Introduction:
Having thick and luscious hair can be both a dream and a challenge. While many admire the beauty of full locks, managing and styling them often brings its own set of frustration. The struggle of securing a ponytail or a creative hairstyle without hair ties snapping or pins sliding out is something many can relate to. However, with the right tips and tricks, you can easily tame your thick hair and create long-lasting looks that hold all day.
From my own experience, I’ve learned that choosing the right tools and techniques is key to transforming your hair game. With a few adjustments, you can be equipped with the confidence to secure your hair in place, ensuring it stays flawless through the day. So, don’t let the frustration hold you back—take control of your styling, and let your stunning, thick hair shine!
1. Select the Best Hair Accessories:
The key to securing really thick locks starts with picking the right hair accessories. Consider the following features when selecting accessories for your thick hair:
Option for Thick Hair ties: When selecting the best hair ties for thick hair, it’s important to focus on options that are durable and provide a firm grip. I personally recommend spiral hair ties or seamless fabric elastics, as they avoid the issues that come with thin rubber bands which tend to snap and damage your hair. For those with thick locks, consider investing in elastic bands that can be adjusted to fit your hair’s thickness. Choose ties with a wide surface area or a larger diameter to ensure your voluminous locks are held securely in place without a constant struggle.
Consider Gentle Scrunchies: Using scrunchies is a gentler alternative to traditional hair ties and can make a big difference in how comfortable your hair feels throughout the day. Whether you prefer scrunchies or hair scarves, choosing options made from soft, stretchy materials like silk or satin will help prevent breakage and minimize friction on your hair, keeping it healthier while still being easy to wear.
Select Strong Hairpins and Bobby Pins: When choosing hairpins or bobby pins, it’s important to go for those with a stronghold. Options with a curved design or wavy design are great for providing extra grip, especially if you have thick hair or curly hair. For even better support, you can also look for pins made with non-slip material or a textured surface, which ensures a secure grip that keeps your hairstyle in place throughout the day.
Choose Large Hair Clips and Barrettes: When managing thick locks, it’s essential to invest in large and strong hair clips or barrettes that come with a secure closure mechanism. These accessories are perfect for keeping your hair in place all day and will help prevent slippage. Some options even feature silicone grips for additional hold, making them ideal for maintaining a secure style throughout the day.
2. Prepare Your Hair:
Before you start any hairstyles, it’s essential to properly prepare your hair, especially if you have thick hair strands.
Shampoo and Condition Your Locks: Begin by using a shampoo and conditioner specifically made for your hair type to nourish and strengthen your locks. These products will add the essential moisture needed to keep your hair healthy and more manageable. To further improve manageability, use a leave-in conditioner or a hair mask once a week for added hydration.
Detangle Your Hair: Once your hair is clean, it’s important to gently remove tangles. Use a detangling brush or a wide-tooth comb and start at the ends, working your way up to the roots to prevent damage. Applying a detangling spray or serum can make this process even smoother and protect your hair from breakage. Taking these steps ensures that your thick locks are prepped for styling.
Make Sure Your Hair Is Dry Hair: For the best results, make sure your hair is dry before styling. Wet hair is more prone to breakage, and hairstyles may not hold well on damp hair. If your hair is still wet, use a microfiber towel or a t-shirt to squeeze out excess water, then let your hair air dry as much as possible before starting your styling.
3. Section All of Your Hair:
When dealing with really thick locks, it can be tempting to tie back all of your hair into a big ponytail or bun, but this often causes unnecessary strain on your hairline and scalp. Instead, the best way to get a secure hold is to section hair either horizontally or vertically into more manageable sections. For horizontal sections, divide your hair into a top section and bottom section by parting from ear to ear and securing each section with hair ties. This method works well for half-up hairstyles or if you want to focus on styling just one part of your head at a time.
