Men's Haircuts & Hairstyles - The Ultimate Guide

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should men get their hair cut?

To maintain a neat and well-groomed look, it's generally recommended to get a haircut every 4-6 weeks.

Men with shorter styles or faster-growing hair may opt for a trim every 2-3 weeks to keep their style sharp and fresh.

What factors should be considered when choosing a men's haircut?

When choosing a hairstyle, consider these key factors:

1. Face Shape: Certain hairstyles enhance specific facial features, making it important to choose a style that complements your face shape (details below).
   

2. Hair Texture and Thickness: Some styles suit particular hair types better and may require varying levels of maintenance (explained further below).
   

3. Personal Style and Lifestyle: Your haircut should reflect your aesthetic while remaining practical for your daily routine.

What are the different hair types for men?

The four main hair types for men are:

1. Straight: Smooth and free of natural curl or wave.

2. Wavy: A balance between straight and curly, with gentle bends or waves.

3. Curly: Defined curls or spirals that add texture and volume.

4. Coily: Tight coils or zig-zag patterns with a dense structure.

Each type can vary further in thickness, density, and texture, adding to its uniqueness and styling potential.

Should I wash my hair every day?

Washing daily can keep hair clean and remove excess oils but may cause dryness, irritation, or damage for some.

It's generally recommended to wash hair every 2-3 days, using shampoo and conditioner tailored to your specific hair type and needs. 

What are the different hair styling products for men?

Men have a variety of hair styling products to choose from, each serving different purposes:

• Pomade: Delivers a shiny, flexible hold.

• Wax: Offers a matte finish with medium hold.

• Gel: Creates a strong, crisp hold for structured styles.

• Mousse: Adds volume and texture.

• Hairspray: Locks styles in place for lasting hold throughout the day.

What should I do if I'm losing my hair/have a receding hairline?

This is covered extensively later in this article.

What are some of the most timeless haircuts for men?

Timeless men's hairstyles include the crew cut, buzz cut, pompadour, and classic taper. These enduring styles have remained popular for decades, offering versatility and appeal for men of all ages.

What hairstyles should I avoid?

Choosing a hairstyle that complements your personal style, face shape, and profession is key. However, styles like mullets, bowl cuts, rat tails, and overly long, unkempt hair are often considered outdated, unprofessional, or unflattering.

Consulting a professional hairstylist can help identify a look that suits you while steering clear of less appropriate options.

How do I cut my own hair?

This one is simple: don't.

Unless you're a professional barber or opting for a buzzcut, avoid cutting your own hair. If regular trims every 6-8 weeks aren't feasible, communicate with your barber—they can recommend a style that grows out gracefully and requires less maintenance.

How do I choose the right barber for me?

Choosing the right barber involves considering factors like experience, expertise, customer reviews, recommendations, price range, and location.

A great barber understands your unique needs and preferences, ensuring a comfortable and consistently satisfying experience.

What if I want more info about improving my grooming routines?

The Grooming Pack from The Essentials App is your ultimate guide to mastering shaving, skincare, haircare, and perfecting your head and facial hair styles. Get tailored product recommendations and step-by-step how-to's designed specifically for your skin and hair type, all in one place!

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How To Find a Man's Face Shape

Your face shape is the determining factor in finding the best haircuts and hairstyles. See this guide to finding a man's face shape to determine that before going any further.

Best Hair Cuts and Styles For Your Face Shape

Selecting a hairstyle that complements your face shape is key to always looking your best.

If you're unsure of your face shape, use the guide provided to determine it before proceeding, as this section builds on that knowledge.

Rectangle/Oblong

A rectangular or oblong face shape, which falls between an oval and a square, benefits from hairstyles that soften angular features and avoid elongating the face further. Ideal styles add width and volume to the sides while keeping the top proportionate.

Recommended Styles for Rectangular Face Shapes:

• Medium-Length Textured Crop: Adds dimension to the sides and balances the face.

• Classic Side-Part: A timeless option that enhances symmetry.

• Layered Hairstyle with Side-Swept Fringe: Softens sharp angles and reduces the appearance of length.

For Black Men with Rectangular Face Shapes:
Hairstyles that add volume and texture to the sides while maintaining some length on top work best. Consider:

• Low Fade or Taper: Keeps the sides clean while maintaining balance.

• Textured Crop: Adds volume and visual interest.

• High-Top Fade: Adds height without exaggerating the face's length.

• Short Curly Afro: Provides natural width and texture for a balanced look.

Oval

An oval face shape, known for its symmetry and balanced proportions, suits most hairstyles. The goal is to create volume and angles on top while keeping the hair off the forehead to enhance your features.

Best Hairstyles for Oval Face Shapes:

• Short Sides, Longer Top: Styles like a quiff or side part create flattering volume and structure.

• Length Variations: Choose the length based on preference but keep the top slightly longer for balance.

• What to Avoid: Steer clear of forward-fringe styles, as too much hair on the forehead softens features and can make the face appear rounder.

For Black Men with Oval Face Shapes:

• High Fade: Adds height and structure, complementing the face shape.

