Key ingredients: coconut oil, castor oil | Who it’s for: brittle, damaged hair
Mermade Hair Styling Wax Stick
Why it’s worth it: Need a strong hold? Look no further. The Mermade Hair Styling Wax Stick will give you the longest wear of any on this list, thanks to a combination of both beeswax and paraffin wax, plus moisturizing ingredients like jojoba oil and petrolatum. It’s ideal for calming down baby hairs and creating sleek buns and updos.
Key ingredients: beeswax, paraffin, jojoba oil, petrolatum | Who it’s for: all hair types, human hair extensions
Not Your Mother’s All Eyes On Me 3-in-1 Wax Stick
Why it’s worth it: If you’re not quite sure about the whole hair wax stick thing, starting out with a more budget-friendly option might be the best way in. The Not Your Mother’s All Eyes on Me 3-in-1 Wax Stick is affordable and effective. Beyond the wax base, this stick is packed with hair-loving ingredients like castor oil, raspberry seed oil, and squalane, all of which help it glide across your hair without damaging susceptible strands. If you have dry hair, reviewers rave that you can easily use this one day and style your hair the next day without any crunchy residue.
Key ingredients: castor oil, beeswax, raspberry seed oil, argan oil, squalane | Who it’s for: all hair types and textures
Frequently Asked Questions
What hair types should use hair wax sticks?
These versatile hair products can be used on any and all hair types, but the technique will change depending on your hair density and texture. “Hair wax sticks work best on medium to high-density hair, regardless of texture,” says Querisma. “However, they should be used sparingly on low-density hair because they may cause the hair to look greasy.” Additionally, our stylists recommend looking at the finish of each wax stick so you find one that works for your hair. “There are many types of wax; some are more matte and others have a shinier, oilier feel and finish,” hairstylist Tippi Shorter tells Allure. Choose a matte finish if you have fine, thin, or oily hair, and a shinier finish if you have dry or textured hair.
And for anyone with thick hair, know that a hair wax stick might need some backup support. “If you have really thick hair and want to create a slicked bun, you may need to add another product, like mousse before styling, and finish with the wax stick,” says Cavalcante.
How do you use hair wax sticks?
There are three main ways hairstylists recommend using these wax sticks. To tame baby hairs around the hairline, create slicked-back styles, and add piecey texture to short hair, “start with a small amount, and add more until the desired look is achieved,” Querisma tells Allure. “You can always add more, but if you overdo it right out the gate, you’ll need to shampoo sooner than you’ve planned.”