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Once synonymous with curly hair and natural texture, the slicked back has become one of the most popular styles. Scroll through TikTok or Instagram and you’ll see plenty of styles featuring sleek ponytails, tight low buns, and slick mid-parts. The secret to achieving these trendy hairstyles isn’t gel and soft-bristled brushes. A hair wax stick. Designed to work just like your go-to deodorant, hair wax sticks have become the gold standard for creating an ultra-smooth look that stays on all day.
The idea of sliding a stick of wax through your hair may sound unpleasant, but its nourishing formula and nourishing ingredients make it a great alternative to sticky gels and hairsprays. It will be a product. There’s never been a better time to add wax sticks to your collection. We spoke to two hairstylists to learn more about this trendy product. Check out application tips and the best hair wax sticks to try now.
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What is a hair wax stick?
“A wax stick is exactly what it sounds like: a stick of wax designed for hair styling,” says celebrity stylist Chris McMillan. IGK Salon stylist Olya Rudina added that the product mimics a deodorant stick and can help create sleek ponytails, slicked back buns, updos, and more. “The stick formula allows for easy, smooth flyaways and adds strong hold to your style,” she says. Gels and mousses are common for smoothing hair back, but wax sticks are also a good alternative. Rudina explains that many gels contain alcohol, which can dry out your hair. In contrast, wax sticks are formulated entirely from wax and often include nutritional ingredients.
How to use a wax stick
By default, wax sticks are very easy to use and do not require any other tools to create a sophisticated look. Unlike gels, you don’t need a brush to ensure the product works. Glide over your hair in stick form to smooth and restore loose hair. Even better? It’s quick and effective on almost all hair types. “Wax sticks can be used at the roots to smooth frizz, or on baby hair or edges. They can also be used throughout the middle of the hair shaft to control flyways.” says McMillan.
Wax sticks are convenient and perfect for everyday use. However, Rudina says the product can start to build up in your hair quickly. To keep your hair in its healthiest condition, she recommends shampooing regularly and using less leftover product. “Many people use stick wax to hide dirty hair, but it works better on dry, clean hair,” she says.
Wax sticks I want to try
1/5
When you want to keep your style stylish for hours on end, reach for this wax stick. This formula, like the brand’s popular Edge Fixer Gel, is designed for maximum hold and is infused with biotin to keep delicate baby hair healthy and strong.
2/5
This TikTok viral hair wax stick offers strong hold thanks to its beeswax-based formula. Smooth the edges and smooth the middle part like a dream. And it’s less than $10. It’s a complete victory.
3/5
Briogeo’s Styling Stick feels like a hybrid between a leave-in conditioner and a lightweight hair gel. Contains conditioning natural ingredients such as yuzu oil and plum oil to leave your hair smooth and shiny.
4/5
Wig wearers know that this cute pink tube is a must for licking the center part and ends. Even if you’re rocking your natural hair, it comes in handy for sleek ponytails, buns, and more. Best of all, it provides maximum holding power to keep your style intact.
5/5
The balm consistency of this styling stick performs dual functions: nourishing and providing hold. Contains castor oil to moisturize your hair and give it shine. It also has a comfortable hold that is not too hard, preventing flyaways and frizz.
