Many believe that short hair is not very versatile when it comes to its styling. But do you know that you can look like the main character out of a movie with the right styling tips for your short hair? Here is a guide with quick, easy steps on how to style short hair fabulously.
Determine your hair type
Before we dive into styling techniques, it is important to know your hair type.
This is because each type or texture of hair has styling tips peculiar to its nature, and depending on its texture, they respond differently to styling techniques.
This also prevents you from making mistakes that may potentially damage your hair. Find your hair type in the list below:
Straight hair: You would know you have a straight hair texture because, well, it’s straight. It’s sleek and naturally has a shine to it. Straight hair usually lacks volume, causing it to appear flat and in need of some volume boosters. When styling, it is important to use a lightweight texturizing spray to add volume. Flat ironing can be used for a sleek, polished look or a curling wand to create soft waves.
Wavy hair: This hair type has a natural wave pattern that is neither straight nor curly, balancing out the texture. It can be styled easily as straight, curly, or wavy hair. If you are looking to enhance your hair’s natural waviness, you may use a salt spray to attain that beachy look. To avoid frizz while trying to maintain a wavy pattern, use a blow dryer.
Curly hair: Our natural hair girlies would be very familiar with the following two hair textures. Curly hair has a lot of bounce, it is very full and it can create a striking look if styled properly. A disadvantage is that this hair type attracts frizz and moisture is needed to maintain a curl pattern and avoid frizz. It is best to use a moisturizing cream to define curl patterns. Air drying is highly recommended and advised by hair specialists for this texture of hair.
Coily hair: Characterized by a very small curl pattern (the smallest among the four types), this hair texture is extremely delicate as it is susceptible to breakage. It is also densely packed so the curls are relatively hard to define. Coily hairs require hydrating products to maintain its softness, you may apply leave-in conditioners and a curl-defining cream to help dampen the hair. Braids and twist-outs help to define and stretch out the curls.
Having looked at the different hair types, let’s look at some essential tools and products that are needed to get your Hollywood look.
Essential Hair Tools Products
- Flat irons: As mentioned earlier, this works best for straight hair.
- Curling wands: ideal for wavy and straight hair
- Blow dryers: if available, get the ones with diffusers
- Hair brushing and combs: This is very much needed in your hair arsenal if you want to detangle and style.
- Texturizing spray: This helps to add volume and texture
- Heat protectant: Nobody wants to deal with hair damage, so heat protectant is imperative
- Hair mousse: This enhances curls and can also be used to add volume
- Finishing sprays: as the name implies, this is used at the end of your styling to keep the hair in place.
You know your hair type, and you have gotten the essential tools needed to get started on styling, let’s look at some quick and easy styling techniques for short hair.
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Style Short Hair Beautifully
Sleek and straight styles:
If you’re looking for that graceful styling, section your hair into parts, and flat iron it. Start out with a heat protectant and use the flat iron from the roots down to the tip of the hair, ensuring each strand is sleek and smooth. The straight and wavy hair textures can pull off this look effortlessly.
Beachy waves:
Wrap sections of clean hair around a curling wand and hold for a few seconds. When you release it, you should have that beautiful beachy wave. For a more relaxed look, run your fingers through the waves and spritz with texturizing spray.
Messy Pixie:
As a chic, a pixie cut is always that look. It comes off as both playful and stylish. For this style, apply texturizer and scrunch it up with your fingers a little, letting it air dry. The result is a carefree look that is perfect for a casual outing.
Curly Bob:
A personal favorite, this is one of the easiest looks to pull off. It is done by enhancing your natural curls with a hair mousse on damp hair. Section and dry in strands. Finish off with a light mist spray and you are good to go.
Slicked back: For a sophisticated look, apply a small amount of gel to your hair. Comb the hair backward and use your hands to smoothen it down. This hairstyle is perfect for formal events.
Another way to style short hair is to accessorize appropriately. Accessories can elevate your look effortlessly. You could use a:
Headbands and scarves for a pop of color
Hair clips or pins to accentuate your style
Hats and beanies for a fashion statement
Maintenance tips for Short Hair
Short hair is extremely easy to style when it is well-maintained, so here are some maintenance tips:
- Regular trims to maintain your style and prevent split ends
- Make sure to have a proper wash routine according to your hair type, but do not over-wash to prevent dryness.
- Ensure to always use a silk or satin pillowcase to reduce friction and keep your hair in style overnight.
With the right tools, products and techniques, styling short hair can be fun. Enjoy the freedom that short hair gives and make sure to experiment with different looks. Happy styling!
