Here’s the trick to knowing exactly where to part your hair!

Changing your hair part can be pretty life-altering as it has a significant impact on your overall look. 

Place the part in the wrong place, and it will act like a spotlight on all those features you don’t want exaggerated. On the other hand, the right part can trick the eye into focusing on your best assets.

And odd as it may sound, there’s actually a science to finding your ideal side part. 

Jeffrey Mayo, Eufora Global Educator and Stylist, recently shared his technique for getting the most flattering side part in 4 easy steps. All you need is a mirror, a piece of paper, and a comb.

How to get the perfect side part

1. Everyone has a strong and weak side of their face (that’s why we usually tend to photograph better on one side). To find it, look in the mirror and hold up a piece of printer paper to one side of your face.

2. Now, move the paper to the opposite side and notice the features on that side. Move the paper back and forth between the two sides of the face until the slight differences between the symmetry of the features are noticeable.

3. The side that has more features turned in the upward direction is the stronger one. This should be exposed when deciding on a hairstyle, meaning the heavier side of the part should always go against the weaker side of the face.

4. Once you’ve chosen the stronger side of your face, make a perfect side part by combing from the outside corner of the eye in the front to the middle center in the back to ensure symmetry in the hairstyle.

How deep should you go?

The second step in nailing side part hairstyles is understanding your face shape. If unsure about your face shape, stand before a mirror, push your hair back, and examine your face. 

Observe your forehead, cheekbones, and jawline. Here’s a quick breakdown of the different ways you can style this hairstyle:

1. Oval face shapes can pull off any style.
2. Square face shapes would benefit from a deep side part to soften the angles
3. Heart-shaped faces would look stunning with a slightly off-center part
4. Round face shapes can create an illusion of length with a classic side part or soft part

Maintaining the magic

A well-executed side parting might have you strutting down your personal runway, but it doesn’t end there. Regular maintenance is crucial to keep your mane looking marvelous and sharp. 

Here’s how you can ensure your side parting stays as fresh as when you first styled it:

Keep your hands to yourself!

Your new part is fabulous, and playing with your newly styled hair might be tempting. But resist the urge! 

The oils from your fingers can transfer to your hair, making it look greasy, and constantly touching it can disrupt the perfect lines of your part.

Regularly refresh your part

Your hair grows and moves, which can lead to your part becoming less defined over time. Depending on your hair type and how quickly your hair grows, you should redefine your parting every few days. 

Use your trusty fine-toothed comb to draw a clean, straight line and maintain that perfect part.

Dry shampoo is your best friend

Dry shampoo is a hair-styling essential. It absorbs excess oil, adds volume, and keeps your hair looking fresh between washes. If your part looks dull or greasy, spritz a little dry shampoo to refresh it instantly. This is particularly a bonus for side-swept bangs that pick up oils from the forehead!

Hydrate and nourish your hair

Healthy hair holds styles better. Maintain the health of your locks by regularly hydrating and nourishing your hair. 

Use a deep conditioner or a hair mask once a week to infuse your hair with moisture and nutrients. Healthy hair will hold your side part better and give it a glossy look.

Be gentle

When maintaining your part, always be gentle. The key rule is to avoid tugging or pulling on your hair, which can cause breakage. 

When refreshing your part, use a fine-tooth comb to gently guide your hair, keeping the lines clean and precise.

Protect your hair at night

To maintain your part, consider wearing a silk or satin headscarf or a silk or satin pillowcase when sleeping. These materials reduce friction, which can disturb your part and cause hair breakage.

Be mindful of product buildup

While styling products helps hold your part in place, be mindful of buildup. This can make your hair and scalp greasy and lead to dandruff or itchiness. So, remember to cleanse your hair correctly during washes.

Control the flyaways

Then all you have to do is tame flyaways with hair gel and be on your way.

Put your hair on training wheels

And remember: your hair won’t automatically part itself unless you train it to do so. Over a couple weeks, continue to side part your hair and use a control cream. Eventually, your hair will remember to stay that way.

What does your side part say about you?

As they say, “The beauty is in the details.” And believe it or not, your hairstyle can tell much about your personality (just like your choice of nail polish and lipstick!). 

From offering a glimpse of your character to hinting at your mood, a part can speak volumes before you even utter a word. Let me delve deeper into this fascinating concept of the ‘side part persona.’

However, remember that these interpretations are not definitive and are more playful than factual. The best part is eventually the one that makes you feel confident, beautiful, and, most importantly, like your authentic self.

Hard parting: The bold and beautiful

If you love a deep, hard part, chances are, you’re confident in making a statement. This one’s bold, daring, and teeming with an undeniable edginess. 

You’re likely confident, fashion-forward, and possess a certain joie de vivre that others find captivating. You live by your rules, setting trends rather than following them.

Subtle side part: The effortlessly cool

On the other hand, a subtle part may suggest an easygoing, carefree character. You embrace a laid-back aesthetic and enjoy an effortless, relaxed vibe.

You’re not one for grand statements but prefer the quiet charm of simplicity. You’re the girl next door who captures hearts with your genuine spirit and down-to-earth personality.

Right-side part: The bold maverick

You may showcase a more assertive, dominant persona if you part your hair on the right. 

This hairstyle is typically perceived as strong, suggesting an individual who is decisive, independent, and a natural leader. You are the go-getter, the risk-taker unafraid to break norms and challenge conventions.

Left-side part: The graceful feminine

Conversely, parting the hair on the left side traditionally has a softer, more feminine appeal. This could reflect a nurturing, empathetic, and compassionate personality. 

You’re likely to be seen as friendly, approachable, and the kind of person who radiates warmth and positivity. You have a classic, timeless sense of style that’s endearing and welcoming.

FAQs

Here are the most frequently asked questions about the side part.

What is a side part?

A side part is a hairstyle where the hair is parted to one side. This timeless style, suitable for any hair length or texture, helps enhance facial features and can adapt to both casual and formal looks. 

Does a side part look good on everyone?

A side part suits everyone — just remember to adjust the position and depth for different hair types and face shapes. For instance, a deeper side part can add drama and contour to a round face, while a more subtle one can soften the angles of a square face. 

What is the center part?

A center or middle part is a hairstyle where the hair is divided equally down the middle of the scalp. It offers a symmetrical and balanced look.

Can a side part help hide thinning hair?

Yes, a side part can help camouflage thin hair as you can comb over to add volume and strategically cover thinner areas.

How do you maintain a side part?

You can maintain it by regularly combing your hair in the desired direction, using a fine-tooth comb for precision, and using styling products to hold it in place.

Can I switch from a side part to a center part?

Yes, you can switch from a side part to a center part. It may take some time for your hair to adjust to the new direction, but regular styling and some light hair product can aid the transition.