To part your hair opposite a cowlick for the best results, you need to determine the direction your cowlick naturally flows. If your cowlick runs clockwise (left to right), your hair will lay nicer when parted on the left side. Conversely, if it flows counterclockwise (right to left), your hair will lay nicer when parted on the right side.
A cowlick is a section of hair that grows in a different direction than the rest, often creating a swirl or a stubborn patch that stands up. The key to parting your hair effectively with a cowlick is to work with its natural growth pattern, rather than against it. Identifying its flow is the first crucial step.
To determine your cowlick's direction:
- Observe your hair at the crown or hairline where the cowlick is most prominent.
- See which way the hair strands spiral or push. Do they sweep from your left towards your right (clockwise)? Or from your right towards your left (counterclockwise)?
- You can also wet your hair and let it dry naturally to make the pattern more obvious.
The Art of Parting Opposite the Cowlick
The principle behind parting your hair opposite the cowlick is to allow the hair to fall more naturally and smoothly, reducing resistance and the likelihood of strands sticking up.
Key Principle for Ideal Parting
As referenced by hair experts, the main factor to consider for this is the direction that your cowlick flows:
"If it runs clockwise (left to right) then your hair will lay nicer when parted on the left, if it flows counterclockwise (right to left) then it will lay nicer when parted on the right side."
Practical Application: Finding Your Ideal Part
This guideline can be easily applied to achieve a more harmonious and manageable hairstyle.
| Cowlick Flow Direction | Ideal Hair Part Side |
|---|---|
| Clockwise (Left to Right) | Left Side |
| Counterclockwise (Right to Left) | Right Side |
For example:
- If your cowlick creates a swirl that moves from your forehead towards your right ear (clockwise), parting your hair on the left will allow the hair to sweep over the cowlick smoothly, helping it lie flat.
- If your cowlick moves from your forehead towards your left ear (counterclockwise), parting your hair on the right will leverage its natural flow, making styling easier.
Benefits of Parting with Your Cowlick's Flow
Parting your hair in a way that accommodates your cowlick offers several advantages:
- Smoother Hair: Hair tends to lay flatter and more naturally, reducing flyaways and sections that stick out.
- Easier Styling: Your hair will be more cooperative, requiring less effort and product to achieve your desired style.
- Reduced Frizz: When hair is forced against its natural growth, it can lead to more frizz; aligning with it minimizes this.
- Longevity of Style: Your part and overall style will hold better throughout the day.
Tips for Styling Your Hair with a Cowlick
Beyond just the part, incorporating a few styling techniques can further help manage a stubborn cowlick:
- Start Wet: Always begin styling your hair when it's damp or wet, as this is when hair is most pliable.
- Blow-Dry Against It: When blow-drying, direct the airflow against the cowlick's natural direction initially, then train it to lie flat in the desired direction of your part. Use a nozzle for precise airflow.
- Use Tension: As you blow-dry, use a brush (like a flat paddle brush or a round brush) to create tension and pull the hair flat over the cowlick.
- Product Power: Apply a light styling cream, mousse, or pomade to the roots of the cowlick area to weigh it down and hold it in place. Avoid heavy products that might make hair greasy.
- Cool Shot: Finish with a blast of cool air from your blow dryer to set the hair once it's in place.
By understanding your cowlick's unique direction and applying these simple parting and styling techniques, you can transform a common hair challenge into an advantage, resulting in a more polished and manageable look.
