When you want to take your hairstyle to the next level, spiking your hair can be an edgy and stylish choice. Whether you’re looking for a casual, everyday look or a bold, statement-making style, spiking your hair is a versatile technique that can be tailored to suit your individual preferences. From short and choppy spikes to long, flowing spikes, there’s a spiky hairstyle for every hair type. In this article, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to spike your hair, including the necessary products, step-by-step instructions for different hair types, and tips on how to maintain your spiked hairstyle.
There are a few staple products you’ll need to achieve and maintain your spiked hairstyle. First, a strong hold hair gel or wax is essential for keeping your spikes in place all day long. You may also want to use a pre-styling product, such as a mousse or texturizing spray, to add volume and texture to your hair, which can make it easier to spike. Finally, a hairspray is a must-have for setting your spikes and preventing them from falling flat.
The process of spiking your hair is relatively simple, but it may take a little practice to get the hang of it. First, start with damp or dry hair. If your hair is dry, dampen it with a spray bottle. Apply a small amount of hair gel or wax to your hands and work it evenly through your hair. Use your fingers to create spikes, starting at the roots and working your way up. Once you have created the desired spikes, set them in place with hairspray. If you want to add extra volume or texture, you can tease your hair at the roots before applying the gel or wax.
Understand the Basic Techniques
Spiking your hair can be a great way to add some style and personality to your look. But before you start trying to create towering spikes, it’s important to understand the basic techniques.
1.
Prepare Your Hair
The first step to spiking your hair is to prepare it. This means starting with clean, dry hair. If you have naturally curly or thick hair, you may need to use a leave-in conditioner to help tame it. Once your hair is prepped, you can start applying your styling products.
There are a variety of styling products that you can use to spike your hair, including gels, waxes, and pomades. Gels are a good choice for creating stiff, defined spikes, while waxes and pomades offer a more natural look. Experiment with different products to find the one that works best for you.
| Styling Product | Hold | Finish |
|---|---|---|
| Gel | Strong | Stiff |
| Wax | Medium | Natural |
| Pomade | Low | Shiny |
Gather the Essential Tools
Spiking your hair requires a few key tools. Before you start, make sure you have the following items on hand:
Hairspray
Hairspray is essential for keeping your spikes in place. Choose a strong-hold hairspray that will last all day. If you have fine hair, you may want to use a volumizing hairspray to give your spikes more body. If you have thick hair, you may need to use an extra-hold hairspray to keep your spikes in place.
| Hair Type | Hairspray Strength |
|---|---|
| Fine Hair | Volumizing |
| Medium Hair | Strong Hold |
| Thick Hair | Extra Hold |
Hair Gel or Mousse
Hair gel or mousse can be used to add texture and volume to your hair. This will help your spikes stand up and stay in place. Apply a small amount of gel or mousse to damp hair and work it through from roots to ends. You can also use a blow dryer to help set the gel or mousse in your hair.
Comb or Brush
A comb or brush is essential for styling your hair. Use a comb to create a part and brush to smooth out any flyaways. For best results, use a wide-toothed comb or a brush with soft bristles.
Prepare Your Hair for Spiking
Before you start spiking your hair, it’s important to prepare it properly. This will help to ensure that your spikes stay in place all day long.
Wash and condition your hair
Start by washing your hair with a clarifying shampoo to remove any product buildup or dirt. Follow up with a conditioner to help hydrate your hair and make it more manageable.
Dry your hair completely
It’s important to dry your hair completely before you start spiking it. This will help to prevent your spikes from becoming limp or falling out. You can use a blow dryer or air dry your hair.
If you’re using a blow dryer, be sure to use the lowest heat setting possible. This will help to prevent damage to your hair.
Once your hair is completely dry, you can style it as desired.
| Hair Type | Drying Time |
|---|---|
| Fine hair | 10-15 minutes |
| Medium hair | 15-20 minutes |
| Thick hair | 20-25 minutes |
If you have trouble drying the back of your hair, try flipping your head upside down and blow drying from the roots to the ends.
Apply Volumizing Products
To create the foundation for voluminous, spiky hair, it’s essential to apply volumizing products that will lift and hold your locks. These products provide the necessary grip and support to keep your spikes in place throughout the day.
There are several types of volumizing products available, each with its unique benefits:
1. Volumizing Shampoo and Conditioner: These products contain ingredients that plump up hair strands, creating the illusion of fullness and volume.
2. Volumizing Mousse: Mousse can be applied to damp or dry hair to create instant volume and hold. Its lightweight formula won’t weigh down your hair, ensuring your spikes remain bouncy and defined.
