How To Style A Faux Hawk: A Step-by-Step Guide
The faux hawk, a stylish and modern take on the classic Mohawk, is a versatile hairstyle that can add an edgy yet sophisticated touch to your look. Unlike the traditional Mohawk, which involves shaving the sides of the head, the faux hawk achieves a similar appearance by styling the hair in the center to stand upright, creating a ‘hawk’ effect without the commitment of shaving. This makes it a popular choice for those who want to experiment with a bold hairstyle without making a permanent change. The beauty of the faux hawk lies in its adaptability; it can be tailored to suit various hair lengths, textures, and personal styles. Whether you’re aiming for a casual, everyday look or something more polished for a special occasion, mastering the art of styling a faux hawk can open up a world of hairstyling possibilities. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through the essential steps and techniques to achieve the perfect faux hawk, ensuring you can confidently rock this trendy hairstyle.
Understanding the Faux Hawk
Before diving into the styling process, let's take a closer look at what defines a faux hawk and why it's become such a popular hairstyle. The faux hawk , as mentioned earlier, mimics the look of a Mohawk without requiring shaved sides. Instead, the hair on the sides is kept shorter than the hair on top, and the longer hair is styled upwards and towards the center, creating a crest or ‘hawk’ effect. This hairstyle offers a perfect balance between edgy and mainstream, making it suitable for a wide range of settings, from casual outings to more formal events.
One of the key reasons for its popularity is its versatility. The faux hawk can be adapted to different hair lengths and textures, making it accessible to a broad audience. Shorter hair can achieve a more subtle, understated faux hawk, while longer hair allows for a more dramatic and pronounced style. Similarly, different hair textures can influence the final look; straight hair may require more product and styling to achieve the desired volume and hold, while naturally wavy or curly hair can add a unique texture and dimension to the faux hawk. Furthermore, the faux hawk can be customized to reflect individual style preferences. It can be styled sleek and polished for a sophisticated look, or tousled and textured for a more relaxed and edgy vibe. This adaptability makes the faux hawk a go-to hairstyle for those who want to express their personality and stay on-trend.
Tools and Products You'll Need
To achieve a flawless faux hawk, having the right tools and products at your disposal is essential. These tools and products will not only help you create the desired shape and volume but also ensure that your style stays in place throughout the day. Let’s break down the must-have items:
- Comb: A fine-toothed comb is crucial for sectioning your hair and creating a neat, defined faux hawk. It helps in directing the hair upwards and towards the center, ensuring a clean and polished look.
- Hair Dryer: A hair dryer with a nozzle attachment is essential for adding volume and lift to your hair. The focused airflow helps in shaping the hair and setting the style.
- Hair Clips: These are handy for holding sections of your hair in place while you work on other areas. They prevent the styled sections from falling flat and make the process more manageable.
- Strong-Hold Hair Gel or Mousse: A strong-hold hair gel or mousse is the foundation of a faux hawk. These products provide the necessary hold and structure to keep the hair standing upright. Look for formulations that offer a firm hold without leaving your hair feeling stiff or sticky.
- Hair Wax or Pomade: Hair wax or pomade is ideal for adding texture and definition to your faux hawk. These products provide a pliable hold, allowing you to reshape and restyle your hair throughout the day. They also add a natural-looking shine and prevent the hair from looking dull.
- Hair Spray: A strong-hold hair spray is the final touch to lock your faux hawk in place. It provides an extra layer of hold and ensures that your style lasts for hours, even in humid conditions. Choose a hair spray that offers a firm hold without making your hair feel crunchy or weighed down.
Investing in quality products and tools is a worthwhile endeavor, as they significantly impact the final result and longevity of your faux hawk. With the right arsenal, you’ll be well-equipped to create a stylish and long-lasting faux hawk that turns heads.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cutting a Faux Hawk
While the faux hawk is primarily a styling technique, the haircut itself plays a crucial role in achieving the desired look. The ideal faux hawk haircut involves having shorter hair on the sides and longer hair on top, creating a natural contrast that makes styling easier and more effective. Here’s a step-by-step guide to cutting a faux hawk, whether you’re doing it yourself or guiding your stylist:
Step 1: Determine the Length and Shape
Before you start cutting, it's essential to determine the length and shape of your faux hawk. Consider the length of your hair on top and how dramatic you want the style to be. Generally, a difference of about 2-3 inches between the top and sides is a good starting point. The shape can vary from a gradual taper to a more defined and angular look, depending on your preference. Discuss your desired look with your stylist or use reference photos to guide your self-cut.
