The Best Way to Cover a Widow's Peak

By Valerie Monroe
Valerie Monroe
Photo: Patrik Andersson
Q: I've always battled my widow's peak. What kind of hairstyle is best to cover it?

A: Lucky you! Ever since I can remember, I've wanted a widow's peak; I think it adds character to a face. But I know that trying to hide it can limit your style options. Your two best bets are heavy bangs and a far side part, says Lisa Chiccine, a New York City hairstylist. Start by applying a styling gel (like Fekkai Coiff Extra Control Styling Gel, $23, or Suave Professionals Extra Hold Gel, $3) to your hair postshampoo, when it's still wet. For bangs, be sure to use the nozzle on your dryer and blow-dry with the setting on hot and high. Use a medium round brush (preferably one with nylon and boar bristles, which will help make your bangs straight and shiny) to dry the bangs from roots to ends. For a far side part, do the same with the styling gel and the dryer settings, but use a paddle brush, which should make it easier to dry your hair in the direction you want it to go.

Bottom line: A good styling gel and a hot blow-dryer will keep your widow's peak under wraps.

Beauty 101

From the July 2009 issue of O, The Oprah Magazine