I’m fully aware the Met Gala was over a month ago, but there was one beauty trend I can’t stop thinking about. From Simone Biles to Bad Bunny, all the stars were showing off their own versions of kiss curls. And as we head into poofy hair season, I predict this is going to be summer’s buzziest style. I chatted with a few of my expert friends to learn more about kiss curls and how to achieve the look right at home.
Why I’m Adding Kiss Curls to My Summer Vision Board
Muah
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Published Jun 11, 2025
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Meet the Experts
- Cesar Deleon Ramirez is a celebrity hairstylist, creative director and L’Oreal Professionnel’s AirLight Pro brand ambassador. His work has been featured in editorial, celebrity, advertising and runway. His previous clients include Demi Lovato, Jenna Ortega and Karol G.
- Miko Gemechu is a celebrity hairstylist and owner of CrownedByMiks in Sola Salons. With over a decade of experience, Miko specializes in extensions and natural hair and, working with artists and athletes such as Drake, Amine, Carmelo Anthony and Sha’Carri Richardson.
- Jazmine Johnson is a celebrity hairstylist, K18 brand ambassador and founder of GlamHER Salons in Houston, Texas. With 18 years of experience, she is known for blending vintage artistry—like kiss curls and finger waves—with modern, high-glam finishes. Her expertise spans bridal, editorial and red carpet styling, with a signature focus on healthy hair and long-lasting results.
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What Are Kiss Curls?
Kiss curls are hand-sculpted strands that lay nicely—almost like kissing—the forehead, cheek or temples. “They create a soft, elegant touch often paired with slicked-back buns or updos. Historically, women with shorter hair would wear kiss curls to frame the face, especially when styling with cloche hats, adding a feminine and chic finish,” explains Gemechu.
The trendy style dates back to the 1920s, where icons like Josephine Baker were famous for rocking kiss curls. It continued to grow in popularity in the ‘70s (hello, Superman) and inspiring intricate baby hairs in the ‘90s and early aughts. One hundred years later, it continues to be a staple in the beauty world.
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Why Are Kiss Curls So Popular Right Now?
As mentioned, kiss curls were all over the 2025 Met Gala, which paid homage to this year’s theme “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style.” A long list of celebs donned the style including Dua Lipa, Sydney Sweeney and Simone Biles, to name a few. “Today, they’re being styled in more creative and versatile ways than ever before. People love that edgy-meets-glam look, and kiss curls add the perfect soft yet bold detail to complete the aesthetic,” shares Gemechu.
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The style is also a hit for professional hairstylists. Most recently, Ramirez did kiss curls on Jenna Ortega for Netflix's ‘Tudum’ live event, as well as singer Karol G for the Con Cora Land Benefit Gala. Inspired by vintage hairstyles, he’s been playing around with old Hollywood and retro looks with a modern twist.
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Are Kiss Curls Different from Baby Hairs?
Kiss curls are often mistaken for baby hairs (aka edges). However, the experts say there are some stark differences between the styles. “While both involve styling fine hairs along the hairline, kiss curls are typically larger, intentional spirals placed on the forehead or cheeks, serving as a decorative element. In contrast, baby hairs or edges refer to the shorter hairs at the hairline that are often styled into sleek, intricate patterns to frame the face,” explains Johnson.
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Can All Hair Types Try Kiss Curls?
The biggest draw of kiss curls is their versatility and inclusivity. It works on all hair types, lengths and textures. “If you have natural curls or coils, use your hands to sculpt and shape curls into place or use a blow dryer to stretch out the curl if your texture is too tight. On straighter textures, use a blow dryer to bake in the curls after shaping it with your hands,” explains Ramirez.
Kiss curls are also not limited to gender, as shown by total dreamboat Bad Bunny in the image above. Simply put, it’s a universally flattering hair trend that can also be worn in multiple ways.
How to Achieve Kiss Curls at Home
I’m not going to lie to you: it’s going to take some practice and patience. Thankfully, the experts I’ve interviewed have provided the best tips and tricks to achieving kiss curls right at home.
- Grab all your tools. You’re going to need a long-tail comb, edge brush, hairspray and gel. Now, it was traditionally laid down by lotion, soap or saliva (earning its alternate name of ‘spit curls’), but nowadays, you can just use mousse, edge control or styling gel (like göt2b) to get it done.
- Prep your hair. Johnson recommends a moisturizing hair mask (like K18 Leave In Molecular Repair Hair Mask) to strengthen strands and a drop of hair oil to add shine, reduce frizz and protect against heat damage.
- Start sectioning. Use the long-tail comb to section your desired kiss curl. Ramirez suggests thin sections of hair, preferably around the face, layers or fringe.
- Apply styling gel. Once you apply product to your kiss curl, use the edge brush to shape and smooth the curl against your forehead. It’s completely up to you which direction you want the swoop to go in. Stylist tip: “Wrap section with a silk scarf helps mold the curl and increase longevity,” says Gemechu.
- Let it dry. You can speed up the process by using a hair dryer. Once dried, apply some hairspray to set it in place.
- Optional: If you’re going for a soft kiss curl, skip steps three and four, and use a hair tool instead. As Ramirez explains, “When creating kiss curls I use a small round brush and a hair dryer (like L’Oreal Professionnel Airlight Pro) to create the shape, then once in place I add hairspray to set in place.” There is also the option of using a flat or curling iron to create a ‘S’ or ‘C’ curl, especially if you have thick and/or coily hair. (Here’s a great tutorial to get you started.)
6 Kiss Curls Ideas
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1. Single Kiss Curl
Kelly Rowland’s micro bob is already a shining star, but adding a single kiss curl is icing on the cake.
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2. Intricate Updo
Here’s your sign to take your glamorous bun up a notch by adding multiple kiss curls throughout. Similar to Dua Lipa above, just play around with placement and size for an edgier style.
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3. Side Part
Whether you’re going for a low bun or ponytail, adding a side part and kiss curls can truly elevate your look—as evident by Sydney Sweeney above.
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4. Flipped Hair
When two trending hairstyles collide, expect a red-carpet ready masterpiece. WNBA star Angel Reese paired her single kiss curl with a short bob, side part and flipped ends.
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5. Soft Kiss Curl
If the thought of slapping on styling gel for summer makes you sweat, then consider this softer approach to the trend. Ciara sports a short hairdo, adding a gentle swoop as a nice touch.
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6. Waves and Curls
Kiss curls aren’t only limited to updos. Add the trendy swoop with your blowout or beachy waves like Karol G.
