How to Get a Short Swept Back Hairstyle

Who doesn’t love a new hairstyle? If you have short hair, you may feel as though you don’t have as many hair styling options as those with long hair. But don’t fret—we’re here to help! Switch up your beauty look by following these eight easy steps to get a short swept back hairstyle.

STEP #1: WASH YOUR MANE

As with any style, starting with a freshly washed head of hair usually makes things easier. To get this look, you’ll want to use a shampoo and conditioner that will keep your locks smooth and frizz-free. The L’Oréal Paris EverPure Frizz-Defy Shampoo and L’Oréal Paris Frizz-Defy Conditioner, which contain marula oil, give lasting frizz control when used together. Your hair will be left with smooth luminosity.

STEP #2: BLOW DRY IT

Once your hair is washed, blow drying it is key to get that swept back appearance you’re going for. Make sure to use a heat protectant to prevent damaged hair. The L’Oréal Paris Advanced Hairstyle BLOW DRY IT Thermal Smoother Cream will protect your hair against heat damage while de-frizzing and smoothing your locks. Squeeze a quarter size amount into the palm of your hand, apply it to your damp hair, and blow dry away! When blow-drying, make sure to blow your hair backwards so your hair dries in the direction of your desire style.

STEP #3: USE THE RIGHT PRODUCTS

Using the right hair style products makes all the difference. For this look, use a pomade or paste to create textured, swept back hair. The L’Oréal Paris Studio Line Overworked Hair Putty will texturize and help hold your hair in place. Squeeze a dime size amount into the palm of your hands, rub it between your palms, and apply it to your hair by running your fingers through your roots starting at the front of your head and working your way backwards. Use more product if needed to tame any fly-aways or stray strands.

STEP #4: SWEEP IT BACK

If you prefer, you can leave the ends of your hair down for your style. For an alternate, more swept-back look, pull your ends into a low bun or ponytail (if you have enough length).

STEP #5: SEAL THE DEAL

Now that your style is complete, you want to make sure it lasts all day and night. Grab a hair spray and spray away! The L’Oréal Paris Advanced Hairstyle BOOST IT High Lift Creation Spray will give your roots an instant lift while giving your style a strong yet workable hold throughout the day.  

Prefer a hair spray that gives a little shine? Reach for the L’Oréal Paris Elnett Precious Oil Satin Hairspray instead.

STEP #6: ADD AN ACCESSORY

While this is an optional step, adding an accessory can really pull this hairstyle together. Some fun ways to accessorize this look includes headbands, head wraps, and statement hair clips! Choose an accessory that matches your own personal style to add a little bit of your own flare to this beauty look.

Editor’s note: If you’re in need of some inspo, read our article, 5 Ways to Use Jeweled Hair Accessories.

STEP #7: SHOW OFF YOUR NEW STYLE

Your swept back hairstyle is complete! You can wear this versatile look to work, the bar, or simply to run errands. Be ready for plenty of compliments.

STEP #8: MAKE IT LAST

Want to rock this style again without going through the process twice? No worries! Grab your favorite dry shampoo to add instant life to your hair with just a few quick sprays. Try the L’Oréal Paris Elvive Extraordinary Clay Dry Shampoo. This dry shampoo is infused with 3 refined clays that will leave your hair looking and feeling refreshed and clean with no visible residue.

Liked reading about how to get this short hairstyle? Check out our article, Short Hairstyles That Will Inspire You to Cut Your Hair This Winter for more short hairstyle ideas to try!