Nothing is more frustrating than trying to focus on remembering a combo and making it look good with hair falling in your face. We’ve all been there, and it is not fun. It can be hard to keep your hair in one place when you are jumping, turning, and flipping throughout the day, but some clever hacks will keep it off your mind and out of your way.
Start With a Good Base (The Prep Matters!)
The base of your hair is what determines how well it all stays together throughout rehearsals. Make sure your hair is fully brushed through before putting it up. Tangles don’t make for a good hair day. Leave-in conditioner can be a great ally when it comes to controlling tangles as well as helping to add some moisture back in. If you notice frizz in your hair, add a small amount of hair oil to tame it (not too much, though, or it will make your hair slippery). Try to avoid putting your hair up when it is wet, as it can damage it, and it won’t hold as well since it is heavier.
Choose a Style Based on Your Rehearsal
Not all rehearsals require the same hairstyle. Some are better with it fully pulled back, while some you could even wear your hair down. A slicked high bun would be best for ballet class or technique. A high ponytail is a great choice for a jazz class or a combo that has sharp choreography in it. A braided ponytail would be cute, and it won’t whip you in the face like a ponytail might.
Use the Right Hair Tools (Everyone’s Hair is Different)
Every dancer should carry a mini hair kit in their dance bag. It can include all the essentials from hair ties to a mini hairspray. Thick hair ties are a good idea as they won’t stretch out and will help keep everything secure. Bobby pins (pro tip: hairspray them to make them stay better). Get a cheap toothbrush that you can use to secure flyaways. And a mini combo and mini hairbrush are both must-haves.
Double Up on Elastics for Long Days
On those days when you know you are going to be moving around a lot and it will be a long day, play it safe. Use two hair ties instead of one, put a thin elastic at the base and then a thicker one on top. This will help your ponytail or bun stay in place longer and move around less.
