12 Top Hair Tinsel Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Hair tinsel is a fun and creative way to add sparkle to your hair. Whether you’re preparing for a special event or want to try something new, the shine of hair tinsel can make a significant difference. But as easy as it may seem, there are common mistakes that many people make when using hair tinsel. These mistakes can result in tangled strands, damage to your hair, or tinsel that doesn’t last as long as it should. To help you avoid these issues, we’ve compiled a list of the top mistakes people make when applying or removing hair tinsel and how to prevent them.

1.    Choosing the wrong type of hair tinsel

Not all hair tinsel is the same. There are many types made from various materials, and choosing the wrong kind for your hair type can lead to frustration. For example, some hair tinsel strands are designed for specific hair types like fine, thick, or curly hair. Hair tinsel that’s too heavy for fine hair might weigh your strands down and not hold properly. On the other hand, a very lightweight tinsel might not show up as vibrantly in thick hair.

How to avoid this mistake:

• Choose a hair tinsel that is suited for your hair type. If you have thick or curly hair, look for hair tinsel that’s slightly heavier to ensure it stays in place. If you have fine hair, go for lighter hair tinsel.
• Test a few strands before fully committing to ensure the hair tinsel works well with your hair.

2.    Overloading hair with tinsel

One of the biggest mistakes people make when using hair tinsel is applying too much. While it may seem tempting to load up your hair with as many strands as possible, it can quickly overwhelm your natural look and cause tangling or clumping. More hair tinsel doesn’t always equal a better effect, and in fact, it may lead to a messy and less polished appearance.

How to avoid this mistake:

• Apply hair tinsel sparingly. A few strands here and there will create a beautiful, shiny effect without weighing down your hair.
• Focus on highlighting specific sections rather than covering your head with hair tinsel.

3.    Incorrect application technique

How you apply the hair tinsel is just as important as the amount you use. One common error is not using the correct technique when applying the hair tinsel to your hair. Applying it too loosely or too tightly can cause discomfort, or even worse, the hair tinsel might fall out or get tangled easily.

How to avoid this mistake:

• Always use a proper application technique, such as the slip knot method, where you knot the hair tinsel securely around a small section of your hair. Be gentle while doing this to avoid pulling or tugging your hair.
• Use a hook tool for easier application. These tools allow you to attach the hair tinsel precisely without pulling at your hair.

4.    Using the wrong tools for the application

Sometimes, people try to apply hair tinsel without the right tools. For example, a regular hair tie or clip might not securely hold the hair tinsel, causing it to easily slip out. Not having the right tools can lead to frustration and result in the hair tinsel not staying in place.

How to avoid this mistake:

• Use hair tinsel crotchet hooks or applicators. These tools come with your hair tinsel extensions kit and make the application process much easier. They also help ensure that the hair tinsel stays securely in place.
• Avoid using hair ties or regular clips to attach the hair tinsel, as they can cause damage or make it harder to remove later.

5.    Not securing the tinsel properly

Another mistake people make is not securing the tinsel strands properly after application. If hair tinsel isn’t attached securely, it can slip out or get tangled easily. This is especially important if you plan to wear it for an extended period or when attending an event where you want the hair tinsel to stay in place.

How to avoid this mistake:

• After applying the hair tinsel, ensure the strands are securely knotted or attached. For added security, you can use a dry shampoo for added grip or some eyelash glue to keep the hair tinsel in place. You can also attach the hair tinsel using the microbeads method, where a silicone microbead secures the hair tinsel to your hair strands.
• Check the hair tinsel regularly to ensure it’s not slipping out, especially if you plan on wearing it for a few days.

6.    Using heat on hair tinsel

Many people are tempted to use hair tinsel as if it were real hair, but hair tinsel is made of synthetic materials that don’t react well to heat. You can only use a curling iron, straightener, or blow dryer on heat-resistant hair tinsel. Otherwise, the hair tinsel that does not have a heat-resistant coating will melt, lose its shine, or become permanently damaged.

