Long hair can be a blessing and a curse. On one hand, it can be styled in so many different ways, but on the other hand, it can take forever to style. Luckily, there are plenty of easy to do hairstyles for long hair on yourself that won't take up too much time in your busy day. In this post, we'll go over some of the best hairstyles you can do on your own with step by step instructions, tips, and hair care advice. Let's get started!
Table of Contents
Ponytail
The ponytail is a classic hairstyle that is easy to do and looks great on long hair. To create a ponytail, start by brushing your hair to remove any tangles. Then, use a hair tie to secure your hair at the nape of your neck. For a more polished look, take a small section of hair from underneath the ponytail and wrap it around the hair tie, securing it with a bobby pin.
Tips:
- For a sleeker look, use a comb to smooth out any bumps before securing your hair with a hair tie.
- Add some volume to your ponytail by teasing the hair at the crown of your head before securing it with a hair tie.
- Use a scrunchie instead of a hair tie for a more retro look.
FAQ:
Q: How high should I place my ponytail?
A: You can place your ponytail wherever you feel most comfortable. For a more professional look, place your ponytail at the nape of your neck. For a more playful look, place your ponytail higher up on your head.
Braids
Braids are a versatile hairstyle that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. One of the easiest braids to do on yourself is the classic three-strand braid. To create this braid, start by dividing your hair into three equal sections. Take the section on the right and cross it over the middle section, then take the section on the left and cross it over the middle section. Continue crossing the sections over each other until you reach the end of your hair, then secure the braid with a hair tie.
Tips:
- Add some texture to your braid by gently pulling on the sections to loosen them up.
- Create a fishtail braid by dividing your hair into two sections, then taking a small piece of hair from the outside of one section and crossing it over to the other section. Continue crossing small sections of hair over to the other side until you reach the end of your hair, then secure the braid with a hair tie.
- Create a Dutch braid by dividing your hair into three sections, then crossing the left section under the middle section, and the right section under the middle section. As you continue braiding, add in small sections of hair from the sides.
FAQ:
Q: How do I make my braids stay in place?
A: Use a bit of hairspray or hair wax to keep your braids in place. You can also try braiding your hair when it's damp for a tighter hold.
Messy Bun
The messy bun is a quick and easy hairstyle that is perfect for busy mornings. To create a messy bun, start by pulling your hair into a high ponytail. Then, twist the ponytail around itself to create a bun shape, and secure it with bobby pins. Pull out a few pieces of hair around your face for a more relaxed look.
Tips:
- Add some volume to your messy bun by teasing the hair at the crown of your head before pulling it into a ponytail.
- Create a low messy bun by pulling your hair into a low ponytail, then twisting it around itself to create a bun shape.
- Add a hair accessory, such as a hair scarf or clip, to dress up your messy bun.
FAQ:
Q: How do I make my messy bun look intentional and not just messy?
A: Use bobby pins strategically to secure your bun in place, and add some hairspray to keep any flyaways in check. You can also try using a hair donut or sock bun for a more polished look.
Half-Up Half-Down
The half-up half-down hairstyle is a great way to show off your long hair while keeping it out of your face. To create this hairstyle, start by pulling the top section of your hair back and securing it with a hair tie or clip. Leave the rest of your hair down, or add some curls or waves for a more romantic look.
Tips:
- Add some volume to the top section of your hair by teasing it before securing it with a hair tie or clip.
- Create a braided half-up half-down hairstyle by braiding the top section of your hair before securing it with a hair tie or clip.
- Add a hair accessory, such as a barrette or headband, to dress up your half-up half-down hairstyle.
FAQ:
Q: What hair type is best for a half-up half-down hairstyle?
A: This hairstyle works well on most hair types, but it's best for hair that is at least shoulder length. If you have thin or fine hair, you can add some volume to the top section of your hair by teasing it before securing it with a hair tie or clip.
Twist
The twist is a simple yet elegant hairstyle that is perfect for both casual and formal occasions. To create a twist, start by pulling a section of hair from one side of your head and twisting it towards the back of your head. Secure the twist with bobby pins, and repeat on the other side of your head. You can leave the rest of your hair down, or pull it into a low ponytail or bun.
Tips:
- Use a hair accessory, such as a flower or jewel, to dress up your twist.
- Add some volume to your hair before creating the twist by teasing the hair at the crown of your head.
- Create a rope twist by dividing your hair into two sections, then twisting each section in the same direction before twisting them together in the opposite direction.
FAQ:
Q: How do I make my twist stay in place?
A: Use bobby pins strategically to secure your twist in place, and add some hairspray to keep any flyaways in check.
Hair Care
It's important to take care of your long hair to keep it looking its best. Here are some hair care tips:
- Wash your hair every two to three days to avoid stripping it of its natural oils.
- Use a wide-tooth comb to detangle your hair, starting from the ends and working your way up.
- Avoid using heat styling tools too often, and use a heat protectant spray when you do.
- Trim your hair every six to eight weeks to prevent split ends.
- Use a deep conditioning treatment once a week to keep your hair hydrated and healthy.
With these easy to do hairstyles for long hair on yourself, you'll be able to mix up your look without too much hassle. Whether you're headed to work, out with friends, or attending a formal event, these hairstyles are sure to impress. And with proper hair care, your long locks will stay healthy and beautiful for years to come.
