A roller set has become one of my favorite ways to wear my sister locs. You get the glamour and polish of a traditional blowout without the resulting heat damage. Not to mention, a solid roller set only looks better as the week goes on. My current hair regimen is to wash and set my hair on Sunday, then let the curls fall naturally throughout the week. Here’s how I achieve bouncy, touchable curls that have me feeling like that girl all week long.
1. Start with clean hair
Clean hair is nonnegotiable for a long-lasting roller set. Product buildup weighs curls down and dulls their movement. I personally use a sulfate-free shampoo to cleanse thoroughly while also preserving my highlights.
2. Allow hair to partially air dry
This step makes or breaks the set. Once rollers are in, the drying process slows significantly, and curls won’t form properly if there’s lingering moisture. I always allow my hair to air dry partially before setting to ensure everything dries fully once rolled. Dry hair equals smooth, defined curls with real staying power.
3. Apply products sparingly
I personally apply a volumizing mousse to my hair before setting. Apply just enough to coat each strand without weighing the hair down. Curls with excess product will appear limp and not age as well
4. Invest in pillow rollers
The easiest way to make sure your hair is completely dry? Sleep in your rollers overnight. Pillow rollers are the ultimate healthy hair hack—no heat necessary, though they work beautifully with a hooded dryer if you prefer. They’re comfortable to sleep in and somehow manage to make the whole process feel glamorous, like channeling a sultry pin-up girl while protecting your hair.
5. Preserve at night
To keep curls intact, nighttime care matters. Invest in a satin or silk pillowcase or bonnet to minimize friction and protect the shape of the curls. This allows them to relax gradually instead of collapsing overnight, helping your roller set age gracefully throughout the week.