The ultimate hair styling guide for men
Hair styling is an art form of its own — and one that millions of people pull off every single day, which means it can absolutely be learned from scratch. But if you feel like you’re all thumbs when it comes to styling, read M Room’s hair styling tips below, or drop in and we’ll help you get started.
1. Start with clean hair
Wash your hair with a nourishing shampoo and finish with conditioner — conditioner makes styling easier. If you’ve been using heavier styling products such as thick waxes, use a clarifying shampoo instead of your usual one. That way you’ll be sure to get every last bit of product residue out of your hair and scalp before applying anything new.
Towel-dry your hair. It can stay slightly damp — damp hair is easier to guide in the direction you want.
2. Prep
If your hair has a mind of its own and you struggle to get it under control, try these tools:
- Texturising spray adds grip and body to the hair. Spray evenly all over.
- A hairdryer helps direct your hair into the shape you want. You can add volume by aiming the nozzle at the roots, for instance, or smooth down a fluffier mop with a hairdryer and a brush working together. Don’t dry your hair all the way, though — leave it slightly damp — and avoid using too high a heat setting so you don’t burn your scalp.
3. Choose the right styling product
A quick rundown of the most common styling products:
- Matt waxes – suitable for everyone, but especially good for the fine hair typical of Nordic hair types, as a matt wax gives fine hair structure and makes it easier to style.
- Fibre waxes – another great way to achieve a matt finish. As the name suggests, these contain fibres that give the hair extra hold and strength. Fibre wax makes precise styling easier.
- Traditional pomades – a creamy, oil-based styling product suited to polished looks, giving a shiny, restyleable finish. Hair pomade dates back to the early 1900s, and today it’s the go-to choice for vintage-inspired styles in particular. Prep with texturising spray and finish with a comb.
- Modern pomades – thanks to their water-soluble formula, these are lighter, easier to use and easier to wash out than traditional pomades, and they also work well for more relaxed looks. Prep with texturising spray and, again, finish with a comb.
- Gels – for those who want a shiny, long-lasting finish. Unlike pomade, hair styled with gel can’t be restyled during the day. A great option when you want to slick everything back, or for any look that needs to stay put all day or all night.
4. Applying the product
Dispense a small amount of product into your palm. Less is more, as a rule, and a pea-sized blob is a good starting point for most people. Rub your hands together for 10 seconds and work the product through your hair with both hands, from roots to ends. Remember: at this stage you’re only applying the product, not styling yet.
5. Style!
Once the product is evenly distributed, it’s time for the main event. If you’ve followed the steps and found a product that suits both your hair and the look you’re after, styling should come as naturally as your usual shave.
Start by styling with the direction your hair already falls in. Which way does it naturally sit? Styling is easier when you work with your hair and its natural growth pattern. If your growth pattern is a mystery to you, or simply hard to judge, you can always ask your barber. M Room barbers can also recommend styles that work with your growth pattern — and, of course, cut your hair in a way that makes the most of it.
If your hair is fighting the product, try adding a little more, or bring in texturising spray and/or a hairdryer to help. Practice makes perfect here too.
6. Finish
Finish with hairspray if needed. Spray from a good distance (the recommended distance is usually given on the side of the can) and work evenly all around the hair.
Has it been a while since your last cut, and no styling trick seems to save the situation? Sounds like it’s time for a trip to the barber. Find your nearest M Room and join the queue!