How To Do Perfect Prom Hairstyles

Every girl wants to look photo perfect for prom night. 

So, where do you start to create the perfect look for this very special occasion.

If this is the first time you've attended a formal event, other than a wedding, it's worth remembering that any hair style is easy to create, if you simply know how!

Preparing for Prom

One of the little known secrets of the celebrities is just how much work goes into getting their hair in great condition, literally weeks and months before any big red carpet occassion.

Start with a deep conditioning treatment , typically these are products which stay on your hair for 15-20 minutes, with a plastic cap or wrap to keep the moisture and warmth in.

Remember to make sure someone else can answer the door for that time!

After the time is up, rinse your hair with warm water several times until the water runs clear, dry as usual. If you can leave to dry naturally, this would be even better, if you have time and patience.

If you've got problem hair - split ends or breaking, it's time to visit the hair salon and get those ends cut off . No amount of treatment or conditioner will repair the damage, so drastic action is called for.

If your budget allows, have your hair trimmed or cut at least a fortnight before prom night. This allows both you and your hair time to adjust to the new cut or style and for you to feel confident in knowing how to style it.

Countdown to Prom 

2-3 weeks before - buy any hair accessories, clips, bands that you want to wear to create your chosen style.  Choose and purchase a product to help hold your hair in place - either a light styling gel, hairspray or "gentle hold" type of product.

1 week before - give the last conditioning treatment.  Meet up with friends and spend a day or an evening experimenting with different styles, trying on your dresses and seeing what kind of makeup look you want to create. 

Still need ideas of hairstyles & designs?  Simply browse our pictures of prom updos or dresses.

Test your "hold" product - see how much or little of it you need to give hold without making it look too firm or fixed in place.

2 days before - wash and condition your hair, leaving your usual conditioner on for a good five minutes.  Once dry, give your hair a good brush to stimulate the scalp and ensure that the natural oils benefit each hair and follicle.

Prom Night - if possible, wash your hair, followed by a conditioning treatment, early in the day. 

Give yourself plenty of time to get ready.  Make sure you have everything to hand - your dress, jewelry, shoes or sandals, wrap or bolero (for cool evenings) .

As long as you can put your dress on without having to pull it over your head, go ahead and start creating your hair style, whether it's the formal updo, chignon, half up half down 'do' or simply your own hair beautifully styled.

However, if you need to put your dress over your head, then you're going to need to do one of two things.  Either be very careful when doing so, or put your dress on before starting to style your hair.

You can get your hair ready at least an hour or two before you're due to leave, with a little styling product in it, it should hold for several hours. 

Finally, it's time for makeup - use an invisible type of foundation, subtle blusher and make the most of your eyes for the evening.

Add any accessories in the last hour or so, pinning them in place carefully.  You're likely to be dancing, so make sure they're firmly and securely in place!

It's time for one final look in the mirror, before posing for one or two family photos dressed in your finery - before leaving for what should be one of the most memorable nights of your life !

Recommended Resources

Half Up Prom Hairstyles - the half up, half down look is a very popular feminine look

Prom Up Dos - the classic & elegant hairstyle for more formal occasions