Elevate Your Hairstyle: A Complete Guide to Adding Hair Rings
Hair rings, also known as hair jewelry, are a fantastic way to add a touch of personality, glamour, or edginess to your hairstyle. They are incredibly versatile and can be used to enhance braids, twists, locs, space buns, or even simple loose hair. Whether you’re aiming for a bohemian vibe, a festival-ready look, or just want to add a subtle sparkle to your everyday style, hair rings are a simple and effective solution. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about using hair rings, from selecting the right type to the precise steps for perfect placement and styling tips.
## Why Choose Hair Rings?
Before diving into the how-to, let’s explore why hair rings are such a popular choice:
* **Versatility:** They can be incorporated into a wide variety of hairstyles and hair types.
* **Simplicity:** Applying hair rings is a quick and easy process that doesn’t require any special skills or tools.
* **Affordability:** Hair rings are relatively inexpensive, making them an accessible way to experiment with different looks.
* **Personalization:** Available in a wide range of sizes, shapes, colors, and materials, hair rings allow you to express your unique style.
* **Damage-Free:** When applied and removed correctly, hair rings won’t damage your hair.
* **Trendy:** Hair rings have consistently been a fashion-forward accessory, seen on runways and red carpets alike.
## Types of Hair Rings
Understanding the different types of hair rings available will help you choose the best options for your desired look and hair type:
* **Open Hair Rings:** These rings have a small opening that allows you to easily slide them onto a strand of hair. They are ideal for braids, twists, and dreadlocks.
* **Closed Hair Rings:** These rings are completely closed and typically need to be attached to the hair using a small tool or pliers to gently open and close them around a strand. These offer a more secure fit.
* **Coil Hair Rings:** These rings are shaped like a coil and can be wrapped around a strand of hair. They are great for adding texture and dimension.
* **Pendant Hair Rings:** These rings feature a pendant or charm attached to them, adding extra flair and personality.
* **Beaded Hair Rings:** These rings are adorned with beads of various sizes, colors, and materials. They can be a more decorative option.
Hair rings also come in a variety of materials, including:
* **Metal:** Gold, silver, rose gold, copper, and aluminum are popular choices for a sleek and modern look.
* **Plastic:** Plastic rings are lightweight and come in a wide range of colors and shapes, making them a fun and playful option.
* **Wood:** Wooden rings offer a natural and earthy vibe.
* **Gemstones/Crystals:** Adding gemstones or crystals to hair rings can give a glamorous and elegant touch.
## What You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather the following supplies:
* **Hair Rings:** Choose the type, size, and quantity of hair rings you want to use.
* **Small Pliers (Optional):** If you’re using closed hair rings, you may need small pliers to gently open and close them.
* **Rat-tail Comb or Hair Pick:** This will help you section your hair and create clean parts.
* **Mirror:** A mirror is essential for precise placement.
* **Hair Spray (Optional):** This can help to hold your style in place.
* **Hair Gel/Wax (Optional):** If you’re working with braids or twists, a small amount of gel or wax can help to smooth flyaways.
## Step-by-Step Guide to Putting in Hair Rings
Now that you have your supplies, let’s get started! Follow these steps for perfectly placed hair rings:
### Step 1: Prepare Your Hair
Start with clean, dry hair. If you’re planning to braid or twist your hair, do that before adding the hair rings. If you’re using hair rings on loose hair, make sure it’s detangled and free of knots.
### Step 2: Section Your Hair (If Necessary)
If you’re creating a specific pattern or design with your hair rings, use a rat-tail comb to section your hair accordingly. For example, you might want to create a row of hair rings along a braid or space buns.
### Step 3: Choose Your Placement
Decide where you want to place the hair rings. Consider the overall look you’re trying to achieve. Do you want them evenly spaced, clustered together, or randomly placed? Experiment with different arrangements to see what you like best.
### Step 4: Applying Open Hair Rings
Open hair rings are the easiest to apply:
1. **Open the Ring Slightly:** If the opening is too small, gently widen it with your fingers. Be careful not to bend the ring too much, as it could break.
2. **Slide the Ring onto the Hair Strand:** Carefully slide the open end of the ring onto the strand of hair. If you’re working with a braid or twist, thread the ring through one of the sections.
3. **Position the Ring:** Once the ring is on the hair strand, slide it to the desired position. You can move it up or down to adjust the placement.
4. **Close the Ring (Optional):** If you want a more secure fit, you can gently squeeze the opening of the ring closed with your fingers or small pliers. Be careful not to pinch your hair.
### Step 5: Applying Closed Hair Rings
Closed hair rings require a bit more precision:
1. **Open the Ring Carefully:** Use small pliers to gently pry open the ring. Open it just enough to slide a strand of hair through.
2. **Slide the Ring onto the Hair Strand:** Carefully thread a small section of hair through the opening in the ring.
3. **Position the Ring:** Slide the ring to the desired position on the hair strand.
4. **Close the Ring Securely:** Use the pliers to gently squeeze the ring closed around the hair strand. Make sure the ring is securely closed, but not too tight that it damages the hair.
### Step 6: Applying Coil Hair Rings
Coil hair rings are applied by wrapping:
1. **Hold the end of the hair coil.**
2. **Place the start of the coil on the section of hair you want to decorate.**
3. **Wrap the coil around the hair.** This method is very secure.
### Step 7: Styling with Pendant or Beaded Hair Rings
These add extra steps for placement:
1. **Follow the application instructions for the base ring type** (open or closed).