Step 2: Section Your Hair
Sectioning your hair is crucial for a precise and even cut. Use a comb to create a center part from your forehead to the nape of your neck. Then, create two more parts on each side of your head, running from the temples to the back of your head. This will create three sections: the top section, which will form the faux hawk, and two side sections that will be shorter.
Step 3: Cut the Sides
Start by cutting the hair on the sides to your desired length. Use clippers with the appropriate guard for an even cut. If you prefer a tapered look, use a slightly longer guard at the top and gradually decrease the guard size as you move down towards the ears and neckline. Ensure that both sides are symmetrical by regularly checking the length and angle in a mirror.
Step 4: Blend the Sides with the Top
Blending the sides with the top is essential for a seamless transition and a natural-looking faux hawk. Use scissors or thinning shears to soften the line between the shorter sides and the longer top section. Point-cutting, where you hold the scissors vertically and snip into the ends of the hair, is an excellent technique for creating texture and removing bulk.
Step 5: Cut the Top Section
The top section should be left longer to create the faux hawk. If you’re starting with long hair, gradually trim it to the desired length, keeping in mind the overall shape and style you want to achieve. Use a comb to lift the hair and cut it at an angle, creating layers that will add volume and dimension to the faux hawk. Avoid cutting the top section too short, as this will limit your styling options.
Step 6: Refine and Adjust
Once you’ve cut all the sections, take a step back and assess the overall look. Check for any uneven areas or lines and make necessary adjustments. Use a mirror to view the back of your head and ensure that the cut is symmetrical and well-blended. Fine-tune the shape and texture by point-cutting or using thinning shears as needed.
Step 7: Style and Assess
After cutting your hair, style it into a faux hawk to see how it looks. This will help you identify any areas that need further refinement. Use the styling techniques outlined in the next section to create your desired faux hawk style. If necessary, make small adjustments to the cut to enhance the overall look.
By following these steps, you can achieve a well-cut faux hawk that sets the stage for stylish and versatile looks. Whether you opt for a subtle and understated style or a bold and dramatic one, the right haircut is the foundation for a perfect faux hawk.
Styling Your Faux Hawk: A Step-by-Step Guide
Now that you have the perfect faux hawk haircut, it’s time to learn how to style it. Styling a faux hawk is a relatively straightforward process, but it requires the right techniques and products to achieve the desired look. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create a stylish faux hawk that lasts all day:
Step 1: Start with Clean, Damp Hair
Begin by washing your hair with a clarifying shampoo to remove any buildup and ensure that your hair is clean and fresh. Towel-dry your hair until it’s damp but not dripping wet. Damp hair is easier to style and will hold the product better than dry hair.
Step 2: Apply a Volumizing Product
Apply a volumizing mousse or spray to your damp hair, focusing on the roots. This will add lift and body to your hair, making it easier to create the faux hawk shape. Distribute the product evenly throughout your hair using your fingers or a comb.
Step 3: Blow-Dry Your Hair
Use a hair dryer with a nozzle attachment to blow-dry your hair, directing the airflow upwards and towards the center of your head. This will help create the initial shape of the faux hawk. Use a comb or your fingers to lift the hair at the roots as you dry it, adding extra volume and height. Continue blow-drying until your hair is completely dry.
Step 4: Apply a Strong-Hold Product
Once your hair is dry, apply a strong-hold hair gel or wax to your fingertips. Rub your hands together to distribute the product evenly, then work it into your hair, focusing on the roots and mid-lengths. Use your fingers to shape the hair upwards and towards the center, creating the faux hawk crest. For a more defined look, use a comb to sculpt the hair into place.
