We all want voluminous hair that isn’t floppy. However, this is not an easy problem. Your hair’s natural volume is not something you can control. Genetics and other factors play a major role in your hair’s density.
Root clipping was a promising solution that was only a scroll away on my TikTok for You page. Good news! The good news is that it doesn’t require you to change your routine or buy a supplement. Root clipping transforms limp hair into bouncy, lifted strands. This technique creates volume at your crown so that it lasts all day. It only takes a few strategically placed clips. Four professional stylists offer tips and product recommendations for how to enhance volume.
What is Root Clipping?
Root clipping uses single and double prong clips to increase volume. It can also help shape curls. Experts recommend root clipping on damp hair before styling and drying. The clips should be pinned to your crown or wherever you desire volume and left on the hair until it dries completely. A few options are available, including small metal and plastic jaw-like clips.
“The tiny metal ones work better for fine hair, as they are more comfortable to use and don’t cause damage to fine hair,” hairstylist and Curlsmith’s textured hair educator says. The plastic ones are stronger and easier to use with dense hair. This technique creates volume at the roots while keeping the natural hair texture intact. It also doesn’t use hot tools, so there is less chance of heat damage.
Root Clipping Hair Benefits
Root clipping is a great way to achieve a volume that doesn’t shrink. Cedric, celebrity stylist, and owner of Cedric Salon, New York City, says that hair will stay put if it dries with the clip in. It also lasts longer than other volumizing methods because the hair is flexible, and the cuticles open when the clips are placed in wet hair. Cedric explained that the cuticle shrinks as the hair dries. This causes hair to lose flexibility and allows it to remain in place until it is wet again.
Hair Type Considerations
Root clipping is possible on any hair type, but Cedric prefers curly or wavy textures. He explains that it helps curls not appear weighed down or stacked upon each other.
People with straight, thin hair should know that root clipping can create demarcation lines. Erinn Courtney, a Los Angeles hairdresser, said that when demarcation occurs with curly or wavy hair, the roots are usually hidden and blended by curls. Lines may be more noticeable for straighter textures. Courtney suggests you curl your hair with a curling or blowout tool to achieve straighter textures.
How to use the Root Clipping Method
Preparing for root cutting, wash your hair cleanly and add mousse or styling mousse. This will add volume and control frizz, and define curls. Courtney advises against using oils and creams on your hair as they can make it heavy and give you the opposite effect.
Begin by bending your head, so the hair is almost 90-degree angle. Then, cut a section. Take a small portion of hair and cut it straight up. You can do this in your head. You will get more volume if you use more clips and rows. Low heat can be used to dry your hair. The most important thing to remember is that your hair should be completely dry before you remove clips. Courtney says metal clips should be removed gently as they can catch in the roots and cause hair to snag if taken incorrectly.