• Buzzcut: A clean and sharp option that highlights symmetry.

• Short Textured Cut: Combines volume and texture for a polished look.

Square

A square face shape, defined by its strong jawline and symmetrical proportions, works well with most hairstyles, from buzz cuts to longer styles like French crops or quiffs. However, extremely short cuts can give a military vibe, so keep that in mind when choosing a style.

Best Hairstyles for Square Face Shapes:

• Classic Cuts: Close fades, side parts, and short layers enhance the structure and symmetry.

• Length Versatility: Styles can range from short to medium without losing balance or appeal.

For Black Men with Square Face Shapes:

• Textured Fade: Adds dimension while maintaining sharpness.

• Short Buzz Cut: Clean and minimalist, emphasizing facial structure.

• Low Taper Fade with Longer Top: Style the top into a textured crop or short afro for added volume and balance.

Triangle

For triangular face shapes, hairstyles with volume work best, as they add balance to the narrower chin and broader forehead. Focus on longer styles with fuller sides to create width and symmetry.

Best Hairstyles for Triangular Face Shapes:

• Textured Fringe: Adds volume and dimension around the forehead.

• Layered Cuts: Builds height and fullness on top for a balanced look.

• Avoid: Very short sides or tight cuts at the temples, which can overemphasize the chin.

For Black Men with Triangular Face Shapes:

• Afro: Creates volume and width for a balanced appearance.

• High-Top Fade: Adds height and structure to the upper face.

• Textured Curls: Softens the overall look while enhancing balance.

Round

A round face shape benefits from hairstyles that add definition and angles to create the illusion of structure. Styles with height on top and tighter sides work best, adding sharpness and balance to the face.

Best Hairstyles for Round Face Shapes:

• Pompadour or Flat Top: Adds height and sharp lines for a squared effect.

• Front Fringe: Creates the appearance of structure and dimension.

For Black Men with Round Face Shapes:

• Short Fade or Buzz Cut: Clean and tight sides with a longer top for added height.

• Textured Crop with Side Part: Adds volume and angles for a more structured look.

Diamond

A diamond face shape, characterized by prominent cheekbones and a narrower forehead and jawline, requires careful styling to maintain balance and enhance natural features.

Best Hairstyles for Diamond Face Shapes:

• Fringes: Add texture to the forehead and balance proportions.

• Longer Styles: Tucking hair behind the ears highlights cheekbones.

• Side Sweeps or Deep Side Parts: Create width at the forehead and chin, softening the overall look.

• Facial Hair: A 5 o’clock shadow can add structure to a narrower chin.

• Avoid: Very short sides, as they can exaggerate cheekbone width and make ears appear larger.

For Black Men with Diamond Face Shapes:

• Short Back and Sides with Volume on Top: A fade or undercut paired with a textured top or slight pompadour adds width to the forehead and balances proportions.

• Textured Styles: Enhance dimension while maintaining clean, defined edges.

Heart

A heart-shaped face, like a diamond face, benefits from avoiding very short hairstyles, especially on the sides, as they can exaggerate the wider forehead and narrower chin.

Best Hairstyles for Heart-Shaped Faces:

• Medium-Length Swept Styles: A versatile and safe option that balances proportions.

• Mid-Length or Long Hairstyles: Keeping hair light and thin helps soften the strong forehead.

• Avoid: Extremely short sides, which highlight the face's imbalanced width.

For Black Men with Heart-Shaped Faces:

• Fade or Undercut with Volume on Top: Adds height while balancing the forehead and chin.

• Textured Top: Enhances dimension and complements facial features.

• Moderate Length: Ensures the style looks proportional and polished.

Best Hair Cuts and Styles For Your Hair Type

Here are the best haircuts/styles to choose from depending on your specific hair type:

Straight

Choosing a haircut for straight hair can feel challenging due to its lack of natural volume and delicate texture, but its versatility and ease of styling make it a great canvas for many looks. To boost volume, a cut that's short on the sides and slightly longer on top works well. Using pomade can enhance thickness and hold.

Best Hairstyles for Straight Hair:

• Classic Crew Cut: Clean, timeless, and low-maintenance.

• Side Part: A polished look that adds structure.

• Pompadour: Stylish with added volume on top.

• Textured Crop: Modern and versatile with subtle texture.

• Quiff: Adds height and movement for a bold finish.

Curly

When referring to curly hair, this typically means soft, well-defined curls with a loose "S" shape, distinct from coiled or tightly ringleted hair. Curly hair’s unique texture requires thoughtful styling to balance practicality and aesthetics, ensuring the look complements both the natural curls and facial features.

Shorter styles reduce maintenance and offer a sharp, clean look. However, longer styles that embrace the natural curls can be incredibly appealing and showcase the hair's unique texture.

Top Hairstyles for Curly Hair:

• Textured Crew Cut: Short and stylish, maintaining curl definition without excessive upkeep.

• The Crop: A neat and modern look that tames curls while keeping texture visible.

• Short Choppy Curls: A playful style that highlights the natural shape of curls.

