How to: Modern 80s Spiral Curls

Madonna, Mariah and every wannabe superstar in between, went mad for curls in the 80s. The bouncier, the better! And while we're not suggesting the tight perm is about to have a comeback, we do think there’s something ever-so-endearing about super springy locks. Trial the retro hairstyle and get set to add some va va voom to your look with our modern 80s spiral curls tutorial.

What Will I Need to Create Modern 80s Spiral Curls?

Detangler brush
Heat protecting spray
Sectioning clips
Chop stick & Hair straighteners / small barrel curling tong
Hair serum
Hairspray

Sorry, this product is currently out of stock.

VO5 VO5 Heat Protect Spray with Heat-Activated Complex 200ml £4.99

Superdrug Superdrug Hairspray Extra Firm Hold 300ml £1.99

Studio London DNRAD Superdrug Detangling Brush Two Colour £0.30

Step 1 – Brush hair & apply spray

To create a smooth, silky starting point, brush through hair with a detangler. Once all the knots and tangles are out, apply a heat protecting spray all over.

Step 2 – Section top half of hair

Scoop together the top section of the hair (about half) and clip it up to keep out of the way.

Step 3a – Wrap hair & add heat

Now for the curling. We’re going to use an unconventional technique to achieve super tight curls but you can always use a small barrel curling wand if you prefer.

Take a small-section of hair (the smaller the section the tighter the curl). Twist the top of the section to allow it to grip better and then wrap it around a single chopstick. Once you reach the send of the section, hold the hair in place wrapped around the chopstick and apply heat using hair straighteners. Clamp from the top and work all the way down, ensuring the entire curl benefits from added heat.

Step 3b – Continue curling all over

Continue step 3a until all of the bottom section of hair is curled. Next, release more hair from the clipped back top section and curl as before.

When you’re ready to release the last section of hair, refrain from parting from the centre as the hair should be pulled back and sit to one side – 80s-style!

Once all the hair is curled, run your fingers through the curls to break them up and create added volume.

Step 4 – Apply serum & hairspray

Add a couple of pumps of serum into your palms and run through all the curls. Scrunch the curls as you’re doing this to keep the volume. Finish with a generous application of hairspray for extra hold – perfect if you’re taking your look for a night out on the tiles.