If there's one thing I'm not confident in, it's doing my hair. The only 'dos I can actually do are down, and it usually only looks good because I have a fancy Dyson AirWrap. On in-between wash days, I try to attempt a sleek, low bun, which often turns out riddled with flyaways and stray hairs that stick straight up due to my breakage.

So, I did what anyone would do and turned to social media to find useful hair tutorials. During my search, I kept seeing people with immaculate buns on TikTok — turns out many of them were smoothing down loose strands with this hair wax stick from Amazon. Since it was so affordable — under $7 right now — I thought I'd try it on my unruly hair, hoping I'd look just as chic.

Samnyte Hair Wax Stick

What to know

I know what you’re thinking: “Why doesn’t she just use some gel?” I’ve tried but haven’t found a product that doesn’t leave a hard cast. Those types of products leave my hair feeling overly stiff and greasy, and I have to move up wash day, which then throws my whole hair schedule off. This wax stick, on the other hand, is a game-changer.

How I tried the Samnyte Hair Wax Stick

After doing my own research, I saw that the wax stick has over 58,000 reviews and holds the number one spot in bestsellers for Hair Styling Waxes. I also liked that it contains castor oil and avocado oil; I feel like it's styling and hydrating my hair, which I'm on board with.

The newly upgraded formula also contains beeswax, vitamin E and other plant nutrients. So while it is an affordable product, the ingredients alone tell you that you'll be getting a quality experience.

It was love at first use for this product. It’s so easy to apply and doesn’t create a mess. It reminds me of a deodorant stick or a push-pop popsicle for hair. You just gently push the bottom to raise the wax, then gently smooth out flyways and strays.

Why I like it

It’s mess-free and fool-proof

According to the brand, "only a small amount is needed," and they're right. In my experience, you just apply a gentle swoop to transfer the product where needed and then pat with your fingers, or smooth with a brush.

I tied my hair back like normal and applied it near my hairline and part (this is where most of my breakage shows). I went from a messy, low bun with hair refusing to stay down, to a sleek, celeb-worthy bun.

You can easily take it on the go

Another win? It’s compact and travel-friendly! There are so many times I have to leave my go-to products behind on trips because they’re in big aerosol bottles or packaging past the liquid-ounce limit. This wax stick fits in the palm of my hand and doesn’t break any TSA rules. I also love throwing it in my work bag for times when I need to put my hair up halfway through the day or if I’m headed to a workout class.

Applying the Samnyte Hair Wax StickCourtesy Shannon Garlin

What to consider

Although it tames my flyaways, the stick does leave a slightly oily residue behind, but I much prefer that to the hard, flaky cast that gels leave behind, and I don’t feel like I need to wash my hair right away. So at the end of the day, it is up to your personal styling preferences.

Who is the Samnyte Hair Wax Stick best for?

From busy mornings to growing out bangs, this product is a lifesaver for anyone who needs a quick hairstyle or to stretch their hair wash schedule. And with the summer weather inching forward, the slick-back bun will be my go-to 'do to keep cool and chic. If you're looking for the same convenience, this product will come in handy.

Why trust Shop TODAY?

The Shop TODAY editors and writers search the internet to find the best products out there. We interview expert sources and use our own personal experiences with the product and brand to make shopping easier for our readers.

Shannon Garlin is an associate editor for Shop TODAY. She has been with the team for over three years, covering a wide range of topics, including product reviews, viral beauty and sales.