If you prefer vertical sections, divide your hair down the middle, and then further divide each side into smaller sections before securing them. This technique is ideal for creating braids, twists, or other intricate hairstyles where precision is key. Sectioning your hair this way not only reduces stress on your scalp but also gives you better control over each part of your styling process.
4. Choose the Right Hairstyles:
When it comes to managing thick hair, selecting the right hairstyles can make a big difference in both the effectiveness and longevity of your chosen style. For those with thick locks, it’s important to find styles that offer a secure hold and distribute the weight evenly, ensuring that your hair stays in place throughout the day.
Braids: One great option for thick locks is braids. Not only do they help distribute weight, but they also provide a secure hold for longer periods. You can experiment with different types of braids, such as Dutch braids, French braids, or even fishtail braids, depending on your preferences. Combining braids with layering or sectioning your hair can create more secure hairstyles that work for various hair lengths, including long hair.
Twists: For a simpler look, twists are another option that works well with thick hair. Just divide your hair into sections and twist them together, securing the ends with a hair tie or bobby pins. You can also create multiple twists to achieve an even more intricate style. This is a great option for medium to long hair, offering a stylish yet easy way to manage your hair.
Ponytails and Buns: If you’re in the mood for a classic style, ponytails and buns are reliable choices. To create a secure high ponytail, first gather your hair tightly and secure it with a strong hair tie. For a bun, simply twist the ponytail around itself and secure it with hairpins or a second hair tie. You can opt for a low ponytail or bun depending on your preference.
Updos: For those who want more variety, updos are a versatile option. Start with a base of braids or twists, and use scrunchies or decorative hairpins to enhance the look, adding extra support and beauty to your long locks.
5. Enhance Your Hold with Hair Products:
Using the right hair products can make a big difference in keeping your thick locks securely in place.
Hair spray: One essential product is hair spray. A high-quality, strong-hold formula can provide a long-lasting hold without leaving any sticky residue. If you’re dealing with humid environments, choosing a humidity-resistant hairspray can help fight frizz and keep your hairstyle intact in all weather conditions.
Texturizing Spray or Powder: For extra grip and texture, consider using a texturizing spray or powder. These products are particularly useful if you have silky strands or slippery strands that tend to slide out of hair ties or scrunchies. By applying the product to your roots and along the lengths of your hair, you can achieve added texture and grip that will help your style stay put throughout the day.
Hair Gel or Pomade: If you’re aiming for sleek hairstyles or more intricate hairstyles, hair gel or pomade can provide the extra hold you need. Simply take a small amount on your fingertips and smooth it through your hair before securing it with a hair tie, focusing on the roots for an added lift. Look for water-based formulas to avoid weighing your hair down or causing any product buildup.
6. Take Care of Your Hair:
To keep your hair healthy and looking great, it’s important to follow a routine that helps you maintain healthy hair.
Regular Trims: One key tip is scheduling regular trims with your hairstylist. Trimming your hair every 6-8 weeks helps prevent breakage and gets rid of split ends, making your hair more manageable and easier to style with hair ties. This is especially important if you have long hair, as it’s more prone to damage over time.
Deep Condition: Another way to take care of your hair is to deep condition regularly. Using a deep conditioning mask designed for thicker hair can help maintain moisture levels and prevent dryness, frizz, and extensive damage. A well-conditioned head of hair is more supple and much easier to work with, making styling a breeze.
Avoid Heat Damage: Heat tools like flat irons, curling wands, and hairdryers can cause heat damage to your hair. These tools can weaken your hair structure, leading to breakage and more split ends. If you must use heat-styling tools, always apply a heat protectant spray and opt for tools with adjustable temperature settings to minimize damage.
Embrace Your Hair’s Natural Texture: Lastly, consider embracing your natural texture instead of relying heavily on hair colors and other treatments. Using natural hair care products can highlight your hair’s unique qualities, allowing you to create stunning, low-maintenance styles that keep your hair healthy in the long run.
