Type 1 hair is straight hair. This is common, but the subtype of 1A hair is not. In fact, it’s one of the rarest hair types.
It’s completely straight. Which also makes it difficult to style. However, there are some hairstyles that work particularly well with 1a hair.
The best hairstyles for 1a hair are those that add volume and texture to the hair.
Type 1A Hair
1A hair type is the straightest and finest of all hair textures. With its silky, smooth appearance, managing and styling this hair type can come with its own unique set of challenges.
Due to the fineness of 1A hair, creating volume and depth is tricky. But, not impossible. With the right techniques and products, you can pull off stunning hairstyles that complement your straight, fine hair.
Best 1A Hair Styles for Women
With type 1A hair, you’ll experience that the straightness makes your hair slippery. This introduces some problems when styling. But, there are many great hairstyles that work perfectly for you.
1. Long and Layered
Adding some soft layers to your straight hair can create the illusion of volume. Ask your stylist for long layers that won’t weigh down your fine hair. Make sure to use a volumizing shampoo and conditioner to keep your hair looking full.
2. Half-Up, Half-Down
This simple hairstyle adds some variety to your daily look. Pull the top section of your hair back and secure it with a hair tie or pin. This style allows your natural oils to distribute evenly, promoting scalp health.
3. Sleek Ponytail
Take advantage of your straight, fine hair by rocking a sleek ponytail. Brush your hair back smoothly and secure it with a hair tie. To add shine and prevent flyaways, use a hair oil with natural ingredients.
4. Bob with Side-Swept Bangs
A bob haircut with side-swept bangs adds style and shape to your hair without overwhelming your fine texture. Use a dry shampoo to maintain volume and prevent your hair from becoming oily.
5. Beach Waves
Even though 1A hair is naturally straight, you can still achieve a beach wave look. Use a curling wand or flat iron to create loose waves, and then rake your fingers through them to separate.
Finish by applying a lightweight texturizing spray for added volume.
6. Pixie Cut
A tapered pixie haircut works well with all hair types, including straight and fine hair. It’s a bold and edgy look that adds dimension to the hair and gives more styling options.
Best 1A Hair Styles for Men
Type 1A hair is not just for women – men have the hairtype too. And it’s similarly difficult to style. Especially without a product. So here are the best hairstyles for 1A hair, for men.
1. Messy hairdo
A messy hairdo is a controlled mess. And it looks great, like the best kind of bed hair.
Add some volume and texture to your 1A hair by using a volumizing spray or dry shampoo. Apply it gently with a brush to give a tousled, effortless appearance.
Just remember not to overdo the product application as it might cause product buildup and grease.
2. Layered haircut
Opt for a layered cut to add depth to your hair while maintaining straightness. It helps with breakage and tangles, so don’t forget to use conditioner and a wide-tooth comb for detangling after shampooing your hair.
3. Sleek side part
This classic hairstyle works well with 1A hair types and emphasizes thickness and strength.
Use a styling gel or comb to create a neat side part and brush your hair into place. This hairstyle is particularly effective in controlling flyaways.
4. Undercut
An undercut accentuates your hair’s thickness and adds body to your overall look. Paired with a longer top, it offers a stylish contrast and the appearance of greater volume.
Use a styling product, like a gel or pomade, to keep the top section in place.
5. Faux hawk
For those wanting a playful, edgy hairstyle, the faux hawk is great.
To achieve this look, apply a little styling product to create volume and texture. Then push your hair upwards towards the center. The sleek nature of 1A hair allows for a twist on this punk-inspired style.
Choosing Hairstyles 1A Hair
If you’re not sure which direction to go with your 1A hair styling, you can always start long. Then, go shorter if you want to experiment.
Here’s what we have to say about different types of hairstyles for 1A hair.
Long Hairstyles
Long hairstyles are a classic option for 1A hair. You can simply keep your tresses straight and sleek, which showcases the silky smooth texture of your locks.
To add some more style and volume, consider loose curls or beachy waves.
Short Hairstyles
Short hairstyles can be a refreshing change for 1A hair. It’s easy to manage and maintain, and you don’t need a lot of product to style it.
Medium-length Hairstyles
Medium-length hairstyles offer versatility for 1A hair, allowing you to create different looks for different occasions.
A shoulder-length cut is easy to style into loose waves. Or, for a more polished look, consider a sleek blowout. For added dimension, you can incorporate some subtle layers.
Layered Hairstyles
Layered hairstyles work wonders for adding volume and movement to 1A hair.
You can choose from a variety of layering techniques, such as face-framing layers, long layers, or choppy layers. These styles help create the illusion of thicker hair and provide more depth to your overall look.
Braided Hairstyles
While 1A hair is a bit slippery for some braided hairstyles, there are still some great options.
Simple braids like a classic three-strand braid, a fishtail braid, or even a half-up, half-down braid add a touch of elegance to your hairstyle. Apply a light styling product, like a texturizing spray, to help hold the braided style in place.
Products for Styling 1A Hair
Because of your fine hair, it’s a good idea to use some styling products. But remember to go for lightweight options:
- Wax
- Mousse
- Serums
- Hairspray
Hair Wax
Hair wax is great for styling short 1A hair. It can add texture, hold, and some subtle volume.
