Growing Out Your Fringe Without the Awkward Phase
The primary challenge of growing out a fringe is the lack of structural support as hair moves past the brow line. During this period, hair loses its intended shape and begins to obstruct vision, leading to the impulse to cut it back into place. Managing this phase requires patience and an understanding of how to alter the texture and direction of the hair to accommodate the extra length.
Transitioning does not require frequent trims, but it does require consistent styling. By using specific tools to alter the hair's natural fall, you can integrate the fringe into the rest of your hair length seamlessly.
- Difficulty
- Beginner
- Total time
- 15 minutes daily
- Cost
- Minimal
- Cadence
- Ongoing for 6 months
Ingredients
- Styling cream: Provides hold without weighing hair down.
- Texture spray: Adds grip for easier placement.
Tools List
- Fine-mist spray bottle
- Tail comb
- Small round brush
- Hair-colored bobby pins
Step by step
Apply moisture to the roots
Always begin with damp hair to ensure the cuticle is receptive to new direction. Use a fine-mist water bottle to lightly saturate the fringe area. Avoid soaking the hair, as this will increase drying time.
Tip: Distilled water prevents mineral buildup.Apply a lightweight hold product
Apply a pea-sized amount of styling cream or light mousse to your fingertips. Work the product through from roots to mid-lengths. This provides the necessary friction to keep the hair in place as it grows.
Tip: Use a comb for even application.Establish the new part
Use a tail comb to create a clean part slightly to the left or right of your natural line. Brush the fringe away from the center of the face, following the curve of the hairline. This creates a sweeping motion that hides the uneven lengths.
Tip: A tight part hides length effectively.Dry with controlled airflow
Hold the hairdryer on a medium heat setting, pointing the nozzle downward from the roots to the ends. Use a round brush to hold the fringe in a side-swept position while drying. This sets the hair in the desired direction for the day.
Tip: Use the cool shot button to set the style.Reinforce with subtle accessories
Once dry, place a small amount of pomade or serum on the ends to tame flyaways. If necessary, use a hair-colored bobby pin to secure the fringe at the temple. The pin should be hidden beneath the top layer of hair.
Tip: Slide pins in against the grain for better grip.
Trouble
What do I do when it reaches that awkward mid-eye length?
Increase the volume at the root using a small amount of dry texture spray. This lifts the hair away from the eye line and provides a more structured appearance.
Can I use hairspray to keep it back?
Hairspray often creates a stiff, unnatural finish. Instead, use a light pomade or styling cream which allows for movement while maintaining control.
Should I trim the fringe while growing it out?
Avoid cutting the length. You may lightly texturize the ends with thinning shears if the bulk becomes difficult to manage, but leave the primary length untouched.
How can I style this for a formal event?
Use a small, high-quality hair clip to pin the fringe back in a twisted style. This clears the face completely and provides a clean aesthetic.
The goal is to blend the fringe into the layers rather than fighting the length.
The secret is in the root direction, not the length itself.