Hot rollers are a hair styling tool used to create curls. There are a number of different styles of hot rollers, but they all work in the same basic way, setting curls which can range from gentle waves to tight ringlets. Many stores which carry beauty supplies and hair accessories stock hot rollers in a variety of sizes, and they are relatively easy to use, although it can take some trial and error at home before achieving a look you are satisfied with.

As you might imagine from the name, hot rollers are heated before use. Most hot rollers fit into an electric tray with heating elements which is plugged in shortly before use. To use them, hair is prepared and then carefully segmented into chunks which are rolled around individual rollers. The rollers are left in until completely cool, and then carefully removed; for a firmer curl, some people put hot rollers in at night and sleep on them.

There are a number of ways to vary the look achieved with hot rollers. For example, long thin rollers can be applied vertically to create corkscrew curls, while extremely large rollers can be used horizontally to create a soft curl which will turn into a wave. Many people like to use hot rollers in graduated sizes for a more natural look, as uniform curls can look somewhat suspiciously artificial. People can also change the effects of hot rollers by brushing the hair immediately after taking them out, or applying products to the hair before the rollers are applied.

When preparing hair for hot rollers, the most important thing to remember is that the hair needs to be totally dry, or the curls will not set. Some people like to wash their hair and apply a moisturizing mousse the night before they use hot rollers, to get around this problem. Others simply use a hair dryer, applying a light mousse and sometimes a cream to enhance shine while they prepare the hair.

In addition to traditional hard hot rollers, you can also find soft hot rollers, which are convenient because they are comfortable to sleep in. However, the end hairstyle will be a little messier, with larger, looser curls, rather than sleek and uniform. Some people like the slightly tousled look, feeling that it looks more natural and casual, and the look also increases the volume of the hair, which can be useful if you feel like your hair is a little thin.