20 inspiring Asian hairstyles you’ll love

Unlike the stereotype, not all Asian hair is fine and silky. As many Asian girls will attest, their hair can be coarse, thick, and difficult to style. But, of course, that doesn’t mean that Asian hair is impossible to work with. In fact, far from it!

Whether you’ve been blessed with thin, glossy locks or thick, dry tresses, we’re here to help you learn how to work with your texture. Just sneak a peek at our edit of the best Asian hairstyles, below.

20 of the best Asian hairstyles

1. Thin, straight and glossy

This Asian hair type can be difficult to style, as extremely silky, straight hair tends to hold curls and heated styles less easily. But if you’ve been blessed with long, glossy hair – embrace it!

2. Fine, straight and short

If you have straight Asian hair that’s thin and fine, opt for a shoulder-grazing lob. Bobs and their longer counterparts look super chic with straight hair, and since you won’t need to spend time straightening your tresses in the morning, a long bob is a practical and stylish hairstyle to choose.

Editor’s tip:  Try using the VO5 Tame & Shine Spray to give your locks a beautiful, glossy sheen.

3. Straight with medium thickness

If you have straight Asian hair with a medium thickness, why not think about playing around with your parting to switch up your look?

4. Wavy with medium thickness

For Asian hair with a medium thickness that dries with loose waves, why not try an understated wavy hairstyle like this number, above?

Next read: 5 ways to create flawless waves. 

5. Thick and coarse

A choppy fringe and layers work brilliantly on thick, coarse Asian hair: layers will help to lighten heavy lock, making it easier to style and manage. Ask your hairdresser to chop an additional few layers around your face, to help frame your features.

As for fringes, opt for a choppy style that’s just over-grown in length for effortless, rather than bouncy, bangs.

6. Thick and curly

If you have thick and curly Asian hair, you can totally pull off this look, above. Simply create a side part and pin back the shallow side using a bobby pin (flower optional).

Fluff out your curls using your fingers for added volume. You’ll be sure to have heads turning wherever you go!

7. Bob with layers

Now, since Asian hair is often ultra straight and sleek, you may be in need of a way to give your mane a little extra volume and texture, right? And one of the easiest ways to do this, is by adding soft, short layers, which will instantly uplift your locks, and give them some subtle depth and dimension.

Editor’s tip: If you have especially thin or fine hair, try spritzing your layered look with the Toni&Guy Sea Salt Texturising Spray, for a lovely lived-in finish!

8. Crimped

If you love a #throwback look as much as we do, then you’ll be pleased to know, that ’80s-style hair is having a major fashion moment right now!

The number one retro hair look on our style radar is crimping of course! But don’t worry, this hair trend has been given a contemporary update, with smaller and (arguably) chicer crimping. Phew!

Next read: Why you need to take another look at ’80s hair crimping. 

9. Long bob

Love the idea of rocking a beautiful bob, but not ready to give up your hard-earned length? Well, the lob (AKA the long bob) could be the answer.

Wearing this utterly stylish haircut is a great way to tap into the bob hair trend, without going the whole hog! Not only that, but you’ll be pleased to know, that the lob is just as versatile as its shorter cousin. Result!

10. Wavy bob

Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to have ultra long locks to work luscious, flowing waves! In fact, they make an ideal hairstyle to rock with a bob since the waves instantly add tonnes of interest and texture to your cropped ‘do.

Editor’s tip: Before grabbing your curling tong or straighteners, don’t forget to protect your hair from excess heat damage, by using a heat protectant. We particularly love the TRESemmé Biotin + Repair 7 Primer Spray which safeguards your hair from the temperatures of your heated styling tools.

11. Side swept pixie

Currently rocking short hair and need some style inspiration? Check out this side-swept pixie. The key to this short style is to add volume to the front of your hair by using a volumising spray.

12. Crown braid

Want a braided style with minimal fuss? Then you’ll love the crown braid. From festivals, brunch to weddings, this uncomplicated style will be sure to impress.

Next read: Learn how to master the crown braid with our tutorial. 

13. Braided pigtails

We love this simple braided look for a quick style update, no matter the occasion.

14. Colourful

Looking for a way to really spice up your classic bob? Then why not add a little colour to your look? Thanks to the usually dark base colour of Asian hair, opting for bold and bright hues in your tresses makes for an incredibly stylish look that’s full of contrast!

Editor’s tip: If you’re thinking of colouring your hair, be sure to use a wash and care system formulated with coloured tresses in mind. We love the Love Beauty and Planet Blooming Colour Shampoo and Conditioner duo.

The deeply nourishing formula is infused with organic Muru Muru Butter which helps to deliver a healthy shine whilst protecting coloured hair.

15. Donut space buns

Are short strands stopping you from having flawless buns? Then we suggest using hair donuts to help create perfect buns each and every time.

16. Beehive

Get the feel of retro hair by trying a beehive style. This ’60s-inspired half-up is all you need for a special occasion.

Next read: Create the ultimate beehive with our tutorial. 

17. Blowout hair

From family gatherings to date night, blowout hair is the one look that will work no matter the event.

18. Layered pixie

We love the combination of choppy layers with an oval-shaped face, as it not only makes for a super flattering look, but it also helps to frame and add definition to your face. Credit: @GaryNgHair

19. Graduated lob

This hairstyle has captured the hearts and minds of women everywhere – which shouldn’t come as a shock, seriously, just look at it!

The long bob (AKA the lob) is a versatile middie cut that works with almost every face shape. You can even add a little point of difference by graduating the cut for an ultra sleek and modern aesthetic. Credit: @karina_divas_

Next read: Not sure if medium lengths are for you? Read our 10 Reasons to love mid-length hair article. 

20. Long and layered

Can’t bear to give up your long locks? No worries, we’ve got long hairstyles in our exclusive list too! To nail this long and layered style, just ask your hairdresser to retain your length, and to work short subtle layers into your tresses.

Going for a truly casual look? Lightly curl the ends of your hair with a curling wand or straighteners, as this will help to soften the overall look and feel of the hairstyle. Easy peasy, right? Credit: @essensualslondonseattle