Helmet Hair Tips

Woman who is wearing a helmet
Photo: Klever Level/Shutterstock
Q: I just recently started riding a motorcycle and am learning all about helmet hair. I have moderately thick, shoulder-length hair that I wear in a bob. I wear bangs, and my hair is not layered. Could you recommend some tips or a style that might look okay after wearing a helmet for a couple of hours?
 
A: As it happens, I have a few clients who are motorcycle enthusiasts, and helmet hair is a common complaint among them. They have resolved the issue in a couple of different ways, each according to his or her personal preferences.
 

The Do-Rag Method

One rider uses a do-rag (durag) to secure her hair before putting on her helmet. She tucks her hair into a low, flat coil at the nape of her neck beneath the do-rag, which helps prevent friction between her hair and the helmet liner without creating crown pressure or affecting the helmet's fit.
 
After the ride, she simply shakes her hair loose, runs a wide-tooth comb through it, and finger-styles it. This method works especially well for medium to long hair because it minimizes tangles and preserves the hair's natural body.
 
How to secure your hair with a durag
 

Low Braids & Twists

Another option is to braid the hair in a French braid beneath the helmet. A single low braid keeps the hair neatly contained and prevents it from rubbing against your jacket collar or blowing around in the wind. The only drawback is that after a long ride, taking the braid out will leave soft waves in the hair. Depending on your taste, that can either be an added bonus or a style you would rather avoid.
 
For shoulder-length hair like yours, a low, loose twist or a pair of small braids tucked neatly under the helmet can also work well. The key is to keep any gathering of hair low at the neck and avoid bulky styles on top that create pressure points inside the helmet. Any hairstyle that changes the way your helmet fits should be avoided, since a properly fitting helmet is essential for both your comfort and safety.
 

The Bangs

Your bangs may require a little extra attention, as forehead pressure and sweat from the helmet's brow pad tend to flatten or separate them. Before putting on your helmet, try brushing your bangs to one side or smoothing them with a light styling cream or anti-frizz serum.
 
Carrying a travel-size comb and a mini bottle of dry shampoo in your jacket pocket or saddlebag makes touch-ups easy. A quick spray at the roots and a pass with your comb will immediately restore lost volume and absorb moisture once the helmet comes off.
 
Woman with long hair, on a motorbike
 

Preventing Wind Damage & Friction

One thing that is very important, especially if you have longer hair, is to keep it from being blown about in the wind. Some people think that simply securing the hair into a ponytail is sufficient when riding, but if the ponytail is left to whip around in the bike's wake, you'll likely end up with tangled hair by the time you reach your destination.
 
That constant movement causes friction, which can lead to knots and breakage. Over time, repeated wind damage can leave the ends of the hair unhealthy, forcing you to trim away the damaged sections. Keeping your hair completely contained inside your helmet or jacket collar will go a long way toward maintaining its condition.
 
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See also:
 
How to get rid of tangled hair
 
How to braid hair