when a hair fibre finish disappoints, the instinct is to blame the product. in our experience it's almost always technique, and usually one of three small, very fixable habits.
the good news is that none of them needs a new product or a new routine. each one is a slight change to the order or pace of what you're already doing.
MISTAKE 1: APPLYING TOO MUCH IN ONE GO
THE FIX: LESS TO START, MORE IF NEEDED
it's tempting to fill everything in straight away, especially when you can see the difference the fibres make. but a heavy first layer is the single most common reason a finish looks flat or obvious.
start with a small amount, check the result, then build up gradually where you actually need it. a lighter touch keeps you in control, and it's far easier to add a little more than to take some away. if you're unsure how much is right for your hair, our guide on fixing a finish that isn't working goes into more detail.
MISTAKE 2: APPLYING BEFORE YOUR HAIR IS FULLY DRY
THE FIX: DRY FIRST, FIBRES SECOND
hair fibres cling to your existing hair through static charge. damp hair interferes with that, and fibres applied to wet patches can clump rather than spread evenly.
give your hair time to dry fully, then style it into place before the fibres go on. styling first also shows you exactly where you'd like a little extra, so you apply more precisely and use less. fibres should always be the last step, finished with a mist of locking spray to hold everything in place.
MISTAKE 3: RUSHING THE FINAL CHECK
THE FIX: CHECK BEFORE YOU ADD MORE
the moment you think you need more fibres is exactly the moment to stop and look. check your finish in good, natural light before you reach for the bottle again.
pay particular attention to two places: your hairline, and the edges of the area you've worked on. these are where a finish either blends or shows. a gentle pat with your fingertips often solves an edge without adding anything. you may need less than you think.
YOUR NEXT APPLICATION, SIMPLIFIED
- fully dry hair. wash, dry and style first.
- small amounts. build gradually, only where you need it.
- one final check. natural light, hairline and edges, then seal with spray.
get these three right and most finishes improve straight away. for the hairline specifically, the easy apply pump gives you far more control than shaking from the bottle.
STILL NOT LOOKING QUITE RIGHT?
shade is the other big factor. if the colour isn't right, no amount of technique will hide it. try our colour match, or email info@hairgurulondon.com with a photo and tell us what you're finding tricky. we'll help you work through it.