As licensed stylists at Jenny’s Salon in Mechanicsburg, we’ve been inundated with requests for “Utah curls” ever since the Real Housewives of Salt Lake City and Mormon wife influencers made this distinctive style viral on social media. This unique curling technique creates voluminous curls through the mid-lengths that transition to perfectly straight ends, resulting in a polished yet effortless look that’s become synonymous with Utah’s beauty culture. Let us guide you through mastering this trending technique.
What Are Utah Curls?
Utah curls, also known as “Mormon wife curls,” are characterized by a specific styling pattern that creates:
- Voluminous curls from roots to mid-lengths
- Perfectly straight, sleek ends
- A distinctive contrast between curled and straight sections
- Polished, put-together appearance
- Bouncy movement with structured finish
The Cultural Phenomenon
This styling technique gained widespread attention through Utah-based influencers and reality TV personalities who consistently showcased this polished, feminine look. The style represents a particular aesthetic that emphasizes:
- Feminine, traditional beauty standards
- Polished, “done” hair appearance
- Volume and movement combined with sleekness
- Time investment in personal grooming
- Structured yet approachable styling
The Technique Behind Utah Curls
Step-by-Step Process
Preparation Phase: Begin with clean, completely dry hair. Apply heat protectant throughout and volumizing mousse at the roots for maximum lift and hold.
Sectioning Strategy: Divide hair into 2-3 inch horizontal sections, starting from the bottom and working upward. Proper sectioning ensures even curl distribution and consistent results.
Curling Technique: Using a 1.25-1.5 inch curling iron, curl each section from the roots to approximately 3-4 inches from the ends, leaving the bottom portion straight.
Cooling Process: Allow each curl to cool completely in your palm before releasing. This step is crucial for longevity and curl retention.
Finishing Touch: Lightly brush through the curled sections with a large paddle brush to soften and blend, while keeping the ends perfectly straight.
Key Technical Elements
Temperature Control: Use medium-high heat (350-375°F) for optimal curl formation without excessive damage.
Timing: Hold each section on the iron for 8-12 seconds, depending on hair thickness and texture.
Direction Variation: Alternate curl directions for more natural-looking movement and dimension.
Who Can Achieve Utah Curls?
Ideal Hair Types
Medium to Long Length: The technique requires sufficient length to create the curled section while leaving enough straight ends for contrast.
Fine to Medium Texture: Works particularly well on hair that holds curl easily and responds to heat styling.
Straight to Slightly Wavy: Best results on hair that starts relatively straight, allowing for maximum control over the final shape.
Considerations for Different Hair Types
Thick Hair: May require smaller sections and longer processing time to achieve uniform results throughout.
Fine Hair: Benefits from volumizing products and may need stronger hold products for longevity.
Naturally Curly Hair: Requires straightening first to achieve the signature contrast between curled and straight sections.
Styling Products for Utah Curls
Essential Products
Heat Protection: High-quality thermal protectant is non-negotiable for this heat-intensive styling technique.
Volumizing Mousse: Applied to roots before styling to create the signature bouncy volume.
Texturizing Spray: Light application adds grip and helps curls hold their shape longer.
Finishing Spray: Flexible hold hairspray maintains the style without stiffness.
Product Application Tips
Root Volume: Apply volumizing products only to roots to avoid weighing down the length.
Heat Protection: Distribute evenly throughout all hair that will contact the curling iron.
Minimal Product on Ends: Keep straight sections product-free for the sleekest finish.
Maintenance and Longevity
Making Utah Curls Last
Overnight Preservation: Sleep with hair in a loose top knot or silk scrunchie to maintain curl integrity.
Touch-Up Techniques: Quick touch-ups with a curling iron can refresh the look on day two.
Dry Shampoo Strategy: Use dry shampoo at roots only to maintain volume without affecting the straight ends.
Daily Refresh Methods
Morning Revival: Light misting with water and re-curling select pieces can restore the look.
Product Refresh: Minimal texturizing spray application can revive movement and hold.
Brush Technique: Gentle brushing through curled sections maintains the soft, blended appearance.
Variations and Adaptations
Length Adaptations
Shoulder-Length Hair: Modify the technique by curling smaller sections and leaving 2-3 inches straight.
Long Hair: Can accommodate more dramatic contrast with longer straight sections.
Medium Length: Requires precise placement to achieve the proper proportions.
Styling Variations
Loose Utah Curls: Use a larger barrel and brush through more thoroughly for softer waves.
Tight Utah Curls: Smaller barrel and less brushing create more defined, bouncy curls.
Asymmetrical Approach: Vary the curl placement for a more modern, less uniform appearance.
Professional Tips for Success
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Inconsistent Sectioning: Uneven sections lead to irregular curl patterns and unprofessional results.
Insufficient Cooling Time: Releasing curls too quickly results in poor hold and shorter-lasting style.
Over-Brushing: Excessive brushing can eliminate the curl entirely rather than just softening it.
Wrong Iron Size: Too large creates loose waves; too small creates tight spirals rather than the desired bouncy curls.
Professional Advantages
At Jenny’s Salon, our stylists can:
- Assess your hair type for optimal technique adaptation
- Recommend the best products for your specific needs
- Teach you the proper technique for at-home recreation
- Customize the look to complement your face shape and lifestyle
Occasion Styling
Everyday Wear
The Utah curl technique creates polished everyday looks perfect for:
- Professional environments
- Social gatherings
- Date nights
- Shopping and errands
Special Events
This versatile base can be adapted for:
- Wedding guest styling
- Holiday parties
- Family gatherings
- Formal occasions
The Utah curls trend represents more than just a hairstyling technique—it’s a statement about embracing feminine, polished beauty standards while maintaining approachable elegance. At Jenny’s Salon, we’re experts at teaching this technique and helping you adapt it to your personal style and hair type.
Contact us to schedule your appointment at Jenny’s Salon today! We can help you master the best Utah curls technique in Central PA!
Never been to Jenny’s Salon before? No worries – try our Jenny’s Match Maker Free Online Consultation to see which stylist is right for you, your personality, and your hairstyle!
Cover Photo & Slider Photos: Utah Curls by Scarlett
