How to fake a full bun with thin hair without extensions

You will build a big, polished bun that looks full even on fine, thin hair, using a hair donut or rolled sock and careful pinning instead of extensions. It suits beginners getting ready for a wedding, party or formal event. You need a hair tie, bobby pins, a bun pad and about 15 minutes.

How to Fake a Full Bun with Thin Hair, by DIY Hairschool on YouTube. 5 min 57 s.

Video length
5 min 57 s
Time to do it
15 minutes
Difficulty
Easy
Steps
8

What you need

Steps

  1. Start with dry hair and mist in a texturizing spray or dry shampoo. This adds grip so fine hair does not slide out of the bun.

  2. Brush your hair back into a ponytail where you want the bun to sit. A high ponytail gives a rounder shape, while a low ponytail looks sleeker.

  3. Smooth the top and sides with a little gel or styling cream, then tie the ponytail with a hair tie close to your hair colour.

  4. Slide a hair donut or rolled sock over the ponytail and push it down to the base. Match the pad to your hair colour so it hides easily.

  5. Lightly tease the ponytail, then spread the hair evenly over the donut in sections. Tuck the ends under the pad as you go.

  6. Pin each section around the donut with bobby pins, catching the pad and the hair. Add extra pins anywhere the bun feels loose.

  7. Gently pull out small loops of hair and pin them to make the bun look wider. Leave a few soft pieces around your face if you like.

  8. Finish with a light hold hairspray and smooth flyaways with your fingers or a soft brush. Check the bun in a mirror from the side.

Tips and common mistakes

Do not pull the ponytail too tight at the roots if you want a bigger, softer bun.

Use bobby pins with a wavy or ridged side, as they grip fine hair better than smooth pins.

Place a high bun on top of the head to add height, or a low bun at the nape for a sleek formal look.

If the donut peeks through, cover it with a thin section of hair and pin the ends underneath.

Questions

Can I make a full bun without a hair donut?

Yes. A rolled sock or a pair of thick scrunchies can add volume, but a donut gives the most even shape.

How do I stop a bun falling out of thin hair?

Use texturizing spray, tie the ponytail firmly, and pin through the pad in several directions. Cross two pins into an X for extra hold.

Will this work on short thin hair?

It works best if your ponytail reaches the base of the bun. If your hair is very short, use a smaller donut and pin the ends tightly.

This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.

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