The world of hair rollers can seem daunting; after all there's so much to choose from these days. Whether you're intrigued to ditch your hair straighteners in favour of heatless curlers or you've been wondering which type of roller best suits your hair type, we've got your haircare questions covered.
What type of hair rollers are best?
There are plenty of hair rollers on the market, from more traditional velcro style ones to heated versions that add volume to flat tresses. The right hair roller for you will depend on your hair type and your desired style. While some rollers will help to give more defined curls, others merely add some blow dry-esque volume to your locks.
Those with longer thicker hair may find they get better results using a different roller than someone with shorter or mid-length fine hair. Of course, there are also now plenty of heatless curling tools on the high street that are both budget-friendly and help to limit hair damage. These tend to work better with longer hair thanks to the design of the product, but it's also worth bearing in mind if you plan to sleep in yours as many people do, they can often feel bulky and uncomfortable, depending on the size and shape of the tool.
Velcro rollers tend to work well on a shorter hairstyle, while people with longer hair may find that heatless curling bands and larger ceramic rollers give them better results. Larger rollers can be used close to the roots at the top of the hair to add volume to the crown. If you have a fringe, you can also use rollers to help give it a little oomph.
How to use hair rollers
It can be tricky to get to grips with inserting rollers, but many people insert them whilst their hair is damp after washing with your usual shampoo and conditioner.
You can roll them under the hair to add volume to flat locks. Generally, you'd then blast them with a hairdryer for faster results, but you can leave your hair to dry naturally if you wish. Be sure to section your hair so that each roller is holding the correct amount for best results. If you don't want to use heat on your hair, then you can also use a hair wrap to keep your rollers in place while you sleep.
Of course, the best method will vary depending on the type of roller you're using so read on for an expert's opinion...
Best hair rollers for thick hair
We spoke to Nicola Wood who is a leading hair expert and Founder of Hair Made Easi, who says "Thick hair types may need to opt for stronger rollers. The bending shape of a flexi rod is great for these hair types as it produces more defined, spiral curls which will last longer.
"To use, section off your hair and roll vertically from the end to the root and bend them into shape. Leave in for as long as possible and then take out the rods before finger combing your hair. Another type of roller that is great for thicker hair is a heated roller as the heat will create longer-lasting curls and shape."
Best hair rollers for fine hair
We couldn't resist asking Wood about the best rollers for fine hair, since we know they can really help with lift and volume on hair that's otherwise tricky to style. Wood told us "Velcro rollers are great for fine hair as they create volume at the roots and soft, bouncy waves. Wrap sections of your hair around the velcro roller and leave your curls to set for at least 30 minutes. Remove the velcro rollers and comb your hair with either your fingers or a gentle, wide-tooth comb. For added volume, turn your hair upside down and run your fingers through the strands and scalp before spritzing with a volumising curl spray."
A great alternative to velcro rollers, according to Wood, are foam rollers as they’re ideal for achieving soft, bouncy curls without using heat. Wood says "Section hair and roll up each piece in the hair roller, starting at the end to the scalp and clip in place. When you wake up, unroll your curls and spritz with a curl defining spray."
Best hair rollers for short hair
We all know that half the battle with using rollers on a shorter hairstyle is finding ones that fit well in your hair. We put this to Wood who says, "Jumbo rollers will be too big for hair that is of chin length and above so be sure to use small and medium rollers which allow you to fully wrap your hair around to create flawless waves. The size of the roller also varies depending on the desired style. For tight curls, small rollers for short hair are ideal and big curlers for short hair are perfect for adding volume."
Best hair rollers 2024
With that in mind, we have rounded up some of the best hair rollers and heatless hair tools on the market in 2024...
Great for anyone wanting a little root lift, these easy-to-use volumising roller clips take the faff out of styling your hair. The 2-in-1 velcro roller and clip lifts your hair at the roots, leaving you to get on with the rest of your morning routine.
Best for: flat roots
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Best hair rollers for fast results
Remington Proluxe Electric Heated Rollers with OptiHeat Technology
Now 28% Off
£43 at Amazon£60 at JD Williams UK£46 at onbuy.com
These Remington rollers have much more going for them than just pretty packaging. This set comes with 20 rollers comprising medium and large sizes, and the heated rollers and clips to set curls in a mere five minutes, making them perfect if you're in a rush.
