6 Common Mistakes To Avoid with Thick Hair

1: Thinning thick hair out too much

Thinning shears can be a godsend for those who often find themselves wondering how to style thick, coarse hair without too much effort—but as with anything, balance is key. If you thin out your hair too much, it could leave your mane looking frayed or uneven. An improper approach can also create uneven-looking strands or unintentionally create volume where you don’t want it. If you decide to thin out your hair, be sure to visit an experienced stylist and bring plenty of inspiration photos so they know what you’re aiming for. And don’t be afraid to speak up if you think you and your stylist are on different pages—communication is key.

2. Picking the wrong haircut for your needs

If you’ve been toying with the idea of a super-short cut to make your thick hair more manageable, you should know that shorter hair doesn't always mean less work. For a shorter style that will work well with thick hair, try a bixie haircut—length-wise, it falls between a pixie and a bob and often features flattering choppy layers cut throughout for texture and movement. Aside from being totally on-trend, this haircut helps to distribute the weight of your hair more evenly and tends to be easier to style than either a pixie or a bob.

3. Not using the right shampoo and conditioner

While thick hair needs lots of hydration to ward off frizz and keep it shiny and healthy-looking, it’s important to be selective with the products you use. Anything too heavy could weigh your hair down, which may make it look limp and put a damper on your natural (and truly enviable) volume.

4. Getting it chemically straightened

If you have thick hair and have gotten chemical straightening treatments in the hopes that it will make your hair easier to style, you know that these treatments can change the natural texture of your hair. The result is possibly compromised, over-processed, hard-to-manage hair. There are ways to accentuate and embrace your natural thick hair texture, and it all starts with using the right styling products.

5. Avoiding layers

Finding the right haircut for thick hair can be a challenge, but as we mentioned before, it’s hard to go wrong with long layers. Layers help remove unnecessary weight, give your thick hair shape, and help minimize bulk and poofiness around the face. The right technique can even help accentuate your natural hair texture, particularly if you have waves or curls.

6. Wearing it up too often

When you don’t feel like styling your thick hair, you may be tempted to just throw it all into a high ponytail or messy bun. Every now and then, that’s totally fine. However, repeatedly wearing your hair in the same hairstyle can lead to breakage from where the elastic holds your strands in place. And if your chosen lazy-day hairstyle is tight, you could also risk pulling out your hair at the scalp. For an easy hairstyle that won’t pull, tug at, or otherwise damage your thick hair, try a long, loose braid.