Though relying on heated hair tools has become the norm over the years, alternative tools such at heatless curlers have now emerged, reducing the need for damaging hair tools. While we're not saying that heatless curlers will completely eliminate the need for traditional curling tongs, or wavers, heatless options can help you maintain healthy locks while still flaunting styled hair.
Heatless curlers have been available to purchase for decades now, but platforms such as TikTok have put them on the spotlight, and they are finally making their mark on the beauty industry. Not only are these convenient heat alternatives, but they're also comfortable enough on your scalp that you can sleep in them overnight - the true meaning of beauty sleep.
Grazia's Best Heatless Curlers At A Glance
Editor's Choice: SILKE London Heatless Curler, £42 on LookFantastic
Best Satin Heatless Curlers: Kitsch Satin Wrapped Flexi Rods, £13 on Cult Beauty
Best Heatless Curlers For Frizz Prevention: Easilocks Satin Heatless Curl Kit, £22.99 on Very
Wavy and curly hair has always been one of, if not the most desired hairstyles out there, framing any face perfectly with flattering results. It's a look that we all want to recreate, especially in the era of Dyson Airwaps and Matilda Djerf, the influencer who popularised the voluminous and bouncy wave hair style.
So, if you're keen to get the look but are looking to prevent heat damage to your locks, look no further, because we've scoured the internet and found some of the best heatless curlers to buy right now.
SHOP: The Best Heatless Curlers On The Market Right Now
Editor's Choice
www.lookfantastic.com
Description
A great alternative to using curlers, this SILKE London heatless curl kit is perfect if you're looking to give your hair some styling without damaging it. It comes with a silk heatless curler, hair grips and hair bands.
Pros
- Soft silk material
- Hairstyles in a few hours
Cons
- May not hold as well with longer, thicker hair
Best Satin Heatless Curlers
www.cultbeauty.co.uk
Description
The perfect addition to your hair regime, these Kitsch Satin Wrapped Flexi Rods will give you bouncy blow dry-worthy curls while protecting your scalp from snagging which other heatless curlers are prone to doing. Minimum effort - maximum results.
Pros
- Gentle satin material
- Comfortable to sleep in
Cons
- Some reviewers say the rods fall out of hair if not secured properly
Best Heatless Curlers For Frizz Prevention
www.very.co.uk
Description
The Easilocks Satin Heatless Curl Kit provides effortlessly stunning curls without heat damage. These satin rollers provide comfort and style whilst delivering natural, bouncy curls.
Pros
- Perfect for wet hair
- Made to prevent frizz and damage to hair follicles
Cons
- Not as high-quality as some of the others on this list
Best Heatless Curlers In A Kit
www.lookfantastic.com
Description
Transform hair effortlessly with this innovative kit. Achieve stylish curls using the unique handle design and enjoy a comfortable, hair-friendly experience. Ultimate curling convenience.
Pros
- Luxury satin rods for maximum comfort
- Easy to wash
Cons
- Plastic handle may not have as much longevity as other hair tools
Best Heatless Curlers For Overnight Use
www.urbanoutfitters.com
Description
Effortlessly achieve elegant curls without heat damage with these Ella Shea Heatless Curlers. The innovative design and soft material provide comfortable, easy styling while preserving hair health.
Pros
- Extremely comfortable design for long periods of use
- Comfy to sleep in
Cons
- The foam material may not last as long on rods
Best High Street Heatless Curlers
www.superdrug.com
Description
Embrace heat-free styling with this all-inclusive kit from Superdrugs. Effortlessly create beautiful curls and waves while keeping your hair healthy and damage-free. Perfect for versatile looks.
Pros
- Versatile styling for different hair lengths
- Hair health isn't compromised
Cons
- Takes a while to get used to
Best Budget-Friendly Heatless Curlers
Description
Get effortless curls overnight with this heatless curling headband. Wrap, sleep, and wake up to no fuss, no-heat curls perfect for any occasion. Achieve stylish hair with ease.
Pros
- Comes with a hair grip and attached scrunchies
- Ergonomically designed rod made to sculpt all head shapes
Cons
- Quality may not be as good as others
Should Hair Be Wet Or Dry When Using Heatless Curlers?
Hair should be damp or wet when using heatless curlers, however, using them while hair is dry is typically better for your hair as it prevents unnecessary breakage and damage.
Are Heatless Curlers Really Better For Your Hair?
According to Quelia Doyle, founder of My Beauty Squad, 'Heatless curlers are much better for you, as they avoid the breakage and dehydration associated with heated styling tools'.
She continues, saying that they're 'typically low in cost, gentle on your hair, and the effects can be quite long-lasting - sometimes longer than heat-styled hair.'
How Do Heatless Curlers Work?
Heatless curlers work as the hair takes on the shape of the roller while it dries. There are different types of heatless curlers, the most popular ones are sponge rollers.
'Sponge rollers, for example, are soft, cylindrical rollers made of foam that you can wrap damp hair around. Once secured with clips or pins, the hair takes on the shape of the roller as it dries,' says Doyle.
She continues, saying 'Flexi rods are similar - shapes like flexible, bendable rods, these are shaped so that damp hair will curl if it dries while wrapped around them.'
Still don't think you're ready to take the heatless hair tool plunge? We've got advice on how to curl your hair with straighteners too if you'd rather stick to what you already know.
Emma Richardson is a Beauty & Fashion Products Writer for Grazia. She covers shopping, lifestyle, celebs and anything trending.