If you’re looking to add a little sparkle to your curly hair, hair tinsel could be the perfect accessory. It’s a fun and exciting way to give your curls a stunning, eye catching look that’s guaranteed to turn heads.
Whether you’re preparing for a special occasion or simply want to jazz up your everyday hairstyle, hair tinsel can easily take your curls to the next level.
In this ultimate guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about adding hair tinsel to curly hair, from why it’s ideal for curls, to how to apply it, and the best styling tips to create a dazzling effect.
Plus, we’ll dive into maintenance and answer some of the most frequently asked questions.
What is Hair Tinsel?
Let’s start with the basics. Hair tinsel is a strand of lightweight, shiny material designed to be woven into your hair for a glittery, glamorous effect. It’s often made from materials like metallic threads or synthetic fibers that shine in the light.
Hair tinsel comes in various colors ranging from bold metallics to pastels, and it’s generally available in long strands. When applied correctly, it catches the light, giving your curls a sparkling, multi dimensional appearance.
Types of Hair Tinsel
There are different types of hair tinsel to suit various styles and preferences. Here are the common options:
- Metallic Tinsel: Typically gold, silver, or iridescent shades, this type is all about boldness and shine.
- Pastel Tinsel: For those who prefer a subtle, softer look, pastel colored tinsel adds a whimsical touch.
- Holographic Tinsel: This tinsel reflects different colors depending on the light, creating an interesting and dynamic effect.
Why Curly Hair Loves Tinsel
Curly hair has natural volume, texture, and movement, which makes it the perfect canvas for tinsel. Here’s why:
- Enhances Volume and Texture: The way curly hair naturally bounces and moves means that tinsel will shimmer and catch the light from various angles, making your curls look fuller and even more dynamic.
- Adds Dimension: Tinsel gives your curls depth. As it reflects light in different ways, it creates a sense of multi dimensional movement that flat hair simply can’t achieve.
- Versatility in Styling: Curly hair is naturally versatile and adding tinsel just amplifies that. Whether you want to add a little flair to your everyday curls or go all for a night out, tinsel is an easy way to switch up your style.
How to Apply Hair Tinsel on Curly Hair
Adding hair tinsel to curly hair is a simple process, but it requires a few tools and patience to achieve the perfect look. Here’s a detailed guide to help you get started.
Tools You’ll Need
To apply hair tinsel, gather the following items:
- Hair tinsel strands (your choice of color and texture)
- Latch hook tool (to attach tinsel securely)
- Hair clips (to section off your hair)
- Leave in conditioner or curl cream (to enhance your curls)
- Comb or brush (to detangle hair)
Step by Step Guide
- Prepare Your Hair
Start by washing and drying your curly hair. Clean hair makes it easier to attach the tinsel securely. After washing, apply a leave in conditioner or curl cream to define your curls and create a smooth surface. - Section Your Hair
Using hair clips, divide your curls into smaller sections. This makes it easier to apply tinsel evenly throughout your hair. - Cut the Tinsel
The tinsel strands you purchase may be long, so cut them to your preferred length. Typically, longer curls work well with longer strands, but you can always cut them shorter for a more natural look. - Use the Latch Hook Tool
Thread a piece of tinsel into the latch hook tool, and then gently weave it into a small section of hair. Pull the tool through the section and close the latch to secure the tinsel. Repeat the process for as many pieces of tinsel as you want to apply. - Blend the Tinsel into Your Curls
Once the tinsel is applied, use your fingers or a wide tooth comb to gently blend the strands into your curls. This will ensure that the tinsel doesn’t stick out awkwardly and blends well with your natural texture.
Tips for Curly Hair
- Tighter Curls: If you have tighter curls, trim the tinsel into smaller sections to avoid bulkiness.
- Loose Curls: For looser curls, longer tinsel strands will complement the overall shape and texture of your hair.
- Avoid Tangling: When applying tinsel, be sure to keep your curls untangled to ensure a smooth and even look.
Choosing the Right Hair Tinsel for Curly Hair
When selecting hair tinsel for your curly hair, consider a few key factors to get the best effect.
1. Color
The color of tinsel should either complement or contrast with your natural hair color. Some options include:
- For dark hair: Go for tinsel in shades like gold, silver, or metallic hues for a striking contrast.
