How to Get Rid of a Cowlick: 10 Pro Tips That Actually Work (2024)

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Trying to figure out how to get rid of a cowlick? Start by blow-drying your hair against the cowlick’s natural growth while it’s damp—this helps redirect it.

A lightweight styling product (like a spray or cream) can add hold without weighing things down.

If you’ve got thicker hair, a flat iron or curling iron works wonders to tame stubborn sections—just don’t forget heat protectant!

Changing your part or using Velcro rollers can also disguise the cowlick.

And when all else fails, embrace it—cowlicks add character.

For more styling tricks or haircut ideas to outsmart cowlicks, there’s always plenty to explore!

What is a Cowlick?

Nearly everyone has battled with a stubborn cowlick at some point – that rebellious section of hair that seems to have a mind of its own.

A cowlick occurs when your hair growth patterns create a natural swirl, typically caused by genetics that determine how your hair follicles are positioned.

Think of it like a tiny tornado in your hair, where strands grow in opposing directions instead of neatly aligning with the rest of your mane. Cowlick prevalence is surprisingly high, with most people having at least one, commonly at the crown or hairline.

While you can’t change your DNA, understanding what causes cowlicks in hair is the first step to managing them.

These natural hair formations aren’t flaws – they’re just unique characteristics that make your hair distinctively yours.

Assess Your Cowlick

Before you can tame that stubborn cowlick, you’ll need to figure out exactly where it’s causing trouble in your hair.

Understanding your cowlick’s location and how it affects your current hair length will help you choose the right styling tricks to keep it under control.

Location

Ever wonder why that pesky hair whorl keeps showing up in the same spot?

Finding your cowlick’s exact location is your first step to taming it.

Get your hair damp and run your fingers through it – you’ll feel where those stubborn strands swirl at your crown, front hairline, temples, or nape.

Once you’ve pinpointed your trouble spots, you can target each one with the right technique, whether it’s a single crown control challenge or multiple hairline woes.

Length

Your cowlick’s behavior changes drastically with hair length, making it a key factor in your styling strategy. While short hair might showcase that rebellious tuft, growing it out gives you more control.

Here are five game-changing length tactics:

1. Keep layers longer than 3 inches to weigh down the cowlick
2. Skip frequent trims during the growing-out phase
3. Try a mid-length shag to camouflage the pattern
4. Consider shoulder-length styles for maximum control
5. Maintain longer crown sections for better styling options

Style Strategies

You’ll be amazed at how a few smart styling moves can transform your stubborn cowlick from frustrating to fantastic.

Whether you’re dealing with a crown spiral or a rebellious hairline, these proven strategies will help you take control of your hair’s natural growth pattern.

Part Your Hair Differently

Stubborn cowlicks often dictate where we part our hair, but changing your part location can actually help tame those unruly spots. Whether you’re dealing with a front cowlick or one at the crown, strategic parting makes all the difference in creating a polished look. Finding your natural hair part by following the direction of your hair roots, as part of your face shape and parting, can also provide a good starting point.

1. Try a deep side part opposite your cowlick’s direction – this naturally weighs down the rebellious strands
2. Experiment with a zigzag part near your cowlick to distribute hair weight and minimize lift
3. Consider a middle part if your cowlick sits at the crown, letting gravity work its magic
4. Create a diagonal part that works with (not against) your natural growth pattern

Use Products

Now that you’ve got your part sorted, let’s talk about products – they’re game-changers for cowlick control.

For fine hair, reach for lightweight options like flexible-hold hairsprays or dry shampoo to avoid weighing strands down.

Thicker hair? Go for stronger hold products like pomades or styling creams. The secret’s in matching product strength to your hair type.

Start with a pea-sized amount, working it through damp hair from roots to ends.

Remember to pair these cowlick solutions with proper heat protection for best results.

Blow Dry Tips

You’ll be amazed at how your blow dryer can be your secret weapon against that stubborn cowlick.

When you’re ready to win the battle against unruly hair, your blow-drying technique can make all the difference between a good hair day and a great one.

Heat Protectant

Protecting your hair from heat damage when managing a cowlick starts with the right heat protectant. Think of it as armor for your strands.

