Bangs really are the fastest way to pull a hair look together. Somehow they make the most simple bun or ponytail take on a new life. But bangs take patience and a little extra effort — and the results are so worth it.
If you’re not really sure how to get your bangs salon-sleek and smooth, we chatted with Mark Townsend, a stylist who works with some of the biggest names in Hollywood. Known for his effortlessly sexy, waves and perfect fringe, Townsend has some of the best tips and tricks up his sleeve and he’s sharing them with us. So quit hesitating and make the chop, these simple bang hacks will change your life.
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This article originally appeared on TotalBeauty.com
Tips and Tricks for Acing Your Bangs
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Are Bangs Right for You?
According to Townsend, anyone can wear bangs. "It comes down to three things: face shape, hair type and amount of time you're willing to invest each morning.' The shape of your bangs should "create an oval" with your natural face shape by strategically shading certain features. Keep in mind the texture of your hair, because when you cut bangs, the lighter strands are more prone to their natural texture. Lastly, think about whether or not you're willing to spend 10 to 15 minutes each morning on your bangs, if the answer is no, you may want to rethink them.
Image: Imaxtree
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Prepping Your Bangs for Styling
After washing and towel drying, make sure to only apply products to the lengths of hair — never the bangs themselves. According to Townsend, natural oils from your skin, makeup, sunscreen and products on your glasses will touch your bangs and adding product will just make them extra greasy and weighed down. Clip your lengths back and you are ready to begin.
Image: Imaxtree
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How to Blow Dry Your Bangs
Townsend likes to start with super wet bangs, before hair starts to wave or curl up. He then works in sections, using a paddle brush with a combination of nylon and boar bristles — his two favorites are by Mason Pearson, $205, and Harry Josh, $50. The trick is to use the concentrator attachment of your blow dryer and aim the heated air from above, blowing in a downward motion.
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What to Do If You Have Cowlicks
If you have natural cowlicks or your hairline has a mind of its own, make sure to start drying those more challenging sections first. Townsend especially likes using disposable mascara wands "to get such good tension right at the root where you need it to redirect hair from its natural growth pattern." Mascara wands get more tension and smoother results than a traditional round brush. He also uses Harry Josh Styling Clips, $15, inserted at the root and tip of the bangs to help them cool in place.
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How to Set Your Bangs
Apply hairspray to a soft, natural-bristled toothbrush, like Swissco Natural Bristle Toothbrush Soft, $6, and lightly apply to the root of the bangs. Townsend does not like to apply product directly to the bangs or all over to allow for natural movement without firmness or product buildup.
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How to Restyle Your Bangs on the Second Day
Dry shampoo is the name of the game. Either apply to your natural toothbrush or your paddle brush and really work the product through the hair to absorb oil and buildup. Townsend's favorite is Dove Refresh + Care Unscented Dry Shampoo, $4.89. Use your blow dryer and concentrator (similar to how you initially styled them) and smooth over any kinks. Townsend also uses this heated comb that targets the roots for maximum smoothness.
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To Trim or Not to Trim Your Own Bangs?
Townsend prefers his clients not touch their bangs between trims. Trimming your own bangs means "hours of torture" on your stylist and "months of torture" on you if you mess up and need to grow them out. Ideally, try wearing them side-swept until you can get in to see your stylist. Most stylists will offer a bang touch-up that doesn't require the amount time or monetary commitment of a full appointment. However, if you are adamant about trimming yourself, he suggests using thinning shears to do a "micro, choppy trim" only in the center of the bangs and never, ever trim straight across.
Image: Imaxtree
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Final Thoughts
While definitely a commitment, bangs are worth the effort they require. They can transform your look in a matter of minutes. According to Townsend, the sweet spot for bangs is between your eyebrows and eyelashes. This can require touch-ups every four to six weeks. If this sounds like something you are willing to do, in addition to the 10 minutes of daily styling, you might want to consider adding some face-framing, fringe — it's totally worth it.
Image: Imaxtree
