Medium-length hair offers a wonderful balance between manageable length and styling versatility. Its inherent movement and potential for volume, as seen in beautifully textured, shiny hair, make it a popular choice. Whether you prefer elegant waves, a sleek, straight look, or a casual, textured finish, the right techniques can elevate your daily style. Understanding how to properly prepare and style your hair is the key to unlocking its full potential and maintaining its healthy lustre day after day.
The Foundation of Great Styling: Preparation
Before you even pick up a styling tool, the way you prepare your hair sets the stage for the final result. A good styling routine begins in the shower.
Washing and Conditioning
Start with a cleansing and conditioning routine suited to your hair type. If you aim for volume, choose lightweight formulas that won't weigh your hair down. For those seeking a sleeker finish, smoothing products can help control frizz from the outset. After washing, gently squeeze out excess water with a towel rather than rubbing vigorously, as this can cause friction and damage to the hair cuticle. A microfibre towel is an excellent choice for minimising frizz.
The Importance of Protection
Heat styling can be transformative, but it's crucial to protect your hair from potential damage. Always apply a heat protectant spray or cream evenly throughout damp hair before blow-drying or using hot tools. This creates a barrier between the hair shaft and the heat, helping to prevent moisture loss, breakage, and dullness. Think of it as an essential insurance policy for maintaining healthy, shiny hair.
Achieving Volume and Texture
One of the greatest advantages of medium-length hair is its ability to hold volume and texture. With the right approach, you can create a full-bodied look that lasts.
Blow-Drying for Lift
A hairdryer and a round brush are your best allies for building volume at the roots. Start by rough-drying your hair until it's about 80% dry, using your fingers to lift the roots. Then, section your hair and work with one section at a time. Place a medium-sized round brush at the root of a section and aim the hairdryer's nozzle downwards along the hair shaft as you pull the brush through. For extra lift, pull the hair upwards and away from your scalp as you dry. A final blast of cool air will help to set the style and close the hair cuticle, adding shine.
Using Styling Products
Styling products can help create and hold your desired texture.
- Volumising Mousse: Apply a golf-ball-sized amount to damp hair, focusing on the roots before blow-drying for noticeable lift.
- Texture Spray: A few spritzes on dry hair can create an effortlessly chic, 'undone' look with piecey separation and matte texture.
- Lightweight Serum: Use a small amount on the mid-lengths and ends of dry hair to tame flyaways and add a glossy finish without making it greasy.
Creating Effortless Waves and Curls
Soft waves and curls add beautiful movement and dimension to shoulder-length hair. You can achieve this look with or without heat.
Styling with Heat Tools
A curling iron, wand, or even a straightener can be used to create waves. For a modern, natural look, alternate the direction of the curls. Take a vertical section of hair, clamp the tool a few inches from the root, and wrap the hair around it, leaving the last inch or two of the ends out. This creates a more relaxed, less 'perfect' wave. Once all sections are curled, let them cool completely before gently running your fingers through to loosen them into soft waves.
Heat-Free Waving Techniques
If you prefer to avoid heat, you can create gentle waves overnight. On slightly damp hair, create one or two loose braids. The fewer and looser the braids, the bigger and softer the waves will be. In the morning, undo the braids and use your fingers to separate the waves. A light mist of flexible-hold hairspray can help them last throughout the day.
Finishing Touches for a Polished Look
The final steps in your routine are what lock in your style and give it a professional-looking finish.
Setting Your Style
A light misting of hairspray will help your style withstand humidity and movement. Choose a formula that offers hold without making your hair feel stiff or crunchy. Spray from about 30 centimetres away for an even, light distribution.
Simple Updos
Medium-length hair is also perfect for simple, elegant updos. A low, loose ponytail tied with a simple accessory, a chic messy bun, or a classic half-up, half-down style are all quick and easy options that look incredibly polished. These styles are perfect for keeping hair away from your face while still showcasing its texture and shine.
