What is the purpose of a “wet set” in hairstyling?

The purpose of a “wet set” in hairstyling is primarily to create defined curls or waves. This is achieved by setting the hair on rollers, pins, or other tools while it is damp, allowing it to dry in that shape. The moisture helps the hair to mold into the desired curl or wave pattern as it dries, resulting in a long-lasting and structured look. Wet sets are often favored because they can produce soft, bouncy curls without the need for heating tools, which can sometimes damage the hair.

Other methods of hairstyling may focus on maintaining straight hair, adding volume without heat, or enhancing natural texture, but those do not capture the essence of the wet set technique, which is specifically designed for creating curls and waves.