How to Make Peace with Your Cowlick

(Instead of Waging War Every Morning)

Let’s set the scene: it’s 8 a.m. in Denver. You’ve got your coffee, your curling iron, and your spirit half-crushed by the same patch of hair that’s been fighting you since middle school. Yep—we're talking about the cowlick. That rebellious swirl (or as we lovingly call it at Forma, the hair butthole) that does whatever the hell it wants.

But what if—stay with me—you stopped fighting your cowlick... and started vibing with it?

Here’s your guide to making peace with that stubborn little squiggle—straight from a stylist who sees them daily in the chair at our Denver hair salon.

What Even Is a Cowlick?

Basically, it’s your hair’s way of giving you the finger. Cowlicks happen when hair grows in a different direction than the rest of your strands, usually at the crown, hairline, or nape. They're genetic, unpredictable, and kind of like having a built-in weather vane on your scalp.

But hear us out: cowlicks are also like natural volume, personality, and movement—all rolled into one tiny, defiant swirl. So let’s talk strategy.

1. The Side Part Shuffle

Trying to force a middle part over a front cowlick? That’s a battle you won’t win without tears. Instead, listen to your hair. Let it lead you into a side part—it’s more flattering, looks intentional, and gives instant cool-girl energy. Suddenly, you’re less “fighting the forces of evil” and more “French movie star wandering through Capitol Hill.”

2. Curtain Bangs: Cowlick Catnip

Thinking about bangs but your cowlick says “absolutely not”? Don’t go full blunt bang unless you’re emotionally prepared. Instead, try curtain bangs—the holy grail for cowlick-havers in Denver and beyond. They work with the natural swirl, not against it, and bonus: they’re very 1970s Jane Birkin meets modern TikTok chic.

3. Texture Is Your Best Friend

If your cowlick is trying to steal the spotlight, distract it with a little razzle-dazzle. Think beachy waves, lived-in texture, or that perfectly undone look that says, “Yeah, I woke up like this” (but like… with a little dry shampoo magic). Use texture sprays, light pomades, or whatever’s in your stylist’s “make it look effortless” toolkit.

4. Blow-Dry Like a Denver Pro

Here’s the tea: cowlicks only win if you let them dry naturally. The second you’re out of the shower, hit them with a blow dryer and round brush. Direct the hair where you want it to go while it's still damp—because once it’s dry, it’s basically set in stone. Bonus points for using a little styling cream to seal the deal (ask your stylist—we’ve got faves).

Final Thoughts: Your Cowlick Is Not Your Villain

It’s not cursed. It’s not evil. It’s just misunderstood.

At Forma Collective Hair Studio in Denver, we believe in styling with what you’ve got—and that includes your cowlick. Instead of spending 20 minutes every morning trying to force your hair into submission, let’s find a cut or style that lets it do its thing (but like, in a cute, intentional way).

So next time your cowlick acts up, remember:
You’re not losing a battle—you’re embracing your main character energy. 💁‍♀️✨

Ready to Tame Your Cowlick (Without Losing Your Mind)?

Book a session with us at Forma—your go-to Denver hair salon for real talk, good hair, and zero judgment. Let's make peace with your hair. Together.