Hair Styling Tools And Appliances

Air Waves:

Air waves combine the speed of a blow-dryer with the ease of a styling wand or rod. The operate the same way as a blow-dryer, blowing warm air through the shaft. Many wavers are available with a variety of clip-on options, including brushes, prongs and tongs, some with retraceable teeth. Use this for creating soft waves and volume at the roots.
Air Waving Tip: Apply a styling spray or lotion before air waving, and style the hair while it is still damp.

Crimpers:

These consists of two ridged metal plates that produce uniform patterned crimps in straight lines in the hair. The hair has to be straightened first, the crimper is then used to give waves or ripples. Some crimpers have reversible or dual-effect styling plates to give different effects.
Crimper Tips: Do not use on damaged, bleached or over-stressed hair. Brushing crimped hair gives a softer result.

Blow-Dryers:

Choose a dryer that has a range of heat and speed settings so that the hair can be power-dried on high heat, finished on a lower heat, and then used with cool air to actually set the style. The average life expectancy of a blow-dryer is usually between 200 and 300 hours.
Blow-Drying Tips:
– Always point the airflow down the hair shaft to smooth the cuticle and encourage shine.
– Take care not to hold the dryer too near the scalp; it can cause burns.
– When you have finished blow-drying allow the hair to cool thoroughly, then check that the hair is completely dry. Warm hair often gives the illusion of dryness while it is, in fact still damp.
– Never use a dryer without its filter in place – hair can easily be drawn into the machine.

Diffusers And Nozzles:

Originally, diffusers were intended for drying curly hair slowly, in this way encouraging curl formation for scrunched styles. The diffuser serves to spread the airflow over the hair so the curls are not literally blown away. The prongs on the diffuser head also help to increase volume at the root and give lift. Diffusers with flat heads are designed for gentle drying without ruffling, and are more suitable for shorter styles. The newest type of diffuser has long, straight prongs which are designed to inject volume into straight hair while giving a smooth finish.

Heated Rollers:

Heated rollers with spikes were preferred by women cause they had good grip. New types of rollers have ribbed rubber surfaces, which are more gentle on the hair, curved barrel shapes that follow the form of the head, and clip fasteners. Depending on the roller, it takes different amounts of time to heat up. Some rollers heat up fast because they have an element inside each roller, and the heat is transferred directly from the base to the roller. Wax rollers take longer to heat but they retain their temperature for a longer period of time. Use heat rollers for quick sets and are ideal for preparing long hair for dressing.
Heated Roller Tip: Ten minutes is enough time in which to heat up a heated roller-set.