A layered hairstyle tucked neatly behind the ear exudes an air of effortless sophistication and modern charm. It’s a versatile look that frames the face beautifully while offering practicality. The key to its success, however, lies not just in the cut but in the styling. Without the proper technique, those carefully crafted layers can lose their volume and shape, falling flat or straying out of place. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to style your hair, ensuring it maintains its chic structure and soft volume all day long.
The Foundation: Correct Preparation
Great styling begins in the shower. The products you use to wash and condition your hair can make a significant difference. Opt for a volumising shampoo and a lightweight conditioner, applying the latter primarily to the mid-lengths and ends. This prevents your roots from being weighed down, which is crucial for achieving lift. After washing, gently squeeze out excess water with a towel rather than rubbing vigorously, as this helps to minimise frizz and protect the hair's cuticle. Before you reach for the hairdryer, apply a preparatory product. A root-lifting spray or a golf-ball-sized amount of lightweight mousse worked into the roots will provide the scaffolding your style needs to last.
Mastering the Blow-Dry Technique
The blow-dry is the most critical stage for setting the shape of your hairstyle. The right tools and methods will create volume and coax your hair into the desired direction, making it stay tucked behind the ear naturally.
The Importance of a Round Brush
A medium-sized round brush is your best friend for this style. As you dry your hair section by section, wrap the hair around the brush at the roots and lift upwards and away from the scalp. Direct the hairdryer's nozzle downwards along the hair shaft as you pull the brush through to the ends. This technique not only builds volume at the root but also smooths the cuticle, resulting in a sleek, polished finish. For the hair around your face that you want to tuck away, use the brush to guide it back and behind the ear as you dry it.
Temperature and the Cool Shot
Use a medium heat setting to avoid damaging your hair. Once a section is completely dry and shaped, switch your hairdryer to the 'cool shot' setting. A blast of cool air rapidly cools the hair, closing the cuticle and locking the style firmly in place. This simple step dramatically increases the longevity of your blow-dry and helps the hair remember its shape.
Choosing the Right Styling Products
Once your hair is dry and shaped, a few finishing products will provide definition and hold. The rule is 'less is more' to avoid a stiff or greasy look.
- Texturising Cream or Pomade: Warm a pea-sized amount of a lightweight cream or pomade between your fingertips. Lightly run it through the ends of your layers to define them and tame any flyaways. This adds texture and separation, showcasing the dimension of your cut.
- Flexible Hold Hairspray: To ensure your hair stays tucked behind your ear without looking rigid, a flexible hold hairspray is ideal. Hold the can about 30 centimetres from your head and lightly mist your hair, focusing on the sides you've tucked back. This will provide a gentle hold that still allows for natural movement.
Daily Maintenance and Quick Fixes
To keep your style looking fresh on the second day, you don't need to start from scratch. Revive flat roots with a spritz of dry shampoo, massaging it in with your fingertips to absorb any oil and boost volume. You can also slightly dampen the hair around your face and use your fingers or a round brush to quickly blow-dry it back into place. Throughout the day, try to avoid touching your hair too often, as the oils from your hands can weigh it down and cause it to lose its shape. A well-styled cut should hold its form with minimal fuss.
