Have you ever wondered why some women have gorgeous long hair and some have thin, unhealthy hair? It’s a sure thing that genetics play a great role in how your hair looks, but there are some hacks that will change the way your hair looks that not a lot of people know about.

There are a few hair hacks in this article, so let’s dive in: 

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1. Protect your hair at night

Maybe you thought that only a certain hair type needed to wear a bonnet at night, but that’s actually wrong. Silk pillowcases and silk bonnets make a huge difference in our hair, and they protect it from rubbing on our cotton pillowcases, which causes hair damage and frizz. Such a simple thing can make a big difference in how the hair looks.

Another thing you can do to protect your hair AND get curls overnight without using heat is to use one of these methods:

To achieve heatless curls overnight, also known as “hair plopping” or “sock curls,”  “rag curls,” or “braid curls,” depending on the specific technique, follow this guide:  

Hair plopping

  • Start with clean, damp hair. Apply a leave-in conditioner or curl-enhancing products if desired.
  • Spread a long-sleeve cotton t-shirt or a microfiber towel on a flat surface like a chair or your bed.
  • Bend over and let your hair fall in the centre of the t-shirt or towel. Ensure your curls are piled atop your head, not stretched out.
  • Take the bottom of the t-shirt or towel and wrap it around your head, and then use the sleeves or the ends of the towel to secure it in place. The idea is to keep your hair scrunched up to enhance its natural curl pattern.
  • Leave the t-shirt or towel on overnight. In the morning, remove it gently to reveal defined curls.

Sock curls

  • Your hair should be slightly damp. You can use a spray bottle to moisten it if it’s dry.
  • If you don’t have curling rags, old socks cut into long strips work well.
  • Take a section of hair and wrap it around the sock, starting close to the ends and rolling upwards towards your scalp.
  • Once you reach the scalp, tie the ends of the sock to secure the hair.
  • Repeat the process for your entire head. In the morning, untie the socks and gently unravel your curls.

Braid curls

  • Slightly wet your hair for better results.
  • Divide your hair into sections, and braid each section. The smaller the braids, the tighter the curls.
  • Use hair ties to secure the ends of the braids.
  • Sleep with the braids in.
  • Carefully undo the braids in the morning to reveal wavy or curly hair, depending on the braid’s tightness.

These methods protect your hair and help you wake up with some beautiful curls in the morning. Try experimenting with these heatless methods and finding which one suits you best.

2. Use gentle products for your hair

Be gentle when you comb your hair. Use a wide-tooth comb and take your time, especially with knots. Also, tight hairstyles? Not the best idea. They can pull and damage your hair.

Wearing looser styles not only protects your hair but can also contribute to a more relaxed and carefree look.

A high-quality leave-in conditioner can provide moisture, reduce breakage, and strengthen hair. Alongside a leave-in conditioner, incorporating a gentle shampoo, a hydrating conditioner, and a deep conditioner into your routine will address various hair concerns, from dryness to damage. 

Don’t forget to stock up on styling products tailored to your hair type, whether it be mousse, hair spray, or gel, to achieve your desired look without compromising hair health.

3. Try new hairstyles

Hair hacks image

Switching up your hairstyle can work miracles for your overall look. If you’re hesitant about making a permanent change, there’s no need to worry. Options like human hair wigs, clip-in hair extensions, or even human hair toppers (if you have thinning hair at the crown) give you the flexibility to explore without altering your natural hair. 

Here are some exciting hairstyle ideas you might want to consider:

  • The bob cut: This timeless style can vary from chin-length to shoulder-length, offering a sleek or layered look that suits almost every face shape.
  • Beach waves: Perfect for a laid-back, effortless vibe. Beach waves work great for medium to long hair, giving you a soft, summery look.
  • Pixie cut: For the bold and daring, a pixie cut can be a game-changer. It’s low maintenance yet chic, making a strong statement.
  • Layered cut: Adding layers can give your hair more volume and movement. It’s ideal for those looking to add depth to their hair without a drastic length change.
  • Bangs: Whether you prefer curtain bangs, blunt bangs, or side-swept bangs, adding a fringe can dramatically change your look without much commitment.
  • Braids: From classic French braids to trendy fishtails or box braids, braiding offers a versatile range of styles suitable for casual or formal occasions.
  • High ponytail: A sleek high ponytail not only elevates your look but can also make you appear taller and more poised. It’s simple yet elegant.
  • Bun: High buns, low buns, or messy buns are fantastic for those days when you want to look put together with minimal effort.

4. Add oils to your hair

Putting oils in your hair might sound a bit strange if you haven’t tried it before, but trust us, it’s like giving your hair a super drink of water and food all at once. Hair oils are amazing because they do a lot of good stuff for your hair. They can make it softer, shinier, and even help it grow stronger. Plus, they can keep your scalp happy and healthy, which is super important if you want great-looking hair.

Here’s how you can get started with oils:

  • Coconut oil: This is like the all-star player of hair oils. It’s great for making your hair feel softer and for preventing it from losing too much protein when you wash it. Just warm it up a little, rub it between your palms, and work it through your hair. You can leave it on for a couple of hours or even overnight before you wash it out.
  • Argan oil: Sometimes called ‘liquid gold,’ this oil is awesome for making your hair smooth and shiny. It’s not too heavy, so it won’t make your hair feel greasy. Just a few drops should do the trick, especially on the ends of your hair.
  • Jojoba oil: This oil is pretty cool because it’s a lot like the natural oils your scalp makes. It’s good for adding moisture to your hair and scalp without making everything too oily. It’s also great for fighting dandruff.
  • Castor oil: If you’re dreaming of thicker, longer hair, castor oil might be your new best friend. It’s known for supporting hair growth and adding volume. It’s a bit thicker than other oils, so mix it with a lighter oil like coconut or argan for easier application.

When you’re using oils, a little goes a long way. You don’t want to drench your hair in it—just use enough to lightly coat your hair or focus on the ends where hair tends to get the driest. And remember, the best time to apply oil is when your hair is damp, like after a shower. This helps your hair soak up all the goodness.

Remember, the journey to healthier, more radiant hair is a marathon, not a sprint. It’s about making small, consistent changes that add up over time. So, be patient with yourself and your hair. Celebrate the small victories, like noticing less breakage, achieving softer curls, or simply waking up to a good hair day more often than not.

And finally, don’t be afraid to experiment. Your hair is a beautiful, versatile accessory that you can have fun with. Whether you’re rocking a sleek bob, playful braids, or bouncy curls, what’s most important is how you feel wearing it. Confidence is the best hairstyle, and by taking care of your hair, you’re also taking care of yourself.

Sarah Sarsby is the owner of A Woman's Confidence. With over 6 years' experience of writing in the fields of beauty and lifestyle, Sarah is passionate about all things content, makeup, skincare, wellness, and lifestyle. She has oily skin, is obsessed with lip gloss, and loves cookie dough.