Tips for Sculpting Hair With Wax

Tips for Sculpting Hair With Wax
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There are almost as many different types of hair sculpting products on the market as there are different heads of hair. Sorting through them can be confusing, as is finding the right one for you. If you are looking for a product that will give soft, firm hold to a tousled look, then you may want to experiment with using hair wax. Hair styling wax gives a more flexible hold than hair gel or hair spray, and because you work the style with your hands, you have more control over the result.

Choose the Proper Wax

Check the label on the wax before purchasing it. There should be a number on each label that corresponds to the amount of hold the wax will provide. The lower the number, the softer the hold. So, if you are looking for soft, loose waves, stay at number 5 or under. For stiff spikes and faux-hawks, stay closer to 10.

Prepare Your Hair

Start with clean, well conditioned hair. Oily hair will tend to clump as you apply wax to it, so wash your hair, concentrating on your scalp. Condition the length of your hair, but avoid massaging conditioner into your scalp—unless your hair is over-processed or dry, scalp hair rarely needs conditioning. Wrap your head in a towel or absorbent turban to soak up the excess moisture, and then lift it with your fingers as it air dries.

Short Hair Tips

According to the experts at tipdeck.com, the best way to sculpt spikes into short hair is to start with damp hair. Rub a dime-sized dab of high-numbered wax between your palms until it is creamy. Run your fingers through your hair, pulling your fingers up through it to create spikes. Let your hair dry naturally.

Curl Sculpting Tips

Wash and condition your hair and dry it on the lowest heat setting, or let it air dry until it is barely damp. Massage a dollop of medium-hold wax between your palms and run your hands through the ends of your hair. Roll your hair onto hot rollers and let it set until the curlers have completely cooled; at least 20 minutes. Carefully remove the curlers and separate your curls with your fingers.

Sculpting Braids

Massage a quarter-sized drop of firm-hold sculpting wax into your scalp if you are making cornrows or other tight braids. Smooth the wax through to the end of your hair both before and after braiding to keep all fly-aways smooth and under control.

Spray Wax

For the loosest and most casual hold, try a spray wax. The folks at bellasugar.com suggest that you use the spray wax either like regular hairspray, to hold a chunky, casually tousled style, or like styling gel to create loose waves and that sexy, day-after volume. Spray wax is especially useful for days at the beach or by the pool, because—unlike regular hair spray—it will not harden when wet.

References

Article reviewed by Jenna Marie Last updated on: Jul 1, 2010

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