80s Big Hair: A Guide to Voluminous, Glamorous Locks

Introduction

The 1980s was an iconic era for fashion, music, and hairstyles. Big hair was the defining style of the decade, characterized by extreme volume, height, and attitude. From rock stars to movie stars, everyone wanted to achieve the signature 80s big hair look.

Historical Significance

Big hair emerged in the early 1980s as a symbol of rebellion and individuality. It was a departure from the sleek, straight styles of the 1970s. The popularity of big hair can be attributed to the rise of rock bands like Def Leppard, Bon Jovi, and Van Halen, whose long, flowing manes became synonymous with the era.

Achieving the 80s Big Hair Look

Products and Tools

To achieve the perfect 80s big hair, you'll need the right products and tools:

• Teasing comb: A fine-toothed comb used to create volume by lifting hair strands.
• Hairspray: A strong-hold hairspray to lock in volume and prevent frizz.
• Blow dryer: A powerful blow dryer to add lift and shape.
• Round brush: A large, round brush to smooth and style hair while blow drying.
• Volumizing products: Mousses, gels, and root lifters to enhance volume.

Step-by-Step Approach

1. Prep: Wash and condition your hair using volumizing products. Towel dry and apply a heat protectant.
2. Section: Divide your hair into horizontal layers.
3. Teasing: Use a teasing comb to gently lift and tease the hair at the roots of each layer.
4. Blow Drying: Use a blow dryer and round brush to smooth and shape the hair while lifting it from the roots.
5. Styling: Once each layer is dry, spray it generously with hairspray.
6. Finishing: Use your fingers or a wide-toothed comb to gently brush the top layer of hair into place.

Why Big Hair Matters

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, big hair served as a symbol of:

• Self-expression: It allowed individuals to showcase their individuality and break away from societal norms.
• Confidence: Voluminous hair can enhance self-esteem and make you feel more confident.
• Glamour: Big hair is associated with glamour, sophistication, and the allure of the 80s era.

Benefits of Big Hair

• Creates volume and height: Big hair adds dramatic height and volume to your hairstyle.
• Enhances facial features: The height of big hair can accentuate your facial features and make you appear taller.
• Trendy and stylish: Big hair has made a resurgence in recent years and remains a popular hairstyle choice for fashion-forward individuals.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Over-teasing: Avoid excessive teasing, as it can damage your hair.
• Flat roots: Ensure you tease the roots of your hair to create volume and prevent flatness.
• Too much hairspray: While hairspray is essential, using too much can make your hair stiff and crunchy.
• Lack of shaping: Use a round brush while blow drying to add shape and definition to your big hair.
• Unbalanced volume: Distribute volume evenly throughout your hair, avoiding excessive volume at the crown or sides.

Pros and Cons of Big Hair

Pros:

• Dramatic and eye-catching: Big hair creates a bold and memorable statement.
• Enhances confidence: Voluminous hair can boost your self-esteem and make you feel more confident.
• Versatile: Big hair can be styled in various ways, from sleek and sophisticated to playful and glamorous.

Cons:

• Time-consuming: Creating and maintaining big hair requires significant time and effort.
• Hair damage: Excessive teasing and heat styling can damage your hair over time.
• Humidity-prone: Big hair can be prone to frizz and collapse in humid environments.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the best hair types for big hair?
   Thick, strong hair holds volume better than fine or thin hair.
2. How long should I tease my hair?
   Tease only the roots of your hair, and avoid excessive teasing to prevent damage.
3. How often can I blow dry my hair to achieve big hair?
   Limit blow drying to once or twice a week to avoid heat damage.
4. Can I use mousse to add volume?
   Yes, volumizing products like mousse can help create volume and lift at the roots.
5. How do I prevent my big hair from falling flat?
   Use strong-hold hairspray and backcomb the roots of your hair to maintain volume.
6. Is big hair still in style?
   Big hair has made a comeback in recent years and remains a popular hairstyle choice.

Conclusion

Big hair is an iconic hairstyle that embodies the glamour and individuality of the 1980s. With the right products, tools, and techniques, you can achieve the perfect 80s big hair look that will turn heads and boost your confidence. Remember to avoid common mistakes, embrace the benefits, and enjoy the voluminous, glamorous style that defines the era.

Tables

Table 1: Popular 80s Rock Bands with Big Hair

Table 2: Top 5 Products for Big Hair

Table 3: Comparison of Pros and Cons of Big Hair