Long curly hair is beautiful and full of personality, but managing it can be a challenge. From keeping it out of your face to creating stylish updos, knowing how to tie up your curls can make a significant difference in both your daily routine and special occasions. In this guide, we’ll explore different techniques and styles to help you tie up your long curly hair effectively, while also maintaining its health and beauty.
Understanding Your Curly Hair
The Nature of Curly Hair
Curly hair is unique in its structure, which makes it more prone to dryness and frizz. The natural shape of curly hair causes the oils produced by the scalp to travel less efficiently down the hair shaft, leading to a lack of moisture. This characteristic requires extra care when styling to avoid damaging the hair or disrupting the curl pattern.
Choosing the Right Products
Before tying up your curly hair, it’s essential to use the right products that cater to its needs. Look for products that provide hydration, such as leave-in conditioners, curl creams, and anti-frizz serums. These will help maintain the curl definition and reduce breakage while your hair is tied up.
Essential Tools for Tying Up Curly Hair
Hair Ties and Bands
Not all hair ties are created equal, especially when it comes to curly hair. Opt for soft, fabric-covered hair ties or scrunchies that won’t tug or create friction against your curls. Avoid using rubber bands or thin elastic bands, as they can cause breakage and damage.
Hair Pins and Clips
For more intricate styles, hairpins and clips are indispensable. Choose those with a smooth finish to prevent snagging and breaking your hair. Bobby pins with a slight curve are ideal for securing curly hair without causing creases.
Wide-Tooth Comb and Detangling Brush
To avoid frizz and breakage, always detangle your curls with a wide-tooth comb or a brush specifically designed for curly hair. Detangle from the ends and work your way up to minimize damage and preserve your curl pattern.
Simple and Stylish Ways to Tie Up Long Curly Hair
1. The High Ponytail
Step-by-Step Guide
Prep Your Hair: Start with freshly washed and conditioned hair. Apply a curl cream or leave-in conditioner to keep your curls defined and frizz-free.
Gather Your Hair: Tilt your head back slightly and gather your hair towards the crown of your head.
Secure with a Hair Tie: Use a soft scrunchie or fabric-covered hair tie to secure the ponytail. Avoid pulling the hair too tight to maintain the natural volume of your curls.
Tame Flyaways: Use a small amount of gel or mousse to smooth down any flyaways around your hairline.
When to Wear It
The high ponytail is perfect for both casual and formal occasions. It’s a quick and easy way to keep your curls off your face while showcasing their natural volume and texture.
2. The Pineapple
Step-by-Step Guide
Detangle and Moisturize: Before bed or during the day, gently detangle your curls and apply a light moisturizer or leave-in conditioner.
Gather Your Hair: Flip your head upside down and gather all your hair towards the top of your head, just above your forehead.
Secure Loosely: Use a soft scrunchie to secure your hair in a loose ponytail. The idea is to keep the curls intact and prevent them from being squashed.
Adjust for Comfort: Make sure the pineapple is secure but not too tight. You should be able to sleep comfortably or wear it throughout the day without any tension on your scalp.
When to Wear It
The pineapple is ideal for protecting your curls while you sleep, helping to preserve their shape and reduce frizz. It’s also a great casual style for lounging at home or running errands.
3. The Low Bun
Step-by-Step Guide
Part Your Hair: Decide on a parting that suits your face shape—center or side part works best for this style.
Smooth Your Hair Down: Apply a smoothing serum or gel to the top of your hair and use a brush to create a sleek finish.
Create the Bun: Gather your hair at the nape of your neck and twist it into a loose bun. Secure with a hair tie and bobby pins as needed.
Loosen the Bun: Gently tug on the bun to create a fuller look and allow some curls to escape for a softer, more romantic appearance.
When to Wear It
The low bun is versatile and can be worn for both professional settings and formal events. It’s a chic, elegant style that keeps your curls in check while still looking polished.
4. The Messy Top Knot
Step-by-Step Guide
Gather Your Hair: Flip your head forward and gather all your hair at the top of your head.
Twist and Secure: Twist your hair into a loose knot and secure it with a scrunchie or large hair tie. Don’t worry about making it perfect; the charm of this style lies in its messiness.
Pull Out Strands: To enhance the messy look, pull out a few curls around your face and the nape of your neck.
Set with Hairspray: Lightly mist your top knot with hairspray to hold the style in place without making it stiff.
When to Wear It
The messy top knot is a trendy, effortless style that works well for casual outings or when you’re short on time. It’s also a great way to extend the life of your curls between washes.
See Also: How To Cut Women’s Short Hair For Beginners
5. The Half-Up, Half-Down
Step-by-Step Guide
Section Your Hair: Divide your hair into two sections—top and bottom. The top section should be about 1/3 of your total hair.
Create the Top Section: Gather the top section into a small ponytail or bun at the crown of your head and secure it with a hair tie.
Enhance the Curls: Spritz the bottom section with water or a curl refresher to revive the curls.
Style the Top Section: You can leave the top section as a ponytail, twist it into a bun, or braid it for added texture.
When to Wear It
The half-up, half-down style is ideal for when you want to keep your hair out of your face while still showing off your curls. It’s a versatile look that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.
6. The Curly Bun with a Scarf
Step-by-Step Guide
Prepare Your Hair: Start with day-old curls for better hold. Apply a bit of styling cream to tame any frizz.
Create a Bun: Gather your hair into a bun at your preferred height—high, mid, or low—and secure it with a hair tie.
Add the Scarf: Take a long, colorful scarf and wrap it around the base of your bun. Tie it into a knot or bow, depending on your preference.
Tuck in the Ends: Tuck the ends of the scarf into the bun or let them hang loose for a more bohemian vibe.
When to Wear It
The curly bun with a scarf is a fun, stylish option for festivals, beach days, or casual weekends. It adds a pop of color and personality to your look while keeping your curls under control.
Tips for Maintaining Healthy Curly Hair While Tied Up
Avoid Tight Hairstyles
While it’s tempting to pull your hair back tightly to keep it secure, doing so can lead to tension headaches and damage to your hairline. Opt for looser styles that allow your curls to move naturally.
Protect Your Hair at Night
When tying up your curly hair at night, always use a silk or satin scarf or pillowcase to reduce friction and prevent frizz. This helps to keep your curls intact and reduces the chances of breakage.
Regularly Moisturize Your Hair
Curly hair needs regular moisture to stay healthy. Even when your hair is tied up, apply a light leave-in conditioner or hair oil to the ends to keep them hydrated.
Rotate Your Hairstyles
Wearing your hair in the same style every day can cause stress on specific areas of your scalp and hair. Rotate between different hairstyles to give your hair and scalp a break, ensuring even distribution of tension.
Conclusion
Tying up long curly hair doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the right techniques, tools, and products, you can create a variety of stylish and protective hairstyles that showcase the beauty of your curls. Whether you’re aiming for a casual look or preparing for a formal event, these styles offer both functionality and flair. Remember to care for your curls by moisturizing regularly, avoiding tight styles, and protecting your hair at night. Embrace the versatility of your curly hair, and enjoy experimenting with these stunning updos!