Velcro rollers come in many sizes and are meant to give hair the appearance of more volume. “I would only use Velcro rollers as a way to maintain volume and body, not really to create curl,” says Leigh Hardges, a hairstylist based in Chicago. “For tighter curls, you would need to use smaller rollers, although I really don’t suggest this since pin curls would be a better fit for that.”
If big, bouncy curls are what you’re after, Velcro rollers may not be the best option. “Your hair will bounce, but the curls that you see at the initial roller release will convert into a curvaceous bevel near the ends after you toss and fingerstyle your hair,” she says.
What are the benefits of using Velcro rollers?
Ryan Trygstad, a New York City–based hairstylist, echoes James and Hardges: Velco rollers are all about adding that bouncy body to your crown. “[They’re] also great for setting your hair and keeping it out of your face while you’re applying your makeup.” The rollers’ self-gripping feature easily keeps your hair in place, and, as James notes, “provides a quick hair fluff to your style in little time.”
Another notable benefit: “No heat,” says Los Angeles–based hairstylist Michael Dueñas, who switches between hot tools and Velcro rollers when he’s creating these kinds of looks. “You can brush your hair smooth when it is damp, apply your rollers, and let your hair air-dry,” he says. “This also locks in your style much longer than hot tools and a blow-dryer. As your hair dries, formed to the curler, your style will last hours, if not days longer.”
And let’s not forget affordability and convenience. Using Velcro rollers can give you the look of a professional blowout without the expensive price tag or salon visit. This Conair set I got from Amazon is $9. (I got two since I wanted more of the large-size rollers.) Hardges recommends her favorites: the Drybar High Tops Self-Grip Rollers and Kitsch Ceramic Thermal Hair Rollers. You can also find Velcro rollers at most drug and beauty supply stores.
How to use Velcro rollers:
1. Prep your hair
Velcro rollers work on damp or dry hair; it’s up to you which you want to start with. If you’re short on time, using them with a blow-dryer can speed up the process (more on that in step three).