Utah curls are the latest hairstyle trend taking over social media, and it’s easy to see why: Their soft bends and flat ends offer a lower-maintenance take on the classic beach wave, as they don’t require perfection to get them just right. Ahead, we’re breaking down what you need to know about the Utah curl trend, including an easy step-by-step tutorial. Scroll on for all the scoop.
What Are Utah Curls?
Despite what the name may suggest, Utah curls aren’t true curls. Rather, Utah curls are loose waves with straight ends—this is what distinguishes them from other wavy styles. While Utah curls are nothing new, a popular Morman television show may be to blame for catapulting the look back into the spotlight and inspiring TikTok tutorials worldwide.
As for why this look is specifically linked to Utah, the most common speculation is that the region’s climate contributes to those distinct straight ends: Dry air and low humidity can make it more difficult for strands to hold a curl or wave, especially at the ends of the hair, which are often drier. This lack of moisture can make the tips fall flat while the roots maintain their volume, resulting in a softer, less defined wave.
Good hair day by @katvonblonde and @geribleach.
What Are the Benefits of Utah Curls?
There’s so much to love about Utah curls. For one, the style is incredibly easy to execute: Tousled, relaxed waves add instant volume and movement to your mane, and there’s no need to meticulously curl your hair or spend too much time on a blowout. The sleeker ends also help prevent the style from looking too "done" or overly structured. Another reason why people gravitate toward Utah curls is their longevity. While tight curls often lose their shape throughout the day, the Utah curls appear more lived-in over time—perfect for those seeking a low-maintenance look that still feels put-together.
Good hair day by @samanthalipgloss.
What Is the Difference Between Beach Waves and Utah Curls?
Beach waves and Utah curls may seem similar, but the two are not quite the same. The former typically follows a uniform wave pattern from root to tip, whereas the latter is wavier up top but deliberately straighter through the ends. The tools involved in achieving these two looks also differ. Flat irons, curling wands, and heatless braids can all create a tousled beach wave, but a curling iron with a clamp is best for Utah curls.
How To Get Utah Curls in 5 Easy Steps
If you’re ready to try Utah curls yourself, follow this simple tutorial.
Step 1. Choose the right curling iron
First, you’ll need to select the appropriate tool. If you’re wondering what curling iron size to use for Utah curls, consider using a larger barrel (around 1–1.5 inches) to get soft, voluminous waves. The most important factor, however, is that your chosen iron has a clamp. This way, you can curl your hair closer to the root but intentionally leave the ends out during the process.
Step 2. Prep your hair
As with any curling technique, heat protection is essential to help prevent damage. We love haircare formulas that offer both heat protection and styling hold, like Redken’s Thermal Spray 11 Low Hold. This thermal setting mist, which is ideal for use with curling irons, provides lightweight hold, adds shine, and controls frizz.
Those who prefer mousses, on the other hand, can reach for Pureology’s Style + Protect On The Rise Root Lifting Mousse to protect against heat and increase body from root to top..
Step 3. Divide your hair into sections
Comb through your hair to remove tangles, and then separate your locks into manageable sections—an inch thick or smaller is often ideal, depending on your hair’s length and density. Use duckbill clips to keep your hair neatly out of the way as you work through each section.
Step 4. Form your curls
Take a small to medium-sized section of hair and clamp the curling iron around the mid-length of your hair, close to your scalp. Rotate the curling iron away from your face and twist until you’re a few inches above the ends of your hair. Hold the curl for about 5–10 seconds, depending on your hair type.
Here's where the magic happens—don't curl the ends. To do so, you can avoid pulling the curling iron all the way to the ends, or you can drag your iron vertically through the tips. Alternatively, you can pull the curling iron straight through the entire length of your hair without curling at all. Just hold the tool vertically, clamp it near the root, and gently pull the iron down through the section of hair without twisting it. This will give a more relaxed, straight end while still adding volume and curl to the mid-lengths.
Good hair day by @bombhairbybrooklyn.
Step 5. Perfect your look
After curling your entire head, tousle the waves with your fingertips or gently run a comb through them for a softer, more undone look. Finish with a hairspray like Biolage Professional Complete Control Hairspray for medium hold or a texturizing spritz like Shu Uemura Art of Hair Wata Wave Texturizing Spray to enhance hair’s body and definition.
Next Up: How To Curl Your Hair With a Flat Iron
Header photo credits (left to right): @samanthalipgloss, @katvonblonde and @geribleach
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