Horizontal vs Vertical Hair Rollers - Which Creates Better Curls?

The Differences Between Horizontal and Vertical Hair Rollers

Hair rollers have been a staple in hair styling for generations. Women have used these simple devices to add voluminous curls and waves to their hair. While the concept is straightforward, there are two main types of rollers to choose from: horizontal and vertical.

What are Horizontal Hair Rollers?

Horizontal rollers are designed so that the roller sits horizontally on the head while in use. They tend to be longer from end to end. These rollers allow more hair to be wrapped around them at one time. The result is usually looser, bigger curls or waves.

Some key benefits of horizontal rollers include:

• Larger curl size
• Faster to roll longer hair
• Provides more volume
• Great for longer hair

What are Vertical Hair Rollers?

Vertical rollers stand upright on the head with the length extending from top to bottom. They tend to be shorter than horizontal rollers. Less hair gets wrapped on each roller, resulting in tighter curls or waves.

Some key benefits of vertical rollers include:

• Tighter curl pattern
• Better grip to keep hair rolled
• Faster to roll for short hair
• Adds bounce and shape

Deciding Between Horizontal and Vertical Hair Rollers

When deciding on horizontal vs. vertical hair rollers, there are a few factors to consider:

Hair Length and Thickness

If you have very long, thick hair, horizontal rollers allow you to roll more hair faster. The larger barrel also helps control extremely thick hair better. For short to medium length fine or thin hair, vertical rollers give more volume.

Desired Curl Size

Do you want loose, soft waves or bouncy ringlets? Horizontal rollers excel at loose curls with lots of body. For springy spirals, vertical rollers give a tighter curl. Figure out your ideal finished look curl size.

Hairstyle Practicality

Think about your day-to-day lifestyle. For special occasions, large voluminous curls may be perfect. But for regular styles you need to repeat often, tighter curls may hold up better against humidity and activity.

Tips for Using Horizontal Hair Rollers

Once you’ve decided horizontal rollers will give you the look you want, follow these tips for success:

Prep Your Hair Properly

Always start with clean, dry hair for long-lasting curl. Apply any prep products evenly throughout hair. Setting lotions can help grab and hold a curl.

Roll Hair Smoothly Around the Barrel

Use clips or pins to section hair neatly. Smoothly roll 1-2 inch sections of hair around the roller towards your face, avoiding overlaps. Secure ends with clips.

Let Rollers Cool Completely Before Removing

This allows the curl to set fully. Don’t cheat and unwrap early or you’ll lose curl formation. Anywhere from 10-30 minutes cooling time should suffice.

Use a Light Hold Finishing Product

As you remove rollers, spray each curl lightly with hairspray or finishing serum. This keeps the volume and curl shape formed while preventing crunchiness or hardness in hair.

Tips for Using Vertical Hair Rollers

To master vertical rollers for bouncy, springy curls, use these handy tips:

Work in Small Sections

Vertical rollers require you work through hair in smaller sections, about 1 inch wide. Larger sections may not grip the roller properly from top to bottom.

Roll Downward Towards Ends

Smooth hair tightly down the roller, always rolling downwards rather than under towards your scalp. This prevents awkward bends in the hair shape.

Vary Roller Size Throughout Hair

Using different roller diameters through different sections creates dimension. Alternate between large, medium and small rollers depending on area fullness desired.

Finger Roll Ends

To avoid creasing when wrapping ends around roller bases, twist ends around your finger then wrap smoothly onto base to anchor curl.

Achieve Versatile, Beautiful Styles

Both horizontal and vertical rollers have stood the test of time because they work! Learn to use both roller directions for beautiful, versatile curl styles. With practice, you’ll achieve salon-worthy volume and bounce every time.

Now that you know the differences between roller positions, it’s time to try them! Stock up on supplies so you can create #HairFoodChallenge looks all year long. Don’t forget the all-important finishing sprays to lock in your new #hotrollers and #hairrollers styles. We can’t wait to see your amazing #hairtok creations!

FAQs

What is the difference between vertical and horizontal rollers?

The main difference lies in how they are positioned when used. Horizontal rollers sit flat along the head with the roller's length extending side to side. Vertical rollers stand upright along the head with the roller's length extending from top of the head downwards.

When should I use horizontal rollers?

Use horizontal rollers when you want loose, big waves and curls with lots of body. They work well for long, thick hair that needs quick rolling.

When should I use vertical rollers?

Vertical rollers create tighter curl patterns best for short to medium hair wanting bounce. They add shape and curl grip that stands up well to humidity or activity.

Should I use hairspray with rollers?

Yes, always finish rollers with a light hold hairspray or serum. This sets the curl or wave in place once rollers are removed without making hair crunchy or too stiff.