How to avoid this mistake:

• Always check the packaging to ensure the hair tinsel you have is heat resistant before using hot tools on it. If it is not heat-resistant hair tinsel, do not use heat. Stick to gentle, non-heat methods for styling the hair tinsel.
• Even for heat-resistant hair tinsel, use a heat setting that is lower than what is mentioned on the packaging. Use a heat protectant spray to protect your hair and the hair tinsel from damage during heat styling.

7.    Not mixing tinsel colors or textures

Hair tinsel comes in various colors and finishes. However, people sometimes stick with just one shade or texture, creating a flat or uninteresting look. The beauty of hair tinsel is in its ability to shimmer and reflect light, and using a mix of different colors and textures can create a more dynamic, multi-dimensional effect.

How to avoid this mistake:

• Experiment with different tinsel colors and finishes to add depth and interest to your hairstyle.
• Try combining shiny metallic tones with matte or holographic har tinsel for a unique and vibrant look.

8.    Not removing hair tinsel carefully

Removing hair tinsel can be tricky, especially if it’s been in place for a while. Ripping the hair tinsel out too quickly or forcefully can damage your hair or cause tangling. If you remove it too abruptly, you might also risk breaking the strands.

How to avoid this mistake:

• Remove hair tinsel gently and slowly to avoid pulling or tugging at your hair. Use a detangling comb or your fingers to carefully loosen the hair tinsel before pulling it out.
• Consider using a leave-in conditioner or detangling spray to help release the hair tinsel more easily.

9.    Leaving hair tinsel in for too long

Hair tinsel can last a while, but leaving it in your hair too long can cause unnecessary wear and tear. Tinsel that stays in your hair too long can become brittle, frayed, and difficult to remove. Plus, leaving it in for days can cause it to become tangled with your natural hair, making it harder to take out later.

How to avoid this mistake:

• Remove the hair tinsel after a few days to ensure it stays in good condition.
• If you plan on wearing it for an extended period, check it regularly to avoid damage.

10. Not considering hair health

While hair tinsel can add a fun, colorful touch to your look, it’s important to remember that the health of your hair should come first. If you’re constantly tying and knotting hair tinsel into your hair without paying attention to your hair’s health, you might cause breakage, split ends, or damage to your natural strands.

How to avoid this mistake:

• Don’t apply hair tinsel too frequently. Give your hair time to rest and recover between uses.
• Ensure you’re moisturizing and treating your hair to keep it healthy, even with hair tinsel in it.

11. Ignoring aftercare

Aftercare is just as important as the initial application. If you want your tinsel to last, proper care is essential. Failing to care for your hair tinsel can lead to it losing its shine or breaking prematurely.

How to avoid this mistake:

• Use a soft brush to gently comb through your tinsel after each wear.
• Avoid heavy products like oils or gels near your tinsel to keep it from becoming sticky or damaged.

12. Using the wrong amount of product to maintain hair tinsel

Some people try to maintain the appearance of their hair tinsel by applying too much product like hairspray or serums. While a little product can help, overdoing it can weigh the tinsel down or make it sticky, ruining its effect.

How to avoid this mistake:

• Use minimal products when styling your hair with tinsel. If necessary, apply light hairspray only to the hair that holds the tinsel, and avoid spraying directly on the tinsel itself.
• If you’re using a styling product, opt for a lightweight product that won’t weigh down or damage the tinsel.

Conclusion

Using hair tinsel can be a great way to add sparkle and creativity to your hairstyle, but there are some key mistakes you want to avoid to ensure hair tinsel doesn't damage your hair. From using the wrong type of tinsel to not removing it carefully, making the right choices during application and maintenance is essential for ensuring that your tinsel stays shiny and in place.

By following these tips, you can enjoy a beautiful, long-lasting hair tinsel look without the hassle of tangles, damage, or frustration. The key is to take your time during application, use the right tools and techniques, and give your hair the care it needs to stay healthy while showing off that glittering shine.