For women with thick hair, styling can often feel like a challenge, especially when it comes to creating an elegant, long-lasting bun. However, with the right techniques, thick hair can be styled into a sleek and secure bun that not only looks polished but stays in place throughout the day. This article offers a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to tie thick hair in a bun, whether you are preparing for a professional setting, a casual outing, or a special event.
Why Thick Hair Can Be Challenging to Style
Thick hair is beautiful, but it can be tricky to manage and style. The volume and texture of thick hair often result in difficulty achieving a smooth, controlled look, especially when attempting to tie it up in a bun. A common issue women with thick hair face is the inability to create a bun that stays intact without becoming bulky or loose. Understanding how to work with your hair type and using the right products and techniques can help you achieve a beautiful, secure bun that complements your look.
Essential Tools and Products for Tying a Bun in Thick Hair
Before diving into the steps of tying a bun, it’s important to gather the necessary tools and products that will help you create a neat and secure bun. Here are some essential items you’ll need:
- Hair Elastic: Choose a strong, thick hair elastic that will hold your thick hair securely in place. Avoid thin elastics, as they can snap or slide out of thicker hair.
- Bobby Pins: These are crucial for securing any loose strands and ensuring that your bun stays in place. Opt for larger or more durable pins for thick hair.
- Hair Tie or Scrunchie: A scrunchie can help provide extra hold and volume to your bun, especially if you’re aiming for a more relaxed, voluminous look.
- Hairspray or Hair Gel: To keep your bun intact and frizz-free, a flexible-hold hairspray or hair gel is essential. Choose a product that won’t leave your hair feeling crunchy.
- Comb or Brush: To detangle and smooth your hair before styling, you’ll need a wide-tooth comb or paddle brush.
- Texturizing Spray: For added volume and texture, a light texturizing spray can be helpful, particularly if you’re going for a messy or voluminous bun.
Once you’ve gathered the necessary tools, you’re ready to start the bun-tying process!
How to Tie Thick Hair in a Bun？
1. Begin with Clean, Dry Hair
The first step to creating a flawless bun is ensuring your hair is clean and dry. Start by washing and conditioning your hair with products designed for thick or coarse hair. Thick hair often benefits from moisturizing shampoos and conditioners that provide extra hydration, preventing frizz and tangling. Once your hair is washed, allow it to air-dry or blow-dry it with a round brush for added volume.
If you’re short on time, dry shampoo can also be an excellent option for freshening up your hair between washes.
2. Detangle Your Hair
Thick hair can easily become tangled, so it’s important to thoroughly detangle it before beginning the bun-tying process. Use a wide-tooth comb or a detangling brush to gently work through any knots. Start at the ends and gradually work your way up to avoid causing unnecessary breakage. For added ease, you can spritz some leave-in conditioner or detangler spray to help smooth out stubborn tangles.
3. Apply Texturizing or Volumizing Products
To add texture and ensure your bun stays voluminous, apply a light texturizing spray or mousse to your hair. These products work by adding grip to your strands, making it easier to form the bun and secure it. For those looking to achieve a more structured, polished look, a volumizing mousse can also give your hair a fuller appearance.
4. Gather Your Hair Into a Ponytail
For a secure bun, the first step is to gather your hair into a ponytail. Depending on the look you want to achieve, you can either pull the ponytail high on your head for a sleek, top-knot bun or lower for a more relaxed, low bun. Use your fingers to gather your hair rather than a comb, as this allows for more natural texture and volume.
Once the ponytail is gathered, use a thick, sturdy elastic band to secure it in place. Make sure the ponytail is tight enough to hold but not so tight that it causes discomfort.
5. Twist the Ponytail for Extra Hold
To help your bun hold its shape, twist the ponytail tightly from root to tip. This creates a secure base for your bun and adds extra texture to the finished look. The tighter you twist, the more structured your bun will appear, but you can also keep it looser for a more relaxed, messy style.
6. Create the Bun
Now it’s time to form the bun itself. Start by wrapping the twisted ponytail around the base of the elastic. Keep wrapping until all the hair is coiled around the base, forming a circular shape. Be sure to tuck any loose ends underneath the bun as you go. The bun should sit securely against your scalp, with no loose strands poking out.
7. Secure the Bun with Bobby Pins
Once you’ve wrapped the hair into a bun, use bobby pins to secure it in place. Start by inserting the pins at the base of the bun to keep it firmly attached to your scalp. Then, use additional bobby pins to pin down any loose sections of hair around the bun, ensuring that it doesn’t unravel throughout the day.
If you prefer a more voluminous bun, gently pull on sections of the bun with your fingers to loosen it slightly before securing it. This will create a fuller, more textured look.
8. Finish with Hairspray or Gel
To keep your bun in place all day, finish the style with a light mist of flexible-hold hairspray. This will provide the perfect amount of hold without making your hair feel stiff or crunchy. If you have any flyaways or frizz, you can also apply a small amount of hair gel or smoothing cream to those areas to keep everything in place.
9. Final Touches
Finally, check your bun from all angles to make sure it looks even and secure. If necessary, add a few more bobby pins or a touch of hairspray for added hold. You can also pull a few strands loose near your face for a softer, more relaxed look.
Different Bun Styles for Thick Hair
While the classic bun is a timeless style, there are various ways to customize your bun depending on your personal preferences and the occasion. Here are a few different bun styles you can try:
- High Messy Bun: A more casual and effortless look, perfect for everyday wear. The high messy bun adds volume and texture, giving you a laid-back, trendy vibe.
- Low Sleek Bun: A sleek, professional look that’s ideal for office settings or formal events. This bun is smooth, polished, and elegant, and it’s perfect for thick hair that needs to be tamed.
- Ballet Bun: A refined and sophisticated style that works well for formal occasions, performances, or whenever you want to look put-together. This style is neat, compact, and can be achieved by tightly securing your hair into a small, rounded bun at the nape of your neck.
Conclusion
Tying a bun in thick hair doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the right products, techniques, and a little patience, you can achieve a beautiful, secure bun that will last all day. Whether you’re looking for a sleek, polished style or a messy, voluminous bun, there’s a perfect option for every occasion.
