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.
Image via Imaxtree
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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 via 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 via 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.
