Dolly Parton Hair Tutorial

This Dolly Parton hair tutorial walks through the basics of creating big, country-inspired volume with teasing, hot rollers, and hairspray. The look combines lifted roots with defined curls, while a softly shaped front section helps frame the face. Allow enough time for the rollers to cool fully so the curls have a chance to set.

Dolly Parton Hair Tutorial: Prepare and Build Volume

Start with dry, detangled hair. Before using hot rollers, follow the manufacturer’s instructions and apply a heat protectant suitable for your hair. Use hairspray in light layers rather than soaking each section; this can help the hair hold its shape without becoming difficult to work with.

1. Spray the roots: Beginning near the part at the top of the head, lift a section of hair and lightly apply hairspray to its underside.
2. Tease in sections: Backcomb the underside of the section toward the roots. Continue section by section through the hair, keeping the teasing controlled so it can be smoothed later.
3. Smooth the surface: Flip the hair back into place and gently smooth only the outer layer. Avoid brushing through the teased roots, which provide the height for the finished style.
4. Place the first rollers: Start with the top middle section and roll the hair into hot rollers, following the roller directions for section size and placement.
5. Finish the roller set: Add rollers to the sides, then the back. Keep sections neat and avoid pulling the hair so tightly that the rollers feel uncomfortable.

Let the rollers remain in place until the hair has cooled. Cooling time can vary depending on the rollers and hair, so use the product instructions as your guide. Removing rollers while the hair is still warm may loosen the curls sooner.

Remove the Rollers and Shape the Front

6. Unroll carefully: Release the curls gently, beginning at the bottom and working upward. Avoid tugging or pulling the hair through the roller.
7. Separate the curls: Let the released sections fall into place. Use your fingers to arrange them, keeping the shape soft rather than brushing out all the definition.
8. Tease the front: Backcomb the bangs or front section at the roots to add lift. Work gradually so you can control the height.
9. Curl loose face-framing pieces: Use a hot roller or another suitable styling tool on front sections that were not included in the roller set. Take care around the face and follow the tool’s safety instructions.
10. Shape the bangs: Lift the curled front section and guide it up and to one side. Adjust the placement to suit the part and the shape you want.

Set the Style and Adjust the Volume

Finish with hairspray to help hold the roots and curls in place. Apply it from a comfortable distance and build up the hold with a few light passes. If the style looks too teased, gently smooth the surface with your hands; if you want extra height, lift a small section at the roots and add a little more spray.

Tutorial by Katie. For a more wearable version, use less teasing and lighter hairspray, then loosen the curls with your fingers. With careful sectioning and fully cooled curls, this Dolly Parton hair tutorial can help create a dramatic, voluminous look that you can adapt to your own hair.