[ladybird01]

If I'm trying for the kind of waves in this girls' after pic, would I be better to buy a 32mm (1.25") or 38mm (1.5") curling iron?

http://www.boxno216.com/2012/06/beautiful-...eachy-hair.html

And also...do you need to straighten your hair before using a curling iron to get a smooth starting point, or do you just brush out knots, put on some heat product and start curling?

Any other tips more than welcome! I've tried doing the soft curls/waves with my GHD but can't get it to work.

Thanks!

[melaine]

I don't straighten first because that style needs a bit of a texture, once I straighten my hair it's too soft and sleek and then I'd need more product to curl it.

Not sure about which size would work better though.

[twinboys]

First off - how long is your hair??
Does your hair hold curl??

If your hair is on the longer side and doesn't hold curl that well then you are better off with a smaller diameter tong.
Your hair will start off looking too curly but give it an hour and the hair starts to drop and if you shake it out and run your fingers through the curls they will turn to waves.

[Sal78]

38mm is way too big unless you have really long hair. even 32mm can be a lil big for short hair.

I have a 32mm babyliss pro. i don't think u need to straighten your hair first. those waves in the picture are relaxed already. after curling, you need to apply products and separate the curls with your finger. Unless you just wait for it to drop.

even with 32m,, my curls are way bigger than those and looks much more natural...if you look at the top of her head, u can see lots of dry brittle hair..looks damaged from heat.

If you plan to curl your hair every day then it's probably better off getting a digital perm, your hair will look like that all the time. Go to a japanese or korean hairdresser. the perm lasts about 9 mths.

i think if your hair is already curly it will hold curls well...i have straight hair and after using babyliss pro, my curls last for 2 days.