The short bob is a timeless haircut, celebrated for its chic and modern aesthetic. While elegant on its own, adding volume can elevate this classic style from simple to stunning, creating a look full of life and movement. Achieving that enviable, bouncy finish is more accessible than you might think. With the right techniques and a few simple tricks, you can transform your short bob, giving it impressive body and a professional-looking finish right at home.
Foundation for Fullness: The Right Prep
Great volume starts in the shower. Opt for cleansing products formulated to add body without weighing hair down. When washing, focus the shampoo on your scalp and the conditioner primarily on the ends to avoid flattening the roots.
Gentle Drying and Product Application
After washing, gently squeeze out excess water with a microfibre towel instead of rubbing vigorously, which can cause frizz and flatten the cuticle. Before you reach for the hairdryer, apply a volumising product. A lightweight mousse or a root-lifting spray applied directly to the roots of damp hair can provide the foundational support needed for a voluminous style. Distribute it evenly with a comb for consistent results.
Master the Blow-Dry for Maximum Lift
The way you blow-dry your hair is crucial for building volume. One of the most effective and simplest methods is to flip your hair upside down and dry it, directing the airflow at the roots. This technique lifts the hair away from the scalp, creating natural fullness from the get-go.
Using a Round Brush
For a more polished look with targeted lift, a round brush is your best friend. It helps to create shape and smoothness while lifting the roots.
- Work in manageable sections, starting from the bottom layers of your hair and clipping the rest out of the way.
- Place the round brush at the root of a section and pull it upwards and outwards as you dry, directing the nozzle of the hairdryer (pointing downwards to smooth the cuticle) at the brush.
- When the section is almost dry, roll the brush at the ends to create a soft, bouncy curve inward or outward, depending on your preference.
- Before releasing the section, use the cool shot button on your hairdryer. This blast of cold air helps to set the hair in its lifted position, ensuring the volume lasts longer.
Everyday Styling Hacks for Added Body
Small changes to your daily styling routine can make a big difference. These quick tricks are perfect for adding instant oomph to your bob without having to wash and restyle it completely.
The Parting Switch and Gentle Teasing
If you always wear your parting in the same place, your hair becomes accustomed to lying flat in that direction. Simply flipping your hair to the opposite side or creating a deep side part will instantly lift the roots and create the illusion of more volume. For targeted height, especially at the crown, try a little gentle backcombing. Take a small section of hair from underneath the top layer, hold it straight up, and use a fine-tooth comb to gently push the hair down towards the scalp two or three times. Smooth the top layer of hair over the teased section for a seamless, lifted finish.
The Power of Dry Products
Dry shampoo is a fantastic tool for more than just second-day hair. Spraying a small amount into the roots of clean, dry hair can absorb any excess oils that weigh hair down and add texture and grip, which helps to maintain lift. Similarly, a texturising spray misted through the mid-lengths and ends can give your bob a modern, piecey finish that enhances its shape and movement.
Keeping Your Bob Voluminous All Day
Maintaining that 'just-styled' volume throughout the day requires a few touch-up strategies. The key is to avoid weighing the hair down with too much additional product.
If your hair starts to fall flat, simply flip your head upside down and use your fingertips to massage and shake the roots vigorously. This will help to reactivate the root lift you created earlier and refresh the style. For a final touch, a light mist of a flexible-hold hairspray can lock in your style without making it stiff or crunchy. Hold the can about 30 cm away from your head and spray lightly to ensure an even, weightless application that still allows for natural movement.
