Short hairstyles have always been a popular choice among people for their simplicity, manageability, and unique charm. Natural short hairstyles, in particular, embrace the beauty of one’s hair texture and require minimal styling efforts. In this article, we will explore various types of natural short hairstyles, their characteristics, and how to maintain them.
The Pixie Cut
Definition and Features
The pixie cut is a classic short hairstyle. It usually features very short hair on the sides and back of the head, with slightly longer hair on top. The length on top can vary from a few inches to a very short crop. One of the main characteristics of the pixie cut is its versatility. It can be styled in a sleek and smooth manner for a more formal look or tousled for a casual and edgy appearance.
Different Variations
Sleek Pixie: This variation has hair that is cut evenly and styled with a flat iron or smoothing products to give a shiny and polished look. It often has a side – part, which adds a touch of elegance. The sleek pixie is perfect for professional settings or when you want to make a sophisticated statement.
Tousled Pixie: With this style, the hair is cut with some texture. You can use a small amount of styling mousse or wax to create a messy, yet stylish look. The tousled pixie gives a more youthful and free – spirited vibe. It’s great for those with an active lifestyle or for a casual day out.
Pixie with Bangs: Adding bangs to the pixie cut can completely change the look. There are different types of bangs that can be incorporated. Straight bangs give a more traditional and cute look, while side – swept bangs add a touch of glamour and can help to frame the face in a more flattering way.
Maintenance Tips
Regular trims are essential to keep the pixie cut in shape. Since the hair is short, any split ends or uneven growth can be more noticeable. Aim to get a trim every 4 – 6 weeks.
Use a good quality shampoo and conditioner suitable for your hair type. If your hair is fine, choose products that add volume. For thicker hair, products that help to control frizz might be more beneficial.
When styling, use a small amount of product. Too much can make the hair look greasy or weighed down. For a sleek look, use a smoothing serum, and for a textured look, a light hold wax or mousse is ideal.
The Bob Cut
Definition and Characteristics
The bob cut is another popular natural short hairstyle. It is characterized by hair that is cut straight around the head, usually ending at or above the shoulders. The bob can have different lengths, from a chin – length bob to a shoulder – length one. It often has a blunt or angled edge. A blunt bob gives a more modern and bold look, while an angled bob can be more flattering and softening for the face.
Types of Bob Cuts
Classic Bob: This is the most straightforward type of bob. The hair is cut evenly all around, creating a clean and simple look. It can be worn with a middle part or a side part. The classic bob is a timeless style that suits many face shapes.
Inverted Bob: The inverted bob is shorter in the back and gradually gets longer towards the front. This style creates a more dynamic and fashionable look. It can add volume and movement to the hair. It is especially flattering for those with a round face as it elongates the face.
Layered Bob: Adding layers to the bob cut gives it more texture and movement. The layers can be subtle or more pronounced. A layered bob is great for those with thick hair as it helps to reduce bulk and make the hair more manageable.
It also allows for more styling options, such as curling or straightening the layers for different looks.
Maintenance and Styling
When washing a bob cut, be gentle to avoid tangling. Use a wide – toothed comb to detangle the hair while it is still wet.
For styling, a round brush can be used when blow – drying to add volume and smoothness. If you want to add waves or curls, use a curling iron with a medium barrel size.
To maintain the shape of the bob, regular trims are necessary. Depending on how fast your hair grows, aim for a trim every 6 – 8 weeks. This will keep the edges looking sharp and prevent the hair from losing its intended shape.
The Shag Cut
What is a Shag Cut?
The shag cut is a short hairstyle that is all about texture and layers. It has a more relaxed and unkempt appearance compared to the pixie or bob. The shag cut usually features short layers throughout the hair, with longer pieces framing the face. It gives a tousled, rocker – chic look.
Elements of a Shag Cut
Layers: The multiple layers in a shag cut are what make it unique. These layers can be cut at different lengths, creating a choppy and textured effect. The layers start from the crown of the head and continue down to the ends of the hair.
Fringes: A shag cut often includes some form of fringe. It can be a full – on bang that covers the forehead or a more wispy, side – swept fringe. The fringe adds to the overall style and can help to hide a high forehead or draw attention to the eyes.
Texture: To achieve the perfect shag look, texture is key. You can use texturizing sprays or sea salt sprays to enhance the natural texture of the hair. This gives the hair a more lived – in and beachy look.
How to Care for a Shag Cut
Use products that enhance texture. As mentioned before, texturizing sprays are great. You can also use a small amount of dry shampoo between washes to add volume and absorb excess oil.
When styling, avoid over – brushing. Instead, use your fingers to tousle the hair and create the desired shape. A diffuser attachment on your hair dryer can be used to dry the hair while maintaining its texture.
Trims are still important for a shag cut, but they don’t need to be as frequent as with other short hairstyles. Every 8 – 10 weeks should be sufficient to keep the layers looking good and to prevent the hair from looking too wild.
Conclusion
Natural short hairstyles offer a wide range of options for people to express their personality and style. Whether you prefer the sleekness of a pixie cut, the elegance of a bob, or the edginess of a shag cut, there is a short hairstyle that will suit you. By understanding the different types, variations, and maintenance tips of these natural short hairstyles, you can make an informed decision and keep your hair looking its best. Remember, the key to a great short hairstyle is finding one that not only looks good but also makes you feel confident and comfortable.