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Beauty experts Cosmetify recently carried out research into the most searched short hairstyles for men. The timeless buzz cut came out at the top, closely followed by the crew cut and modern bowl cut. In recent years, taper fade haircuts have also seen a rise in popularity. With the ever-changing fashions, you can often find yourself falling behind. What haircut is in at the moment? More importantly, what hairstyles suit me?
One of the most crucial steps you must make in your hair care journey is the type of hair you have. Shorter hair doesn’t mean you can use whatever generic products you want. For instance, curly and coily hair need higher levels of hydration and straight hair needs help controlling oil build-up.
You want to feel confident with how you look and your haircut is a major part of that. Barbers can be key in helping you to achieve your dream locks. It can seem daunting when you’re trying to find someone who understands what you’re after, so it’s worth shopping around. There are enough haircuts and products around to find something to fit your budget.
9 Things you should know about men’s short haircuts
If you’re looking for an eye-catching hairstyle, there are plenty of short haircuts for men to choose from. From a military buzz cut to French crops, a modern bowl cut to comb over fade, each hairstyle comes with its own maintenance requirements. Hair spray can be used to hold the finished style, but it’s up to you to decide if you prefer gel over wax or paste instead of pomade.
Hair comes in four different types – straight, wavy, curly and coily. You need to understand what kind of hair you have in order to style and maintain it properly.
We’ve compiled a list of 9 things that you should know to help you style your short haircut. Continue reading for advice on what style will suit your face shape, what products to use and much more.
1. How can I style my hair?
Styling is so much easier when your hair is freshly washed. Wash your hair with your favorite shampoo/conditioner combo and then blow-dry your hair.
Comb through your hair using a brush that suits your hair type. For example, a wide-tooth comb is better if you have particularly curly or coily hair. Apply a dollop of hair product to the palms of your hands and apply to the top of your head. Use both hands to manipulate your hair into your desired shape. Secure with hairspray.
If you’re still trying to work out which style you’re aiming for, you could have a chat with your barber or look online for inspiration. It’s worth considering what face shape you have so that you can choose a hairstyle that compliments it. Below is a breakdown of the various face shapes to help you identify yours and find a style.
2. What hair cuts suit my face shape?
Oval
This shape is characterized by a high forehead, sharp cheekbones and a strong jawline. Oval faces have more freedom when it comes to experimenting with different hairstyles because of the even proportions. Short haircuts to consider if you have an oval face include a buzz cut, pompadour and quiff.
Round
People with round faces have full cheeks and a rounded jawline. This face shape is often viewed as one of the hardest to find flattering hairstyles for. To create definition and shape to your face, try to add height to the top and shorten the sides and back. It’s a good idea to get a high skin fade to help with the proportions. Short haircuts to consider if you have a round face include a quiff, pompadour and comb over with a side part.
Rectangle
Also known as an oblong shape, this face type is longer than it is wide. The forehead, cheeks and jawline are all about the same size. The key to suiting this face type is to not emphasize the length of your face. It’s not a good idea to have a haircut with volumes, such as a quiff or pompadour. Short haircut styles to consider if you have a rectangular face include a buzz cut, French crop and Ivy League.
Square
This face shape has a strong, pronounced jawline and straight sides. This face shape is versatile and suits many different hairstyles. Short haircuts to consider if you have a square face include undercut, buzz cut and comb-over.
Heart
You probably have a heart-shaped face if your forehead is broad, you have rounded cheeks and a small chin. Short haircuts for this face type should ideally balance out the small chin and create the illusion of a wider jaw. Short haircuts to consider if you have a heart face include quiff, comb over and undercut.
3. What hair texture do I have?
There are four hair types. In order to reach your hair’s potential, it’s important to work out what your hair type is and the requirements that come with it.
Straight
This type lacks any curl or wave and is usually quite fine. If you have this hair type, you will probably find that your hair is shiny, but also prone to getting greasy. You may find that you need to wash your hair more frequently to combat the build-up of oils. Straight hair also has a tendency to look limp and lifeless, so you will probably rely on product to give it volume.
