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.

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.

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.

Next Article: Men's Modern Hairstyles Interview »
 


Comments

Thanks for the tips, Anand. Be sure to check out Long Hair Care for more advice.

-- Contributed by: Mayntz

I had grown very long hair during my teens till the age of 25 primarily because I was a classical Odissi&Bhartanatyam dancer and had to braid it. I used to take as much care as any girl would do, regular oiling, never keep it untied and apply henna twice a week. I used to love my long hair and when i used go out on a bike, i used to tie a scarf(all seasons except rainuy season when i used to tie my hair in a bun and put a cap) and get it combed atleast thrice a day. My favorite was a tight pony tail.

-- Contributed by: ANAND

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
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