- For light hair: Pastel colors like lavender, pink, or mint can blend beautifully with lighter curls.
2. Length and Texture
Choose the right length and texture of tinsel based on your curl type:
- Short curls: Shorter tinsel strands will look more natural and won’t overwhelm the shape of your curls.
- Long curls: Longer tinsel strands work well with longer, looser curls because they blend seamlessly with the hair.
3. Material
The material of the tinsel is also important. Most tinsel is made from synthetic fibers like nylon or polyester, which are durable and easy to work with. However, you may also find real metallic tinsel for more dramatic, reflective effects.
How to Maintain Hair Tinsel on Curly Hair
While hair tinsel adds instant glamour to curly hair, it does require proper care to keep it looking its best.
1. Avoid Over washing
Tinsel doesn’t need to be washed with every hair wash, as it can easily become frizzy or lose its shine. When you do wash your hair, try to avoid getting tinsel wet.
2. Hydrate Your Curls
Curly hair tends to be dry, and adding tinsel can make it feel even more dehydrated. Use a good moisturizing conditioner or leave in cream to keep your curls soft and well hydrated.
3. Gently Detangle
Instead of using a regular comb or brush, which can cause tinsel to tangle, use your fingers to gently detangle your curls. This will prevent breakage and keep the tinsel intact.
4. Remove the Tinsel Carefully
When you’re ready to remove the tinsel, be sure to do it carefully. Use a latch hook tool to gently pull out the tinsel or cut the strands one by one. Avoid rough handling to prevent any damage to your curls.
Styling Ideas: Elevate Your Curly Hair with Tinsel
Now that you know how to apply and maintain hair tinsel, it’s time to have fun with your styling options! Here are a few creative ways to style curly hair with tinsel:
1. Full Tinsel Curls
If you’re looking for a bold look, go all out by applying tinsel throughout your entire head of curls. The effect will be glamorous, shiny, and show stopping.
2. Tinsel Highlights
For a more subtle effect, add just a few pieces of tinsel throughout your curls for a highlighted effect. This is perfect for adding a little sparkle without overdoing it.
3. Tinsel Braids
Adding tinsel to braids is a fun and unique way to style your curls. Tinsel works especially well with French braids or twists, creating a gorgeous contrast between the tinsel and the textured hair.
4. Updos with Tinsel
Tinsel looks great when incorporated into updos or ponytails. Try adding tinsel to a messy bun, or wrap it around a ponytail for a chic, sparkling finish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Adding Tinsel to Curly Hair
When adding tinsel to your curls, it’s easy to make a few mistakes. Here are some to avoid:
- Too much tinsel: Overloading your curls with too much tinsel can make your hair look weighed down and unnatural. Stick to a few strands in key areas for the best effect.
- Improper placement: Placing tinsel too close to the roots can cause discomfort and might not look as flattering. Apply the tinsel to the mid lengths and ends of your curls for a more balanced look.
- Choosing the wrong color: Be careful when choosing tinsel that clashes with your natural hair color. Stick to colors that complement your curls.
Why Hair Tinsel is More Than Just a Trend
Hair tinsel isn’t just a passing trend. It’s a creative, fun way to express your style, and here’s why:
- It’s unique: Hair tinsel allows you to experiment with different colors and textures, giving you an opportunity to express your personality.
- It’s versatile: Whether you want a subtle hint of sparkle or a full blown glam look, tinsel adapts to your style.
- It boosts confidence: There’s something about a little sparkle in your hair that makes you feel extra special and confident.
FAQs About Hair Tinsel on Curly Hair
1. Can I wash my hair with tinsel in it?
It’s best to avoid washing your hair with tinsel in it. If the tinsel gets wet, it may lose its shine or get tangled. Wash your hair carefully around the tinsel and only remove it if necessary.
2. How long does hair tinsel last?
Hair tinsel can last anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on how well you take care of it. Avoid excessive washing or brushing to make it last longer.
3. Is hair tinsel safe for my curls?
Yes! Hair tinsel is generally safe for curly hair as long as it’s applied gently and removed correctly. Just make sure not to pull too hard on your curls when attaching or removing the tinsel to prevent any damage.