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.
