How to Use a Claw Clip When You Have Thick Hair: Tips and Techniques
Having thick hair can be both a blessing and a challenge when it comes to styling. While thick hair offers volume and texture, it can also present difficulties in finding the right hair accessories that provide secure hold without causing discomfort. Claw clips are a versatile and popular choice for styling thick hair, offering a quick and convenient way to create various hairstyles. In this article, we’ll explore tips and techniques for effectively using a claw clip with thick hair, ensuring a comfortable and stylish outcome.
Choose the Right Size and Design:
Choosing the right size and design of a claw clip is crucial, especially for individuals with thick hair. Thick hair requires a clip that can adequately accommodate its volume and provide a secure hold throughout the day. When shopping for a claw clip for thick hair, opting for larger sizes and sturdy designs is essential. Larger sizes provide more room to gather and hold the hair in place, while sturdy designs ensure durability and longevity.
One important feature to look for in a claw clip for thick hair is a wide opening. Wide openings allow for easier insertion of large sections of hair, making it simpler to style and secure the hair within the clip. Additionally, a strong spring mechanism is vital for ensuring a secure hold. Thick hair can exert significant pressure on the clip, so a strong spring is necessary to prevent slipping or the clip from coming loose.
Avoiding small or flimsy claw clips is crucial when dealing with thick hair. Small clips may not have the capacity to hold the volume of hair effectively, leading to frequent adjustments and potential frustration. Flimsy clips are also more likely to break under the pressure of thick hair, resulting in a shorter lifespan and the need for frequent replacements.
Prepare Your Hair:
Preparing your hair properly before using a claw clip can make a significant difference in the effectiveness and longevity of your style. Whether you’re aiming for a sleek updo or a casual half-up look, taking the time to prep your hair will ensure a smoother and more polished finish.
First and foremost, it’s essential to detangle and smooth your hair before using a claw clip. This can be easily achieved by using a wide-tooth comb or brush to gently work through any knots or tangles. Starting from the ends and working your way up to the roots will help minimize breakage and ensure that your hair is smooth and manageable.
Once your hair is detangled, you may choose to apply a lightweight styling product such as mousse or texturizing spray. These products can help add grip and hold to your hair, making it easier to style and ensuring that your chosen look stays in place throughout the day. When applying styling products, be sure to distribute them evenly throughout your hair, focusing on the areas where you’ll be using the claw clip.
When using a texturizing spray, it’s best to spray it onto your hair while it’s still slightly damp, as this will allow the product to penetrate the hair shaft more effectively. If using mousse, dispense a small amount into your palms and work it through your hair, focusing on the roots and mid-lengths.
Gather Your Hair:
Gathering your hair properly is a crucial step in achieving a polished and secure style when using a claw clip. Whether you’re opting for a casual half-up look or an elegant updo, how you gather your hair sets the foundation for the final result. Here’s how to do it effectively:
First, determine the section of hair you wish to clip back. For a classic half-up style, this typically involves gathering the top section of hair from the crown of your head. Use your fingers to separate this section from the rest of your hair, creating a clean part if desired.
If you’re aiming for a full updo, gather all of your hair into a ponytail or bun at the desired height on your head. Use a comb or your fingers to smooth any bumps or flyaways, ensuring that the gathered hair is neat and even.
Once you’ve selected the section of hair to clip back, use your fingers or a comb to guide the hair into place. Smooth out any lumps or bumps, ensuring that the gathered hair is evenly distributed and free from tangles. This step is crucial for creating a sleek and polished look, especially when using a claw clip.
For added precision, you can use a comb to create clean lines and ensure that the gathered hair sits exactly where you want it. Whether you prefer a sleek and refined style or a more relaxed and tousled look, taking the time to gather your hair properly will ensure that your final hairstyle looks polished and put-together.
Position the Claw Clip:
Positioning the claw clip correctly is essential for achieving a secure and long-lasting hold. Whether you’re styling a half-up hairdo or securing a full updo, following these steps will ensure that your hair stays in place:
Begin by holding the claw clip in one hand and opening the jaws by either pressing down on the lever or gently pushing the sides outward. This will create an open space between the teeth of the clip, allowing you to easily insert your gathered hair.
Next, place the teeth of the claw clip underneath the gathered section of hair. Slide the clip as close to the scalp as possible, ensuring that all of the hair is securely trapped within the jaws of the clip. Positioning the clip close to the scalp provides maximum hold and stability, preventing your hairstyle from slipping or coming loose throughout the day.
As you position the clip, take care to distribute the hair evenly within the jaws, avoiding any uneven or bulky sections that could compromise the hold. Smooth out any stray hairs or bumps, ensuring a neat and polished appearance.
Once the clip is in place and the hair is securely trapped within its jaws, release the lever or sides of the clip to close it shut. You should feel a gentle pressure as the clip closes, indicating that it’s securely holding your hair in place.
Finally, give your hairstyle a final once-over, checking for any loose strands or uneven sections. Make any necessary adjustments to ensure that your hair looks smooth and polished from every angle.
Secure the Clip:
Securing the claw clip properly is the final step in ensuring a secure and comfortable hold for your hairstyle. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Once you’ve positioned the claw clip underneath the gathered section of hair and ensured that all the hair is securely trapped within its jaws, it’s time to secure the clip in place.
- Release the lever or push the sides of the clip inward to close the jaws. As you do this, you should feel a gentle pressure as the teeth of the clip grip the hair firmly. However, be mindful not to close the clip too tightly, as this could cause discomfort or pull on the hair.
- Ensure that the clip is securely fastened in place, with no risk of slipping or coming loose throughout the day. Take a moment to run your fingers over the clip, checking for any areas where the teeth may not be gripping the hair properly.
- If necessary, use your fingers to adjust the position of the clip slightly or redistribute any stray hairs for a tidy finish. Smooth out any bumps or uneven sections, ensuring that your hairstyle looks polished and put-together from every angle.
- Once you’re satisfied with the placement of the clip and the overall look of your hairstyle, you’re all set! Your hair is now securely held in place, allowing you to go about your day with confidence and style.
By following these steps to secure the claw clip properly, you’ll ensure a comfortable and long-lasting hold for your hairstyle. Whether you’re rocking a half-up look for a casual day out or styling an elegant updo for a special occasion, your hair will stay in place and look fabulous with the help of a well-positioned claw clip.
Using a claw clip with thick hair doesn’t have to be a challenge. With the right size, design, and technique, you can achieve secure and stylish hairstyles that showcase the beauty of your thick locks. By following these tips and techniques, you’ll be able to confidently incorporate claw clips into your hairstyling routine, whether for everyday wear or special occasions. Experiment with different styles and have fun embracing the versatility of this classic hair accessory.
