The look: bouncy, slightly mussed waves

Pillow rollers are an update on old-timey, DIY rag curlers, but they're worth the upgrade -- they create more consistent, voluminous waves than rag rollers. They're also not a PITA to wear to bed, whether your hair is dry or damp. If you're a hair-roller novice, these are simple to use, comfy and versatile -- win-win-win.

Try: Goody Mosaic Satin Pillow Rollers, $10.99 for 16

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The look: tangle-free waves and curls

We'll admit that these wacky-looking doodads are a little high-maintenance. First you slip a section of hair in a mesh-like sleeve; then, you wrap it around the cone-shaped roller. The upside is the Velcro roller adheres to the fabric instead of your hair, eliminating any risk of knots. The resulting look is a beachy wave or a princess-y, tapered curl, depending on how long you leave in the curlers.

Try: Bukli Haircare Curling Flutes and Sleeves, $34.95 for 21

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The look: tight spirals on short, natural hair; beach waves on long hair

Otherwise known as peco rollers, these silicone curlers are pretty genius, especially when you consider they were invented more than a half-century ago. Simply roll up your hair and push on the cup-shaped end of the roller so it flips over, snapping the curler in place. A potential downside: Each roller can hold only a small section of hair, so they work best for women with fine or short hair.

Try: Spoolies Hair Curlers, Box of 24, $29.99

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Obviously, it takes practice to learn how to use hair rollers and get uniform-looking, not-crazy waves. No matter what look you're going for, keep these tips in mind when you use hair rollers:

• Generally , the smaller the roller, the tighter the curl; put small rollers close to the scalp only if you want massive hair. The amount of hair in each roller also dictates whether your curl will be big and loose or tight and wild.

• Large rollers can be secured closer to the top of your head; their primary purpose is creating volume by lifting the hair away from the scalp.

• If you're doing a wet set of rollers, add a light-hold styling product, like mousse, for staying power.

• If your waves or curls are bigger than you want them to be when you take out your rollers, try spritzing your hair with salt spray. The water softens the curls, but the salt ensures they don't become totally limp.

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