Learning how to roller set hair was my first challenge in becoming a true hair DIYer. Listed are the steps that I take to achieve the hairstyle. The first picture below shows the roller set layout that I follow.
1. After washing, I apply my Lacio Lacio leave-in conditioner (quarter size for each half) followed by Keracare’s Silken Seal Serum (dime size), and Fantasia IC Heat Protectant (quarter size). Then I fill up a spray bottle of water to use for setting. Minimal Hair Products + Spray Bottle of Water = Bouncy, Non-Crunchy, Beautiful Hair.
2. I part my hair down the center by measuring with a roller until I get a mohawk and two side parts.
3. Once my hair is sectioned off, I start parting the mohawk area, spray each section with water, roll up and secure the rollers with clips. Last, I do my sides the same way.
If I want a curly hairstyle… I just take the rollers out and finger comb them into place until I get the look I desire. For a big hairstyle, just use a paddle brush to gently brush out the curls. I usually do this to achieve the roller set hairstyle below.
Last, if you want a sleek look… just wrap your hair after your roller set drys, place a little bit of moisturizing cream on it, and secure your hair with saran wrap. (Sounds weird, but it works) Sit under the dryer on low/cool for 10-15 minutes. Here is a picture of my hair when I did that. Note: It’s a shot of my relaxed hair about two years ago.
Below are two hair videos that show a roller set tutorial using the same mohawk hair technique I use when doing my own roller set.
Rollersetting Tips
- Roll up instead of down if your arms start hurting.
- Don’t put too much tension on your hair when rolling. Rolling your hair too tight can lead to traction alopecia or hair loss.
- If you’re transitioning, try to refrain from using a comb. The two textures are very fragile and become damaged or break from excessive combing. I suggest using a wide tooth comb to detangle or the finger comb method.
- Don’t use a lot of Hair Products. Less is More!
- Don’t place too much hair on each roller.
Rollersetting Hair Products and Tools
{ 7 comments… read them below or add one }
I have just about given up on rollersetting. I’m gonna try flexirods and see how that works for me. I might do cheat sets (set rollers when hair is in ponytails) when my hair gets a bit longer.
Girl, we are the exact opposite, lol. I have such a hard time using flexirods. But I did plan on giving them another go when I find some time. I’ve seen some great results from ponytail rollersets, so let me know how it goes when you give it a try.
It’s so weird. I’ve ALWAYS rollerset my hair, so it never occurred to me that this was a special skill, or that every woman on the planet didn’t do it! Now, I couldn’t blow dry to save my life! I went fully natural a year ago, and this weekend I think I’m going to attempt my first rollerset on natural hair. Pray for me!
I know you posted this a year ago but I saw this awhile ago and tried it out this weekend using all the products you used and the same technique and my hair looks the best it has in a long time.
So Thanks for posting!!
Glad it worked Starr! I’m going to have to give my rollersets another go soon.
I know this posting is old but, am natural I don’t have a relaxers can I use this method to apply to my hair.]Will this work for me.
It’s so weird. I’ve ALWAYS rollerset my hair, so it never occurred to me that this was a special skill, or that every woman on the planet didn’t do it! Now, I couldn’t blow dry to save my life! I went fully natural a year ago, and this weekend I think I’m going to attempt my first rollerset on natural hair. Pray for me!