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Hollywood wavesthosebouncy, barrel-curled blowoutshave taken red carpets by storm for decades.
The voluminous style has been worn by everyone from Marilyn Monroe in the 1960s toJennifer Lopezin 2024.
“The Hollywood drama comes from all the volume.”
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Ahead, Lordet and Cosmillo break down how to bring Hollywood waves to life at home.
Meet the Experts
How to Achieve Hollywood Waves
There are several different techniques for creating Hollywood waves.
Hot Rollers
Cosmillo says theheated rollertechnique works best on hair that’s already smooth and blown out.
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Let the rollers cool for 20 to 30 minutes before removing them.
“The curling iron will give the most direct heat from root to ends.”
The size of the iron’s barrel will directly impact the style of your waves.
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And if you don’t have a curling iron on hand?
“The curls are all created uniformly and then brushed and sculpted together.”
“Pin curls help add memory after styling with a blow-dryer or curling iron,” she says.
“Larger rollers won’t create as much of a curl on short hair,” he adds.
Thick Hair
For those withthick hair, mastering Hollywood waves requires a multi-step process.
Then, it’s possible for you to use the pin curl method to create your perfect Hollywood waves.
Straight Hair
Preppingstraight hairis key.
As you may have gleaned, most hair types can benefit fromblow-dryingbefore attempting to create waves.
To avoid overdoing it with the hairspray, hold the can 10 inches from your head.
“Using the same-sized roller throughout the hair will help you control the curls and avoid any unevenness.”
“Or, you could apply it while your hair is flipped over to create a quick lift.
Be sure to use a quality brush (boar bristle is best) to avoid further flattening the hair.
Work from underneath your hair in upward motions to create more body and fullness.
“Then, spray your hands with hairspray and gently tap down any flyaways at the root.”
The Final Takeaway
Hollywood waves will forever be a glamorous, timeless hairstyle.
