In hair design, what part of a curl affects its placement and mobility?

The stem of a curl plays a crucial role in determining both its placement and mobility. In hair design, the stem is the section of hair that extends from the base of the curl to the first turn of the hair strand around the roller, curling iron, or other styling tool. This area essentially supports the curl, influencing how tightly it is formed, its direction, and how much movement it has.

When the stem is longer, the curl tends to be more mobile and less defined, allowing for softer styles. Conversely, a shorter stem results in a tighter, more stationary curl, giving a more structured appearance. By adjusting the length and tension in the stem, stylists can effectively control the curl's overall look and behavior.

The base and tip are important elements as well, but they serve different functions. The base, being the foundational area where the curl originates, affects the curl's support and volume. The tip, on the other hand, refers to the end of the hair strand, which influences the finishing detail of the curl but doesn't directly affect how the curl is placed or how it moves.