Short locks can be so much fun when you know how to take care of them. Edgy, sleek, and stylish, such cuts are meant to be as effortless as possible. What some people do regret after chopping off their mane, however, is diversity. Indeed, styling seems to be more straightforward when your hair is longer. Does this mean you can’t curl or straighten a bob or lob cut? No!
Luckily, there are straighteners for short hair as well as curling irons and other ingenious devices that can be used on pretty much any length. Follow these easy tips to enjoy a variety of styles without spending hours styling.
Condition First
It’s common practice to style clean, freshly washed hair, so use this opportunity to soften your locks and make them less unruly by applying a suitable conditioner. Just remember not to overdo it, or your hair will end up limp.
Keep it Safe
People fall into two categories when it comes to styling damp hair. Most will tell you it’s unacceptable and you mustn’t do it no matter what, while others believe that doing it occasionally won’t kill it. We know how great the temptation might get, especially when in a rush, so let’s dwell on it a bit.
It’s true that heat is more damaging to wet hair than it is to dry. Some brands offer irons with holes in the plates through which the heat can escape. There are relatively few models of this kind that work on short hair, though. Since the practice is not 100% safe anyway, we recommend towel or blow-drying your hair first whenever you can afford the time.
To avoid hurting your short locks, take the following precautions:
- Apply as little heat as possible given your hair thickness and styler options
- Avoid heating wet hair
- Use a heat protectant for any styling where heat is involved
- Work in sections to avoid running over the same strand more times than you need to.
Use a Set of Mirrors
The way the back of your head looks becomes even important with a short cut, especially a super short one like a pixie. To stay in control at all times, use two or more mirrors while styling. Bonus tip: you could take advantage of your webcam and a mirror as well.
Find the Right Motion
For really short haircuts such as a pixie, start as close to the roots as reasonably possible. While you do so, take care not to burn your scalp and/or hands, preferably using a heat-resistant glove to make double sure. When approaching the end of the strand, bend the styler forwards towards the ground. This final move will give your hairstyle a softer, more natural look.
Falling Short is Not an Option
You might need to get used to styling your short hair, but once you get the knack for it, there’s nothing to worry about. Just take your time and prepare to shine!