Step 5: Shape and Define
Use your fingers to pinch and twist small sections of hair, creating texture and definition. This will add dimension to your faux hawk and prevent it from looking flat or uniform. You can also use a hair wax or pomade to add shine and separation to the strands.
Step 6: Lock in the Style
Once you’re satisfied with the shape and texture of your faux hawk, finish with a strong-hold hair spray. Hold the can about 10-12 inches away from your head and spray evenly, ensuring that all sections of the hair are coated. This will lock in the style and keep your faux hawk in place throughout the day.
Step 7: Make Adjustments as Needed
Throughout the day, you may need to make minor adjustments to your faux hawk. Use your fingers to reshape the hair and add more hair spray if needed. Avoid touching your hair too much, as this can cause it to lose its shape and volume.
By following these steps, you can create a stylish and long-lasting faux hawk that reflects your personal style. Experiment with different products and techniques to find what works best for your hair type and length. With practice, you’ll be able to master the art of styling a faux hawk and confidently rock this trendy hairstyle.
Tips and Tricks for a Perfect Faux Hawk
To elevate your faux hawk game, consider these additional tips and tricks that can make a significant difference in the final outcome. These tips and tricks cover everything from product selection to styling techniques, ensuring you achieve a flawless and long-lasting faux hawk every time.
- Choose the Right Products: Selecting the right products is crucial for achieving the desired look and hold. For a strong and structured faux hawk, opt for a firm-hold gel or wax. If you prefer a more textured and flexible style, a pomade or styling cream may be a better choice. Experiment with different products to find what works best for your hair type and length.
- Layer Your Products: Layering products can enhance the hold and longevity of your faux hawk. Start with a volumizing mousse on damp hair, followed by a strong-hold gel or wax on dry hair. Finish with a hair spray to lock in the style. This layered approach provides a strong foundation and ensures that your faux hawk stays in place throughout the day.
- Use a Diffuser: If you have curly or wavy hair, use a diffuser attachment on your hair dryer to enhance your natural texture and volume. A diffuser helps distribute the airflow evenly, preventing frizz and adding definition to your curls. This can create a unique and stylish faux hawk with a textured finish.
- Backcomb for Extra Volume: For added volume and height, backcomb the roots of your hair before styling your faux hawk. Use a fine-toothed comb to gently tease the hair at the roots, creating a cushion that will support the style. Be careful not to over-backcomb, as this can damage the hair. Smooth the top layer of your hair to conceal the backcombing.
- Use Heat Sparingly: While heat styling can help shape and set your faux hawk, excessive heat can damage your hair. Use heat-protectant products and avoid using high heat settings on your hair dryer or styling tools. If possible, let your hair air dry partially before using heat styling tools.
- Experiment with Textures: Don't be afraid to experiment with different textures and finishes. A matte finish can create a more casual and edgy look, while a glossy finish can add a touch of sophistication. Use different products and techniques to achieve various textures and find what suits your personal style.
- Maintain Your Haircut: A well-maintained haircut is essential for a perfect faux hawk. Regular trims will keep the sides short and the top long, making it easier to style the faux hawk. Consult with your stylist to determine the best haircut for your desired faux hawk style.
- Practice Makes Perfect: Like any hairstyle, mastering the faux hawk takes practice. Don't be discouraged if your first attempt isn't perfect. Keep experimenting with different techniques and products, and you'll eventually find the method that works best for you. The more you practice, the easier it will become to style a flawless faux hawk.
By incorporating these tips and tricks into your faux hawk styling routine, you'll be well-equipped to create a variety of stylish and long-lasting looks. Whether you're aiming for a casual everyday style or a more polished and sophisticated appearance, these techniques will help you achieve the perfect faux hawk.
The faux hawk is a fantastic hairstyle choice for anyone looking to add a bit of edge and style to their look without the commitment of a full-blown Mohawk. It’s versatile, adaptable, and can be customized to fit your unique personality and hair type. By following this guide, you'll have the knowledge and skills to confidently cut and style a faux hawk that turns heads and expresses your individuality. So go ahead, give it a try, and rock that faux hawk with pride!