12 Updos That Hide Unwashed Hair
Let’s be honest: washing your hair every single day is a chore few of us have time for. Not to mention, it can strip your strands of natural oils, leading to dryness and damage. But the struggle is real when day-two (or three, or four) hair hits—the oil, the flatness, the lack of volume. What if we told you that unwashed hair is actually the secret weapon for some of the best, most holdable updos? That’s right. A little natural oil provides grip and texture that freshly washed locks often lack.
Why Unwashed Hair is Perfect for Updos
Before we dive into the styles, let’s appreciate the unique benefits of not-so-fresh hair. Texture is your best friend when creating an updo. Silky, clean hair can be slippery, causing pins and elastics to slide right out. Day-old hair, however, has a natural grit and body that gives hairstyles something to “grab” onto. This means your braids will be fuller, your buns will stay secure, and your volume will last all day long. It’s the perfect foundation for effortless, lived-in chic.
1. The Textured Messy Bun
The queen of all quick fixes. The key here is embracing the mess. Gather your hair into a high, medium, or low ponytail, but don’t pull it all the way through on the last loop of your hair tie. Fan out the loop and gently pull at sections around your crown and the bun itself to create volume and wispy pieces. The natural oils will keep those wispy bits in place without flyaways.
2. The Braided Crown
This romantic style expertly covers the roots along your hairline. Part your hair down the middle or to the side. Create two Dutch braids (braiding under instead of over for a raised effect) starting at your temples, following your hairline back to your ears, then continue as regular braids. Wrap each braid across the top of your head like a crown and pin securely. Tuck the ends under the opposite braid.
3. The Low Twisted Chignon
Sophisticated and sleek, this updo uses texture for a secure hold. Gather your hair at the nape of your neck. Twist it tightly until it coils upon itself, then wrap it into a compact knot. Use U-pins (not bobby pins) to secure the knot against your head. The grit in your hair will lock the twist in place, preventing it from unraveling.
4. The Voluminous Top Knot
Don’t slick your hair back—tease it! Lightly backcomb the crown section before gathering all your hair into a high ponytail. Twist and wrap the ponytail around the base, securing with pins and a second hair tie if needed. Pull out face-framing pieces and loosen the sides. The volume from teasing and the day’s oil will create a full, lasting knot.
5. The Half-Up Twisted Bun
This style tackles oily roots while leaving some hair down. Take two sections of hair from above your temples. Twist them back and secure them together with a small elastic at the back of your crown. Twist the resulting section into a mini bun and pin. This lifts hair away from your face and hides the root area at your part.
6. The Rope Braid Ponytail
Elevate a basic ponytail with a chic rope braid wrapper. Put your hair in a mid or low ponytail. Take a small section from underneath the ponytail, wrap it around the hair tie to conceal it, and pin. Then, split the ponytail in two, twist them around each other tightly, then wrap that twist into a bun at the base and pin. It looks intricate but is simple with textured hair.
7. The Gibson Tuck
A vintage classic that works wonders on second-day hair. Create a loose, low ponytail but leave the last inch or two out of the hair tie. Make a horizontal “tunnel” with your fingers just above the hair tie. Gently tuck the tail of the ponytail up and through the tunnel, pulling it out the top. Fluff and adjust for a soft, tucked look. The texture prevents it from slipping.
8. The Four-Strand Braid Updo
A unique braid that looks incredibly professional and holds better in unwashed hair. Divide a section of hair into four equal strands. Braid by crossing the outer left strand under two strands to the right, then the outer right strand under two to the left. Repeat. Once braided, coil it into a bun at your desired location. The thickness and grip of the braid are perfect for day-old hair.
9. The Bubble Ponytail
Fun, modern, and genius at hiding grease along the length of the hair. Put your hair in a high ponytail. Space out hair ties down the length of the tail, each about 3-4 inches apart. Gently puff out the hair between each tie to create “bubbles.” The texture of unwashed hair makes this puffing out easier and helps the bubbles hold their shape all day.
10. The Hidden Braid Headband
Take a section of hair from behind one ear and create a simple three-strand braid. Bring it across your forehead like a headband and tuck it behind the opposite ear, pinning securely. This bohemian style covers the front hairline and adds instant interest, pulling attention away from any oil at the roots.
11. The Tousled Low Pony with Scarf
A silk or satin scarf is the ultimate accessory for masking unwashed hair. Put your hair in a low, loose ponytail. Tie a scarf around the hair tie, letting the ends flow, or wrap it around the base of the ponytail and tie into a bow. Gently tug at the crown for volume. The scarf adds a pop of color and covers the hair at the crown.
12. The French Twist
The ultimate classic updo that is famously easier with textured hair. Gather hair at the nape of your neck. Twist it upwards toward the crown, folding the outer edges in as you go. Secure vertically with U-pins or a French twist comb. The natural grip of your hair will hold the twist beautifully, creating a sleek and polished finish.
Pro Tips for Mastering the Unwashed Hair Updo
Dry Shampoo is Your Ally: While not always necessary, a spritz at the roots can add extra volume and absorb any excess oil for a fresher feel. Embrace Texture Sprays: A light texturizing spray can enhance the natural grip and add separation, especially for braids and buns. Invest in Good Pins: U-pins, spin pins, and bobby pins with good grip are worth their weight in gold. Don’t Over-Brush: Use your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to style. Over-brushing can distribute oil evenly and flatten your hair.
Embrace Your Hair’s Natural Beauty
Mastering these 12 updos is more than a time-saving hack; it’s a way to extend the life of your hairstyle and protect your hair’s health. By washing less and styling smart, you allow your scalp’s natural oils to work their moisturizing magic, leading to stronger, shinier hair over time. So next time you glance in the mirror and think, “I really should wash my hair,” see it as an opportunity instead. Reach for a hair tie, some pins, and your creativity. With these styles in your arsenal, you’re always just a few minutes away from a gorgeous, red-carpet-ready updo—no shampoo required.