3. Volumizing Spray: This spray can be applied to finished styles to add extra volume and hold. It helps prevent spikes from falling flat or losing their shape.
4. Root-Lifting Powders and Sprays: These innovative products are specifically designed to lift hair at the roots, creating a dramatic volumizing effect. They are ideal for fine or flat hair that needs a boost in fullness.
To use root-lifting powders or sprays, follow these steps:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Section your hair into small parts. |
| 2 | Apply the product directly to the roots of each section. |
| 3 | Use a brush or your fingers to distribute the product evenly. |
| 4 | Style your hair as desired. |
These products are excellent for creating voluminous, spiky hair that will turn heads. Experiment with different types to find the ones that work best for your hair type and styling needs.
Styling with a Blow Dryer
Employing a blow dryer can significantly enhance the volume of your styled hair, giving it a fuller and more voluminous appearance. To achieve this, follow these steps:
- Section Your Hair: Divide your hair into smaller sections using hair clips to make the drying process more manageable.
- Apply Styling Products: Use a volumizing mousse or spray to the roots of each section to add lift and hold.
- Blow Dry at the Roots: Hold the blow dryer nozzle close to your scalp and direct the airflow downwards towards the roots. This technique will lift the hair shafts from the base, creating extra volume.
- Brush and Style: While blow drying, use a round brush or a paddle brush to shape and style your hair as desired. Avoid over-brushing, as this can damage your hair.
- Finish with Cool Air: Once your hair is mostly dry, switch the blow dryer to a cool setting and blow over the entire head for a few seconds. This helps to set the style and prevent frizz.
| Styling Product | Application |
|---|---|
| Volumizing Mousse | Apply a dollop to damp hair, focusing on the roots. |
| Volumizing Spray | Spray onto dry or damp hair at the roots. |
Maintain Your Spiked Hair
Maintaining your spiked hair requires regular care and upkeep. Here are some essential tips to keep your spikes looking sharp:
1. Wash Your Hair Regularly
Wash your hair with a shampoo and conditioner designed for fine or thin hair. Avoid using heavy products that can weigh down your hair and make it difficult to spike.
2. Blow Dry Your Hair
After washing, blow dry your hair on a cool setting to remove excess moisture. This will help to create volume and make your hair more manageable for styling.
3. Apply Styling Gel
Apply a strong-hold styling gel to the roots of your damp hair. Work the gel through your hair and distribute it evenly.
4. Spike Your Hair
Using your fingers or a comb, spike your hair in upward directions. Hold each spike in place for a few seconds to allow the gel to set.
5. Use Hairspray
Once your hair is spiked, apply a strong-hold hairspray to keep it in place. Spray the hairspray from a distance of about 10 inches to avoid overloading your hair.
6. Touch Up Throughout the Day
As needed throughout the day, touch up your spikes using a small amount of styling gel or hairspray. This will help to keep them looking fresh and prevent them from falling flat.
7. Brush Your Hair Regularly
To prevent matting and tangles, brush your hair regularly with a soft-bristled brush. Avoid brushing your spikes too vigorously, as this can damage your hair.
8. Avoid Heat Styling
Excessive heat styling can damage your hair and make it difficult to spike. Limit the use of heat tools such as curling irons and hair dryers.
9. Protect Your Hair From Elements
Wear a hat or use a hairspray with UV protection to protect your hair from the sun and other elements. This will help to prevent damage and keep your spikes looking healthy.
10. Consult a Hair Stylist
If you’re struggling to maintain your spiked hair or have any other hair concerns, consult a professional hair stylist. They can provide personalized advice and assist you in achieving the desired style.
How to Spike Your Hair
Spiking your hair is a great way to add some edginess and style to your look. It’s a relatively simple process, but it does take some practice to get it just right. Here are the steps on how to spike your hair:
- Start with clean, dry hair. Dirty hair will not hold spikes as well.
- Apply a volumizing mousse or gel to your hair. This will help to give your hair more body and hold.
- Use a comb or your fingers to create spikes in your hair. Start at the roots and work your way up.
- Once you have created the desired spikes, use hairspray to hold them in place.
- Finish with a light mist of hairspray to keep your spikes looking perfect all day long.
People Also Ask About
What is the best type of hair for spiking?
Short to medium-length hair is best for spiking. Longer hair can be more difficult to hold up in spikes.
How long will hair spikes last?
Hair spikes can last for several hours or even days, depending on the type of hairspray you use and how much you apply.
Can I spike my hair if it’s thin?
Yes, you can spike your hair even if it’s thin. However, you may need to use more hairspray to hold the spikes in place.
