What is Reverse Hairstyling? The Viral Method for Fuller or Curls & Coils

Reverse hairstyling is a hair technique for type 3 and 4C curls/Coils that helps stretch and define hair length for maximum volume. Usually only the mid-lengths and ends typically receive the most product, while the roots are product-free. If you’re tired of losing volume due to shrinkage, this method will help.

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Understanding Your Hairstyle

This method requires understanding your curl pattern, porosity, and density. Observe your curl pattern when your hair is freshly washed and free of product. 

Hair porosity is critical for the reverse method. Your hair’s ability to hold and absorb moisture ensures better results. Some hair needs a lightweight product, others require heavier formulas.

Your hair density determines whether you need more products for styling. Hence, you should know if it’s of high density or low density. It’s low when you can easily spot your scalp and high when your hair appears fuller.

Understanding this helps determine how much or how little product to apply to achieve this method.

Step 1. Prepping:

Stretch the hair either with a blow dryer or the African threading method to prevent it from shrinking after applying product at the ends. 

Pro tip: Apply leave-in conditioner or heat protectant before stretching.

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Step 2. Application:

Avoid coating your hair from the scalp. Apply your curl cream just 4 inches away from your scalp till the ends. Then, for the reverse method: use your finger to coil the ends while the top stays dry and fluffy.

Pro tip: Use a mist spray as needed to dampen the ends before applying any product.

Step 3. Setting:

Gently scrunch the ends with a small amount of hair oil to soften the curls. Go in with a wide-tooth comb and pull on the roots of the hair, but not the ends.

If your hair loses volume, use a hairspray or additional root picking to lock in the height.