So, you decided to grow long hair and join the ranks of stylish gents with flowing locks. That is a fantastic choice, but it comes with a new question: how do you style that glorious mane? Navigating the options for men's long hair can seem complex, but with a few tips, you can master your look.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about styling longer hair. From understanding your unique hair type to mastering everyday hairstyles, we have you covered. Let's get your long hairstyle looking its absolute best.
Understanding Your Hair Type
Before you begin styling long hair, you need to understand your hair type. Is your hair straight, wavy, or curly? Knowing this helps you choose the right hair products and techniques for your men's hair.
Straight hair often gets oily more quickly and may lack natural volume. Wavy hair is quite versatile but can be susceptible to frizz. Long curly hair typically requires extra moisture to define its shape and prevent it from becoming unruly.
Your face shape also plays a significant role in determining the most flattering long haircut. A style that complements your facial features can make a huge difference. Considering your face shape is a great starting point for any new hair style. If you're unsure which style suits you best, the experts at Ox The Barber can provide personalized recommendations based on your unique features.
How Face Shape Affects Your Long Hairstyle
Different face shapes pair better with certain long hair styles. For instance, a square face can be softened with layers and waves. Knowing what works for you can help you select a style that highlights your best features.
Oval Face Shape: Almost any style works, from shoulder-length long to a man bun. This face shape is balanced, so it can support a wide variety of hair styles without looking overwhelmed.
Square Face Shape: Wavy or layered styles that soften the jawline work best. A middle part with flowing waves is particularly effective. A strong jaw is a great feature, and softer styles provide a nice contrast, preventing the overall look from being too harsh.
Round Face Shape: Opt for styles with volume on top and layers. A half-up style can add height and elongate the face. The goal is to create angles and length, so avoid styles that add width at the cheeks.
Heart Face Shape: Shoulder-length styles that add volume around the lower half of the face are ideal. A well-maintained beard can also help balance the chin. This face shape is wider at the forehead and tapers to a narrow chin, so adding some bulk below the ears creates a more balanced silhouette.
Essential Tools for Styling Longer Hair
Having the correct tools will dramatically improve your styling results. Investing in a few key items is essential for maintaining and styling long hair. These tools help you manage your hair with less damage.
Every guy with longer hair should have a few essential tools in his kit to keep his hair healthy and looking its best. A wide-tooth comb is perfect for gently detangling wet hair without causing breakage, while a boar bristle brush helps distribute natural oils from the scalp down the hair shaft for added shine.
Quality hair ties that won’t snag or pull, along with bobby pins to tame flyaways or secure sections, are must-haves. A good blow dryer with multiple heat settings and attachments, like a diffuser for curly hair, makes styling easier, and a heat protectant spray should always be used before any heat styling to keep hair strong and damage-free.
Using the right hair dryers and combs is fundamental to prevent split ends. Damaged hair is much harder to style and looks less healthy. Taking care of your tools is part of taking care of your hair. Get a clean, stylish haircut near Warrington at Ox The Barber.
Choosing the Right Products
The styling products you use will either help or hinder your desired look. For longer hair, you'll want to focus on products that offer control without weighing your hair down. The right hair products are foundational for any good hair style.
Consider adding a few essential products to your hair care routine to keep your hair healthy, manageable, and stylish. Start with a shampoo and conditioner formulated for your specific hair type, and follow up with a leave-in conditioner to provide ongoing moisture and control frizz. Styling cream or mousse can add texture and hold, while sea salt spray helps achieve that perfect, beachy look. Hair oil is great for adding shine and taming flyaways, especially on dry hair, and a nourishing hair mask once a week provides a deep conditioning treatment to keep your hair strong and healthy.
When applying hair products, start with a small amount and build up as needed. It's always easier to add more product than it is to remove it. Many men don't realize that a little product goes a long way with men's long hair. The professionals at Ox The Barber can recommend specific products tailored to your hair type and styling goals.
Basic Styling Techniques
Once you have your tools and products, you can start experimenting with some basic long hairstyles. These options are easy to learn and are perfect for an everyday hairstyle. They form the foundation for more advanced looks.
The Classic Slick Back
This timeless hair style works for almost any hair type and occasion. It's polished and professional, yet simple to achieve. This is a great go-to look. Start with hair that is damp, not soaking wet. Apply a small amount of styling cream or pomade through your hair. Use a comb to pull your hair back from your forehead to the nape of your neck. Use a hair dryer on a low heat setting to help set the style in place. Finish with a light-hold hairspray for extra staying power.
The Messy Bun
The messy bun is the perfect day hair solution for casual outings or when you're short on time. It's effortlessly cool and keeps your hair managed. This is a staple for many long men.
Gather your hair loosely at the back of your head. Twist the hair into a simple bun shape. Secure it with a hair tie, leaving the ends out for a casual feel. Pull out a few strands of hair around your face to complete the relaxed look.
The Half-Up, Half-Down
This style offers the best of both worlds, keeping hair out of your face while showcasing your hair length. It's versatile enough for both casual and more formal settings. It is one of the most popular long hair styles.
Create a horizontal part from ear to ear to separate the top and bottom sections of your hair. Gather the top section and secure it at the back with a hair tie. Allow the bottom section to hang loose and natural. Use bobby pins to secure any loose strands for a cleaner finish.
Advanced Styling Tips
Ready to try something more adventurous? These advanced styles can add some variety to your look. Learning a few more complex techniques will expand your styling long hair repertoire.