• Pick your type: Sprays are lightweight, creams add moisture, serums tame frizz, and oils bring shine—choose what works for you.
• Don’t skip this step: Apply to damp hair before touching any heat styling tools.
• Coat every strand: Make sure the product is evenly spread, focusing on your troublesome cowlick.
• Team it up: Use a professional blow dryer and ceramic brush for smooth results.
• Mind the heat: High temperatures aren’t your friend—stay under control.

Get this step right, and your hair’s ready to shine.

Dry Opposite Direction

Start tackling your cowlick by blow-drying your hair in the opposite direction of its natural growth.

First, spritz on a heat protectant to guard your strands—don’t skip that step!

Use a flat comb or fingers to part your hair where you want it to go. As you dry, aim the nozzle toward the roots for better root control, working against the grain.

Add a styling product to lock it in place.

With a little patience, this daily routine can help tame that rebellious swirl.

Use Heated Styling Tools

A flat iron or curling iron can work magic on stubborn cowlicks by redirecting the hair and locking it in place.

Just remember to use a heat protectant first—fried hair isn’t a good look on anyone!

Flat Iron

When your blow dryer isn’t cutting it, a flat iron can work wonders for fixing cowlick hair. Focus on control — think of the cowlick as a stubborn house guest you’re gently guiding to behave. Use the right flat iron with adjustable heat settings and plates that match your hair’s thickness to avoid damage. To find the perfect tool, consider best flat irons for cowlicks.

Curling Iron

Flat irons are great, but sometimes you need a softer touch. A curling iron’s gentle curves can do the trick!

For styling cowlick hair, use a medium-sized barrel—it’s the Goldilocks of iron sizes. Wrap your cowlick around the barrel, holding for about 10 seconds. Before curling, don’t forget to apply a heat protectant spray.

Release and watch your cowlick magically tame itself!

Remember to adjust heat settings and iron size based on your hair type. With a little practice, you’ll become a cowlick-styling expert!

Hair Type	Iron Size	Heat Settings	Curl Hold
Fine/Thin	Smaller Barrel	Low	Moderate
Medium/Thick	Medium Barrel	Medium	Strong
Coarse/Thick	Larger Barrel	High	Very Strong
Extra Thick/Curly	Large, Multiple passes	High, multiple passes	Very Strong

Rollers Can Help

Rollers are an easy way to tame a stubborn cowlick while adding volume to your style.

Whether you use Velcro or heated rollers, they help train your hair to stay in place without much effort.

Velcro

Struggling with a tricky cowlick? Velcro rollers might be your new best friend for taming it. You can find a variety of velcro rollers for cowlicks online to help you achieve the style you want.

Pick the right size roller (smaller ones grab better on shorter strands), and roll your hair against the cowlick’s natural direction. Secure it with clips to prevent slipping. Blast it with warm air from your blow dryer, moving side to side, then let it cool.

The result? A smooth, controlled style without the hassle.

Want alternatives? Thermal rollers offer extra hold, but Velcro wins for ease and less heat damage. It’s a quick fix for stubborn cowlicks and tricky hairstyles!

Thermal

Thermal styling can be a game-changer for taming a cowlick. Those pesky little hair patterns won’t stand a chance with the right hot tools and techniques, such as using a flat iron with ceramic plates for even heat distribution. Think of it as your secret weapon to smooth, polished hair.

• Use Hot Tools Wisely: A good flat iron or curling iron can help you fix a cowlick for the day. Glide your iron over the cowlick in the direction you want it to lay. Take your time; precision matters here.
• Don’t Skip Heat Protectants: Protect your hair like you’d protect your skin. A heat protectant spray keeps your strands safe from heat damage while keeping your look glossy and frizz-free.
• Pro Tips from Stylists: If cowlicks still play by their own rules, consult a stylist. They’ll have tricks up their sleeve to make styling cowlick challenges a breeze.

Secure With Clips

Remember those rollers? Now, let’s talk about securing everything in place. No-crease clips are your new best friends. Think of them as tiny, hair-holding superheroes.

Proper clip placement is key – aim for the cowlick’s root, not just the surface. Experiment with different clip types; smaller clips work better for finer hair, while larger ones might be needed for thicker strands. Clip size matters, so choose accordingly. You can find a variety of no-crease clips online, such as those available on no crease clips websites, to suit your specific needs.

