How to scrunch hair for defined curls

Learn how to scrunch your hair to create poppin' curls!

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How to scrunch hair tutorial: Woman with brown curly shoulder length hair wearing a striped top and denim shirt

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If you have naturally curly or wavy hair, then we’ll bet that your main priorities when it comes to your hair are probably figuring out how to enhance your curls and how to reduce frizz.

Learning to scrunch hair can be an excellent way to revive your curls without any heat or styling tools (yep, really!), so if you’re late to the scrunching party, it’s time to get in on the action.

Who can benefit from this scrunching method? While it’s most effective on hair that already has a natural wave or curl pattern to it, even if your hair is naturally straight, it can still help to add texture and boost volume.

So, if you want to learn all about scrunching hair (and the best hair products we recommend for it), click play on the video above or read on for the step-by-step breakdown.

The easiest way to scrunch hair for waves and curls

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Step 1: Wash your hair.

Scrunching works best with damp hair, so start by washing your hair.

Editor’s tip: Use a microfibre towel or cotton T-shirt to remove excess moisture and help reduce frizz.

How to scrunch hair tutorial: Close up of a woman with curly brown hair which she is drying with a blue microfibre towel
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Step 2: Apply leave-in.

Hydrated curls are smooth curls, so spritz your mane with some of the TRESemmé Botanique Nourish & Replenish Hydrating Mist to help nourish and prep your hair.

How to scrunch hair tutorial: Woman with brown curly hair spraying leave in conditioner into her hair, which is swept over one shoulder
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Step 3: Use mousse.

Pump out a golf ball size of the VO5 Volume Foam Mousse and work it through your hair, making sure you get an even coating throughout.

Scrunch your hair to help encourage and enhance your curl definition. To do this, gather your hair into the palm of your hand, grip it and crumple it up (just like you would a piece of paper) and press it towards your scalp.

Editor’s tip: Flip your head upside down when you’re scrunching to help keep the volume in the roots.

How to scrunch hair tutorial: Close up of a woman with brunette curly hair scrunching her curls with her hands
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Let your hair dry.

Let your hair air dry, encouraging further curl formation by scrunching every 5-10 minutes (or as often as you remember!) until it’s dry. Then set your curls with the TONI&GUY Tousled Texture Creation Spray to help them hold their shape and stay defined.

Editor’s tip: In a rush? You can use a hairdryer (on a low heat setting) to speed up the process. Just remember to use the diffuser nozzle, as this will help prevent frizz.

How to scrunch hair tutorial: Back view of a woman with shoulder length brown curls spraying her hair with TONI&GUY hairspray
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Finished look.

And there you have it. Now you know how to scrunch hair to get the wavy texture you’ve always dreamed of!

How to scrunch hair tutorial: Close up of a woman with shoulder length scrunched curly hair wearing a striped top and a denim shirt

 

 

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