Hair tinsel, also known as "fairy hair," is a decorative trend where ultra-fine, shimmering strands of synthetic fiber are tied or secured using a bead into the natural hair to create a sparkling effect. Available in hundreds of colors, these lightweight, heat-resistant strands can be washed, curled, and styled!

• Slip-Knot (Hand-Tying): The most common technique. A stylist or user creates a small slip-knot with the tinsel, loops a tiny section (about 3 to 5 strands) of natural hair through it, and slides the knot flush against the scalp, securing it with a double knot. lasting up to 2 weeks.

• Micro-Bead (Microlinks): Often preferred for longer wear, this method uses a tiny silicone-lined bead to clamp the tinsel to the hair root using professional pliers, lasting up to a month.

Gentle Brushing

• Use a wide-toothed comb or soft bristle brush.

• Start at the ends and work your way up, carefully brushing around the tinsel strands.

 Styling With Heat

• Yes, you can use heat! Most quality hair tinsel is heat-safe up to 400°F.

• Use a heat protectant spray before blow drying, straightening, or curling.

• Use low to medium settings to extend the lifespan of your tinsel.

 Washing & Drying

• Wash and condition your hair as usual—fairy hair is water-safe!

• Be gentle when towel drying. Avoid rubbing the hair; instead, pat it dry to prevent tugging.

 Avoid Pulling or Tugging

• Be mindful during high-friction activities like tight ponytails or sleeping on coarse pillowcases. (A silk pillowcase is your fairy hair’s best friend!)

Bead Method

If your tinsel is held in place by a tiny silicone or metal bead at your scalp: 

1. Find the bead: Separate your hair until you see the small bead locking the tinsel to your natural hair. 

2. Grab pliers: Use a pair of flat or needle-nose pliers.

3. Pinch the bead: Place the pliers on the two flattened outer edges of the bead. Gently squeeze in the opposite direction (from flat to round) to pop the bead open. 

4. Slide it out: Once the bead is loose, gently slide the tinsel and bead down the hair shaft. Do not tug on the hair, as this can cause damage.

Knot Method

If the tinsel is tied directly to your hair in a small slip knot: 

1. Isolate the strand: Lift the tinsel strand and separate it from the rest of your hair to find the knot right at the root.

2. Support the hair: Hold your natural hair firmly right against your scalp with one hand. 

3. Slide the knot: With your other hand, pinch the knot with your fingernails and gently slide it downward. It should slip off the natural hair without pulling. 

4. Alternative (Cutting): Alternatively, carefully use small, sharp scissors to snip the tinsel strand as close to the scalp root as possible, then gently comb the leftover pieces out. 

Nervous to take it out on your own? You can always message me on instagram, or facebook for more help or you can always come into the salon and I can take it out for you!