Hairstyles for Thick Hair

Thinning shears and thick hair
Photo: Sasimoto/Shutterstock
Q: What kind of hairstyles go well with thick hair? Or is there a way to thin out your hair and keep it thin so it doesn't curl or get puffy when the hair gets longer?
 
A: Most thick hair types can take advantage of a layered style rather well, since strategic layering helps distribute and balance the overall volume. If you don't want visible layers, a stylist can also remove weight internally.
 
While special thinning shears with notched teeth are often used for this, use caution if your hair has a natural wave or curl pattern. Thinning shears cut individual strands at varying lengths beneath the surface, and those short, stubby hairs can act like tiny springs - pushing the top layers outward and actually making the hair look puffier and frizzier as it grows.
 
Instead, ask your stylist to remove weight using precision techniques with standard shears, such as point-cutting, slide-cutting, or dry-carving. If your main issue is bulk at the nape of your neck, a hidden undercut is another great option to permanently strip away density without sacrificing your overall length.
 
As for the hair's tendency to curl or get puffy as it gains length, this happens as a result of the hair's wave pattern. When wavy or curly hair grows longer, individual strands create friction against one another, causing them to push apart and expand. Additionally, thick and wavy hair types are naturally prone to dryness. When the hair lacks moisture, it absorbs humidity from the air, causing the cuticle to swell and puff up.
 
In most cases, combining strategic weight reduction with styling products and heat - like blow-dry straightening followed by flat-iron smoothing - will create the sleek look you desire. Incorporating rich leave-in conditioners, anti-frizz oils, or humidity-blocking creams will also help keep the hair cuticle sealed and weighed down naturally.
 
For a more permanent effect, you may want to consider a chemical smoothing treatment, continuous keratin service, or relaxer to make daily straightening much faster and easier.
 
©Hairfinder.com
 
See also:
 
Hairstyles for thick hair
 
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