Curly Hair Styles for Dedicated Cyclists

As the “green” trend starts becoming more and more of a long-term lifestyle, we are finding more and more cyclists on the roads and parks. If you’ve jumped on your bike for a ride around the block, or a healthier way to get to work, you’ve probably discovered that biking helmets are not exactly curl friendly! Here are a few curly hair styles and tips that will help you save the planet and look board-meeting ready.

Low Bun

To the side, straight back, or just out of the way!

Brush your hair back with a soft bristle brush, and tie it in place with a hair band. Try using brands without metal attachments, as these are gentler on the hair and cause minimal snags and damage.

Wrap the ponytail around the hair band and pin it up tightly, securing with more bobby pins as you see fit. Make sure you use an extra hold hairspray on your hair to ensure that your bun will stay put during your ride.

Wear a Braid

Quick, easy and hassle-free!

Braided curly hair styles are also a good way to keep your hair ready-to-go on your morning commute. Braids will not only keep your hair out of your face while cycling, but will also maintain your wavy, curly or kinky locks without a crease. This gives you the choice of leaving your curls up in braids or taking them out when you get to your destination.

To begin, make sure your hair is clean and free of dirt and oil. Use a hair gel or a small amount of hair pomade. Then, you can either braid your hair starting at the nape of your neck or create a French braid. Make sure you secure your hair with a hair band, and spray a small amount of hairspray to keep your strands in place.

Wherever you are going, make sure to you bring along a small bottle of hairspray and a hairbrush.

Once you have arrived at your destination, find a mirror — the restroom is your best bet — and undo your braids. Run your fingers through your hair or just shake in out. Spray a bit more hairspray to keep your hair in place and looking professional.

Shorter Hair

Rock the pixie cut and ride in style!

If you don’t want to deal with the stresses of your long tresses, then  short curly hair styles may work best for you. With shorter hair, you won’t have to worry as much about your hair getting all tangled up on the bike ride. Once you’ve taken your helmet off, you can moisten your hair with a water mist bottle, put in some hair gel, finger style your hair and you’re good to go.

An additional short hair bonus for those curlies going green: shorter styles require less product! Using less product will decrease your amount of trash and help you transition to a more natural hair routine.

Dealing with Sweat

• Exercise, and a helmet, can cause sweat and excess oil to add up quickly.
• Over time, sweat and excess oil can damage your hair and scalp.
• To ensure and maintain a healthy scalp and hair, make sure to wash your hair regularly.