To use hair wax, take a small amount and rub it between your fingers to warm it up. Then, apply it evenly throughout your hair, focusing on the ends and strands.
Hair Mousse
Hair mousse is excellent for adding volume and light hold to slightly longer 1A hair.
Shake the can and dispense a golf-ball-sized amount onto your hand. Work the mousse through your damp hair from roots to tips. Blow-dry your hair afterward to activate the volumizing effect.
Hair mousse helps to create a fuller look without weighing your hair down.
Serums
Serums are great for taming frizz and adding shine to your 1A hair. And it’s great for long hair.
Choose a lightweight serum to avoid weighing your hair down. Apply a small amount to your palms and smooth it over your hair. Start at the mid-lengths and work your way down to the ends.
This creates a sleek and shiny appearance without making your hair look greasy.
Hairspray
Hairspray is helpful for maintaining your hairstyle throughout the day. For the best results, choose a hairspray with a light to medium hold.
To apply, hold the can about 12 inches away from your head and evenly mist your hair. Focus on the areas that need extra hold or control. Remember, too much hairspray can make your 1A hair look stiff, so use it sparingly.
Maintaining 1A Hair for Better Styling
If you’re serious about styling your hair, you need to maintain it. Keep it healthy and strong, as this makes styling easier.
How? Here’s how:
- Adopt the right hair wash routine
- Use deep conditioning
- Watch out for heat styling
- Get a regular trim
Hair Wash Routine
A proper hair wash routine will maintain the strength and health of your 1A hair. This makes it easier to style.
Wash your hair every 2-3 days to prevent oily build-up. Use a gentle shampoo that doesn’t contain harsh chemicals, and follow up with a light conditioner to hydrate your hair.
Make sure to rinse out the conditioner thoroughly. Otherwise, it’ll weigh down your fine, straight strands.
Deep Conditioning
Even though 1A hair is fine and straight, it still needs deep conditioning every once in a while.
Treat your hair to a nourishing deep conditioning mask about once a month to maintain its natural shine. Look for a product formulated for fine hair, as this will help avoid weighing your hair down.
Heat Styling
Heat styling is a delicate balance for 1A hair. Your hair is fine and prone to damage, so avoid doing it too often. But once in a while, heat-styling is okay.
When doing so, always apply a heat protectant spray to shield your hair from potential damage. And keep the temperature low.
Hair Trim Schedule
Aim to get your hair trimmed every 6-8 weeks to eliminate any split ends and maintain your hairstyle. This will keep your hair looking fresh and healthy, allowing for better styling and added confidence.
Common Hairstyle Challenges of 1A Hair
When you do style your hair, you’ll run into some challenges. Here are the most common ones for 1A hair:
- Volume
- Grease
- Curls
Lack of Volume
1A hair is naturally straight and fine, which makes it appear flat and lacking in volume. Since it’s lightweight, your hair can look lifeless and seem thinner than it is.
To overcome this challenge, use volumizing hair products and techniques. Experiment with different shampoos, conditioners, and styling products to find what works best for you.
Greasy Appearance
Straight, fine hair like 1A is more prone to getting a greasy appearance quickly. This is because the natural oils produced by your scalp easily travel down your hair strands.
To prevent your hair from looking greasy, wash it regularly with a gentle shampoo. Additionally, avoid using heavy conditioners or styling products.
Difficulty Holding Curls
1A hair is notorious for being unable to hold curls. Even when styled with a curling iron. This is frustrating if you’re looking to change up your hairstyle.
To help your hair hold curls better, use a heat protectant spray and a curling iron with a smaller barrel. Apply a lightweight hair mousse or gel before curling to provide extra hold. And, finish with a strong-hold hairspray.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some suitable hairstyles for very straight hair?
For 1A hair types, you can try hairstyles such as side braids, sleek ponytails, and layered cuts. These styles work well with straight hair and can enhance the natural shine and smoothness of your strands.
How can I add volume to my 1A hair?
To add volume to your 1A hair, you can try using volumizing hair products like mousses, texturizing sprays, and gentle teasing at the root. Another trick is to flip your hair to the opposite side you usually part it, creating natural lift at the roots.
What haircuts are flattering for the 1A hair type?
Flattering haircuts for 1A hair types include layered cuts and long bobs- both work well in creating an illusion of thicker, fuller hair. With these haircuts, you can embrace the shine and sleekness of your straight hair.
How can I style my 1A hair without damaging it?
To style your 1A hair without damaging it, avoid heat tools, and use gentle hair accessories. Try heatless curling methods like braiding your hair overnight or using foam rollers. When using hair accessories, choose smooth materials that won’t snag or pull on your strands.
Are there any hair accessories that work well with 1A hair?
Hair accessories that work well with 1A hair include silk scrunchies, soft hairbands, and smooth hair clips. These accessories help create different hairstyles while minimizing damage caused by friction and tension.
How should I care for my 1A hair to maintain a desired hairstyle?
To maintain your desired hairstyle, it’s essential to keep your 1A hair healthy. Wash your hair with a gentle shampoo designed for straight hair, and follow with a lightweight conditioner. Avoid overwashing, as it can strip your hair of its natural oils. Lastly, invest in quality hair accessories and styling products formulated for straight hair to help you maintain your chosen hairstyle.
