Preventing Headset Hair Tips and Tricks

If you're a gamer, work from home, or simply enjoy listening to music, you're familiar with the struggle. You've had your headset on for a few hours and you're totally in the zone. You finally remove it, catch a glimpse of yourself, and there it is: that silly dent going straight across the top of your hair, a perfect imprint of your headband.

It's a small price to pay for decent audio, but it's super annoying, especially if you have to jump onto a video call. The good news is, you don't have to live with it. This guide will show you some simple tricks to stop headset hair from happening and how to fix it in a flash when it does.

What's Actually Causing That Dent?

Before we get to the fixes, it helps to know what’s actually happening up there. Headset hair is just the result of two things: pressure and a little bit of moisture.

The headband on your headset is constantly pushing against your hair. Over time, that pressure, along with the natural heat and moisture of your scalp, actually flattens and molds your hair into that dented shape. Hair is quite malleable when it's even a little bit warm or wet, which is why the problem is so much worse when you're wearing your headset with your hair not completely dry.

The First Step: Choose a Hair-Friendly Headset

Not all headsets are equal when it comes to dent. When purchasing a new headset, the shape can make an enormous difference.

Look for a Wide or "Suspension" Headband

The most guilty culprit of headset hair is a thin, rigid headband that focuses all its weight on one thin line. Much better is a headset with a broad, pliable band that distributes that pressure across a larger area.

Even more comfortable are headsets that have a "suspension"-type headband. These feature a rigid outer band and a soft, elastic inner strap that's the only part that actually comes into contact with your head. This style is great at spreading the weight and is much less likely to leave a deep impression.

A Lighter Headset Is Your Friend

This is basic physics. The more a headset weighs, the harder it needs to press down in order to remain in place. When shopping for a new one, see if it's been marketed as lightweight. Not only is a lighter headset more comfortable during long sessions, but it also exerts less pressure on your hair. If you're in the market for a new headset, knowing which specific features to prioritize can help you find the perfect balance between comfort and performance.

The Foolproof Option: Earbuds

If you want to circumvent the problem altogether, the easiest thing to do is not to wear anything on your head in the first place. Some good gaming earbuds or in-ear monitors (IEMs) can give you amazing sound without ever touching the top of your hair. This is a great choice if you're especially prone to headset hair or just prefer to always have your hair looking presentable.. Of course, many gamers and professionals still prefer over-ear options for their superior sound isolation and immersive experience despite the potential hair issues.

A Few Simple Hair Tricks Before You Put Your Headset On

The simplest way to fight headset hair is to stop it before it starts. There are several styling shortcuts that can help a lot.

Make Sure Your Hair Is 100% Dry

This is the golden rule. As we mentioned, damp hair is extremely easy to mold. Even if your hair is dry to the touch, any remaining moisture will be trapped beneath the headband and effectively steam-set a perfect crease into your hair. Always ensure that your hair is totally dry before a long session.

Style Your Hair to Create a Buffer

You can utilize your hairstyle as a defense.

• Try a Different Part: If you usually part your hair on the left side, try parting it on the right side before wearing your headset. When you take it off later and flip your hair back, the roots will be more voluminous.
• The Ponytail or Bun Trick: For long hair, tying it in a high ponytail or bun exactly where the headband would go does the trick. The headband lies on your hair tie rather than on your scalp.
• Wear a Thin Beanie or Headband: A soft, thin beanie or a simple cloth headband can act like a cushion, spreading the pressure.

A Little Bit of Product Goes a Long Way

A little hair product can help your hair fight back. Before you put your headset on, try working a bit of volumizing mousse or a texture spray into your roots. This gives your hair some structure and makes it harder to flatten. You can also try a little dry shampoo on your roots beforehand to soak up any oil or moisture.

Small Adjustments While You're Wearing It

A couple of small things you do during your session can also help.

First, attempt to adjust the position of the headband every half hour or so. Simply move it slightly forward or backward from where it normally sits. This prevents the pressure from remaining in the same exact location for hours.

Second, give yourself a short break. Once an hour, if possible, remove your headset for five minutes. Use your fingers to run through your hair, fluffing out the roots and separating any dent that is beginning to happen. This allows your scalp and hair to breathe for a while.

The Quick Fix: How to Get Rid of a Dent Fast

Alright, so you neglected to do all of that, and you've got a huge dent in your hair, and you need to be presentable in ten minutes. Don't worry. The following are a few simple solutions.

• The Water Trick: This is the simplest and most effective way. Simply dampen your fingers, rub the water into the dented roots of your hair, and puff it up. You don't have to soak it; simply make it slightly damp. Allow it to air dry for a minute or blast it with a blow dryer for 20 seconds. The water makes your hair return to its original form.
• The Blow Dryer Method: If you have a blow dryer handy, use your fingers to lift the flattened hair. Point the dryer (on warm setting) at the roots for 20-30 seconds only as you fluff it. The heat and air will revive the volume in an instant.
• Dry Shampoo Is a Lifesaver: This is a miracle worker for headset hair. Pick up the flat areas and spray some dry shampoo directly at the roots. Leave it for a minute, then use your fingertips to actually massage it into your scalp. It will absorb any oil and add instant volume, making the dent vanish.

Summary of Avoiding "Headphone Hair"

Headset hair is annoying, but it doesn't have to be a part of your look. With the right gear, some preparation, and some fast fixes, you can easily keep your hair presentable. A little prevention is all that's required so that the only thing you're left with after a great gaming session or successful workday with your gaming headset is the experience itself, not some odd mark on your hair.