how to train your hair to go back

3 min read 17-01-2025

Meta Description: Learn how to train your hair to lay flat and go back, even if it's naturally unruly. This comprehensive guide covers styling techniques, product recommendations, and long-term training methods for achieving a sleek, controlled hairstyle. Discover the secrets to managing cowlicks, flyaways, and stubborn hairlines for a polished look that lasts.

Understanding Your Hair's Behavior

Before you begin training your hair to go back, it's crucial to understand its texture, thickness, and natural growth pattern. Hair that's naturally wavy or curly will require more effort and different techniques than straight hair. Identifying your hair type will inform your product and styling choices.

Hair Type Assessment:

Fine Hair: This hair type is often easier to train, but can be more prone to limpness.
Medium Hair: A versatile hair type, offering a balance between manageability and volume.
Thick Hair: This hair type can be more challenging to train, requiring stronger hold products and more persistence.
Wavy/Curly Hair: This hair type requires specific techniques and products designed to smooth and straighten.

Techniques to Train Your Hair Back

Several techniques can help you train your hair to lay flat and go back. Consistency is key; the more you practice these methods, the more effectively your hair will respond.

1. Styling with Products:

Pomade/Hair Gel: Apply a small amount of pomade or gel to damp hair, concentrating on the areas you want to control. Comb your hair back firmly and allow it to dry naturally or use a hairdryer with a cool setting. Strong-hold products are great for thicker, more stubborn hair.
Hair Serum/Oil: For finer hair, a lightweight serum or oil can add shine and help to smooth down flyaways. Apply a small amount to the ends and mid-lengths of your hair to prevent frizz.
Hairspray: Use a light-hold hairspray to set your style and keep your hair in place throughout the day. Avoid using too much, as it can leave your hair looking stiff and unnatural.

2. Using Heat Styling Tools:

Blow Dryer: Use a hairdryer with a concentrator nozzle to direct airflow and style your hair precisely. Using a round brush can help to smooth your hair back and create volume at the roots.
Flat Iron: If you have stubborn cowlicks or very curly hair, a flat iron can be used to gently straighten your hair and train it to lay flat. Always use a heat protectant spray before using heat tools.

3. Addressing Specific Challenges:

How to Deal with Cowlicks:

Targeted Product Application: Apply a stronger hold product directly to the cowlick to tame it.
Strategic Brushing: Use a fine-toothed comb or a boar bristle brush to carefully direct the hair in the opposite direction of the cowlick’s natural growth.
Gentle Heat: Use a low heat setting on your blow dryer or flat iron to gently manipulate the cowlick.

How to Manage Flyaways:

Anti-Frizz Products: Employ serums, oils, or creams specifically formulated to combat frizz.
Humidity Control: On humid days, use a heavier hairspray or consider a smoothing balm.

4. Long-Term Training Methods:

Consistent Styling: The key to training your hair is consistency. Repeatedly styling your hair in the desired direction will eventually teach it to lay flat and go back.
Patience: It may take several weeks or even months for your hair to fully train. Be patient and persistent.

Choosing the Right Products

Product selection is crucial for successful hair training. Consider your hair type and desired hold level:

For Fine Hair: Lightweight mousses, serums, or gels are ideal for adding hold without weighing down your hair.
For Thick Hair: Stronger hold pomades, gels, or hairsprays are necessary to control and manage thick, coarse hair.
For Wavy/Curly Hair: Smoothing creams, serums, or leave-in conditioners are vital in calming frizz and facilitating a sleek finish.

[Link to a reputable hair product review site]

Maintaining Your Trained Hair

Once you've successfully trained your hair, maintaining its style requires ongoing effort. Consistent styling, regular washing (avoiding excessive washing), and using the right products will help keep your hair trained in place.

Conclusion

Training your hair to go back requires patience and consistency. By understanding your hair type, using the appropriate techniques and products, and being persistent, you can achieve a sleek, controlled hairstyle that flatters your features. Remember, consistency is key, and the results will be worth the effort.