Drying with clips is a game-changer. Imagine this: you’ve just blow-dried your hair, carefully directing airflow against your cowlick’s stubbornness. Now, gently secure everything with those clips. Their holding power will keep your strands in place as they cool and set. This simple technique is a fantastic way to tame a cowlick and achieve sleek cowlick hairstyles.

For those particularly persistent cowlicks, consider using clips while your hair is still warm from styling. The heat helps “set” the style and gives you even more control. This is all about finding the best clip placement for your individual cowlick. It’s a trial-and-error process, but with patience, you’ll master the art of styling your cowlicks with clips. So grab your clips, and let’s get to work on creating your perfect cowlick hairstyles. With a little practice, fixing your cowlick will become second nature, giving you the confidence to rock any hairstyle you want.

Refresh Through The Day

Cowlicks can sneak back into place during the day, but a quick refresh keeps them under control.

A little water, restyling, and securing with a clip can work wonders in seconds.

Wet

A little water can work wonders when taming a cowlick. Lightly mist the area using a spray bottle—no need for a full wash. This reactivates your style and makes the strands pliable, giving you control without starting from scratch. Pair it with a fine mist setting spray to seal the deal.

• Use lukewarm water to avoid shocking your hair.
• Mist sparingly—don’t drench it.
• Try wet brushing to reshape strands gently.
• Pat dry with a towel, not rub.
• Focus on scalp moisture for flexibility.

Style

Styling products are your secret weapon to fix a cowlick midday. Work a dab of product into the roots for texture control, then shape it into place.

Cowlick-friendly hairstyle choices, like layered or longer styles, help hide stubborn spots.

For quick cowlick remedies, hairpins can secure rebellious sections temporarily.

Got long hair? Use fringe or bangs to drape over the cowlick.

Sometimes, the right style tames the cowlick completely.

Clip

Tired of battling that cowlick all day? No-crease clips are your secret weapon. After wetting and styling, use clips at the roots to hold your hair in place and retrain its stubborn pattern.

1. Pick your clip type: Metal, plastic, or coated. No indents necessary.
2. Perfect clip placement: Right at your part line.
3. Clip holding matters: Let them stay put while drying.
4. Clip removal: Gentle and slow to avoid damage.

See a Professional

Sometimes, no amount of heat tools or products can fix a stubborn cowlick. That’s when calling in a pro is your best bet.

A professional consultation with a stylist can shed light on what’s truly going on with your cowlick and uncover lasting solutions. They might suggest techniques like layering to add weight, texturizing to soften sharp edges, or strategically trimming to redirect growth patterns. Understanding your individual hair growth patterns is also essential for styling success. These experts bring sharp eyes and years of experience, transforming chaos into control.

Need help with products? Stylists can guide you to the right ones—maybe mousse for fine hair or cream for thick strands—ensuring your routine gets a serious upgrade.

Investing in a “cowlick specialist near me” can mean fewer stressful mornings and a hairstyle that works, not fights, with your natural texture. Sure, there’s a cost involved, but the confidence boost and long-term solutions are worth every penny. Why not let an expert take the reins?

Embrace Your Cowlick

Okay, so maybe professional help didn’t completely conquer your cowlick. Don’t sweat it! Sometimes, the best approach is to ditch the fight and embrace your unique quirk. Seriously, that little swirl of defiance adds character! Consider trying a hairstyle that adds volume on top, such as a textured crop or pompadour using volumizing techniques.

• Cowlick hairstyles: Try a style that plays up the volume, like a textured bob or even a fun, messy bun.
• Quirky charm: Own it! Your cowlick is part of your natural beauty.
• Embrace imperfections: It’s what makes you, you.
• Love your curls: Let those strands fly free!
• Tame cowlick: Sometimes, a little product is all you need to keep it in check.

Instead of viewing your cowlick as a problem to fix, see it as a delightful detail. It’s a reminder that perfection isn’t the goal—it’s about celebrating your individuality. Let that cowlick add some playful flair to your look! It’s all about confidence—rock that natural beauty!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)