I’m not going to deny it — I love having bangs. But keeping mine in check has been a decidedly DIY learning experience. Over the years, I’ve sported the full range of fringe, from the perfect brow-skimmers to the I’ve-been-too-lazy-to-get-a-trim side sweepers to the devastatingly unattractive I-look-like-I-cut-these-myself pixies. And I’ve acquired some bang-styling wisdom along the way.
The Basic Tool Kit
Sonia Kashuk Tools Round Brush ($15.79, Target) or Goody Finish Paddle Brush ($4.49, Target). A good brush is a must. I’m a dedicated round brush user, but a flat brush will also work to tame natural waves and help control the direction of your bangs.
Conair Self-Grip Roller ($10.99 at Drugstore). A stylist clued me into this trick: Wrap your bangs (they can be either damp or dry) around a Velcro roller, hit them with a little heat from a dryer, and add a spritz of hairspray. It gives bangs a lift — especially helpful when you’re in need of a trim.
GHD IV Mini Styler ($185, Sephora). A mini flatiron is the perfect bang-size tool to create a smooth finish and lock out frizz.
Products for Sleek, Pin-Straight Bangs
Bumble & bumble Straight shampoo ($29, Bumble and bumble). Using it will help keep frizz and fly-aways at bay, help tame curls, and keep thicker locks in place.
John Frieda Frizz-Ease Sheer Solution ($9.99, CVS). Bangs look best when they have movement. This lightweight serum keeps things shiny and controlled without weighing them down.
Pureology Supreme Control Maximum Hold Zero Dulling Hairspray ($26, Pureology). Spritz it at the roots, then brush it through to keep fly-aways at bay.
Products for Tousled, Beachy Bangs
Oribe Fibre Groom ($29, Oribe). This paste adds texture and provides an elastic hold, but it doesn’t look too product-y.
John Masters Organics Sea Mist Sea Salt Spray with Lavender ($16.50, John Masters). I use this one every day. It doesn’t weigh hair down or make strands overly crusty, plus it tames frizz. It will also give pin-straight hair a little extra movement.
Quick Hits
Suave Dry Shampoo ($2.74, Target). Second day hair is great. But second-day bangs can be gross and greasy. The solution? Dry shampoo. Spray it at the roots and brush it out. (If your bangs are really greasy, sweep your hair into a bun and shampoo only your bangs. Skip the conditioner.)
Serge Normant Meta Sheer Dry Oil Finishing Spray ($24, Serge Normant). This ultralightweight dry oil is excellent for calming frizz and fly-aways on the go. Plus, it smells amazing — the perfect finishing touch.