2. **Position the Ring:** Slide the ring to the desired position on the hair strand, ensuring the pendant or beads are facing outward.
3. **Adjust the Pendant/Beads:** If necessary, adjust the pendant or beads so they are positioned correctly and not hidden by the hair.
### Step 8: Repeat and Create Your Design
Continue adding hair rings to create your desired design. Experiment with different placements and combinations of rings to create a unique look. Step back and look in the mirror frequently to make sure you’re happy with the overall effect.
### Step 9: Secure Your Style (Optional)
If you want to ensure your hair rings stay in place, especially if you’re using them on loose hair, you can lightly spray your hair with hair spray. This will help to hold the rings in position and prevent them from sliding down the hair shaft.
## Tips for Choosing the Right Hair Rings
* **Consider Your Hair Type:** If you have fine hair, opt for lightweight rings that won’t weigh your hair down. If you have thick hair, you can use heavier rings.
* **Match Your Style:** Choose hair rings that complement your personal style. If you prefer a minimalist look, opt for simple metal rings. If you like to make a statement, go for bold and colorful rings.
* **Think About the Occasion:** Consider the occasion for which you’re wearing the hair rings. For a casual everyday look, simple rings are a great choice. For a special event, you might want to choose more elaborate rings with gemstones or pendants.
* **Test Before Committing:** Before applying a large number of hair rings, try a few in a discreet area to make sure you like the way they look and feel.
* **Color Coordination:** Match the hair rings to your hair color or outfit for a cohesive look. Gold and silver rings are versatile and can be paired with a variety of colors.
## Styling Ideas with Hair Rings
Here are some inspiring styling ideas to get you started:
* **Braided Beauty:** Add hair rings to a simple braid for a bohemian touch. Space them evenly along the braid or cluster them at the end for a more dramatic effect. Try different types of braids, such as French braids, Dutch braids, or fishtail braids.
* **Twisted Elegance:** Enhance twists with hair rings for a sophisticated look. Use small metal rings to add a subtle sparkle or opt for beaded rings for a more decorative touch. You can create a full head of twists or just add a few accent twists.
* **Loc Love:** Decorate locs with hair rings to express your individuality. Use open hair rings to easily slide them onto your locs. Experiment with different sizes, shapes, and materials to create a unique and personalized look.
* **Space Bun Sparkle:** Add hair rings to space buns for a fun and playful look. Use small, colorful rings to add a pop of color or opt for metal rings for a more edgy vibe. Space buns are a great way to show off your personality.
* **Loose Hair Accents:** Add a few strategically placed hair rings to loose hair for a subtle and chic look. Use small metal rings to add a touch of sparkle or opt for pendant rings for a more eye-catching effect. This is a great option for adding a bit of flair to your everyday style.
* **Festival Fun:** Create a festival-ready look with a variety of hair rings. Mix and match different sizes, shapes, and colors to create a bold and eclectic style. Add glitter, face paint, and other accessories to complete the look.
* **Elegant Updo:** Incorporate hair rings into an elegant updo for a sophisticated and glamorous look. Use small metal rings to add a subtle sparkle or opt for gemstone rings for a more luxurious touch. This is a great option for weddings, proms, and other special occasions.
* **Half-Up, Half-Down:** Add hair rings to a half-up, half-down hairstyle for a versatile and stylish look. Use small metal rings to add a touch of sparkle to the updo portion or opt for pendant rings to add a focal point. This is a great option for both casual and formal occasions.
## Removing Hair Rings Safely
Proper removal is just as important as application to prevent hair damage:
* **Open Closed Rings Carefully:** If you used pliers to close the rings, use them again to gently open them. Be careful not to pull or tug on your hair.
* **Slide Open Rings Off Gently:** Slide the open rings off your hair strands carefully. Avoid pulling or snagging your hair.
* **Untwist Coil Rings:** Gently untwist coil hair rings to remove them. Do not pull or yank the coil from the hair.
* **Detangle After Removal:** After removing the hair rings, gently detangle your hair to remove any knots or tangles that may have formed around the rings.
* **Store Rings Properly:** Store your hair rings in a safe place to prevent them from getting damaged or lost.
## Caring for Your Hair Rings
To keep your hair rings looking their best, follow these care tips:
* **Clean Regularly:** Clean your hair rings regularly with a soft cloth to remove any dirt or debris. For metal rings, you can use a jewelry cleaner.
* **Avoid Harsh Chemicals:** Avoid exposing your hair rings to harsh chemicals, such as chlorine or hair dye, as they can damage the finish.
* **Store Properly:** Store your hair rings in a jewelry box or pouch to prevent them from getting scratched or tarnished.
## Troubleshooting
* **Rings Sliding Down:** If your hair rings are sliding down your hair, try using smaller rings or lightly spraying your hair with hair spray.
* **Rings Falling Out:** If your hair rings are falling out, make sure they are securely closed and that you’re not pulling or snagging your hair.
* **Hair Getting Tangled:** If your hair is getting tangled around the rings, try using a small amount of hair gel or wax to smooth flyaways.
* **Rings Bending or Breaking:** If your rings are bending or breaking, be gentle when applying and removing them. Use high-quality rings that are made from durable materials.
## Conclusion
Hair rings are a simple, affordable, and stylish way to elevate your hairstyle. With a wide variety of types, materials, and styling options available, you can easily create a look that’s uniquely you. By following this comprehensive guide, you’ll be able to apply and remove hair rings safely and confidently, ensuring that your hair stays healthy and beautiful. So go ahead, experiment with different styles, and express your individuality with the versatile and trendy hair ring!