How to Style Long Hair

Styling long hair is all about embracing a more-is-more mentality. With more hair comes more chances to showcase texture, more innovative updos, more glamorous blowouts, and more opportunities to get creative. “Don't be afraid to play!” says hairstylist Adam Maclay. “We carry a lot of emotions in our hair. Sometimes it’s great to switch it up and try something new, even while maintaining your long hair.” 

While the list of playful possibilities is as interminable as your mane itself, hair health is paramount for the look (and feel) of longer lengths. “There’s no way around it,” says hairstylist Justin Toves-Vincilione. “Having a solid hair-care routine that addresses your hair’s unique needs is the first step in keeping long hair looking its best.”

A stylized cut is always an option, as (say it with us) hair grows back. But for those looking to embrace a Rapunzelian lifestyle, mastery of a regimen designed to augment your down-to-there hair is universal—though the approaches can be individualized to match your unique mane. 

Prioritize Products

Everyday products make up a prime portion of a thoughtful styling routine—so do your research and find what works for you! “Your shampoo and conditioner are key to keeping your tresses healthy and happy,” says Maclay. Combing an additional leave-in product through your lengths can help keep snags and knots at bay. “I am obsessed with Unite’s 7Seconds Detangler,” says hairstylist Jenn Lagron. “It’s lightweight, and restores the hair while prepping it for any heat and styling.”

Finally, styling products should be tailored to your both hair’s needs and the task at hand. “I always add products to hair that suit the texture and won’t weigh the hair down,” says Maclay. “If your hair is curly or wavy, I like to blow the hair smooth before using an iron to create texture. If your hair is straight it’s about adding products that will add grit and volume to the hair.” And for those who choose to celebrate their natural curls, waves, and coils, we love styling creams and gels.

Opt for Updos

Sometimes, tying that long hair back makes the strongest statement—and the options are pretty much endless. “When creating updos for long hair I love a messy French twist, a bitchy ponytail, a good half up half down moment, or a fun top knot that can be sleek or messy,” says Maclay, who suggests saving updos for day two or three of your wash cycle. “It’s a great way to extend washes while still looking cute.”

Another benefit of the updo is its potential for personalization, as even slicked-crown knots and ponies are equally effective regardless of your natural texture pattern. “While hair type can be prepped, I like to take the opportunity to ask my clients if they’d like to rock their natural texture instead,” says Toves-Vincilione of his go-to updos, the center-parted pony and the elevated messy bun. “Both of these looks can be modified and customized to celebrate and showcase curls, coils, and zig-zags while maintaining the same silhouette, focal points, and overall style.”

Try a Bouncy Blowout

Whether you naturally come by curls or pin-straight strands, a layering of volumizing products and the right tools can get you the buoyant blowout of your quietly luxurious daydreams. Post-heat protectant, Toves-Vincilione applies a volumizing mousse. “Once the hair is 80% dry I go in with a round brush, the smaller the better,” he says. “After each section is dry and styled, I gently roll each section back up into a Velcro roller and pin to cool. This makes the style extremely bouncy and it lasts so much longer.” Finish your blowout with a texture spray for added bounce and hold. 

And as for curly girlies? You may want to hack the classic blowout routine. “Oftentimes, I find myself smoothing out the natural curl pattern, until straight, and building in the bouncy blowout look using a large curling iron,” he says. 

Use Masks and Oils

Working a weekly masking or oiling session (or making time for both) ensures that your long hair will stay hydrated and healthy. “Once per week, or even once every two weeks is ideal,” says Toves-Vincilione. “A hair mask can fill dry and porous ends, help repair damage from heat or chemical contact, and prevent breakage or fallout during detangling. 

“Adding a hair mask during winter is so important,” says Lagron, who reaches for Unite’s Re:Unite Treatment ($42) for extra hydration. “We all lack moisture during the colder months and applying a hair mask once a week will restore any dryness and keep it in its best condition. The air is dry, but our hair doesn’t have to be!” For his part, Maclay reaches for the Klorane Repairing 3-in-1 Mask ($28) all year long. “Focus it at the middle and ends of your hair and you’ll be fully hydrated and smoothed,” he advises.

Hair oiling—the practice of applying a surplus of (often warm) oil to your scalp and lengths as a sort of mask—helps, too. “Hair type, curl pattern, porosity, and density all play a factor in which oil and routine will work best for you,” says Toves-Vincilione. “This added step in your routine can keep your hair looking healthy and feeling more manageable, and it can even promote hair growth.”

Schedule Those Trims

Though it may seem counterintuitive, longer hair is bettered by regular cuts. “Most of the time, long hair requires at least a small, regular trim,” says Toves-Vincilione, who recommends a cadence of once every six to 12 weeks depending on your mane needs. There’s no need to lose length or change up your look at each appointment—the purpose is to maintain health via fresh, healthy ends, resulting in a more finished style. 

Still, those of us who have found ourselves balking at the amount of inches being lopped off our growing lengths know that communication is key. “Make sure you’re going to an experienced hairstylist, and make sure you communicate that your goal is to maintain your current look and length,” says Toves-Vincilione.