Since its invention back in the 1940s, VELCRO® Brand hook and loop fasteners have proven remarkably versatile. From hanging art to closing spacesuits, hook and loop fasteners have found applications in all sorts of areas—including beauty. For example, VELCRO® Brand rollers are known for their ability to add bounce, volume and curl to straight hair. What’s more, they can work with or without heat. Here’s a look at how VELCRO® Brand fasteners work, and how to use VELCRO® Brand rollers.
How VELCRO® Brand fasteners Works?
Swiss engineer George de Mestral, who invented VELCRO® Brand fasteners was hunting in the woods one day when he noticed cockleburs sticking to his trousers. Curious as to how they hung on so tightly, he took one of them home and examined it under a microscope. When he saw the burr’s tiny hooks he realized they gripped the fabric of his pants and the idea was born. After experimenting for a while, he came up with the system of hooks and loops we know today as VELCRO® Brand fasteners. Noted for its ability to grip tightly, pull apart, and grip tightly again, VELCRO® Brand fasteners have become a staple of modern life.
How do VELCRO® Brand fasteners Rollers Work?
Of the many different uses and types of VELCRO® Brand fasteners, perhaps one of the most creative is VELCRO® Brand hair rollers. Made of plastic, the hollow cylinders have an outer layer of VELCRO® Brand hooks. This gives them the ability to hold on to your hair without clips—although you can use them if you’d like to provide more support for the curlers.
When you’re considering how to use VELCRO® Brand curlers, it’s important to understand they aren’t intended to create bouncy curls. Instead, these rollers are most useful for giving hair more volume and bounce. When shopping for them, it’s also important to keep the length of your hair in mind. The rollers work best with mid-length to shorter hair. Ideally, your hair should wrap around the roller two to three times at most.
How to Use VELCRO® Brand Rollers?
1. Preparation is Key - Wash your hair and dry it slightly so the strands remain damp. Next, use a detangling brush to straighten the strands. Tangles in your hair will get worse if you roll them. Next, add your favorite leave-in product, such as hair oil or conditioner. This will make your hair more pliable so you can get the best result.
2. Take it From The Top - Starting at the top of your head, part your hair on both sides to create a rectangular section running from your forehead back to the nape of your neck. Use clips to hold the sides in place while you work the center section. Place the rollers starting from the front to the back, rolling your hair from the ends to the roots—away from your face. Repeat the process on both sides, again working from the ends to the roots, rolling up the sides and backs. Use a medium hold spray once all of the rollers are in place.
2a. An Optional Step - You can blow dry once all of the rollers are in. Use a diffuser attachment with a high heat setting and a slow airflow. Blow your hair in the same direction you set the rollers, hitting each of the curlers separately for about five to 10 seconds. This can help speed things up a bit.
3. Wait While They Work - Give the rollers 15 to 30 minutes to do their jobs, depending on the look you’re going for. You can get volume, waves, or loose curls—depending on how long you leave the rollers in place. The more time you allow, the tighter the curls will get. Remove the curlers one by one when you’re satisfied the proper amount of time has passed. Take your time when removing the rollers, you want to unroll them gently instead of just pulling them out, to avoid damaging your hair.
4. Brush and Style - Use a flat brush or a wide-tooth comb to smooth your hair, depending on the finish you want. A comb will give you a smoother finish than a brush. Don’t worry about brushing or combing the result out. Your hair will hold it. Once you have the style you want, use hair spray to set it and you’re good to go.
Straight Hair Works Best
VELCRO® Brand rollers work best on straight hair. Naturally curly hair will get tangled in the hooks and could be damaged. On the other hand, you don’t really need them if your hair is already curly. Understanding how to use the curlers the right way can give your hair more bounce, added volume and extra curl. While the main purpose of VELCRO® Brand curlers is to add volume, smaller ones placed strategically can give your style extra curl, which can add some variety to your finished look.