Why Does My Hair Stick Up and How to Solve It?

Having your Hair Extensions or your natural hair stick up or refuse to lie flat can be frustrating when you're trying to look nice and put together.

Whether it's random flyaways, cowlicks, or hair that seems to have a mind of its own, understanding why it behaves this way is the first step toward finding effective solutions.

Below, we explore the common causes of unruly hair and provide you with practical tips to help you tame those stubborn strands.

Why Does Hair Stick Up?

Knowing the root cause (pun only slightly intended) helps you pick the right solution.

Sometimes, you're battling more than one culprit, so a layered approach works best.

Static Electricity

One of the most common reasons hair sticks up is static electricity.

This happens when electrons transfer between your hair and another surface, creating an electrical charge that causes your hair to repel itself.

You'll notice this more during dry winter months or in low-humidity environments.

Cowlicks

Cowlicks are sections of hair that grow in a different direction from the rest of your hair.

They often appear near the crown or hairline and can be particularly stubborn. 

Cowlicks are determined by your hair follicles' growth pattern, which is why they're often genetic.

Short Broken Hairs

Sometimes hair sticks up because it's simply Broken Hair. 

When hair breaks, it creates shorter pieces that don't blend with the rest of your hair length.

These shorter strands can stand up straight instead of lying flat with longer hair.

Hair Type and Texture

Certain hair types are more prone to sticking up.

Coarse or curly hair often has a mind of its own because the natural texture creates more volume and lift, while fine hair can be lightweight enough to be affected by the slightest breeze or static charge.

Product Buildup

Using too many styling products on your hair or your Hair Edges or not rinsing them out properly can cause residue to accumulate on your hair.

This buildup can make hair stiff and cause it to stick out in odd directions.

Improper Drying Techniques

Rough-drying your hair with a towel can raise the hair cuticle as well, causing frizz and making your hair stick up.

Similarly, using a Blow dryer incorrectly can create unwanted volume in certain areas.

How to Tame Hair That Sticks Up

Short-Term Solutions

Wet Your Hair

A quick fix for rebellious hair is to dampen it slightly.

Water helps neutralize static charges and can temporarily reset your hair's position. 

Keep a small spray bottle filled with water for touch-ups throughout the day.

Use Styling Products

The right product can work wonders for controlling unruly hair. Pomade or Hair wax provides hold without stiffness, while anti-frizz serum smooths flyaways.

The right Hair spray, on the other hand, can lock your style in place, and a leave-in conditioner adds weight and moisture.

Just make sure to start with a small amount; you can always add more if needed.

Try a Dryer Sheet

A regular (unused) laundry dryer sheet can eliminate static on your hair.

In a pinch, glide it from roots to ends, and be sure to keep one in your purse or car for emergencies. 

The anti-static properties of dryer sheets transfer to your hair, helping it lie flat.

Adjust Your Hair Accessories

Sometimes, the right clip, bobby pin, or Headband can keep problematic areas in check.

Position these tools strategically to hold down areas that tend to stick up.

Long-Term Solutions

Modify Your Hair Care Routine

Making changes to how you care for your hair can have lasting effects.

You can start by using a Shampoo and conditioner designed for your hair's needs: moisturizing formulas to help with dryness and a weekly clarifying wash to clear up product buildup.

Then, follow up with a once‑a‑week deep‑conditioning treatment to lock in moisture and prevent static, and finally, swap your rough cotton towel for a gentle microfiber one.

Perfect Your Styling Technique

How you style your hair can also make a big difference.

For instance, when blow‑drying, aim the nozzle downward and guide your hair with a round brush so the cuticles lie flat, then finish with the dryer's cool‑shot button to seal the cuticle and lock your style.

Once dry, run a boar‑bristle or mixed‑bristle brush from roots to ends to spread your scalp's natural oils and keep flyaways in check.

Consider Your Haircut

A well‑chosen Haircut can also make your stubborn strands far easier to tame.

A skilled stylist can shape your style to follow cowlicks instead of fighting them, use blunt lines to give fine hair the extra weight it needs to stay down and texturize overly thick sections so excess bulk is removed.

That way, your hair will be simpler to style and less likely to spring out of place.

Environmental Controls

Your environment is another factor that can affect how your hair behaves and make your gorgeous Natural Wig last longer.

One way to combat static is to run a humidifier to add moisture to dry indoor air and switch to a silk or satin pillowcase, which creates less friction than cotton and helps preserve your style overnight while cutting down on morning bedhead.

When to See a Professional

If you've tried different home remedies and your hair still stubbornly sticks up, it might be time to consult a professional.

The right professional stylist can recommend cuts, products, and techniques specifically for your hair type and concerns.

Keratin treatments, Brazilian blowouts, or other professional smoothing services can all help to temporarily alter your hair's texture, making it more manageable.

Prevention Is Key

Preventing hair from sticking up is often easier than fixing it once it's already happening.

Here are some tips you can apply today:

• Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet for healthy hair
• Get regular trims to remove split ends
• Protect your hair from harsh weather conditions with hats or scarves
• Limit heat styling to reduce damage and breakage, and always use your Hair Protector

Taming Unruly Hair

Hair that sticks up is a common issue with many potential solutions.

The key is to understand the cause behind the unruliness so you can implement the right remedies. 

And don't be afraid to experiment along the way until you find the right solution for you.

Generally, though, be sure to stock a few smart products, upgrade your everyday habits, and apply the quick fixes we recommend on the fly.

Before long, the only thing standing up will be your confidence when you catch your reflection.