Wavy
Wavy hair gets its name from the ‘S’ shape waves that it falls into. You might struggle to identify yourself as having this hair type if you have a very short hairstyle. This hair type is prone to frizz, which is largely due to a lack of moisture. To fight the frizz, you will need to regularly condition your hair to help keep the waves’ definition and keep your hair hydrated. If you have fine hair, you could consider getting a layered haircut to create more volume.
Curly
Curly hair has natural curls that are more defined than wavy hair. This hair type is vulnerable to the elements and loses its shape due to wind or hot weather. Curly hair is thick and voluminous. Whether you have curly or wavy hair, you’ll likely struggle with frizz and need a regular hydrating conditioner.
Coily/Kinky
Coily, otherwise known as kinky hair, is made up of tightly coiled hair that forms close to the scalp. This type has lots of shrinkage and often experiences breakage. Coily hair is the most fragile type and especially prone to dryness. To maintain your hair, moisturizing is key, so use water-based products.
4. What products should I use?
Looking good doesn’t have to cost a fortune. All it takes is finding what works for your hair and gives you the style you want. Most products are designed to cover your hair, although the amount will vary based on your hair type and desired look. Below is a list of hair products and how they can help your hair.
- Gel – water-based product. Comb through for a matte look.
- Putty – gives texture & movement to hair. Good for all hair types.
- Paste – provides a medium to firm hold. Makes hair look glossy.
- Wax – best for straight or wavy hair. Doesn’t give a strong hold.
- Hair spray – used to hold and set style.
- Pomade – suitable for straight to wavy hair. Use for a slicked-back look.
- Styling cream – lightweight. Use as a base. Works well with frizzy hair.
5. How do I cut my own hair?
As with styling, it’s best to wash your hair before cutting it. Towel dry it and comb through to remove tangles.
Use clippers on the back and sides of your hair first. The hair here will be shorter than on top. Most popular hair cuts feature a low or high fade, which means a gradual decrease of hair further down your head.
Use a comb to section the top of your hair into sections and cut with scissors. Make sure to cut your hair in the opposite direction that it grows.
6. Where can I find a good barber?
A ‘good barber’ is a matter of opinion. You could opt to look online to see reviews and the barber shop’s social media following. In most instances though, it’s easy enough to do a tour of local barbershops to see which one appeals to you.
Something to look out for is how many questions the barber asks you. If they ask a lot, it shows that they want to understand the look you’re hoping for and will do their best to help you achieve it. It’s helpful if you bring images of your chosen style and know exactly what you want before your appointment. Many men see the barbers as a social experience, so it’s key that you get a good vibe and enjoy the visit.
7. How do I ask for a specific haircut in a barber?
Most barbers understand what you mean if you tell them a specific hairstyle, such as a crew cut or buzz cut. It’s also useful to understand the lengths that you want so that you can tell the barber the right number.
Number 1: One-eighth of an inch
Number 2: One-quarter of an inch
Number 3: Three-eighths of an inch
Number 4: Half an inch
Number 5: Five-eighths of an inch
Number 6: Three-quarters of an inch
Number 7: Seven-eighths of an inch
Number 8: One inch
8. How much should I spend on a haircut?
A 2017 survey by Statista showed that in the UK £13.70 is the average price men pay for a wash, cut & finish. In the US, the price for a men’s hair cut is around $28. It’s up to you to decide what’s in your price range. Prices also range up and down the country. Complex haircuts will cost more, but you can shop around for an affordable cut.
9. How often should I cut my hair?
Although this varies depending on your hairstyle, it’s recommended to cut your hair once a month. If you have a short crop haircut or tight fades, you should aim to cut your hair every two to three weeks. Studies show that human hair grows roughly half an inch per month, so it’s up to your personal style to dictate how often you visit the barbers.
Most hairstyles are trial and error, so keep practicing. You’ll soon find the products and hairstyle that suits you.
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This content is bought to you by Michelle Aston.
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