If your hair is thick or coarse and not naturally silky, you might think that you don’t have many options when it comes to hair styles. That’s not necessarily true; with some styling tips and tricks, you don’t have to stick with that same old short haircut. While you’re bemoaning your thick hair, other women are probably wishing they had your hair type; thick hair has a lot of body and lends itself naturally to many different cuts and styles.

A good haircut is essential if you have thick hair. Layers are perfect for thick or coarse hair – layering gives thick hair shape and makes styling easier. When layered right, your hair will frame your face and your hair will be thinned out just enough to establish more control over your thick hair. Don’t get your layers too short – you don’t want your hair sticking straight out.

Always, always condition your hair. Thick, coarse hair tends to be dry hair, and it is important to keep it nourished. Use a deep-conditioning treatment once a week, and a leave in conditioner for dry hair the rest of the time.

If you want a straight, sleek hair style, use a blow dryer with a diffuser to dry your hair. Use a round brush to dry it in sections while you blow dry. Once it’s dry, use a flatiron to smooth your hair if you wish. It will smooth the cuticle and make your hair shiny, as a bonus. Chi makes the best ceramic flatiron, in my opinion.

If you’ve got a special evening planned, and you want an easy, elegant hair style for your thick or coarse hair: Just gather your hair behind your head and twist. (You can do the twist low or high, it’s your preference.) Then use bobby pins to anchor your twist and give it a finishing mist of hairspray.

Thick, coarse hair might be harder to style, but it has lots of benefits, too. What do you do to style your thick hair? Have any tips for me? Reach me on twitter, Facebook, or just leave a comment here on the blog.