Braids for Men
Braids are a fantastic option for men's long hair. They offer a unique look and can also be a protective style that minimizes damage. There are many different braid styles to explore, from simple to complex.
You can start with a simple three-strand braid. For a more intricate look, consider trying French braids or Viking-inspired styles. Braids are not only stylish but also incredibly practical for keeping hair contained.
The Man Bun
The man bun is a modern classic among long hairstyles for men. It is a bit more structured than a messy bun and can be worn high on the head or lower down. This style requires a good amount of hair length to execute properly.
Brush your hair back to smooth out any tangles. Gather your hair at the crown of your head or wherever you want the bun to sit. Twist your hair tightly and then wrap it around itself to form the bun. Secure the bun firmly with a hair tie.
Layered Cuts
If your hair feels heavy or lacks movement, getting a layered long haircut could be the solution. Layers remove weight, add texture, and create volume, especially for hair that's straight or fine. It can also help define curls in long curly hair.
A good long haircut with layers can make styling much easier. Consult with your barber or stylist about what type of layering would work best for your hair type and face shape. Regular haircuts are necessary to maintain the shape of the layers. The skilled barbers at Ox The Barber specialize in creating custom layered cuts that bring out the best in your long hair.
Dealing with Common Long Hair Issues
Having long hair can present some unique challenges. From frizz to oily roots, here's how to manage some common issues. Addressing these problems will keep your hair looking and feeling its best.
Frizz Control
Frizz is a common problem, especially for those with wavy or curly hair. To keep frizz under control, use a microfiber towel to gently squeeze water out of your hair instead of rubbing it. Applying an anti-frizz serum or hair oil to damp hair can also create a barrier against humidity.
Greasy Roots
Long hair can sometimes feel clean at the ends but greasy at the roots. A clarifying shampoo used once a week can help remove product buildup that contributes to greasiness. Dry shampoo is also a great tool for absorbing excess oil between washes.
Avoid washing your hair every single day, as this can strip your scalp of its natural oils, causing it to produce even more. Finding the right washing balance is key. This helps maintain a healthy scalp and luscious locks.
Maintaining Healthy Long Hair
Great style starts with healthy hair. A solid hair care routine is essential to keep your long hair strong and vibrant. Healthy hair growth requires consistent care and attention. Get regular trims every 8-12 weeks to prevent split ends from traveling up the hair shaft. A weekly deep conditioning treatment with a hair mask can restore moisture and nutrients. Protecting your hair while you sleep with a silk or satin pillowcase can also reduce friction and breakage.
Limit how often you use heat styling tools like a blow dryer. When you do use them, always apply a heat protectant spray first. Letting your hair air dry when possible is a simple way to maintain its health as hair grows. Scheduling regular maintenance appointments at Ox The Barber makes sure your long hair stays healthy and properly shaped between major cuts. Visit Ox The Barber, a trusted barbershop serving Fort Washington known for precision cuts and modern styles.
Long Hair & Facial Hair
Pairing long hair with facial hair creates a powerful and balanced look. The right beard styles can complement your long hairstyle and enhance your overall aesthetic. It's all about finding the right proportions for your face.
A man bun or a slicked-back style can look great with a full, well-groomed beard. If you have a more relaxed, flowing mane, a shorter, neater beard might provide a nice contrast. Don't forget to use beard oil to keep your facial hair as healthy and conditioned as your head hair. For a complete grooming experience, Ox The Barber offers both hair and beard services to help you achieve a cohesive, polished look.
Styling Long Hair for Different Occasions
Different situations call for different long hair styles. A great everyday hairstyle for the weekend might not be appropriate for a professional setting. Having a few options ready will help you always look your best.
For the Office
For a professional environment, keep your style neat and tidy. A low ponytail or a polished slicked-back look is an excellent choice. Using a matte pomade will give you hold without a greasy finish.
For a Night Out
Feel free to let your hair down and embrace a more relaxed style. A half-up look can be very stylish, or you can add texture with a sea salt spray for an effortlessly cool vibe. Think of style icons like Keanu Reeves and his iconic flowing mane.
For the Gym
When you're working out, the goal is to keep your hair out of your face. A simple ponytail, a secure bun, or a headband will do the trick. Avoid styles that are too tight, as they can cause breakage, especially when you are sweating.
Embracing Your Natural Texture
While experimenting with different looks is fun, learning to embrace your natural hair texture can be empowering. Whether you have straight hair, wavy hair, or long curly hair, there are ways to make your natural look shine. This is about working with what you have, not against it.
Here are a few tips for enhancing your natural texture. For straight hair, use a volumizing mousse at the roots to add body and lift. For wavy hair, scrunch a curl-enhancing cream into damp hair to define your waves. For curly hair, try diffusing on low heat and using a gel to lock in your curl pattern.
Conclusion
Styling longer hair for men is an exciting journey of self-expression. With the right tools, styling products, and techniques, you can confidently wear a variety of looks that suit your personality and lifestyle. Don't be afraid to experiment with different hair styles to find what works best for you.
Remember that healthy hair is the foundation of any great style. Focus on maintenance with regular trims and good conditioning habits to keep your hair in top shape. Whether you're rocking a man bun, a professional slick-back, or your natural curls, your long hair is a statement. And when you need expert guidance or a professional touch, the team at Ox The Barber is ready to help you achieve your perfect long hair style. Contact us today!