14 Second-Day Hair Tricks and Tutorials You Need to Try

Let’s be real: Sometimes, your busy schedule may not allow you to give your strands the attention they deserve with a thorough washing session. As a result, it can sometimes be difficult to give your hair a fresh out of the salon look. Sound familiar? This is known as the second-day hair struggle. Sure, you can rely on a hair refresher spray to rejuvenate your locks, but without the proper tips and tricks, sporting a flawless hairstyle is easier said than done. Lucky for you, we’re here to assist. Keep reading as we give you the 4-1-1 on everything you need to know about second-day hair, including styling tips and ideas for second-day hairstyles that will give your mane the extra oomph it needs.

WHAT IS SECOND-DAY HAIR?

As the name suggests, second-day hair refers to what your hair looks like the day after you wash it. Since freshly-washed hair is typically voluminous, with tons of body and movement, second-day hair doesn’t quite live up to the same expectations. When it isn’t wash day, many people experience flat-looking hair, a loss of definition, greasy strands, frizzy hair, and the list can go on and on.

HOW CAN I MAKE MY SECOND-DAY HAIR LOOK GOOD?

As we mentioned above, second-day hair may not be as bouncy and fresh, but that doesn’t mean you can’t rock a chic ‘do. The key to making your second-day hair look good relies on the hair styling products you use and the hairstyles you choose. So, before you panic thinking about how often to wash your hair, know that all you need is a few tweaks to make some magic happen. For example, if you know that greasy strands are the bane of your existence, wearing your hair down may not be the best option. A sleek updo can easily disguise excess oils and give your strands a stylish touch. Speaking of which…

4 TIPS FOR SECOND-DAY HAIR

Ready to give your second-day hair the upgrade it needs? Follow our four tips below to prevent your strands from looking like day-old hair.

1. MAKE DRY SHAMPOO YOUR BFF

One of the easiest ways to give second-day hair the refresh it needs is by adding dry shampoo to your routine. This beauty staple works wonders to revive greasy hair by absorbing excess oils for a quick fix. Now you have an easy way to tide your hair over until your next wash session!

2. MIST YOUR HAIR WITH WATER AND LEAVE-IN CONDITIONER SPRAY

Calling all curly girls! If you notice that your curls have lost some definition, a simple spritz of water and leave-in conditioner can save the day. Since it’s a bad idea to try and manipulate curls without any moisture, this method helps to soften and shape your mane sans the fear of frizzy hair.

3. OPT FOR VOLUMIZING SPRAY

Depending on the texture or style of your hair, it can be easy to lose the volume you love once second-day hair rolls around. Instead of worrying about limp strands, grab the L’Oréal Paris Advanced Hairstyle BOOST IT High Lift Creation Spray, and get to work. Designed to give your strands instant lift and fullness, your hair will sport the fresh look you know and love.

4. CHANGE YOUR PART

Partial to switching up your look? Well, you can give your second-day hair an upgrade by simply changing up the way you part your hair. See, updating your part gives your mane the illusion of fresh strands while adding a bit more volume for a flattering finish.

10 HAIRSTYLES FOR SECOND-DAY HAIR

Beyond employing basic tricks for second-day hair, it’s a must to know the best second-day hairstyles. No, you aren’t forced to wear a messy bun anytime your hair is a day post-wash. There are plenty of options that can actually upgrade your beauty look.

1. HIGH PONYTAIL

If there is one hairstyle that naturally pairs with second-day hair, a high ponytail gets the top vote. It’s timeless, stylish, and can easily be pulled together in a matter of minutes. Simply add a small amount of hair gel, like the L’Oréal Paris Studio Line Clean Gel to your roots. Brush your strands toward the top of your head and secure with a hair elastic.

2. BRAIDED PONYTAIL

A great way to add some personality to your mane, a braided ponytail flaunts a gorgeous woven pattern and a sleek foundation for a head-turning look. To style, add a touch of hair gel to your roots, and brush your strands toward the center of your head, then secure in a ponytail. Separate the length of your ponytail into three equally-sized strands. Next, create a traditional three-strand plait from the base to the ends and tie off with a hair elastic.

Finish up by spritzing a strong-hold spray like the L’Oréal Paris Elnett Satin Hairspray Strong Hold Spray over your mane for a long-lasting look.

3. BUBBLE PONYTAIL

If edgy styles are your forte, then the bubble ponytail is a must-try! The true epitome of low maintenance, this hairstyle adds sophisticated detailing to your look without the fuss. To get the look, smooth your hair into a ponytail as you normally would, then place hair elastics down the length of your ponytail about an inch away from each other. Then, tug at each section to create the bubble effect. Finish up with a touch of the L’Oréal Paris Elnett Precious Oil Satin Hairspray, and you’re ready to start your day.

4. TOUSLED HAIR

Blend sultry and chic styling into one with tousled hair. Equal parts flattering and playful, this look is an excellent option for spicing up your strands. Start by refreshing your strands with a few spritzes of dry shampoo. Next, add a small amount of hair pomade, like the L’Oréal Paris Studio Line Overworked Hair Putty to your strands and shape in different directions. Mist a bit of strong-hold spray over your strands, and your look is complete.

5. FISHTAIL BRAID

You can never go wrong with a classic, and a fishtail braid is no exception. This look is all about sporting a beautiful plait that will complement just about any event on your agenda with ease. Versatile with a romantic vibe, you won’t be able to get enough of this look. Check out our article, How to Do a Fishtail Braid, to master the style.

6. HALF-UP BUN

Speaking of classic looks, the half-up bun should definitely be on your second-day hair radar. Allowing you to keep your strands stylishly tucked away while flaunting your length, this ‘do never disappoints.

Start by separating your strands into top and bottom sections that are equally-sized. Clip the bottom section out of the way. Create a ponytail with the top half and secure it with a hair elastic. Wrap the length of the ponytail around its base to form the bun. Secure with bobby pins and release the bottom half. Spritz some hairspray over your mane to complete the look.

7. LOW PRETZEL BUN

Now that you have bun styles on the top of your mind, it’s only right that we introduce you to the wonders of a pretzel bun. Simple with a chic twist, this stylish updo will have all eyes on you. To get the look, brush your strands toward the back of your head. Gather your hair at the nape of your neck and create a ponytail. Twist the length of your ponytail and wrap it around its base to form your bun. Once your bun is in place, hold it in place with bobby pins.

8. DUTCH SIDE BRAID

Racing against the clock? Make your morning routine quick, stylish, and easy with the help of a Dutch side braid. Seriously, this look will cut your styling time down and give your mane a fresh look at the same time. Start by brushing your strands to one side of your head. Next, create three equally-sized sections and weave your hair using an underhanded braiding technique, adding to the left and right strands as you do so. Once you reach the ends, secure with a hair tie, and your look is complete.

9. BEACHY WAVES

Want to give your mane a beachy vibe? Consider adding waves to your mane to amp up the texture and elevate your look. Simply create three-strand plaits throughout your mane, spritz with volumizing spray, and let it sit for a few hours. Unravel your braids, and you’ll have gorgeous wavy strands to play with.

10. TOP KNOT

The best way to make a stylish statement without spending hours in the mirror is with a top knot! This hairstyle helps mask the signs of second-day hair and allows you to keep your strands away from your face while showing off your gorgeous features. Basically, it’s a win-win! Head on over to our article, How to Do the Perfect Top Knot, for a step-by-step tutorial.

Next: How to Take Care Of Your Hair