What to do with my long thick hair?

[Richtea67]

I have very dense long black wavy hair. It's currently bra strap length with quite a few layers in. I'd love to keep it longish, but I'm finding it a bit overwhelming to style. It's too thick and messy to wear down so I tie it up a lot (have to for work anyway). But it's so thick it's hurting my head, so spend the day taking it up and down which is annoying! Any ideas on getting rid of the weight, how to style it so I don't get a headache?? I'm so fed up with it currently I'm thinking of a major chop! If it matters I'm early 40's, don't really have a particular style as such. Something low maintenance would be good as have young kids and busy with work. Thanks!

This is a bit far out there... but I had the same problem and got an undercut! It's basically a shaved head but underneath. It's cool but not for everyone... my husband shaves it every 5 weeks or so. It's stopped my headaches which was the aim and my hair always made me hot which has reduced too. Have you tried a big clip? I wear them - much better than bobbles. Or maybe buy thinning scissors to thin your hair a bit? Never tried this so unsure if it's easy as DIY.

I don't think mine was as full as yours, it never hurt my head, but when I was younger hairdressers used to thin my hair. I don't know how that was done, but you could ask.

Thank you! I'm not sure I could pull off an undercut but it is a good idea! I have a couple of big claw clips but still find my hair too heavy. I think I'll get a couple of inches off and get them to hack away with the thinning scissors!

Undercut! I love mine, takes so much weight out and it's much cooler in summer.

I cut mine mid length - a few inches past shoulders It felt too short 4 months ago but now feels OK. I also get a lot of layering/thinning done.

My favourite up hair style at the moment is a low bun. Just twist and wrap and secure with a band. I put a nice scrunchie over it. Also started using non sulfate shampoo and conditioner and an anti frizz smoothing cream after washing. Makes a huge difference.

I have an undercut, but that is more a style choice than because of discomfort from tying my hair up. I do have thick hair though so can also relate to that sensation! How about plaiting your hair? Less weight pulling from the roots but would keep it neat.