The thing about cowlicks is, they do what they want, not what you want them to do. These stubborn sections of hair can be tiresome to control when you’re getting ready in the morning, but although you can never fully get rid of a cowlick, you can style them in ways that make your hair look its best. Work with your cowlick rather than against it with these must-know cowlick hair tips for women!
What Is a Cowlick?
A cowlick is a small section of hair that grows at a different angle than the rest of the hair on your head. It typically creates a noticeable swirl or tuft. To know if you have a cowlick, look for hair that grows in a swoop pattern or clockwise circle, like a wave. They’re especially common in the front hairline area, and are usually most noticeable and prevalent with straight hair. Cowlicks are genetic and completely harmless, however, they can be stubborn and frustrating to deal with on a daily basis.
10 Cowlick Hair Tips for Women
1. Choose the Right Haircut
Opt for a haircut that works with your cowlick rather than against it. Talk to your stylist, who will likely have experience dealing with cowlicks, to find a style that complements your hair’s natural growth pattern.
They’ll be able to incorporate the cowlick into your hairstyle. If your cowlick is in your bang area, your stylist can lightly cut into growth to reduce some of the bulk underneath, allowing the hair on top to lay seamlessly. Layered haircuts, long bangs, or asymmetrical styles typically work well for cowlicks.
2. Master Your Blow-Drying Technique
A blow dryer can help you control your cowlick. The goal is to confuse the hair by blow drying it in multiple directions. Use a round brush and direct the air in the opposite direction of the cowlick to smooth it out. Once it’s partially dry, switch to blow drying it in the desired direction. Finish with a blast of cold air to set the hair in place.
3. Styling Products Are Your Friends
Apply a styling product such as mousse or gel to damp hair before you blow-dry it. This can help provide additional control and keep your cowlick in place throughout the day. These products also add texture and hold to your hair, making it easier to style and manage your cowlick.
If you’re going for a slick look, use a hairspray and smoothing spray to smooth out your cowlick and hold it in place Experiment with different products to find the one that works best for you!
4. Experiment with Different Hair Parts
Changing up your hair part can sometimes help to minimize the visibility of a cowlick. Try parting your hair on the opposite side or in a zigzag pattern to redirect the cowlick and create a more balanced look.
5. Train Your Hair
Over time, you can train your cowlick by consistently styling it in your desired direction. Use bobby pins or small hair clips to hold your hair in place while it dries. This teaches your hair to stay in the desired position and reduces the impact of the cowlick.
6. Consider Bangs or Layers
If your cowlick is primarily located at the front of your hairline, bangs can help hide your cowlick and give you more styling options. Both bangs or layered hairstyles can help blend and disguise a cowlick. The added weight and structure can help control the direction of the hair and reduce the prominence of the cowlick.
7. Avoid Heavy Conditioners
Using heavy conditioners or applying conditioner near the root can weigh your hair down. This makes it more difficult to control your cowlick. Focus on conditioning the mid lengths and ends of your hair, and avoiding going too close to the scalp. Use a lightweight, moisturizing conditioner for best results.
8. Use Hair Accessories
Incorporate hair accessories like headbands, clips, or bobby pins to help tame and manage your cowlick. These can add style to your hair while keeping it in place.
9. Embrace Your Cowlick
Sometimes, embracing the natural pattern of your cowlick can be a great option. Work with your hairstylist to find a haircut and styling routine that enhances the uniqueness of your hair rather than trying to fight against it. For example, work with your swirls by giving the rest of your hair textured beach waves. This disguises the separation caused by different directional growth patterns.
10. How To Control Cowlicks + Change Your Part (Hair Tutorial) | Ashley Hope HairPlay
Watch this tutorial to see exactly how you can control your cowlick with the right products and techniques. She offers her best tips and demonstrates a technique that really works to manage your cowlick and change your part! You’ll need tools including a hard rubber comb, a hair dryer with a connector and a bristle hair brush.
Cowlicks are totally normal and nothing to be ashamed of. However, for the days you don’t want to flaunt your cowlick, try these products and styling techniques to get your hair to do what you want it to!
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