• The Quiff: Adds height and structure while letting curls shine on top.

Each style works to celebrate curly hair’s natural beauty while accommodating varying levels of maintenance and personal preference.

Wavy

Wavy hair, characterized by loose, flowing curls forming gentle waves (think Bradley Cooper or Timothée Chalamet), is prized for its versatile and effortlessly cool appearance. It suits all face shapes and offers a carefree yet stylish vibe. However, wavy hair can lack natural oils, leading to dryness and frizz, so it’s essential to treat it gently—limit washing, avoid rough towel drying, and be cautious with heat styling.

Top Hairstyles for Wavy Hair:

• Slick Back ('Bro Flow'): A relaxed and polished look that emphasizes natural waves.

• Messy Wavy Style: Casual and laid-back, perfect for a tousled, carefree vibe.

• Long Waves: Showcases the natural flow and texture of wavy hair.

• Wavy Crew Cut: A modern, clean-cut style with a textured finish on top.

These styles highlight wavy hair’s natural movement while keeping it manageable and healthy.

Coiled

Coiled hair (also called kinky hair) is characterized by tight coils or spirals and is commonly seen in men of African or Afro-Caribbean heritage. With variations in texture and curl tightness, it offers endless styling possibilities, including afros, braids, twists, and dreads, making it an excellent way to embrace natural hair while expressing personal style.

Key Care Tip: Coiled hair tends to be prone to dryness. Prioritize products that deeply moisturize and nourish the hair to maintain healthy, hydrated curls.

Styling Suggestions:

• Balance Face Shape: Complement a round face with a square-shaped haircut, and soften angular features with a rounder style.

• Popular Styles:

  • Afros: Showcase natural volume and texture.

  • Twists or Braids: Neat, low-maintenance, and versatile.

  • Dreads: Timeless and expressive, offering multiple styling options.

  • Low Fade with Texture: Adds structure and sharpness while highlighting natural curls.

These approaches enhance coiled hair's unique beauty while keeping it manageable and stylish.

Best Hairstyles For Thinning, Balding Hair or Receding Hairlines

Balding or thinning hair is undeniably a challenge for many, often affecting confidence and self-esteem.

However, it’s entirely possible to manage hair loss effectively and maintain a stylish, confident look by embracing tailored solutions and working with what you have.

Thinning Hair

For thinning hair, adopting a strategic approach to styling and care can make a significant difference in appearance and confidence.

Styling Tips for Thinning Hair:

1. Keep It Short on the Sides, Longer on Top: This creates a fuller look by drawing attention away from thinning areas and covering more of the scalp.

2. Consider Hair Fillers: Products like fiber fillers can instantly add density and make hair appear thicker in sparse areas.

3. Use Targeted Treatments: Over-the-counter options such as Rogaine (minoxidil) or Viviscal can help maintain existing hair and potentially promote regrowth. Regular use can slow hair loss progression and improve overall density.

Thinning hair can be managed effectively with the right combination of style, care, and treatment, helping to maintain a polished and confident appearance.

Balding

When dealing with hair loss, embracing a shorter look is often the best choice. Trying to grow longer hair on the sides to cover bald spots rarely works and can draw more attention to the issue.

Tips for Managing Balding Hair:

1. Go Short: A shorter style minimizes contrast between thinning areas and fuller spots, creating a balanced and intentional look.

2. Blend Bald Spots: Ask your barber to reduce the density around bald spots, making them less noticeable by blending them into the rest of your hair.

3. Consider the Jason Statham Look: Keep the hair super short for a clean, confident style that embraces your natural hairline.

4. Full Shave: If you prefer, take it all off with a razor for a bold and timeless bald look—though this is entirely a matter of personal preference.

Confidence is key, and a well-maintained short or shaved style can project strength and self-assurance.

Receding Hairline

A receding hairline can be managed with strategic cuts and styling to make it less noticeable.

Tips for Styling a Receding Hairline:

1. Grow the Front Out: Slightly longer hair at the front helps blend with the hairline, creating a softer, less defined transition.

2. Try a Side-Part: A classic side-part style can balance the look and draw attention away from the hairline.

3. Use Hair Fillers: Products that add color and shadow can create the appearance of a fuller hairline, giving a denser, more uniform look.

These techniques help manage a receding hairline while maintaining a polished and confident appearance.

Bald

There’s absolutely nothing wrong with rocking a bald head—it’s a bold and stylish look when embraced with confidence. The key is to own it and avoid clinging to hairstyles that no longer work.

Tips for Embracing Baldness:

1. Go for a Buzz Cut: A minimal, stylish choice that’s easy to maintain and can even be done at home with a good pair of clippers.

2. Consider Facial Hair: Growing facial hair helps balance proportions and can enhance your overall look. Sexy stubble is a versatile and flattering choice for most men.

3. Draw Inspiration: Look to guides or examples of facial hair styles that suit your face shape and preferences for the perfect finishing touch.

Confidence is the ultimate accessory, and pairing a shaved or buzzed head with sharp facial hair can create a powerful, polished look.