Do you have a stubborn cowlick in your hair? Here’s how to tame it so you won’t look ridiculous all day.
You’ve got questions; we’ve got answers! Each week on Help A Reader Out, we turn your fashion and beauty troubles into practical guides.
Thanks for all your beauty questions in our open call. One question that I loved and absolutely related to came from reader Emily on the topic of cowlicks:
Guh, cowlicks are really, really annoying. One of the most annoying things about having a pixie cut is that they are virtually impossible to hide short of just wearing a hat.
According to Wikipedia, a cowlick “is a section of hair that stands straight up or lies at an angle at odds with the style in which the rest of an individual’s hair is worn.” You do your makeup, put on a cute outfit, wash and condition, and blow out your hair, then bam, there’s that stubborn little jerk sticking out.
So, what can you do to fix it? Here are the tips that work.
Quick Fixes for a Cowlick
If you just want the short version, here’s what works:
- Blow dry immediately after washing
- Use a heat protectant and root lifter
- Style with a tension-grip brush
- Switch up your haircut or part
- Try professional straightening
- Wear a hat as a quick cover
1. Blow Dry Immediately to Get Rid of a Cowlick
As soon as your hair starts air drying, it wants to stay in its natural position. If that means forming into a cowlick, you need to start blow drying it in the direction you want right away.
2. Prep Your Hair Before Heat Styling
Always spritz your hair before using heat. Not only does it protect your strands (making them easier to style), but it also helps you keep the shape you’re working toward. Use a heat protectant, such as SHOW Sheer Thermal Protect, and a high-quality root lifting product, like Verb Full Body + Weightless Lift Volume Spray, before blow drying.
3. Use a Brush That Gives Good Tension
Pick a brush that grips every strand so you can smooth them all in the same direction. According to Allure, the Spornette G-36XL Porcupine Brush is perfect for this. Pull your cowlick left, right, and down as you dry, so it sits exactly where you want it.
4. Switch Up Your Style to Work With the Cowlick
If you always wear your hair straight, maybe it’s time to embrace the cowlick. Try curls, feathered waves, a different part, or even a new haircut. Ask your stylist if they can work it into your look so it appears intentional.
5. Try Professional Straightening for a Lasting Fix
If daily styling isn’t your thing, a salon straightening treatment can save you time. It’s more permanent and can make your cowlick behave without the daily battle.
(Related: What Are The Best Tricks For Making My Thin Hair Look Thicker?)
6. Wear a Hat as a Fast Cover-Up
When you’re short on time, a hat can be your best friend. Pick a style that matches your outfit so it looks intentional, not like an afterthought.
