7 Tips and Tricks for Styling Short Hair

Short hair can be just as versatile and stylish as long hair, but it does require some different techniques and tools to achieve the perfect look. Whether you have a pixie cut, a bob, or any other type of short hair, these seven tips and tricks will help you master the art of styling your locks.

Understanding Your Hair Type and Face Shape

Before you start styling your hair, it's important to know what type of hair you have and what face shape you have. This will help you choose the right products and techniques to enhance your natural features. Here's how to identify your hair type and face shape.

Identifying Your Hair Type

The three main hair types are straight, wavy, and curly. However, it's important to note that hair can also be a combination of these types. For example, you could have straight hair with a slight wave to it, or wavy hair with some curls mixed in.

To determine your hair type, there are a few different methods you can try. One is to wash your hair and let it air dry without using any products. If it dries straight with no waves or curls, you have straight hair. If it has a slight wave or curl to it, you have wavy hair. If it has tight curls or kinks, you have curly hair.

Another method is to look at the shape of your individual strands of hair. Straight hair will be completely straight from root to tip, while wavy hair will have a slight bend or curve. Curly hair will have a spiral or zigzag shape to it.

Once you know your hair type, you can choose products and styling techniques that will work best for you. For example, if you have curly hair, you may want to use a leave-in conditioner or curl cream to help define your curls and reduce frizz. If you have straight hair, you may want to use a volumizing mousse or texturizing spray to add some body and movement.

Determining Your Face Shape

Knowing your face shape can help you choose hairstyles that flatter your features and enhance your natural beauty. There are six main face shapes: oval, round, square, heart, diamond, and oblong.

To determine your face shape, pull back your hair and examine the shape of your face in the mirror. Look at the width of your forehead, cheekbones, and jawline, as well as the length of your face. Here's a breakdown of each face shape:

• Oval: Your face is longer than it is wide, with a gently rounded hairline and jawline. Your forehead may be slightly wider than your chin, and your cheekbones are the widest part of your face.
• Round: Your face is roughly as wide as it is long, with a rounded hairline and jawline. Your cheekbones are the widest part of your face.
• Square: Your face is roughly as wide as it is long, with a strong, angular jawline. Your forehead, cheekbones, and jawline are all about the same width.
• Heart: Your face is wider at the forehead and tapers down to a narrow chin. Your cheekbones may be high and prominent.
• Diamond: Your face is widest at the cheekbones, and tapers slightly at the forehead and jawline.
• Oblong: Your face is longer than it is wide, with a straight hairline and jawline. Your forehead, cheekbones, and jawline are all about the same width.

Once you know your face shape, you can choose hairstyles that flatter your features. For example, if you have a round face, you may want to avoid hairstyles that add volume to the sides of your face, as this can make your face appear even rounder. Instead, opt for styles that add height and length, such as a high ponytail or a long, layered cut.

Overall, understanding your hair type and face shape is key to achieving a hairstyle that looks great and makes you feel confident. With the right products and techniques, you can enhance your natural beauty and create a look that's uniquely you.

Essential Tools for Styling Short Hair

To style short hair, you'll need a few key tools in your arsenal. Here are the essential tools you'll need.

Hair Dryer and Diffuser

A good hair dryer and diffuser are essential for creating volume and texture in short hair. Look for a dryer with multiple heat and speed settings, and choose a diffuser that fits securely onto the nozzle. Use the diffuser to dry your hair while scrunching it with your hands to create natural-looking waves or curls.

When using a hair dryer, it's important to keep the nozzle at least six inches away from your scalp to avoid damaging your hair. Start by drying the roots of your hair, then work your way down to the ends. For added volume, flip your head upside down while drying.

If you have fine hair, use a lower heat setting to avoid causing damage. For thicker hair, use a higher heat setting to speed up the drying process.

Flat Iron and Curling Wand

A flat iron and curling wand are great tools to have on hand for creating sleek, straight styles or bouncy curls in short hair. Look for a flat iron with ceramic plates that glide smoothly over your hair, and choose a curling wand with a tapered barrel for versatile styling options.

When using a flat iron, start by applying a heat protectant spray to your hair. Then, take small sections of hair and run the flat iron over them, starting at the roots and working your way down to the ends. For a sleek, straight style, run the flat iron over your hair in a straight line. For a more textured look, twist the flat iron as you run it over your hair.

