An Upgrade from Your Hair Tie
Before we dive into the how-to, let's appreciate the why. Using a hair stick or pencil to secure your hair is more than just a clever hack when you can't find a hair tie. These tools are significantly gentler on your strands. Unlike elastic bands that
can pull, snag, and cause breakage, a hair stick distributes weight more evenly, leading to less tension on your scalp and fewer headaches. When you take your hair down, you won’t have that tell-tale crease left by a tight elastic. From a style perspective, it’s an instant elevation. A simple wooden stick or a decorative pin can transform a basic bun into a sophisticated updo, making it look like you put in far more effort than you actually did. This accessory has a rich history, with variations of hair sticks being used in cultures around the world for thousands of years as both functional and decorative items.
The Simple Step-by-Step Method
Ready to try it? The technique is surprisingly simple, but it relies on creating the right tension. It might take a few tries to get the hang of it, so be patient with yourself. 1. Gather your hair: Start by gathering your hair into a low ponytail with your hand, as if you're about to tie it up. You don't need an elastic. 2. Twist it up: Begin twisting the ponytail tightly from the base all the way to the ends. The tighter the twist, the more secure your bun will be, which is especially helpful for those with fine or silky hair. 3. Coil into a bun: Wrap the twisted coil of hair around its base to form a neat bun. Tuck the ends of your hair underneath the bun and hold it in place against your head with one hand. 4. The magic trick: Hold the hair stick in your dominant hand. Insert the tip into the edge of the bun, then angle it so it touches your scalp. The key is to then flip or lever the stick so it points in the opposite direction, weaving it through the hair close to your scalp and out the other side of the bun. You want to catch both the hair from the bun and the scalp hair to create a secure anchor.
Tips for a Secure Hold
If your bun feels loose or falls out, don't get discouraged. The most common mistake is not catching enough hair to create a lock. The trick is the 'flip and weave' motion. Think of it like a sewing stitch: the stick needs to go through the bun, engage with the base hair on your scalp, and come back out through the bun on the opposite side. Wiggling the stick slightly as you push it along your scalp can help gather more hair and create a tighter hold. For those with very thick hair, a longer, sturdier stick might provide a better hold. Conversely, if your hair is fine and slippery, a wooden stick may offer more grip than a smooth metal or plastic one. You can also try applying a bit of texturizing spray before you start to give your strands more grit and prevent the stick from sliding out. If your hair is freshly washed and too soft, this can make a huge difference.
What Kind of 'Pencil' to Use?
While an actual pencil works in a pinch (a traditional wooden one is better than a slippery mechanical one), investing in a proper hair stick opens up a world of style. They come in countless materials and designs, from simple, minimalist wood to ornate, decorated metal or resin. A good quality hair stick is designed to be smooth, preventing snags, and is often tapered for easier insertion. You can also use a single chopstick, a French pin, or a hair fork. Each will give a slightly different look and feel, so it's worth experimenting to find what you and your hair like best. For thick or very long hair, a U-shaped hair fork can offer even more stability than a single stick.
