Nataly is an experienced freelance writer well-versed in lifestyle, beauty, and fashion. She enjoys testing new hair products to tame her long locks. Believing in the power of self-care, Nataly collects styling tips like gems. Currently, she delivers exclusive content on the latest hairstyle trends and transformations.
Read full bio Editorial guidelinesSay goodbye to stubborn strands with these life-changing hairstyles!
Cowlicks would definitely end up on the naughty list of every hair devotee one day. Why, you may ask? Well, if you take a closer look at those wild, unruly strands, you’ll see them sticking up and making your styling routine even more difficult. No worries though! We’ve gathered 25 cowlick-hiding hairstyles for you to rock any ‘do with ease and confidence.
As the name suggests, it’s a small piece that breaks out of your hair growth pattern and looks like a flattened swirl on the calf’s fur after its mother cow licks it. This effect may occur on the hairline, around the fringe area, closer to the crown, or at the nape section, causing many styling issues. It’s also genetic and can reveal itself after sudden changes in your hair growth rate – aging, head injury, or hair shaving.
While you can’t permanently get rid of it, there is always a way to mask it with the rest of your hair or a couple of styling hacks. Here are a few tricks to keep your untamed hair pieces down:
A visible gap in your hairline is the first thing that catches your attention when you brush your locks or try to style them. To conceal this uneven section, go for a blunt haircut with some extra texture throughout the length, and you won’t have to worry about the front section anymore.
@malloryhickshair
Everybody loves statement-making haircuts like this spiky pixie with a tapered nape. The good thing about the style is that it can also help you to mask the problematic area in the back and direct attention towards the front instead.
@sarahcutshair_
The cool feature of this wavy style is its ability to hide a cowlick anywhere on your head. The added texture and dimension will do wonders for your tresses, especially when you decide to tousle them a bit for a messier finish.
@veenuzy
Don’t believe others when they say cowlicks and bangs never go together. On the contrary, the most popular trick to disguise the wild strands around the front is to throw in a nice, swoopy fringe. It will redistribute the weight to the opposite side, letting you tame the sticking-up hairs.
@g_deodato
Sometimes, the most effective way to cope with disobedient strands is to embrace your natural hair growth pattern and stop fighting with it. So, if you have a pile of swirly tendrils at the crown, you’d better find a haircut that follows your hair’s direction. An elongated nape with short layers or razored tips can be helpful.
@__k_vu__
Can’t take a hold of a strong disconnection in the hairline? Then, try to bring all of your tresses forward and cut them to counterbalance the noticeable split in the bangs. You’ll get a personalized version of the classic French bob cut.
@ellienorski
A great solution for a double cowlick is lots of bangs and crown layers that easily change the shape of your hair. With added root volume, the problem areas stay invisible as long as you keep the movement going throughout the length.
@jayne_edosalon
Very often, a double crown may be mistaken for hair loss, as it takes the form of a bald patch at the crown, causing splitting. A rounded bob with bangs can address the issue, especially if you backcomb the root section and spritz it with hairspray.
@emilygutierrez.hair
Give your hair a break this time and don’t try to fix the uneven edge with tons of hair product. Instead, try a volume-boosting pixie with a side-swept front section to divert attention from the dreaded spiky section along the hairline.
@loxbybrynn
For those of you trying to get two benefits for the price of one, a shaggy haircut can be a good idea to reduce the weight of your heavy locks and conceal an unruly hair piece. The long curtain bangs complement the whole look too.
@davidwbullen
Curls are, by far, the most universal tools for making multiple cowlicks in the back and around the crown disappear (at least until your locks are straight again). To prevent the strands from splitting, use some extra hair product and bring the curls from both sides of the part together before clipping them together and letting them set.
@creationsbyapear
The cool thing about baby bangs is that they make any hairstyle bold and edgy. Besides, they look great with extra texture around the front to avoid a straight across cut that will work against your natural hairline. The haircut is great for front-facing cowlicks.
@britt_doeshair
With soft, beach waves, you can handle untamed hair pieces anywhere on the head. We recommend this look for long-haired girlies, as it beautifully enhances the length and creates a textured pattern.
@laurabeckwith_hair
A sleek braided bun is a real find for frizzy and untamed back strands that just don’t want to grow in one direction with the rest of your locks. For this style, pull all of your hair back and brush the edges down with some gel until you get a smooth finish.
@sleekbysosa
A bumpy hairline can stress out even the best of us. One way to fix it is to create a flippy hairstyle half tied up, half loose for maximum volume and movement around the top. Two face-framing tendrils will also do the magic.
@laurbo_
To preserve your length and send the wild pieces of hair away from your face, consider adding wispy bangs to your haircut. They make the look visually lighter and create an airy feel for your perfect glam.
@sueinseattle.hair
You know what they say – if life gives you a cowlick, make it sleek! This neck-length bob can mask the unruly section at the back of the head with its smooth and gelled-down shape. Every strand is in its place once again.
@yelahhardin
To bring some drama to your daily look, introduce layers that make your long locks really stand out. Paired with drape bangs and soft blowout glam, this style is everything you need for a structured shape and neat finish.
@malloryhickshair
A lob haircut with a blunt finish concentrates the weight at the ends, allowing you to experiment with various textured styles. This look will also help you to cover an unruly patch of hair at the crown of the head.
@taya.hair
A back part cowlick can be a truly bothersome thing to deal with. Luckily, a cascade of soft, brushed-through locks creates a great cover-up, especially if you use enough hair product to hold your strands in place.
@sarabotsfordhair
The ’90s hairstyles are officially back and better than ever. Long layers, lots of root volume, and luxurious locks create a tousled effect that can easily hide any imperfections in your hairstyle. Feel inspired? Then, try it out next time!
@hairbymickk
Hair strands that stick up randomly around the front can easily ruin the vibe of your styling routine. So, how about introducing some short layers to create a nice framing effect? They will hug your face along the sides and maintain the natural movement.
@hair_by_sadete
Switching the position of your part can be a true game-changer. It refreshes your glam and brings in some fullness around the root area while masking all uneven edges and fluffy strands. The trick is to find the most flattering style so that you’re happy with how your hair looks in the mirror.
@kianna.hair
To reduce a strong cowlick right at the front hairline, ask for a full fringe that almost reaches your eyes. The weight of the hair will keep the locks from splitting in the middle and direct attention to the upper part of your face.
@yogacolourist
Nape cowlicks are among the most stubborn ones. So, instead of trying to brush them down all the time, take one step forward in your hair styling game and have a shot with an extremely short haircut. Also, choose a light color. Bold? Yes! Cool and edgy? Absolutely!
@chromaticahairstudio
There is always a way to find something flattering that matches your natural hair growth pattern. From layered haircuts to elegant slicked-back styles – everyone can choose their perfect fit. It’s time to have your pick!
Enter your email to get this picture to your inbox 💌