Men's Long Hair Styles

From LoveToKnow Hair

Men’s long hair styles are becoming more and more popular as society relaxes its perceptions of an “appropriate” men’s hair cut. When choosing a long hair style, however, men need to be aware of the additional difficulties long hair can present.

Natural long style.
Natural long style.

Types of Men’s Long Hair Styles

Long hair can be attractive and stylish on men as well as women, though the definition is somewhat different. What may qualify as long hair (below the ear or collar) for a man is usually a medium length for a woman, though many men opt for long styles that stretch below their shoulders as well. While there are not as many long men’s styles are there are women’s, there are still a number to choose from, including:

  • Ponytails: A simple, plain ponytail is both easy to care for and easy to style in a short period of time.
  • Braid: A single braid can be attractive on a man with long hair and it is more easily contained and controlled than a ponytail.
  • Dreadlocks: Dreadlocks can be a fashion statement and a way to style long hair, particularly if it is thick or curly.
  • Afro: Many African-American men choose a natural afro for their long hair.
  • Loose: With hair that falls just below the shoulders, there may be no need for any styling other than wearing the hair loose.
  • Mullet: A mullet has short hair in the front and at the top of the head and longer hair in back, possibly pulled into a ponytail.

Choosing a Long Style

Native American style.
Native American style.

Choosing whether or not to wear long hair is a decision balanced by personal preference and practicality. While many men may want to sport longer styles, dress code and grooming guidelines at their workplaces may prohibit hair from reaching below the collar. At the same time, a man who is actively involved in rigorous sports such as rock climbing, biking, racing, and other strenuous activities may prefer shorter styles that keep the hair from becoming entangled. Many surfers and other new age men opt for longer styles to represent their natural, care-free lifestyle, and for other men, long hair may be a cultural or heritage preference. Native American men, for example, frequently opt for long hair just as their ancestors did.

Styling Long Hair

Men’s long hair styles cannot simply be left to grow – like women, men are subject to split ends, uneven growth, and other hair characteristics that necessitate at least minimal management for an attractive style. Hair gel or spray is frequently necessary to tame wild strands and slick hair away from the face, though it should only be applied to the roots. Applying products to the entire length of hair will create excess weight that drags hair down. If accessories are needed, they should be coated and specifically designed to be gentle and minimize breakage.

Caring for Men’s Long Hair Styles

To keep hair looking its best, it is important to properly care for it. Men’s long styles, in particular, need more attentive care than shorter styles because they will show flaws and defects for a longer period of time rather than constantly being trimmed short.

  • Use conditioner to moisturize hair and minimize tangles.
  • Trim ends regularly (every 6-8 weeks) to even out the style and remove split ends.
  • Avoid constant tight styles such as frequent braids or overly tight ponytails that can increase the risk of hair loss.

Men’s long hair styles can be attractive and stylish if properly chosen and cared for. Long hair can be seductive and fashionable on both men and women, and men’s styles in particular are highly noticeable and frequently sought after.


 


Comments

McGee - You may want to try a smoothing serum, wax, or pomade to help control the ends of your hair. If you're going for the natural curls, though, there isn't much to do to make them curl stronger. You can try a bit of spray to help hold them, if you're interested in that type of product.

-- Contributed by: Mayntz

I have near shoulder-length brown hair that is VERY wavy/curly at the ends, thick, and extremely responsive to certain methods of style, drying, or conditioning. Since I have such thick hair (although slightly less now, as I have recently done-away with my dreadlocks), I tend to condition alot, and let my hair dry naturally under a hat. This gives the ends a uniform, retro-style curl that can sometimes go crazy. I also have a sidepart and extremely long bangs. I was wondering if there is a way to style/wear my hair so that the untamed poofiness is less impactive. Also, is there a way to make my curls longer, so that my wave runs from farther up my hair? Any styling tips would be greatly appreciated, as I love my hair and I love new styles and changes.

-- Contributed by: longhair mcgee

Some minor hair loss -- a few strands a day -- is perfectly normal. In fact, on average you can lose dozens of strands a day and never really notice. If your hair is coming out in clumps or if you're noticing really thin patches, however, you should consult a physician for a diagnosis. In the meantime, you can see How to Grow Your Hair Long for tips on how to keep your hair strong in case it's the way you care for it that is causing the problem.

-- Contributed by: Mayntz
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