Zitan Wood Ginkgo Leaf Hair Stick
Zitan Wood Ginkgo Leaf Hair Stick
- Material: Zitan wood (also known as black sandalwood) + resin
- Length: 180mm / 7.1 inches
- Best for hair type: All hair volumes, fine through thick
- Recommended hair length: Armpit length / 18 in / 45 cm
- Optimal hair length: Bra-strap to waist / 22-30 in / 55-75 cm
- Shaft note: Dense and rigid, avoid soaking in water
- Skill level: Easy to learn - most users get a secure hold within 2-3 tries
- Best occasions: Daily wear, office, hanfu styling, gifting
- Technique: Resin-to-wood joint fused before shaping
- Origin: Handmade in China
The Craft: Resin-Zitan Wood Joint
The transparent resin fan is fused to the zitan wood stem before final shaping, not glued after. Gold flecks are embedded in the resin in a radial pattern from the base outward. The joint is seamless and integrated, with no visible seam or adhesive line.
Zitan wood is dense and dark, with natural grain that varies between pieces. The resin portion has a smooth, slightly rippled texture and scalloped edges, mimicking a ginkgo leaf.
The Zitan Wood
Zitan, also called black sandalwood, was prized in Ming and Qing dynasty furniture for its density and deep color. It comes pre-treated with protective oil. The wood's natural dark tones can range from deep purple-brown to near-black, with subtle grain visible under light.
Expect variation in wood grain and resin clarity — these are marks of a handmade piece, not defects. The gold fleck pattern is unique to each stick.
Fit & Care
Works well for all hair volumes, including very thick and heavy hair. The rigid zitan shaft holds weight without flexing. For those with fine or shoulder-length hair, a shorter stick may be more comfortable — see our short hair stick collection.
Care: Wipe gently with a soft cloth. Avoid soaking in water or exposing to prolonged moisture. Store away from direct heat.
Q: I've never used a hair stick before — is it difficult to learn?
Not at all. Most people get a secure hold within 2–3 tries. The basic technique: gather your hair into a loose bun, twist it once, then insert the stick diagonally through the base, angling it so it crosses underneath the bun and anchors against the scalp. For step-by-step video guides, visit our YouTube channel @thehairsticks.
Q: How do I keep it from sliding out?
Two things make the biggest difference. First, slightly dry or day-2 hair grips far better than freshly washed hair. Second, insert the stick at a diagonal angle through the base of the bun rather than straight through.
Q: Will a hair stick damage my hair?
Hair sticks are one of the gentlest hair accessories available. Unlike elastics, they create no tension or pulling on the hair shaft. Long-term hair stick users often find it reduces breakage compared to everyday clip or elastic use.
Q: Is a hair stick a good gift? What packaging does it come with?
Hair sticks make a distinctive gift — they're handcrafted, practical, and carry cultural meaning. Each piece arrives in a gift box. Feel free to message us before ordering if you need help choosing.
Made to order: Each piece is handcrafted after you place your order. Please allow 2–5 business days for crafting before shipment.
- Free Shipping — 12–20 business days, free worldwide*
- Standard Shipping — 8–12 business days, $8
- Express Shipping — 5–8 business days, $15
Total delivery time = crafting time + shipping time. A tracking link is emailed as soon as your order ships.
30-day returns: Items can be returned or exchanged within 30 days of delivery.
Delivery guarantee: If your package hasn't arrived within 60 days of shipment, we'll resend a new one or issue a full refund.
Full details: Shipping Policy · Refund Policy
*Free Shipping is unavailable in a few remote countries.