Best for: most hair types
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These soft-touch ceramic rollers have ionic frizz control and come in different sizes, making them usable on most hair lengths. The different sized rollers also allow for varying results, including creating bouncy loose or defined curls depending on your preference.
Best for: Most hair types
Treat your locks to these self-grip rollers that come in medium and large sizes, making them a great companion for longer hair in need of a boost. Created to give hair serious volume, these rollers should be used after drying and while your hair is still warm for maximum results.
Best for: medium-long hair
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These small cushion hair rollers can be used by placing the roller at the tip of the hair and winding up to the scalp. The plastic frame can then be used to secure your hair firmly in place. We like the budget-friendly price point for beginners, and the size works well for shorter, finer hair.
Best for: fine hair
This revolutionary heatless curling scrunchie can be used on mid to long hair. The satin material helps to limit flyaways, and this tool has been designed to be used pre-bedtime to save hassle on busy mornings. You simply wrap the hair around the curling rod and pull it into place using the special scrunchie for a low effort 'do.
Best for: mid-long length hair
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Best rollers for experimenting with hairstyles
Nicky Clarke Classic Compact Rollers Heated 25 mm Travel Set of 12
£54 at Amazon
Featuring a range of roller sizes to create your desired look, this Nicky Clarke set also has an adjustable temperature setting meaning you can create multiple looks with one kit. Its compact design makes it great for taking on holiday, plus the innovative clips allow you to secure your style whilst also offering cool-touch ends for ease of use.
Best for: all hair types
These heatless curling rods are kind to your tresses thanks to the satin material which helps to prevent pulling. Comfy to sleep in, these bendy rollers work in a similar way to a heatless curling band. They're easy to use and require no clips thanks to their flexible design which means they can be secured with minimum fuss.
Best for: Thick hair
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Best heatless curling set
ETRSAIRL Heatless Curling Rod Headband
£7 at Amazon
This budget-friendly heatless curling rod headband is suitable for most hair types, but in our experience this type of product works best on medium length and longer hair. If you're a beginner at styling your hair you may need to watch a few online tutorials to get the hang of using it (you braid the hair around it, but there are a few different techniques you could use). The best bit? It helps to limit the damage that can be caused by heat styling.
Best for: Longer hair
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Best hair rollers for a fringe
Yes Cart 37 Pieces Hair Rollers With Clips
Now 17% Off
£7 at Amazon
This bargain set includes a rollers of various sizes, making it a great option for anyone wanting to try them for the first time. It's also a brilliant buy if you have a fringe, as you can experiment to find the fit that's best for your bangs. Also included are clips and combs.
Best for: fringes
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Best jumbo hair rollers
Hair Tools Cling Rollers
£7 at Amazon
For those of us blessed with long hair, these jumbo rollers are the best option for creating root volume and waves. Use on wet or dry hair, and the large 66mm size will give your locks a boost where they need it most.
Best for: long hair
For people who travel a lot, these Mermade rollers come in a handy PVC bag. For £10, you also get six velcro rollers in a medium size, and what's more, if you plan to blast them with some air then they're heat-resistant up to 180 degrees.
Best for: short-medium length hair
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Best hair rollers for body
TRESemmé 32mm Volume Rollers (Pack of 10)
£31 at Amazon
Need volume with minimal effort? These rollers from TRESemmé come in at less than £30, and offer a fast heat up time if you're always in a rush. They're lightweight making them great for travel, all while adding volume and body to flat tresses.
Best for: All hair types including straight and wavy
If you've ever wondered how Ruth Langsford gets her hair looking so great, she's previously revealed she uses the Cloud Nine O Rollers. Available in a variety of sizes, they're great for giving your locks a voluminous and bouncy appearance.
Best for: short-mid length hair
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Best hair rollers for waves
Omenluck Hair Roller
Now 12% Off
£4 at Amazon
If you don't want to use heat on your locks, then let us introduce you to this handy gadget. It's rated highly by Amazon customers and it's not hard to see why. The end result is more of a natural wave, making it ideal if you don't like hairstyles that look super put together.
Best for: Can be used on thick and fine hair
