Mastering Sectioning for Thick Hair
Thick hair often presents a challenge when applying leave-in treatments or styling aids. Most surface-level applications miss the dense inner layers, leading to uneven hold and inconsistent texture. Dividing the hair into manageable sections allows you to address the scalp-to-end length with precision.
Mastering this technique eliminates guesswork and ensures that every strand receives proper coverage. This methodical approach reduces styling time and prevents the accumulation of product on the outer canopy.
- Difficulty
- Beginner
- Total time
- 10 minutes
- Cost
- Low
- Cadence
- Weekly
Ingredients
- Leave-in conditioner: Provides the slip necessary for even distribution through thick strands.
Tools List
- Rattail comb
- Four large sectioning clips
- Wide-tooth comb
Step by step
Establish the primary parting
Use a rattail comb to create a clean part from the center of your forehead to the nape of your neck. Hold one side away with a large sectioning clip while you address the other. Ensure the line is straight to keep the volume balanced.
Tip: Use a mirror behind you to verify the line's straightness.Create the horizontal division
On each side, draw a line from the top of the ear to the center part you created in step one. This effectively creates four quadrants across your head. Clip the top two sections up and out of the way to expose the lower layers.
Tip: Tighten clips close to the root to prevent slippage.Distribute product by section
Start with the bottom sections first. Apply your product to the section, using your fingers to rake it through from root to tip. Repeat this process for the top sections, ensuring you do not combine them until the product is evenly distributed.
Tip: Use a wide-tooth comb to ensure the product coats the entire density.Unclip and refine
Once all four sections are saturated, release the clips. Use your hands to gently smooth the hair together where the parts meet. This ensures the quadrants blend seamlessly for a natural finish.
Tip: Do not brush once the sections are combined if you want to maintain definition.
Trouble
My hair keeps falling out of the clips.
Use sectioning clips with a rubberized grip or double-spring tension. Ensure you are not gathering too much hair for the clip to hold securely.
I cannot get a straight part.
A rattail comb is essential for clean lines. If you are struggling, trace the line with your finger first before following with the comb.
The product still feels heavy.
You are likely using too much product. Since you are now reaching all layers, you can significantly reduce the amount you apply to each section.
Should I use this for all styling products?
This technique is ideal for leave-in creams, gels, and detanglers. It is less necessary for light sprays or finishing mists.
Efficiency in styling thick hair relies entirely on the management of volume through sectioning.
Consistency is the primary component of grooming, regardless of texture.