The Art of Curling Payess: A Guide for Ultra-Orthodox Jewish Men
Ultra-Orthodox Jewish men are often recognized for their carefully groomed side-curls, known as payess or payot. These distinctive tresses are not only an integral part of their cultural identity but also a daily challenge in maintaining their neat appearance. This guide will walk you through the various methods and techniques used to achieve these beautifully curled side-curls.
Initial Length
The journey begins with the length of the payess. These are typically grown long enough to allow for curling. The ideal length can vary from one individual to another, and it often follows personal or community customs.
Adding Moisture
Before curling, many men moisten their payess slightly. This step makes the hair more pliable and easier to manage. A small amount of water or hair moisture can significantly improve the curling process.
Curling Techniques
There are several methods used to curl the payess. Here, we explore the most common ones:
Finger Rolling
This method involves rolling the hair around the fingers. By taking a small section of hair and rolling it between your fingers, you can create natural-looking curls. This is one of the handiest and least equipment-intensive techniques.
Using a Comb
Another technique involves using a fine-toothed comb to twist and curl the hair. This ensures that the curls maintain their shape and form as they dry.
Curling Tools
In some cases, specialized curling tools or even small curling irons designed for this purpose are used. These tools can provide more precise and defined curls but may require a bit more investment.
Product Use
To hold the curls in place and give them a shiny appearance, hair products like gel or pomade are often applied. These products help manage the moisture and provide long-lasting hold.
Regular Maintenance
Maintaining the payess involves regular grooming and maintenance. This may include trimming and re-curling as needed. Keeping the payess neat and well-maintained is crucial for an impeccable look.
Personal Variations
The specific techniques can vary between different communities and individuals. However, these basic methods are commonly used to achieve the characteristic look of payess in Ultra-Orthodox Jewish culture.
It's worth noting that while many men maintain neatly curled payess, not all do. Some may choose to tuck their payess behind their ears or trim them shorter. The main thing is to avoid shaving the sides, as this would go against the cultural norms.
Alternative Techniques
For those looking for a quick and easy solution, a video by Melech “King” Zilbershlag provides a step-by-step guide on achieving perfect side-curls. The video is particularly well-recommended by Haredim (Ultra-Orthodox Jewish people) and is a rare gem to behold.
DIY Method
On an ordinary day, you can use household items to achieve neat side-curls. Here’s a simple method:
Grab a plastic cup from the pantry and pour a quarter-cup of orange juice into it.
Use a bit of orange juice to wet the side of the payess.
Comb the wet hair over the forehead.
Push a pencil under the hair closest to the head.
Start twirling the hair around the pencil towards the face, letting the child hold the pencil in place while you do the other side.
Allow the orange juice to dry for just a minute. The hair should be crispy when done.
On special occasions, you can use a Bobby pin to secure the curls if needed.
Remember, do not mistake payess for curling ribbon. Keeping the payess neat and defined is crucial, and Hollywood tends to mess up these side-curls too often. The beauty of these curls lies in their simplicity and natural appearance.