Understanding the Short Shaggy Cut
Hair Texture and Movement
The short shaggy cut is characterized by its layers and textured ends. It typically has shorter layers on the top and gradually longer layers towards the sides and back. This creates a natural movement and volume, giving the hair a tousled and somewhat disheveled look. The texture can vary depending on your natural hair type, whether it’s straight, wavy, or curly.
Understanding your hair’s texture is key to choosing the right styling products and techniques.
For example, if you have naturally straight hair, you may need to use more texturizing products to create the shaggy effect, while those with wavy or curly hair can work with their natural texture to enhance the shaggy look.
Face Shape Compatibility
This haircut can flatter a variety of face shapes. For those with round faces, the short shaggy cut with longer layers around the face can help elongate the appearance and add definition. The layers can frame the face and draw attention to the eyes and cheekbones.
Square faces can benefit from the softening effect of the shaggy layers, which can help to round out the angular jawline. An asymmetrical shaggy cut can also add an interesting element and break up the symmetry of a square face.
Oval faces are versatile and can usually pull off most variations of the short shaggy cut. They can experiment with different lengths and textures to create a unique look that suits their personal style.
Styling Products and Tools Needed
Styling Products
Texturizing Spray: This is a must-have for a short shaggy style. It adds volume and texture, making the hair look more lived-in and enhancing the shaggy effect. Spray it evenly throughout the hair, especially at the roots and on the mid-lengths to ends.
Sea Salt Spray: If you want a more beachy, casual look, sea salt spray can be a great addition. It gives the hair a matte finish and enhances the natural waves or curls, if you have them. It also adds a bit of grip, making it easier to style the hair.
Hair Wax or Pomade: These products are useful for defining the ends and adding separation. You can use a small amount on your fingertips and rub it into the ends of the hair to create a more piecey and textured look. They also help to control any flyaways.
Volumizing Mousse: If you want extra volume, volumizing mousse can be applied to the roots before blow drying. It provides lift and helps to create a fuller appearance at the crown.
Hairspray: A light-hold hairspray can be used to set the style and keep it in place throughout the day. It should be sprayed from a distance to avoid making the hair look stiff.
Styling Tools
Round Brush: A small to medium-sized round brush can be used when blow drying to add volume and shape. It helps to lift the roots and smooth out the hair as you dry.
Flat Iron (Optional): If you want to add more definition to the ends or straighten some sections for a more polished look, a flat iron can be used sparingly. However, be careful not to overuse it as it can damage the hair and reduce the natural texture of the shaggy cut.
Diffuser Attachment: If you have a blow dryer, a diffuser attachment is great for drying short shaggy hair. It distributes the air evenly and helps to enhance the natural curl or wave pattern without causing frizz.
Daily Styling Routines
The Messy and Tousled Look
Start by washing your hair with a volumizing shampoo and conditioner. Towel dry gently to remove excess water.
Apply a texturizing spray or sea salt spray throughout the hair. You can also add a small amount of volumizing mousse to the roots if you need more volume.
Use your fingers to scrunch the hair while it’s still damp. This helps to enhance the natural texture and create a more tousled look.
If you have a diffuser attachment, use it on a low to medium heat setting to dry the hair. As you dry, continue to scrunch the hair gently with your hands to encourage the natural curl or wave pattern.
Once the hair is mostly dry, apply a small amount of hair wax or pomade to the ends to define them and add separation. You can twist and pull the ends with your fingers to create a more piecey look.
Finish with a light spray of hairspray to set the style. This look is perfect for a casual day out or a relaxed, everyday style.
The Sleek and Polished Look (with a Twist)
After washing and towel drying the hair, apply a volumizing mousse to the roots and a small amount of smoothing serum to the mid-lengths and ends.
Use a round brush and a blow dryer to dry the hair. Start at the roots, lifting the brush upwards and blowing the air downwards to create volume. Work your way through the hair, smoothing out the layers as you go.
Once the hair is dry, use a flat iron on the ends only if needed to create a more uniform and polished look. Be careful not to straighten the entire length as this will lose the shaggy texture. Instead, just run the flat iron over the ends quickly to smooth them out and add a bit of definition.
Now, take a small amount of hair wax or pomade and rub it between your fingertips. Then, gently run your fingers through the hair, starting from the roots and moving towards the ends, to create a bit of separation and add some texture back in.
This gives the sleek look a modern twist and keeps it from looking too flat or boring.
Finish with a light hold hairspray to keep the style in place. This style is great for a more formal occasion or when you want to look a bit more put together.
Special Occasion or Night Out Styles
The Edgy and Spiky Look
Wash and towel dry the hair as usual. Then, apply a generous amount of texturizing spray to the hair, focusing on the roots and the top layers.
Using your fingers, tease the hair at the crown by backcombing it gently. This creates volume and height. Be careful not to overdo it and make sure to smooth out the top layer a bit so it doesn’t look too messy.
For the sides and back, apply a small amount of hair wax or pomade and use your fingers to push the hair in different directions, creating a spiky and textured effect. You can also twist and pull some of the shorter strands to add more dimension.
If you have any longer layers at the front, you can style them to sweep to the side or across the forehead for a more dramatic look.
Finish with a strong-hold hairspray to keep the spikes and texture in place. This style is perfect for a night out or a party and will make you stand out.
The Romantic and Soft Look
Start by washing and conditioning the hair. Then, apply a leave-in conditioner or a light styling cream to add moisture and softness.
Use a diffuser attachment to dry the hair on a low heat setting. As the hair dries, gently scrunch it with your hands to enhance the natural waves or curls.
Once the hair is dry, take a small section of hair from the front on one side and twist it back. Secure it with a bobby pin behind the ear, leaving a few strands loose to frame the face. Repeat on the other side.
For the top, you can use your fingers to gently lift and separate the layers, creating a more voluminous and soft look. Add a touch of hairspray to hold the style gently.
This style is ideal for a date night or a special event where you want to look more feminine and romantic.
Maintaining the Short Shaggy Cut
Regular Trims
To keep the short shaggy cut looking its best, it’s important to get regular trims every 4 – 6 weeks. This helps to maintain the shape and the texture of the layers. Over time, the ends can start to look blunt or uneven, which can affect the overall shaggy effect. Regular trims will ensure that the haircut stays fresh and stylish.
Hair Care Routine
Use a good quality shampoo and conditioner that is suitable for your hair type. If your hair is prone to dryness, look for products that are moisturizing. Avoid using harsh shampoos that can strip the hair of its natural oils.
Once a week, you can use a deep conditioning treatment or a hair mask to keep the hair healthy and hydrated. This will also help to maintain the texture and shine of the short shaggy cut.
Protecting the Hair
When using heat styling tools like a blow dryer or a flat iron, always use a heat protectant spray. This helps to prevent damage from the heat and keeps the hair in good condition.
Try to avoid excessive sun exposure as it can damage the hair. If you’re going to be in the sun for a long time, wear a hat or use a hair product with UV protection.
Conclusion
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