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Adding sparkle to anything is a great way to add your whimsy to your life, whether it’s through your clothes or makeup. And thankfully, hair tinsel is a simple way to bring that shimmer to your crowning glory. Many people are starting to dub its application the “fairy hair” trend. 

What is Fairy Hair?

Fairy hair is all about having sparkling and enchanting hair. The term can also refer to the hair tinsel strands themselves, though some may also call them glitter or sparkle strands or extensions. 

You can definitely wear fairy hair every day to make daily life a little bit more whimsical, but most people tend to associate it with large events. For example, this trend is really popular at concerts and music festivals. 

With more than 190 million attending and participating in those events, you want to add some flair to your overall look. And thankfully, the fairy hair strands tend to glitter and gleam under those bright lights. 

Main Ways to Put on Hair Tinsel

There are many ways to wear hair tinsel and achieve an iridescent yet subtle look. The main ones are to tie to bye hand, use microbeads and apply tape-in extensions. 

By Hand

If you don’t have beads or tools, you can still safely tie the tinsel to your natural locks by hand. Some may use clips or bobby pins to put them on temporarily. However, if you desire a longer wear time, try tying them in. Here’s an overview of the steps:

• Part your hair to reveal the area where you want to attach the tinsel
• Take a tinsel strand and fold it in half before twisting and creating a slip knot in the middle
• Grab a few strands of hair and put them through the loop of your tinsel
• Secure it by pulling the slip knot, closing the gap and bringing the hair in opposite directions
• Create a double knot to further secure your fairy hair

Hair tinsel will naturally come off with hair fall through this method. However, you can also just pull off the strands when you’re ready to replace them. 

With Beads

Microbeads are typically sold alongside hair tinsel and are relatively more durable,e, making them another popular application. Here’s what to do after parting your hair:

• Get a few strands of tinsel and thread it through a microbead with a hair extension hook
• Ensure the middle of the tinsel is nestled in the microbead
• Use your hook to pull some of your natural hair strands together and through
• Slide the bead near your scalp and allow it to naturally tighten
• If it still feels loose, you may need additional natural hair strands, or you can simply clamp the bead to keep them secure

If you clamp the microbeads, you may have to use pliers to unclamp them from the other side. Otherwise, you can slide them off with a gentle tug. If you’re experiencing problems with both applications and removal, consider getting the help of a hair expert. 

With Tape

Hair tinsel can also be applied with replacement tape tabs, which can be handy if you’re eyeing to achieve thicker fairy hair. Here are the steps to apply these:

• Lay several tinsel strands onto the sticky side of a tape tab
• Add a second tape tab to sandwich the hair tinsel between
• Part your hair and press the tape sandwich close to the scalp, ensuring that it’s flat with your hair
• Press and hold to allow the replacement tape tabs to adhere properly

A tape-in bond remover is a must for gently peeling away the adhesive on replacement tape tabs without damaging your hair. Again, don’t hesitate to call on a hair expert if you’re uncertain of doing the application or removal solo. 

Best Practices for Wearing Hair Tinsel

Hair tinsel application can get pretty meticulous. Here are a few tips to increase your chances of success when putting them on. 

Use Only a Few

A little goes a long way with hair tinsels. Make sure that you’re only using a few for each section, especially if you’re trying to go the route of tying by hand. Too many strands can be pretty heavy and unravel quickly, no matter how secure they may seem. 

Take Your Time

Rushing your fairy hair can take the fun out of it and cause you to run into errors. Remember to take it slow and work on one section at a time. And while hair tinsel can already make you a standout, amplify the look even more with the right outfit and makeup. You’d be surprised by just how pleased you are with the final look.  

Cut the Tinsel Length

Some people who try wearing tinsel find it looks a little odd against their natural hair. However, the key to making it blend in more seamlessly is to cut the tinsel strands. Ideally, it should be shorter than your actual hair length. Be careful not to cut off your natural locks!

Focus on Scattered Placement

Fairy hair can look a tad questionable when all the sparkles are clumped together on one side while the other is just regular and matte. Make sure you have an even placement across your head to create a balanced application. Don’t be afraid to part your hair in areas that need the sparkle. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are frequently asked questions about wearing hair tinsel.

Is it better to put tinsel in your hair wet or dry?

Dry is ideal for hair tinsel application. Wet hair is much more prone to damage than dry hair. However, you do want to ensure that your hair strands and scalp are clean. 

How long will tinsel last in your hair?

Different methods and how you care for your hair will affect how long it lasts. Some find that it can stay for only around three weeks, while others can keep them for about three months. Don’t forget that you can remove them and replace them afterward. 

Can you wash your hair after tinsel?

Hair tinsel can still be washed alongside your natural hair. That said, it’s best to be gentle with scrubbing, especially around the roots where the tinsel is tied or beaded. 

Can you brush your hair when you have tinsel in it?

Yes, you can still brush your hair and get rid of tangles. Start at the bottom and hold the upper part of your hair to avoid tugging at the roots. Avoid using a fine-toothed comb. 

Add Sparkle and Whimsy to Your Locks

Hair tinsel can bring you one step closer to whimsy, especially when light hits it just right. Remember to practice safe application to ensure you look fabulous without damaging your hair. Share this with a friend you’d love to have fairy hair with!