For those seeking a low-maintenance approach to hairstyling without compromising on a sculpted and defined appearance, the concept of hair contouring may hold the key. In a world where super-thick hair grows at an astonishing rate, keeping up with regular haircuts, highlights, and color treatments can be both costly and time-consuming. However, even those who prefer sticking to their tried-and-true hairstyles can’t help but be intrigued by the possibilities of this innovative trend. Here, we delve into the world of hair contouring, seeking to unravel its intricacies with insights from hair experts.
Understanding Hair Contouring
At first glance, hair contouring shares striking similarities with makeup contouring. In the realm of cosmetics, matte bronzers, radiant highlighters, and concealers are skillfully employed to highlight, sculpt, and define facial features. Hair contouring adopts a parallel approach, using strategically placed highlights and a carefully tailored haircut to achieve a similar effect. It’s important to note that this technique is most effective for individuals with mid-length or longer hairstyles due to its reliance on layered components.
The Mechanics of Hair Contouring
According to Michelle Hong, a hair color expert and the founder of NYC’s The Team Hair Salon, the essence of hair contouring lies in the precise coordination of hair color styling and haircut placement tailored to an individual’s unique facial attributes. Hong explains, “You have to take into consideration current hair color, their height, head shape, facial structure, and skin tone and advise what would be the most flattering color and cut for them.” Following a thorough consultation with the client, Hong crafts a custom color blend and applies balayage techniques to complement their facial features. The resulting colors not only enhance the overall aesthetic but also serve to brighten, lift, and define the facial structure.
Similar principles apply to the haircut component of hair contouring. Expert stylists, such as celebrity hairstylist George Kyriakos, meticulously analyze a client’s face and hair texture to determine the most suitable cut for contouring and flattering their features. Kyriakos points out that certain bangs, layers, and bobs may not universally suit everyone, emphasizing that “bangs can also be considered a hair-contouring technique because it can flatter and frame a person’s face without having to do a drastic cut.” Furthermore, the “butterfly haircut” is gaining attention, characterized by face-framing layers that start from the forehead and cascade downward. When styled, these layers sweep outward, resembling the wings of a butterfly.
Maintaining Hair Contouring
Maintaining hair contouring styles is relatively hassle-free, provided that you invest in proper hair care products and exercise caution with heat styling. To preserve the face-framing elements as your hair grows out, consider regular trims or request slightly shorter layers during salon visits for an extended hairstyle lifespan.
In your daily hair care routine, opt for a purple shampoo to brighten your color and eliminate any unwanted brassiness. When using heat styling tools, remember to shield your hair with a heat-protectant spray. Incorporating a hydrating deep conditioning mask is essential to infuse your hair with much-needed moisture. Between salon appointments, maintain the vibrancy of your color with an at-home gloss treatment to preserve that coveted shine.
For those who value a low-maintenance hair routine, contemplating a face-framing cut or balayage hair contouring color at your next salon appointment might be the key to achieving a defined and sculpted look without reaching for bronzer or contour sticks. With hair contouring, let your locks down, and let your natural beauty shine through.
