Men’s Hair: What to Ask For and How to Maintain

Many men (and women too) often settle into a comfortable routine when they find a style they like. It can take a few hits and misses, but people are creatures of habit, and once we develop a steady relationship with a look, it can seem risky or unnecessary to make a significant change.

But change is necessary. And it’s also fun. If you’ve been wearing the same style for more than five years, it’s probably time to start looking for something new. Begin by paying attention to celebrities and other men with styles you admire. Consider your overall look, including your bone structure and clothing preferences, and keep an eye on men who make the kind of impression that you’d like to create when you walk into a room.

Note how different lengths, part placements, and textures have different effects. And when you’ve narrowed down your options, find a way to describe your intentions to a stylist. (For a completely new hairstyle, it’s probably a good idea to visit a professional stylist rather than your regular barber. Go online or get recommendations from friends if you aren’t sure how to choose.) Once your stylist understands what you want, ask questions as he or she conditions, cuts and sculpts your hair.  Most salons will be more than happy to provide tips on maintaining your look, and if you ask about products, your stylist can easily give recommendations. Some products are only available or accessible through high end salons, but feel to ask about alternatives and substitutes.

If you leave with a new style and find that you can’t perfectly reproduce the look by yourself, don’t worry. Just make the style your own and wait to see the changes it brings into your life.

Men’s Hair: Current Celebrity Looks

Both men and women often come into my salon with a specific celebrity look in mind, and I’ve decided that movie stars play two important roles in our society: 1. Acting in movies, and 2. Providing inspiration and ready descriptions for those of us in search of a new look.

For men, this is especially true right now. This is partly because celebrity looks are very accessible this season. Popular red carpet styles for men have never been more attractive, laid-back, and easy for regular guys to wear and maintain. The look of the moment is short and messy, and it’s a look that compliments almost every age and every type of masculine bone structure.

For the longer end of this look, stars like Johnny Depp and Bradley Cooper let the hair grow out in front and fall almost to the collar in back. The long version requires a bit more attention and product than the shortest end of the spectrum, where we see a look just barely long enough to show life and motion. Stars like Zac Efron keep the top and sides well controlled, but still able to be tousled and shaped. The midrange short messy cut has been seen recently on almost everyone from David Beckham to Josh Duhamel. This cut allows a variety of looks that can change with your mood. It can be combed out for serious occasions or artfully deconstructed with product for outings that are fun and relaxed. Whether it’s dressed up or down, the short cut always stays within a safe range between professional and outgoing.

A healthy, well maintained head of hair that looks a little (just a little) out of control will always be a crowd pleaser. But for now, keep it short. Wait until spring and summer to see the return of longer styles.

Image By: Downing Street