The Brushworks Guide to Hair Accessories and Heatless Styling

The right hair accessory should complement your style while keeping your hair comfortable and secure. Whether you’re looking to hold, section, shape or cover a style during sleep, choose an accessory that suits the amount of hair in your intended style, where it will be placed and how long you expect to wear it. Always follow the product instructions for the best results.

Claw clips

Claw clips use opposing teeth and a spring hinge to hold gathered hair securely in place. The amount of hair they can hold depends on the jaw opening, shape, tooth layout and the amount of hair in the style — rather than hair length alone. A large clip can work beautifully for a fuller twist, while a small clip is perfect for securing a half-up do. For a more streamlined finish, a flat-back shape sits closer to the head, while an octopus or rounded shape distributes the teeth around the gathered section for a secure hold.

With so many claw clip styles to choose from, there’s something to suit every hair type and look. From flat and small designs to larger, more supportive clips, you can find options for long hair, short hair and everything in between. Some are designed to provide a secure, supportive hold, while others add a decorative finishing touch to your hairstyle.

Read How to Choose a Claw Clip for the full fit test.

Scrunchies and hair ties

Scrunchies are a versatile option for everyday styling and are particularly popular for more relaxed looks, overnight styling and heatless curls. Their soft, fabric-covered design makes them easy to use when securing a heatless curler or loosely tying hair before bed. Satin scrunchies are another option to consider if you prefer a smooth finish and a more understated look.

Hair ties are a useful staple for styles that need a more defined hold, from sleek, slick-back hairstyles and ponytails to securing plaits and braids. A slimmer hair tie can also be useful when you want a more discreet finish, while a larger scrunchie can add a little more detail to a hairstyle.

It can be useful to keep a selection of scrunchies and hair ties in different sizes, colours and fabrics, so you have an option for different hairstyles and occasions. For heatless styling, choose an accessory that works comfortably with the way you are setting your hair and is suitable for the length and amount of hair you are working with.

Headbands

Headbands are a simple way to keep front sections away from the face while adding a stylish finishing touch. Different widths and styles create different looks, from flexible zig-zag bands to padded or fabric-covered designs.

For a comfortable fit, check the pressure around the ends and behind the ears, especially if you plan to wear your headband for several hours. If it slips or feels uncomfortable, try adjusting the placement or size rather than increasing the pressure.

Sectioning clips and pins

Sectioning clips hold unused hair while you detangle, blow-dry or style one area. Choose a length and grip that fits the section. No-crease clips may suit face-framing sections or makeup preparation when their use instructions support it. Bobby pins and French pins perform different jobs and require their own techniques.

Do not use a styling clip as if it were a high-capacity claw clip unless its design supports that job. Check for sharp edges, cracks, exposed springs or peeling surfaces.

Heatless styling tools

Heatless curlers shape the hair around or inside a form to create curls and waves without using a heated styling barrel. The final look can vary depending on your starting hair, section size, wrapping direction, tension, setting time and the styling products you use.

Always follow the product instructions for whether the curler should be used on dry, damp or otherwise approved hair. Wrap the hair with even, comfortable tension and, if you’re planning to sleep in the curler, make sure the product is specifically designed for overnight wear. When you’re ready to take it out, gently unwind the hair in reverse rather than pulling the curler through it.

he Brushworks Heatless Hair Curling Set is featured below as a great option to try. For the complete method, read How to Use Heatless Curlers.

Satin bonnets

A satin bonnet is designed to cover the hair while you sleep, helping to keep your hairstyle contained. When choosing one, consider the capacity, band design, adjustability, hairstyle and overall comfort. A bonnet that feels too small can be difficult to position, while one that is too loose may not stay in place. For the best fit, try it with the hairstyle you plan to wear underneath.

Satin pillowcases

A satin pillowcase covers the pillow rather than the hair directly, making it a popular option for anyone who prefers not to wear a hair accessory while sleeping. Its smooth surface can provide a gentler feel against the hair while allowing you to sleep comfortably without wearing a heatless styling tool. It can also be used alongside heatless styling accessories as part of an overnight routine.

Bonnet or pillowcase?

A satin bonnet is a great choice when you want to keep your hairstyle more contained and your hair tucked neatly away while you sleep. A satin pillowcase offers a simpler option, giving your hair a smooth, comfortable surface to rest against without wearing anything on your head. If you want to make the most of both, a satin bonnet and satin pillowcase can be used together as part of an overnight hair routine. 

Read Satin Bonnet or Satin Pillowcase for a more in-depth comparison.

Choose accessories by hair amount and style

When choosing a hair accessory, hair length isn’t the only thing to consider. Someone with long, fine hair may need a different size from someone with shorter, thicker hair, as the amount of hair being gathered can vary. For the best fit, try the accessory with the section of hair you plan to use in your actual style:

• full twist or bun;
• half-up section;
• face-framing section;
• working section during styling;
• decorative accessory

Care and storage

Keeping your hair accessories clean and well cared for can help keep them looking their best. Remove any trapped hair or visible product residue, following the washing instructions for fabrics and cleaning directions for hard accessories. Make sure everything is completely dry before storing.

Store hinged clips carefully so the teeth keep their shape, and keep satin accessories away from rough fastenings that could catch the fabric. It’s also worth keeping clean sleep accessories separate from styling tools with product on them, and storing heatless curlers without compressing them if this could affect their shape.