Hairstyles for Long Fine Hair

Styling long, fine hair can be challenging. It often escapes from clips, and hairspray and other styling products can be too heavy. The hair might not hold curls. You must be gentle with fine hair to avoid damage and breakage. With a few simple tricks, you can create beautiful styles that will last all day. Choose the right accessories and products to make sure your look holds and works with your hair type.

Casual Styles

It can be easy to get in a ponytail habit with long hair. Unfortunately, a basic ponytail is often not the most flattering look. Consider stacking two ponytails, wearing pigtails or braiding as an easy casual look. Consider taking a few minutes to backcomb bangs and clip with a barrette before pulling all of your hair in a ponytail. Twist a few small sections of hair near the face and clip or pin back to add romance to a casual look while still wearing your hair down.

Professional Looks

Finding professional looks for fine hair can be difficult. Your hair might not hold well in traditional up-dos. Consider wearing a low knot or bun, braided first if the hair is long enough. Headbands, particularly in leather or silk, can work with a professional look and keep flyaways tamed. Make a low, loose ponytail and split the hair above the elastic. Pull the ponytail up and through the hair, creating a neat, sturdy and practical look for a day at the office.

Formal Options

Try Velcro rollers if you want to wear your hair down for a formal occasion. While fine hair might not hold curls well, setting the hair, applying heat and allowing it to rest can provide needed body for a night out. If you have your heart set on true curls, consider old-fashioned rag rollers worn overnight for a mop of curls. Setting the hair first also helps add body and hold for an up-do. If you expect to put your hair up, be sure to wash well ahead of time. Natural oils in the hair help hold your up-do well for an entire evening out.

Styling Products and Accessories

Look for styling products manufactured for fine hair. Products intended to add body can help. Heavier styling gels, glazes and sprays can be too heavy for long fine hair, making it look weighted down or greasy. Curl enhancers and volumizers are especially helpful. When choosing hair accessories, be aware that fine hair is more prone to breakage. Look for softer clips made to be "ouchless" or gentle.

Tips and Tricks

If you enjoy wearing traditional barrettes, cover the inside of the barrette with velvet ribbon using a glue gun. Look for rubbery clips for a good hold or smaller accessories made for fine hair. For casual wear, items made for children can work well. Work with your natural hair texture to avoid overusing styling aids, including heat, to keep your long fine hair healthy and beautiful.