Big hair—ah, just saying it can make you feel like a 1980s rock star, ready to belt out some power ballads! As someone who has spent an embarrassing number of hours perfecting that voluminous look, especially as we step into 2024, let me tell you, achieving the perfect big hair isn't just about throwing in some hairspray and hoping for the best. No, it's an art form. And if you’re gunning for those va-va-voom vibes that turn heads for all the right reasons, you've come to the right place. Grab your teasing comb and buckle up, because we’re diving into the secret world of luscious locks.
The first thing you need to know is that volume is king—or queen! Whether you're aiming for retro curls or that modern, effortless kind of volume, it's all in the technique. One of my favorite tips you’ll find in this guide is to start with a strong foundation: you need the right products. Focus on shampoos and conditioners that are specifically designed to add body to your hair. Trust me, it makes all the difference. I'll bet you didn't know that there are even leave-in treatments that’ll give your hair that extra oomph while you catch your Zs. Yep, I’ve tested them all. The world of big hair is full of hidden gems!
And let’s talk about maintenance. It’s not like you can just rock that gorgeous big hair and forget about it the next day. No, no, no. You'll have to master the art of the nightcap—and I'm not talking about a cocktail, though those are welcome too. Keeping that volume overnight involves a bit of strategy. Think silk pillowcases and maybe even a bit of texturizing spray in the morning for good measure. This stuff is practically science, folks.
But one thing most people overlook is the power of a good haircut. Yes, layers can work wonders. And for those of us blessed with thick hair, the right cut can drastically reduce the weight of your hair, helping it lift naturally. My stylist once told me that the secret to perfect big hair is a blend of the right products and a killer haircut. Oh, and don’t forget about the good old backcombing technique—it’s a classic for a reason.
So, stick around because, in the sections that follow, we'll dive into Shampoo and Conditioner for Volume and How to Make Big Hair Last. You're just a few scrolls away from having a hair day every day. Ready to transform your tresses into a masterpiece of volume and flair? Let’s get to it!
Snapshot Survey
Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
Please subscribe for your personalized newsletter:
1. Blow Dry Better
One of the first and foremost tips for big hair is to learn how to blow dry better. For the best volume boosting results, dry hair in sections, lifting them upwards and directing the hot air at your scalp. Avoid flipping your head upside down to blow dry, as this often results in hair getting big outwards instead of upwards.
***
Big hair is a classic look that never goes out of style, but it can be hard to achieve the perfect voluminous style. Here are a few more tips to help you get the perfect big hair look.
First, use a volumizing shampoo and conditioner to give your hair the lift it needs. Look for a shampoo and conditioner that is specifically designed to add volume and body.
Second, use a volumizing mousse or spray to add texture and body to your hair. Apply the mousse or spray to damp hair and then blow dry it in sections, lifting it upwards and directing the hot air at your scalp.
Third, use a round brush when blow-drying your hair. This will help to create more lift and volume. Start by blow-drying the roots and then move to the ends.
Fourth, use a finishing spray after you are done blow-drying. This will help to lock in the volume and keep it in place throughout the day.
Fifth, use a curling iron or wand to add extra volume and texture to your hair. Curling your hair will help to give it more body and movement.
2. Roll It up
Add more volume to your hair by setting it with rollers before you style it. Even if you’re not after curls or ringlets, this will help give boost and body. Roughly dry hair and roll using medium sized curlers from the ends to the roots, then allow hair to fully dry. Take out the rollers, loosen out any unwanted ringlets, and get styling!
Frequently asked questions
3. Prioritise Products
When it comes to tips for big hair, choose your products wisely. Too often you’ll find that certain products weigh down and flatten hair. Instead, opt for products like volumizing shampoos, conditioners and root lifters that are designed for the sole purpose of making your hair bigger and better. Different products also target different types of hair (fine, wavy, frizzy) so also take this into account when choosing one for you.
4. Back Brush, Not Comb
I’m sure I’m not the only one who has had bad experiences with backcombing hair. While teasing hair this way is guaranteed to build up extra height, it can also lead to nasty knots. Go easy on your hair by teasing it with a flat back brush instead of a comb.
5. Spritz the Spray
Hairspray is no-brainer for keeping hair intact and in place. Use it to your advantage when polishing off your big hair look. A tip for big hair is to be light handed in the application. Too much hairspray concentrated in one area can flatten the hair so lightly spritz the stuff on your ‘do instead.
6. Stay Dirty
Hair seems to keep volume better if it’s a little bit dirty. You’ll often that that freshly washed hair tends to be slippery and unable to keep shape as well as hair that’s a few days old of a wash. Plan ahead so that you style your big hairdo a day or two after you last washed your hair.
7. Polish if off
All that teasing and blow drying can lead to fly aways. Keep your hair in place by once again utilising the magic of hairspray or another smoothing product. Apply said product to your hand and then lightly wipe it over your ‘do, making sure not to flatten it in the process.
8. No Part-y
Parting your hair will only help it flatten out quicker so if you want your hair to have extra body, say buh-bye to the part altogether. Instead, brush it back for a glamorous sixties inspired look. If getting rid of your part is out of the question, simply flip it to the other side for a cheeky volume boost.
9. Try Dry Shampoo
Spraying dry shampoo onto your hair is just another one of those ingenious tips for big hair. When it comes to this tip for big hair, apply it at the roots instead of over the top of your hair to achieve that extra volume.
10. Allow for Movement
Big hair often looks the best when it appears to have some movement. If you’re wearing your hair out, a few waves can help add the appearance of bounce. If you’re wearing your hair up, try a big hairstyle that’s not too restrictive.
Next time you’re thinking of adding extra volume to your locks, try out these tips for big hair. When it comes to achieving extra volume, what’s your best tip for big hair?
