bathrobe curls are similar to rag curls in a way; it’s just easier than using rags or old cotton shirts.

For this look, you want your hair to be almost dry before starting but not completely dry. 

You can either blow dry hair or let your hair air dry before curling. Blow-drying without the wand reduces the amount of heat when compared to using two heating tools. 

Let’s get started!

1. Part your hair into the middle and section off into two sides. 
2. Grab the robe and place it on your head. Two inches back from your forehead. Make sure the robe is centered on your head.
3. Grab two inches of hair on one side and start twirling the section around the robe. 
4. As you twist the front section, continue to add bits of hair from the back section, like a braid. 
5. Continue this until you’ve braided all your hair around the bathrobe. 
6. Once you’re done with that section, secure the ends with a hair tie. Repeat on the other side. 
7. When your hair is completely dry, either by air-drying or blow-dry, undo your braid. You can leave it as a center part or restyle it to a side part. 

Finish off the look by parting it to the side and scrunch your curls to finish the look. You can also use this for curling short layered hair.

If you want to take bathrobe curls a little further, you can use Heatless Hair Curling Ribbon. They’re even better for your hair since the curl ribbons are made with silk, instead of cotton that bathrobes are usually made off.

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4. The Twisted Bun for Ringlets 

It’s best to do this on damp or towel-dried hair. If you start with dry hair, apply a leave-in or styling cream. 

1. Section hair into four sections and secure it with a hair tie. 
2. Take one section and comb it through, so it’s tangle-free. 
3. Start high towards the scalp and begin twisting the section of hair. Twist the section towards the back or counterclockwise. 
4. Continue twisting until the hair starts to buckle on itself. Keep twisting until as you twirl your hair around the twist to create a small bun. 
5. Tuck the hair underneath and secure it with a hair tie at the base of the bun. Make sure the twist is secure to make the curl nice and tight. 
6. Repeat this for the remaining sections. 
7. Once all four sections are complete, you can place a scarf or stocking on your head so that it’s comfortable to sleep in. 

In the morning, remove the twists and slowly begin to separate your curls.

You can add a bit of edge control for texture as you style. Use a fine-toothed comb at the top of your hair to style the curl in place. 

CHECK OUT: 5 Minute Heatless Curls for Short Hair

Frequently Asked Questions about Curling Short Hair without Heat:

1. Can I curl really short hair without using heat tools?

Absolutely! You can achieve charming curls in short hair without heat. It’s a gentle method that protects your hair from heat damage.

2. What are some popular heatless methods for curling short hair?

Heatless methods include using flexi rods, foam rollers, braiding, twisting, and the classic overnight buns. These techniques create beautiful curls without subjecting your hair to heat.

3. How long does it typically take for heatless curls to set in short hair?

The time varies based on your hair type and the chosen method. On average, heatless curls need several hours or overnight to set. Patience is key for the best results.

4. Can I sleep with heatless curling tools in my short hair?

Yes, many heatless methods are designed to be worn overnight. Just ensure they’re comfortable and secure to avoid disruption while sleeping.

5. Are there specific products or techniques to enhance heatless curls in short hair?

You can apply a light-hold hair product or a setting spray before curling to enhance the longevity of your heatless curls. Additionally, experimenting with different wrapping and twisting techniques can create unique curl patterns.

6. Can I achieve different curl sizes with heatless methods on short hair?

Yes, the size of the curls depends on the method and the thickness of the sections you use. Smaller sections create tighter curls, while larger sections result in looser waves.

7. Do heatless curls last as long as curls created with heat tools?

Heatless curls may not last as long as those created with heat tools, but they can still provide a charming look for the day. Using styling products and setting techniques can help extend their lifespan.

8. Can I use heatless curling methods for special occasions with short hair?

Absolutely! Heatless curls are perfect for special occasions. Plan ahead to ensure your curls are well-set and styled to perfection for your big day or night out.

9. How do I maintain and refresh heatless curls in short hair throughout the day?

Lightly misting your curls with water and scrunching them can help refresh heatless curls. You can also use a touch of hairspray or a revitalizing hair product to maintain their shape.

10. Are there any additional tips for curling short hair without heat?

Experiment with different heatless methods to find the one that works best for your hair type and desired style. Don’t be afraid to get creative and embrace the unique charm of your short curls.

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Wrapping Things Up

Super short hair is sometimes hard to deal with, but these easy styling tricks can help you get the perfect curl without using heat. 

Hopefully, this article has given you some inspiration and great tips for how to curl really short hair without heat!

Whether your locks are super-short or cropped, there’s an ideal way to get the perfect curly look. 

You can also use these techniques with longer lengths that need a boost of volume or bounce; it’ll help keep things looking natural and soft instead of stiff like they would if you use curling irons or hot rollers on them. 

Try out one of these styling tricks next time your hair needs a little pick me up!