I’m not trying to be dramatic, but I have the thickest hair in the world. I typically warn stylists before I come in for a cut or color because I know it will take them longer to style than most hair. If I blow-dry my own hair, it can take me up to 45 minutes to get it dry. Maybe the worst part is how hard it is to find a hairstyle that sticks. Not enough layers, and I risk looking like a Christmas tree. Too many layers, and I look like I belong in an ’80s band.
I recently got my hair cut by Jennifer Matos, a hairstylist at Rita Hazan Salon, and ended up with the perfect balance of layers and length. The result is bouncy and light hair that I can still comfortably pull into a ponytail or bun. “With thicker hair, over-layering can do the opposite [of what you want],” she says. “You think it will get lighter, and it will actually get heavier.”
Matos recommends long layers paired with face-framing for hair like mine, which can get curtain-y. If you have coily or curly thick hair, she says you’re free to play around with shorter layers and curly bangs. See below for the best low-maintenance haircut ideas for thick hair—get ready to show these to your stylist at your next appointment.
Long, choppy layers are the perfect laid-back hairstyle for thick hair.
Curly bangs and piecey layers make super-thick, curly hair look goddess-like.
If you have longer hair, you can add some volume on the top with curtain bangs.
Curly curtain bangs and long layers help make sure ringlets really pop.
Tightly textured hair lends itself to face-framing layers and tons of layers toward the roots so that you can get volume where you want it.
If you want endless length, opt for layers that start at your collar bones for hair that has movement even when it’s grazing your ribs.
When you have thick hair, layers that start at your chin help balance a long cut.
Choppy, face-framing is a thick-haired person’s best friend.
Curtain bangs add a little something to curly hair. Keep the front pieces short, and angle your layers down to frame your face.
Face-framing pieces help keep long hair bouncy.
If you want to try bangs, opt for a shaggy, piecey fringe with face-framing side pieces to keep hair balanced.
Tons of layers give thicker hair movement and shape.
If you want to go for a bob, opt for long layers and face-framing pieces so your hair won’t look triangular.
If you have really curly hair, it’s the perfect opportunity to experiment with more layers. A cut like this will infuse your hair with playful energy.
For a style like this, opt for shorter layers on top to get all the life you’re looking for.
This hairstyling cream helps curb frizz and allows the perfect air-dried look every time.
Thick hair can get tangled easily—there’s just so much of it! This detangling spray will solve any knots.
This heat-activated blow-dry spray seals the hair’s cuticle, leading to effortlessly smooth and soft hair.
This brush can tackle even the thickest strands.
Designed specifically with thick hair in mind, this hair mask deeply moisturizes and nourishes.
