How to Use Flexi Rods on Your Natural Hair (A Step-by-Step Guide)

Mar 1, 2022 •

You may have heard many naturals swear by flexi rods as their go-to for a low-manipulation protective style. You may have even seen those pretty colorful sticks and wonder how you too can use them for your natural hair. In this article, I will be discussing everything you need to know about flexi rods and also show the right way to use them.

What are Flexi Rods?

These are a type of hair rollers that are made up of foam and have a straight structure but are flexible enough to bend easily when manipulated. Flexi rods are used for creating well-defined curls in natural hair and they come in different lengths for different hair lengths.

Why Should You Use Flexi Rods on Natural Hair?

1. They Do Not Use Heat

As a natural, you probably know that the fewer heat tools your hair is exposed to, the better for it. Before, in the past, when you needed to achieve curls, hot curling irons were your only option. While these curling irons did get the job done, the heat from them could cause wear and tear on the natural hair. When used frequently, they could result in further damage like split ends, thinning hair strands, dryness, breakage, to mention a few.

Flexi rods, on the other hand, use no heat to help your natural hair get well-defined curls.

2. They Cause Less Manipulation

It is a rule in the natural hair world to do hairstyles that require low manipulation. This is because high-manipulation hairstyles put pressure on your hairline which could result in breakage, excessive shed hairs, and even pains. You should use flexi rods because they cause less manipulation to your natural hair.

3. They Are Long-lasting

Flexi rods are the perfect option if you need curls that last for days. When you use them to style your hair, the curls can last for up to a week and even more depending on your maintenance routine.

4. They Help Achieve Different Types of Curls

Whether you want small tight coils or big loose curls, flexi rods will help you achieve your desired curls since they come in different sizes.

Frequently Asked Questions About Flexi Rods

Are flexi rods good for my type 4 hair?

Yes, flexi rods work well for all type 4 hair. Furthermore, you can use them on small, medium, or long hair. Flexi rods on short natural hair are just as beautiful on long natural hair.

What flexi rods sizes do I use for my hair?

This depends on your desired curls. If you want a loose wavy look, then use the purple or blue flexi rods. If you are looking for medium-sized curls, the orange or grey flexi rods will help you achieve that. However, if you are looking for small tight coils, then the red flexi rods are your best option.

How many flexi rods will I need for my curls?

It is usually recommended to have close to 40 flexi rods with you so that you do not run out of rollers.

Should I use flexi rods on wet or dry hair?

You can use flexi rods on either wet hair or dry hair. While using flexi rods on wet hair will produce tighter and shorter curls, on dry hair, the result will be loose curls.

What styling products should I use with flexi rods?

While you can use any styling products with flexi rods, just make sure you use products that will give your hair that extra hold.

Can I sleep with flexi rods in my hair?

Yes, you can. Because flexi rods are made of foam, they won't be hard on your head. However, make sure your hair is completely dry first before you go to sleep in them.

How long do flexi rods have to stay in my hair before I take them out?

Your hair has to be fully dry before you should take out the flexi rods.

How do I maintain my flexi-rod curls afterward?

If your curls are beginning to lose form, simply spray on some curl activator or hair serum to revive them.