Disney holds a special place in the heart of just about every kid across the world. Through books, comics, television shows, toys and other paraphernalia, and even grand amusement parks—Disney has been able to colour the dreams and imaginations of children for decades now. Especially for girls, there is perhaps no other franchise (with the possible exception of ‘Barbie’) that has been able to influence their young, impressionable minds on ideas of beauty in a way that Disney’s princesses have.

Right from the sassy Jasmine (from ‘Aladdin’) to the indomitable spirit of Merida (from ‘Brave’), the traits of Disney princesses have inspired countless young girls to hope, to aspire for their own magical world (complete with their perfect Prince Charming, of course!). As much as there is to learn from these pathfinders, taking care of one’s hair is the one lesson that is perhaps common in all their stories.

Here are some of the hair care and styling tips and tricks that these Disney princesses swear by...

 

Curls are cool

Curls are cool

One look at Merida, the warrior princess of DunBroch, will tell you that she is no damsel in distress. Loyal to the core, with mad warfare skills and a free spirit, she wears her red fiery curls with pride and certain degree of panache. For every young wild and free girl spirit that the world has tried to tame, Merida is reminder that there is nothing that a strong willed woman can’t accomplish, especially if she’s donning a fiery red curly mane.

 

Brush hair for long detangled locks

Brush hair for long detangled locks

If there’s one thing that’s common between all the Disney princesses, it is their gorgeously long locks (Snow White perhaps being the only exception). Maintaining such long tresses is no child’s play and yet you see how Pocahontas manages it with utmost grace. However, don’t overdo the brushing part and also, even though the sea princess Ariel might be able pull it off using a fork, we’d suggest you make use of a comb (preferably a wide toothed, wooden one).

 

Top knots aren’t for the faint hearted

Top knots aren’t for the faint hearted

If there’s something men can do, women can do it better. The brave Mulan taking on the mighty Huns epitomizes this idea, and does it with unmatched grace. But if you’re going to war (or to the workplace), you can’t really afford to have your hair coming onto your face, distracting you every now and then. How does Mulan deal with it? She ties it up into a top knot, jumps onto a horse and rides into battle (the other rather scary option would be to chop off your tresses). Watch and learn, ladies!

 

Let those wet tresses dry naturally

Let those wet tresses dry naturally

Disney princesses have a special bond with nature, whether it is singing to the birds and the mice or just enjoying the pure serenity of the deep woods, and this bond is perhaps the strongest with Pocahontas, the Native American princess (she’s the chieftain’s daughter). A free-spirit in the wild, Pocahontas isn’t one to shy away from an adventure and loves feeling the wind in her long, black tresses. An excellent way to dry your hair after a dip in the river, but we’re pretty sure it works just as well after a shower. We’d recommend you take a page out of her book and stay away from those blow dryers (and other heat-based tools). Let the wind spirits do the work for you. Image credit: Pinterest