Choose a volumizing thermal protectant if you want additional lift.
You’ll start by curling the bottom half so it helps to keep the top layers up and out of your way.
Short hair can be harder to manipulate using the clamp on a standard curling iron. For fine, fragile hair you may not need to go past 200 degrees. Thicker or healthier hair can withstand temperatures in the 300-degree range. Experiment with different temperature settings until you find what works best for your hair type. In most cases, avoid going past 400 degrees. [5] X Research source
With a heat-resistant glove, you won’t singe your fingers if you accidentally touch the hot barrel of the curling wand. Many curling wands come with a single heat-resistant glove that will cover your fingertips and thumb. If yours doesn’t, pick one up at a local beauty supply store or order one online.
This position may feel a little awkward at first, but with a little practice you’ll get the hang of it![8] X Research source
Make sure you’re angling the hair away from your face, rather than bringing it toward your face, as you work around the wand. On the right side, you’ll twist each strand around the wand in a clockwise manner. Then on the left side, you’ll wrap it counter-clockwise around the wand. Some shorter pieces at your nape may not go all the way around, which is totally fine!
If your short bob features blunt ends or piecey layers, you can highlight this by leaving the ends straight. The ends will sit straight in an effortless-looking style. If you do curl the ends, they may coil out in different directions and look untidy, especially as your curls start to loosen up over the course of the day.
If you pitch the tip of the barrel upwards about 45 degrees, you’ll encourage your curls to lift up at the roots. This will give your curled bob a more natural shape.
As you curl the pieces at the top and progress towards the sides and front of your head, transition from having the wand completely horizontal to holding it at a 45-degree angle to create a natural shape. If you try this trick, you’ll get more volume at your roots. This can help you avoid the triangular bob look, with your hair sitting limp and flat at the crown but poofing out at the sides.
Make sure your hair isn’t dripping wet. You’ll just need a little moisture to help the curls lock into place as your strands dry.
Eventually you’ll flip your curled tresses back over to your natural part for more volume.
Do this by overlapping the bottom strand over the top, and then continuing the twist until the strands are locked together. By wrapping the twists towards your scalp, you’ll end up with curls that angle away from your face.
Use your thumb to lift up each new section of hair before adding it to the twist. Continue adding hair to the twist until you reach your nape. Instead of doing a 2-strand twist, you could instead do a 3-strand French braid if you prefer. This would create S-shaped waves rather than rounded curls, but it will definitely add volume and texture to your bob.
Use a scrunchie instead of a regular hair tie, since the narrow elastic will crease your hair. [20] X Research source If you have a layered bob, it’s okay if some of the ends are poking out.
Make sure to twist the curls towards your scalp so your curls area angled away from your face.
This is a great technique for hair types that don’t hold a curl created with heat-styling tools. If your hair started out pretty damp, feel free to blow-dry the twists. The extra heat will encourage the curls to set as well while drying your hair so you can sleep comfortably.
Avoid brushing through your curls unless you want very soft and full waves.
To backcomb each section, gently push the comb down the strand from the middle toward the roots. to push back some of the individual hairs. Try teasing the back of your bob as well as either side of your part.
For a more tousled look you can scrunch each curl to add texture and distribute the product throughout the strand. An aerosol product will get more evenly distributed and won’t dampen and weight down your curls.
For an even more piecey look, rub a texturizing pomade on your ends.
