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Shape short hair with styling paste

Choose styling paste when short hair needs more shape or separation, such as a lifted front or a few defined pieces. The paste you choose determines the hold and shine.

Step by step

  1. A woman holds an open jar steady in one hand while lifting a small trace of styling paste with her other index fingertip.
    STEP 1 OF 5

    Take a small amount

    • Start with dry hair and clean, dry hands. Check that your paste can be used on dry hair and read its directions for the starting amount.
    • Open the jar with clean hands. Hold it steadily while lifting a small starting amount with one fingertip, following the label.
    • Set the jar and its lid on a dry, steady counter before spreading the paste between your hands.
  2. A woman rubs a small amount of styling paste between her palms and fingertips to spread a thin film.
    STEP 2 OF 5

    Spread it over your hands

    • Rub your palms and fingertips together until the paste forms a thin, even film.
    • Spread out any blobs left on your fingers before touching your hair.
  3. A woman uses her fingertips to work styling paste through a small area at the crown of her short hair.
    STEP 3 OF 5

    Work through one small area

    • Choose a reachable area, such as the front or crown. Guide your coated fingertips through the hair from near the roots toward the tips, keeping them off the scalp.
    • The other hand can steady the hair. Use what remains on your hands for the next area you want to shape. Check the first pass before taking more paste.
  4. A woman pinches one short front piece of her dark hair into place with two fingertips.
    STEP 4 OF 5

    Direct the pieces

    • Lightly hold a small piece between two fingertips. Lift it for height or turn it in the direction you want it to sit, then let go.
    • Repeat with just the pieces you want to define. For curls or coils, shape a small group together rather than pulling its strands apart.
  5. A woman with short dark hair lowers both hands after shaping the lifted front pieces with styling paste.
    STEP 5 OF 5

    Let go and check the shape

    • Lower your hands and look at the overall shape in a fixed mirror, if you use one. The pieces should sit where you want them, without visible blobs of paste.
    • If one area needs more hold, use a little product left on your fingertips there first. Add another small amount only if needed and the hair does not feel coated or sticky.
    • Stop once you have the shape you want. Close the jar, wash your hands and wipe paste from the jar or counter.

About 1–3 minutes to take and spread paste, shape a few areas, check the result and wash your hands. Any washing or drying beforehand is extra.

Unmeasured editorial estimate. Reading directions, a larger number of areas or a detailed finish can take longer.

You’re done when…

The pieces sit in the direction you want after you release them, with no visible blobs of paste. Firmness and shine depend on the product.