When using a curling wand, start by wrapping small sections of hair around the barrel, holding for a few seconds, and then releasing. For tighter curls, use a smaller barrel, and for looser curls, use a larger barrel. To create a more natural look, alternate the direction of the curls as you work your way around your head.

Brushes and Combs

Brushes and combs are essential for detangling and styling short hair. Look for a wide-toothed comb for detangling wet hair, a small round brush for blow-drying, and a boar bristle brush for smoothing and adding shine.

When detangling wet hair, start at the ends and work your way up to the roots to avoid causing damage. Use a wide-toothed comb to gently remove any tangles.

When blow-drying, use a small round brush to create volume and shape. Start at the roots and work your way down to the ends, using the brush to lift the hair as you go.

A boar bristle brush is great for smoothing short hair and adding shine. Brush your hair in small sections, starting at the roots and working your way down to the ends.

With these essential tools in your styling arsenal, you'll be able to create a variety of short hair styles that are sure to turn heads.

Mastering the Art of Blow-Drying

Blow-drying is not just about drying your hair quickly, it's also a key technique for creating volume and texture in short hair. Here's how to master the art of blow-drying.

Prepping Your Hair

Before you start blow-drying, it's important to prep your hair properly. Start by washing your hair with a gentle shampoo and conditioner. Avoid using products that contain harsh chemicals as they can damage your hair and make it more prone to breakage. Once you've washed your hair, apply a heat protectant spray or serum to protect your hair from heat damage. This will help to minimize the damage caused by the heat of the blow dryer and keep your hair looking healthy and shiny.

After applying the heat protectant, towel dry your hair and use a wide-toothed comb to detangle it. This will help to prevent any knots or tangles from forming while you're blow-drying.

Techniques for Different Hair Types

Blow-drying techniques can vary depending on your hair type. If you have straight hair, use a small round brush to lift your roots while blow-drying. This will help to create volume and give your hair a fuller look. For best results, start at the roots and work your way down to the ends, using the brush to lift and separate your hair as you go.

If you have wavy hair, use a diffuser attachment to enhance your natural texture. A diffuser attachment helps to distribute the heat evenly, which can help to reduce frizz and create a more defined wave pattern. To use a diffuser, start by applying a styling product to your hair, then attach the diffuser to your blow dryer and use it to dry your hair while scrunching it with your hands. This will help to define your waves and give your hair a natural, beachy look.

If you have curly hair, use a diffuser attachment and scrunch your hair with your hands while blow-drying to define your curls. Curly hair can be more prone to frizz, so it's important to use a diffuser attachment to distribute the heat evenly and prevent frizz. To create defined curls, start by applying a curl-defining product to your hair, then attach the diffuser to your blow dryer and use it to dry your hair while scrunching it with your hands. This will help to define your curls and give your hair a bouncy, voluminous look.

Remember, blow-drying takes practice, so don't worry if you don't get it right the first time. With a little patience and persistence, you'll soon be able to master the art of blow-drying and create a variety of different styles that suit your hair type and personal taste.

Creating Texture and Volume

Short hair can sometimes lack volume and texture, but with the right techniques and products, you can create the illusion of fuller, more textured hair. Here's how to do it.

Using Hair Products

Choose a volumizing mousse or texturizing spray to add body and definition to your hair. Apply the product to damp hair and work it through with your fingers, then blow dry your hair using the techniques outlined above.

Teasing and Backcombing Techniques

You can also use teasing or backcombing techniques to add height and volume to your hair. Use a fine-toothed comb to backcomb small sections of hair at your crown, then smooth the top layer with a boar bristle brush. Use hairspray to hold the style in place.

Styling Short Hair with Accessories

Accessories are a great way to add interest and personality to your short hair. Here are some ideas for styling your hair with accessories.

Headbands and Hair Clips

Headbands and hair clips can be used to hold back your hair or to add a pop of color or texture. Choose a headband that compliments your hair color and face shape, and use bobby pins or hair clips to secure it in place.

Scarves and Bandanas

Scarves and bandanas are another fun way to add color and texture to your hair. Wrap the scarf or bandana around your head and tie it in a knot or bow at the back, letting the ends drape over your hair.

By following these seven tips and tricks, you'll be able to style your short hair like a pro, no matter what your hair type or face shape.