August 7, 2022

How to Brush Coil for Ringlets + Low-Density Tips

If you’re looking to get super-defined ringlets, brush coiling is definitely a styling technique worth a try. Today I’m sharing a step-by-step brush coiling tutorial and some tips for low-density hair to achieve more fullness in volume with curl clumps.

What is Brush Coiling?

Brush coiling is a styling technique where the hair is wrapped around the brush handle to coil it into a spiral shape. It can be beneficial for those who are looking to encourage ringlets, create a more even curl, and even helps curls hold their shape longer.

How to Brush Coil

Start with clean, damp hair and apply styling products. I used a curl cream for moisture and a gel for hold and frizz protection.
Section hair in 3-5 sections, depending on how thick your hair is. It’s helpful to create a straight line when sectioning to avoid confusion when brush coiling.
Pick up a vertical section of hair, about the width of your natural curl pattern. Look closely to see where the hair naturally wants to clump and separate. Also, look at the direction of the first bend at the root to determine the natural curl direction.
Hold the brush in a downward position, and place it right at the root. Turn the brush until the hair wraps around the edge of the brush and glide it down the strand. Apply a little tension if you want to enhance your curl pattern.
Stop at the end of the hair strand and leave a bit of hair in the bristles, toward the base. Wrap the hair around the brush handle until you reach the root.
Unravel the brush by twirling it in the opposite direction. Continue through the rest of the sections. Be cautious to not tug or pull the brush out of the hair. Carefully unravel the brush.
Finish by scrunching with a hair towel and diffusing.

Tips for Volume for Low-Density Curls

Instead of brush coiling the bottom section, just create regular brush curls so it’s more separated and full once dried.
Comb through ringlets with a wide-tooth comb or fingers to separate curls, then scrunch.
Pick up horizontal-shaped sections around the crown and do regular brush curls versus brush coiling in this area which can just create separation, especially for those with a cowlick.
Separate curls when wet, before diffusing, to avoid frizz.
When separating dry curls, pay close attention to where the curls naturally split at the root and gently unravel the clump with some oil on your fingers.

Results & Final Thoughts

My curls were definitely more defined and I was impressed at how curly the areas of my hair were are usually more of a wavy pattern. I also noticed that the frizz was contained within the curl clumps and my gray hairs were much more hidden. My curls also lasted longer throughout the week and held their shape. I still had volume even with all the curl clumps because I separated the curls on the bottom section.

I think this method is great for those looking to get more long-lasting ringlets and more uniform curls. Brush coiling should be used with caution because it does apply tension to the hair. If you have weak, damaged hair, or are prone to breakage I would avoid brush coiling and any type of tension from styling techniques. Also, if you have excessive shedding or hair loss I would not use brush coiling.