Hair ties and curls should not even be in the same sentence. But it’s not like you can always show off your locks and leave them down. Sometimes, it’s just way too hot for that. But hair ties? I know, I know—they seem so off-putting. You risk losing your curl shape, and let’s not even talk about the breakage from getting your hair tangled in the tie. Here’s a complete guide to make sure that’s no longer a problem.

How to Keep Your Curls Defined with Hair Ties

Credit: Envato Elements/ wayhomestudioo

Here’s a complete guide to keep your curls defined while tying your hair:

Prep Your Curls Before Tying Them Up

First thing first, make sure your curls are moisturized. Dry curls are way more likely to break. Use a lightweight leave-in conditioner or curl cream. Just scrunch it in there. Do not brush it out! This can completely ruin your curl pattern and will just frizz your hair up which will end up getting tangled when you take it down later. Make sure your hair is completely dry before moving on to the next step.

Choose Only Curl-Appropriate Hair Ties and Hairstyles

Ditch those thin elastic bands—they’ll snag your hair and leave you with dents and tangles. Go for fabric-covered ties, spiral hair coils, or scrunchies instead. For scrunchies, opt for silk or satin variations. Make sure your hair ties don’t have metal components or beads. For hairstyles, stick with options that don’t pull too tight. Loose buns, pineapple updos, or low ponytails are perfect.

Avoid Wrapping Your Hair Too Tight

Looser is always better. Wrapping your hair tie too tight can flatten your curls, mess up your pattern, and even cause breakage over time. Plus, it can put extra stress on your scalp. We recommend doing a maximum of 2 wraps. If you feel tension or your hair feels tugged, it’s too tight. 

Finger Coil Your Hair While It’s Up

Just because your hair is tied up doesn’t mean you can’t give your curls some love. Take a bit of lightweight curl cream, styling gel, or mousse on your index finger and finger coil any pieces that look out of shape or frizzy. Do this for your loose buns or pineapple updos.

Avoid Tying Your Hair in the Same Spot

Tying your hair in the same spot repeatedly can weaken or break the strands in that area. Over time, it can even lead to certain types of alopecia from the constant stress and the extra weight of your curls. So make sure to switch things up—one day, go for a high pineapple, the next a low ponytail. 

Is It a Good Idea to Sleep with Hair Ties?

Not really since it can cause unnecessary tension and breakage, especially if your hair is tied too tight. It can also flatten your curls and leave them looking frizzy the next morning. 

If you need to secure your hair while you sleep, go for a loose pineapple updo with a soft scrunchie or satin tie. Even better, just use a silk or satin bonnet. 

How to Refresh Curls After Removing a Hair Tie

Credit: Envato Elements/ riderfoot

Step 1: Lightly spritz your curls with water to reactivate your styling products.

Step 2: Apply a small amount of curl cream or gel over your curls to reshape and reduce frizz.

Step 3: If you need extra volume, use a diffuser attachment on your blow dryer to fluff up your curls.

Step 4: Twist individual curls around your finger to reshape and define them. 

FAQs

Can hair ties cause headaches?

Yes, if your hair tie is too tight, it can pull on your scalp and cause tension headaches. Try using a looser tie or switching to styles.

How often should you replace your hair ties?

Replace your hair ties as soon as they lose their stretch or start fraying. Worn-out ties can snag and damage your hair.

Are there hair ties specifically made for curly hair?

Yes! Look for spiral hair ties, silk or satin scrunchies, or fabric-covered ties. These are designed to be gentle on curls and reduce breakage.

Can I tie my hair up when it’s wet?

It’s best to avoid tying up wet hair. Wet hair is more fragile and prone to breakage. Let it air dry or use a microfiber towel before putting it up.

Summary

Keeping your curls defined while using hair ties doesn’t have to be difficult. Choose the right hair tie, prepare your hair properly, and follow best practices. 

If you’re looking for the perfect hair tie for curly hair, Burlybands offers premium options designed specifically to keep your curls intact and damage-free. Shop with us today.