on November 28, 2025

Conquering the Cowlick: Smooth Styling Solutions for Stubborn Hair Sections

Let’s face it: we’ve all been there. That one patch of hair—the one that insists on standing straight up, swirling in the wrong direction, or just plain refusing to cooperate. Yes, we’re talking about the infamous cowlick.

At Veaudry, we believe in effortless elegance that starts with healthy, happy hair. A cowlick shouldn’t dictate your style; it should just be a fun challenge! This guide is for every chic South African looking for expert solutions on how to style a cowlick and finally win the morning hair battle.

The Cowlick & Why It Happens

A cowlick isn’t a hair flaw; it’s simply a patch of hair that grows in a swirl pattern or at an angle different from the surrounding hair. Because the follicle has its own agenda, styling it requires breaking its natural routine.

The good news? Whether your hair is short, long, curly, or straight, there are reliable ways to master this stubborn section. Here is your quick guide on how to style hair with cowlicks.

Mastering the Frontline: Forehead & Fringe

A cowlick right at the hairline is arguably the most frustrating. It can ruin a perfect fringe or give your side part an unwanted lift. Here is how to style hair with a cowlick in front and reclaim your look.

  • The Power of Weight: The best defence is a strategic cut. Ask your stylist for a heavier fringe. The added weight directly behind the cowlick helps pull the hair down and keeps it flat.
  • Side-Part Switch-Up: If your cowlick centres your fringe, try switching to a deep side part. The volume created by the deeper part often sweeps right over the stubborn patch, completely concealing it.
  • Heat & Tension Is Key: To effectively tame a front cowlick, wet the area thoroughly. Using your Veaudry hair dryer and a nozzle attachment, aim the heat directly at the cowlick. Use a small flat brush to work the hair back and forth, right to left, repeatedly. This “overworks” the follicle and teaches the hair to lie flat. Finish by directing the brush straight down for a sleek finish.

The Cowlick at the Crown: Volume is Your Ally

Dealing with a swirl at the back of your head? This is how to style hair with a cowlick at the crown without sacrificing volume.

  • Layer it Up: If you have medium to long hair, subtle layers around the crown can be your best friend. Instead of fighting the swirl, layers blend into the surrounding hair, creating overall movement and volume that hides the irregular parting.
  • Pixie Perfection: For shorter hair lovers, the cowlick can actually add texture! A classic or spiked pixie cut is one of the easiest ways to manage a crown cowlick. Use a small amount of texture paste to define the movement and embrace the slight separation.
  • Blunt Force: If you prefer length, keeping your cut blunt (one length) helps. The weight of the hair maintains the necessary tension to keep the crown area smooth. For extra polish, use your Veaudry hair iron to smooth the upper sections post-blow-dry, applying soft, downward pressure.

Stylist Toolkit: How Do I Style My Hair with a Cowlick?

Winning the cowlick battle comes down to product choice and technique.

Tool/Technique

Veaudry Tip & Why It Works

Blow-Dry Direction

Always dry the cowlick against the direction it grows first. Then, once it’s almost dry, switch to drying straight down. This breaks the pattern and forces the follicle to conform.

Slicked Styles

For days when you want zero fuss, use a smoothing balm or gel to create a high, tight ponytail or a slick-back bun. Product holds the hair down, keeping that cowlick firmly under wraps.

Texturising Products

If you prefer a tousled look (like beach waves or a modern shag), use a texturising spray. The texture disguises the cowlick by making the hair look intentionally ‘messy’ and full of movement.

Length is Leverage

If all else fails, grow it out! Longer hair means more weight, which is the most natural way to persuade the hair to lie flat against your head.


Final Thoughts

Don’t let a stubborn section derail your style goals. With the right technique, a little heat, and innovative tools from Veaudry, you can achieve that smooth, elegant finish every single day. Go forth and conquer!

FAQs

Still have questions about how to style hair with a cowlick? We’ve got the quick-fire answers you need.

Should I cut my hair when it’s wet or dry to manage a cowlick?

Always cut a cowlick area when wet for precision, but your stylist should check the result when it’s dry. A cowlick’s true behaviour only shows once the hair is fully dry and styled. 

Can a cowlick be permanently removed?

No, not permanently. Cowlicks are determined by the structure of your hair follicles beneath the skin. While techniques like chemical relaxing or keratin treatments can temporarily loosen the pattern, your best bet is consistent, intentional heat styling using quality tools (like your Veaudry blow dryer or straightener) to break the growth pattern repeatedly.

What’s the best product to use on a cowlick before I blow-dry?

A lightweight leave-in conditioner or a heat-protectant styling cream is your secret weapon. These products add just enough weight and slip to the hair strands, making them easier to manipulate and style against their natural direction.

Can I use my flat iron to flatten a cowlick?

Absolutely, but be gentle! After blow-drying the area flat, use your Veaudry hair iron on a low, healthy heat setting. Glide the iron slowly over the cowlick, applying slight downward pressure at the root. This is the fastest way to lock in the smooth finish and ensure the hair stays down all day.