If you prefer a lighter hold on your hair, stop blow-drying when your hair is still damp but not dripping. [2] X Research source If you typically use a pre-styling product like hair tonic, leave-in conditioner, or heat protectant spray, massage that into your hair before blow-drying.
The precise amount of hair clay you need depends on how long your hair is. Short hair generally requires one pea-size dollop, while medium-length hair requires two. Since you can always layer more hair clay on later in the process, be conservative when starting off. [4] X Research source Make sure to select hair clay that has a matte finish and that’s solid in state.
It’s best to work back to front on your head to make sure you don’t accidentally end up with a ton of product in the front above your forehead.
Hair clay is a good option if you want to do a pompadour since it adds volume to your hair. If it seems like you need more product to really set your hair, scoop up another pea-size amount and repeat the process.
Hair clay is best for fairly natural slicked-back styles for short and medium-length hair. You can restyle your hair throughout the day since this product doesn’t dry hard.
It’s best to style clean hair. Even a bit of grease can ruin the effectiveness of hair products.
There are two types of hair wax you can buy. Water-based waxes are easy to wash out, while wax-based waxes require a deep cleansing shampoo to get out of your hair. Double-check which kind you’ve purchased to make sure you’ve got the right products to clean your hair at the end of the day. [10] X Research source
If you have thick hair, then you will need to use a brush to smooth your hair back and make it lay flat. Otherwise, it may still look puffy in some places. Hair wax can also work with longer layered haircuts by providing definition. Instead of brushing the wax through all your hair, twirl the ends of your hair between your wax-coated fingertips. Don’t rub it into the roots or mid-shaft of your hair because it will make your head look greasy and limp. [11] X Research source Hair wax also helps to define the curls in your hair by making them springier and more structured. Work the wax into the ends of each curl with your fingertips.
Keep working in pea-size increments until your hair is set. Be careful of using too much—it’s easy to add more, and it’s almost impossible to remove product from your hair (other than washing it) once it’s been applied.
Since wax doesn’t dry hard, you’ll be able to rework your hairstyle throughout the day. However, keep in mind that wax is thick and can be hard to style your hair with depending on your hair texture, so this might not always work out. You can also carry your hair wax with you in your purse or your pocket if you plan to do a major retouching job while you’re out.
For example, if you have oily hair you should stay away from hairsprays marked “ultra shine,” “diamond gloss,” or similar. These will make your hair appear greasy. You can also make your own all-natural DIY product with sugar hairspray. To make sugar hairspray, boil 1 cup (240 mL) of water and add 2 teaspoons (9. 9 mL) of sugar, mixing until it dissolves. Let the mixture cool, then put in an empty spray bottle. [15] X Research source
Hairspray is also often used in combination with a curling iron to keep waves from quickly falling out of your hair. Hairspray is also great for keeping a pompadour hairdo from losing its structure and volume throughout the day.
To reach both sides of your head easily, it’s best to spray one hand and do one half then spray the other for the other half. Make sure your hairspray is within arms’ reach during this process because you’ll need to grab it and spray quickly once you’re ready to set your hairstyle. [18] X Research source
Keep your hand moving while you spray to avoid saturating your hair and making it thick, clumpy, and heavy. Protect your eyes with the other hand to make sure you don’t get hairspray in your eyes.
