Flipped-Out Ends

Short, just below the ears hairstyle for women
Photo: Djomas/Shutterstock
Q: I recently got my hair cut, but it didn't turn out the way I wanted it to. It is now three centimeters below my ears with some layering and side-swept bangs. I'd really like to style it with flipped-out ends while giving it a chunky, textured look instead of having it lie flat.
 
I'm not very experienced with styling my hair, so I could really use some step-by-step advice on how to achieve this look. I'd also appreciate any tips on the best products or tools to use so the style lasts throughout the day.
 
A: The easiest way to give your hair flipped-out ends is to use a small curling iron or a flat iron, which will easily catch and shape your shorter length. You can help the style last longer by applying a styling gel or lightweight styling mousse to your towel-dried hair before blow-drying. While drying, use a small-to-medium round brush to lift the hair at the roots for volume and turn the ends outward. This creates a soft flip that will require less work with your curling iron or flat iron afterward.
 
If you choose the curling iron or flat iron method, start by making sure your hair is completely dry and apply a heat protectant. Clamping or ironing even slightly damp hair can cause severe damage. Divide your hair into manageable sections, beginning at the back of your head and working toward the sides and top. Wrap only the last two centimeters of each section around the iron, or clamp with a flat iron and flick your wrist upward, directing the ends away from your face to create the flipped effect. Hold the tool in place for just a few seconds, then release carefully.
 
Once you've finished, let the hair cool completely before touching it. This is a crucial step because the hair's shape sets as it cools; touching or brushing warm hair will cause the flip to fall out immediately. After the hair has cooled, gently run your fingers through the ends to soften the flip into a seamless style rather than a defined curl.
 
To create the chunky look you're after, avoid brushing the style out. Instead, rub a pea-sized amount of pomade, styling wax, or texturizing paste between your fingertips until it is clear and warm. Gently pinch the very ends of small sections together. Twist a few pieces lightly to create separation and definition. Focus strictly on the layers and the tips rather than applying product all over, as keeping it away from your mid-lengths and roots ensures the style stays textured without becoming heavy or greasy.
 
Your side-swept bangs can be styled with the round brush while blow-drying. Direct them to the side and slightly downward as they dry, curving the very ends gently inward toward your temple. Curving the bangs inward frames your face beautifully and creates a balanced contrast with the textured flips around the rest of your head, keeping the front from sticking out awkwardly.
 
To finish, mist the entire style with a flexible-hold hairspray. This will help maintain the flipped ends while still allowing your hair to move naturally. If your hair is especially fine or resistant to holding a style, you can add a light volumizing spray at the roots before blow-drying for extra body. On the other hand, if your hair is thick or naturally straight, you may need a slightly stronger finishing spray to keep the ends flipped throughout the day.
 
With a layered haircut like yours, flipped-out ends and chunky texture work especially well because the layers naturally create movement. After a little practice, you'll find that this style only takes a few minutes to create and can easily be refreshed the next day with a quick touch-up.
 
©Hairfinder.com
 
See also:
 
Styling with a curling iron
 
How to blow dry hair