Spring has sprung and with it come new fitness goals — I’m hitting boxing class, I’m taking centre stage at Lagree and I’m even volunteering as tribute front row at spin. But if I’m being honest, the real challenge isn’t getting to class, it’s the beauty woes that come after a workout thanks to sweaty hair.
When it comes to my hair, I am not someone who can leave the gym unscathed. I wish I was one of those girlies who can finish class with nothing more than a gently flushed face, only to float into a date or event. But I sweat. I am a puddle, I am a pond. (P.S. these are now my astrological signs.) So, if you’re anything like me, the transition from gym to play can feel especially daunting.
Alas, in an effort to attend any occasion post-workout looking polished, I tapped industry experts Rachelle Cruz of RF Hair Studio and celebrity hairstylist Greg Gilmore to walk us through hairstyles you can whip up from the comfort of the locker room without a bunch of tools. Keep reading for three styles that’ll work from the barre to the bar, because hair (and your social life) shouldn’t have to suffer because of a sweaty workout.
For straight-ish hair (1a-2b curl pattern): Try a low, slicked-back bun
To achieve a slicked-back bun, Cruz suggests brushing your hair out entirely post-workout. “With a handful of strong hold mousse, apply evenly from roots to ends making sure the area surrounding the part and hairline is completely saturated,” says Cruz. “A mousse will work better than gel because its light airy texture will dry fast and firm with less mess.” From there, use a flat, dense natural bristle brush (Cruz suggests a Diane 100% Boar Soft Wave Brush) to pull everything back tight and off your face for ultimate Hailey Bieber pre-bob vibes.
You can choose your desired part, though in Cruz’s expert opinion, “the side part is a little more romantic and no part, all back will give you more of an edgy look.” From there, you’ll want to smooth everything out three or four times to ensure there are no bumps. Secure tightly into a low or mid pony, add more mousse to the lengths of your hair before twisting it into a tight bun and secure with bobby pins — voila, it’s that easy!
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