Short hair can be incredibly stylish and versatile, but to achieve the perfect look, you need the right styling tools and products. In this article, we will explore in detail what to use to style short hair, from basic tools to a variety of styling products, and provide tips and techniques for creating different short hair styles.
Basic Tools for Styling Short Hair
Hair Dryer
A good quality hair dryer is essential for short hair styling. It helps to quickly dry the hair after washing and can also be used to create volume and shape. When choosing a hair dryer, look for one with adjustable heat and speed settings. A nozzle attachment is also useful as it directs the airflow, allowing you to focus on specific areas of the hair. For example, to add lift at the roots, you can use the nozzle to direct the hot air upwards while lifting the hair with a round brush.
Round Brush
A round brush is a must-have tool for short hair. It comes in different sizes, and for short hair, a smaller to medium-sized round brush is usually more suitable. The round brush helps to smooth the hair cuticles, add volume, and create curls or waves. When using a round brush with a hair dryer, wrap sections of the hair around the brush and move the dryer along the length of the hair, following the direction of the brush. This technique can give short hair a polished and bouncy look.
Flat Iron
A flat iron is great for straightening short hair or creating sleek, smooth styles. It can also be used to add a slight bend or flip at the ends. Look for a flat iron with adjustable temperature settings to avoid damaging the hair. When using a flat iron, it’s important to work in small sections, starting from the roots and gliding the iron down to the ends in a smooth, continuous motion. For short hair, a thinner flat iron may be more maneuverable.
Curling Iron/Wand
If you want to add curls or waves to your short hair, a curling iron or wand is the tool to use. Curling irons come in different barrel sizes, and for short hair, a smaller barrel (around 1/2 inch to 1 inch) can create tighter, more defined curls, while a larger barrel (1 1/4 inch to 1 1/2 inch) can produce looser waves. To use a curling iron, wrap a small section of hair around the barrel and hold for a few seconds before releasing. With a curling wand, you simply wrap the hair around the wand without using a clamp.
Styling Products for Short Hair
Hair Mousse
Hair mousse is a lightweight product that is ideal for adding volume and texture to short hair. It is usually applied to damp hair before blow-drying. Squeeze a small amount of mousse into your palm, rub your hands together, and then work it through the roots and mid-lengths of the hair. The mousse helps to create a base for styling, giving the hair body and hold. It also allows for easier manipulation of the hair when using tools like a round brush or curling iron.
Hair Gel
Hair gel is a stronger hold product that can be used to create sleek, defined styles. It is great for short pixie cuts or styles where you want to keep the hair in place. Apply a small amount of gel to dry or damp hair, depending on the desired effect. For a wet look, apply to wet hair and style as desired. Gel can be used to smooth down flyaways, create a spiky look, or define the edges of a short haircut. However, be careful not to use too much, as it can make the hair look stiff and unnatural.
Hair Wax
Hair wax is another product that offers a medium to strong hold and a matte finish. It is excellent for adding texture and definition to short hair. Rub a small amount of wax between your fingers until it softens, and then work it into the hair, focusing on the ends or areas where you want to create separation and movement. Hair wax is perfect for creating a messy, tousled look or for adding a bit of edge to a short style.
Hair Spray
Hair spray is used to set the style and provide long-lasting hold. There are different types of hair sprays, including light hold, medium hold, and strong hold. For short hair, a medium hold hair spray is usually sufficient. After styling the hair, hold the hair spray about 6-8 inches away from the head and spray evenly over the hair. This will help to keep the style in place throughout the day, but still allow for some natural movement. Some hair sprays also offer added benefits such as humidity resistance or shine.
Texturizing Spray
Texturizing spray is a great product for adding instant volume and a lived-in look to short hair. It works by coating the hair strands and creating a bit of grit, which helps to separate the hair and give it a more textured appearance. Spray the texturizing spray onto dry hair, focusing on the roots and mid-lengths. You can then tousle the hair with your fingers to create a more effortless style. This product is especially useful for short hair that tends to lie flat or for creating a beachy, casual look.
Styling Techniques for Different Short Hair Styles
The Classic Pixie Cut
For a classic pixie cut, start by applying a small amount of hair mousse to damp hair and blow-drying it with a round brush, lifting the hair at the roots to create volume. Use a flat iron to smooth any frizzy or unruly hairs. To add a bit of definition, you can apply a small amount of hair wax to the ends and use your fingers to shape them. Finish with a light to medium hold hair spray to set the style.
The Short Bob
To style a short bob, apply hair mousse to damp hair and blow-dry it straight using a flat brush. You can also use a flat iron to create a sleeker look if desired. For a more textured bob, use a texturizing spray after drying and tousle the hair with your fingers. To add curls or waves, use a curling iron or wand on the ends and mid-lengths of the hair, and then finish with a medium hold hair spray.
The Spiky Short Hair
For a spiky short hair style, apply a generous amount of hair gel to damp hair. Use your fingers to spike the hair up in the desired direction, starting from the roots. You can also use a comb to create more defined spikes. Allow the gel to dry completely, and then apply a strong hold hair spray to keep the spikes in place throughout the day.
The Short Shag
To style a short shag, start by applying a texturizing spray to dry hair. Use your fingers to tousle and separate the hair, creating a messy, layered look. You can also use a curling iron or wand to add some loose waves to the hair for added texture. Finish with a medium hold hair spray to hold the style while still allowing for movement.
Tips for Maintaining Healthy Short Hair While Styling
Heat Protection
When using heat styling tools such as hair dryers, flat irons, and curling irons, it is crucial to use a heat protectant spray. Heat can damage the hair, making it dry, brittle, and prone to breakage. Apply the heat protectant spray evenly to damp or dry hair before using any heat tool. This will help to minimize the damage caused by the heat and keep the hair healthy.
Regular Trimming
Short hair requires regular trimming to maintain its shape and style. Aim to get a trim every 4-6 weeks, depending on how fast your hair grows. Trimming helps to get rid of split ends and keeps the hair looking neat and fresh. It also promotes healthy hair growth by preventing split ends from traveling up the hair shaft.
Proper Washing and Conditioning
Use a shampoo and conditioner that is suitable for your hair type. For short hair, you may not need to use as much product as for long hair. Wash the hair regularly, but not too frequently, as over-washing can strip the hair of its natural oils. Conditioning is important to keep the hair hydrated and manageable. You can also use a deep conditioning treatment once a week or as needed to give the hair an extra boost of moisture.
Avoid Overstyling
While it’s fun to experiment with different short hair styles, avoid overstyling the hair. Excessive use of styling products and heat tools can damage the hair over time. Try to give the hair a break between styling sessions, and opt for more natural, low-maintenance styles on some days.
Conclusion
Styling short hair requires a combination of the right tools and products, along with proper techniques and maintenance. By understanding what to use and how to use it, you can create a variety of stylish and flattering looks for short hair. Whether you prefer a sleek and polished style or a more textured and casual look, with the proper knowledge and a little practice, you can achieve the perfect short hair style every time. Remember to take care of your short hair to keep it healthy and looking its best.
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