People love Charles Leclerc's post race interviews for many reasons; his driving breakdowns, piercing stare, his Monaco born charm. Yet somehow, his helmet hair has developed its own fanbase.
By Helena Madonna
The Formula 1 paddock is not only home to some of world's best drivers but some of the sexiest helmet hair. So how do they do it? How do they transform sweat drenched, flattened hair into something sexy?
You may've only known helmet hair to be inevitably unflattering. Flattened roots, seeped in sweat beneath your helmet can be hard to bounce back from. Fortunately, this is preventable and we're going to show you how.
Use lightweight products only
Thick oils and heavy creams mixed with heat and friction equals limp roots. Think flexible texture sprays,
lightweight mousses, dry shampoos or anti-humidity sprays instead.
Never put a helmet on freshly heat styled hair
Hot hair reshapes easily under pressure. Let blow outs cool completely otherwise you'll set dents into your hair.
Dry shampoo before putting on your helmet, not after.
This is one of the best tips. Applying it beforehand absorbs sweat and oil as it develops rather than trying to rescue greasy roots later.
Silk or satin helmet liners are underrated.
They reduce friction, static, tangling and the roughed cuticle effect that makes hair look fluffy or crushed.
Flip your part before putting the helmet on
Then flip it back afterwards for an instant root lift.
Avoid tight root tension underneath
Super tight styles create obvious ridges once the helmet comes off. Softer tension holds shape better.
HELMET PROOF HAIR STYLES
Low, Sleek Bun
Sitting comfortably at the nape, this sleek style will prevent knotting, protect your ends and will keep
your hair looking intentional even once the helmet comes off. The key to this buns success is keeping it
soft, not ballet tight.
Loose Braid
Simply the best option. A loose braid is an elegant way to minimise tangling beneath your helmet. It's also gentle on your strands and will leave them with a soft wave once undone.
Claw Clip (before or after only)
Although this is not ideal for underneath your helmet, its perfect for transitioning. It allows you to quickly twist hair up after taking your helmet off to reshape bends and volume while moving between places.
SHORT HAIR TIPS
Short or pixie styles tend to flatten at the crown, get fluffy around the hairline and tends to separate through the fringe. It may seem impossible to prevent your short hair resembling your helmet, however there are a few tricks that can help:
Matte Paste
A pea size amount through the roots before your helmet goes on will add a little grip. It'll allow for
texture and memory so once the helmet comes off, you can rework the shape easily.
Texture Spray
This is your helmet hair's reset button, it'll add airy volume to smooshed roots. Pack a travel size in your bag for on the go quick fixes.
Finger Combing Over Brushing
A brush can make helmet hair look fluffier, frizzier or more static. Finger combing lets you lift and separate the hair without destroying natural texture.
Lean Into The 'Lived In' Texture
Once hair has been beneath your helmet, forcing it back into a perfect shape can sometimes make it look worse. Working with the bends, separation and slight messiness makes the style feel more deliberate.
