How To Style A Faux Hawk A Comprehensive Guide

Aug 16, 2025 by ADMIN 47 views

Hey guys! Ever wanted to rock a cool, edgy hairstyle without fully committing to a Mohawk? Then the faux hawk is totally your jam! This stylish 'do gives you that rebellious vibe with a touch of sophistication, and the best part? It’s super versatile and way less permanent than a full-on Mohawk. In this guide, we're diving deep into the world of the faux hawk, covering everything from what it is and how it differs from a traditional Mohawk, to step-by-step instructions on how to cut and style one yourself. So, whether you're a seasoned hairstyling pro or a total newbie, get ready to unleash your inner rockstar!

What is a Faux Hawk?

Let's kick things off by answering the most basic question: What exactly is a faux hawk? Simply put, a faux hawk (sometimes called a “fohawk”) is a hairstyle that mimics the look of a Mohawk, but without shaving the sides of your head. Unlike a traditional Mohawk, which involves shaving the sides of the head to leave a prominent strip of hair in the center, the faux hawk achieves a similar effect by using styling techniques to create a central crest of hair that stands upright, while the sides are kept shorter or slicked down. The beauty of the faux hawk lies in its flexibility; you can style it in various ways, from sleek and polished to messy and textured, making it suitable for a wide range of occasions. The faux hawk is an awesome hairstyle, providing an edgy and modern look. It’s a perfect choice for those who want to experiment with a bold style without making a permanent commitment. Think of celebrities like Zayn Malik or David Beckham, who have famously sported faux hawks, showcasing just how stylish and adaptable this hairstyle can be. One of the key advantages of a faux hawk is that it allows you to maintain length on the sides of your head, giving you the option to style your hair in different ways when you want a change. This versatility makes it a popular choice for people who want a hairstyle that can transition seamlessly from a casual daytime look to a more polished evening appearance. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to add some personality and flair to your overall style. Whether you're heading to a concert, a party, or even a business casual event, a well-styled faux hawk can make a statement and set you apart from the crowd. So, if you're looking for a hairstyle that's both trendy and practical, the faux hawk might just be your new best friend. It's all about creating that iconic silhouette without the permanent shave, giving you the freedom to express yourself while keeping your styling options open. Isn't that totally cool?

Faux Hawk vs. Mohawk: What's the Difference?

Now that we know what a faux hawk is, let's get into the nitty-gritty and compare it to its bolder cousin, the Mohawk. This is crucial because, while they share a similar aesthetic, the commitment levels are worlds apart. The most significant difference between a faux hawk and a Mohawk lies in the permanence. A traditional Mohawk involves shaving the sides of your head, leaving a strip of hair down the center. This is a pretty bold move and requires a significant commitment since growing out a shaved head takes time and can be a bit awkward. On the other hand, a faux hawk gives you the look of a Mohawk without the shave. It's a clever illusion created by styling the hair in a way that mimics the Mohawk's signature central crest, while the sides remain relatively longer. This means you can easily switch back to a more conventional hairstyle when you feel like it. Think of it as the chameleon of hairstyles – adaptable and versatile. Another key distinction is the level of maintenance. Mohawks, with their shaved sides, require regular upkeep to keep the shaved areas clean and the central strip defined. This often means frequent trips to the barber for trims and touch-ups. Faux hawks, however, are much lower maintenance. Since you're not shaving anything, you only need to focus on styling your hair each day. This can be a major plus for those of us who are short on time or prefer a more relaxed grooming routine. The versatility of styling is another factor to consider. While Mohawks offer a powerful statement, they can be somewhat limited in terms of styling options. Once the sides are shaved, you're pretty much committed to the Mohawk look until it grows out. Faux hawks, on the other hand, provide a much broader range of styling possibilities. You can go for a sleek, polished look for a formal event, a messy, textured vibe for a casual outing, or even experiment with different heights and shapes for your central crest. This flexibility makes the faux hawk a fantastic choice for anyone who likes to switch up their style regularly. So, in a nutshell, the faux hawk is like the Mohawk's more chill and adaptable sibling. It gives you the edgy look without the permanent commitment, the high maintenance, and the limited styling options. It's a win-win for anyone who wants to experiment with a bold hairstyle while still having the freedom to change things up when the mood strikes. And let’s be real, who doesn't love having options?

How to Cut a Faux Hawk: A Step-by-Step Guide

Okay, so you're digging the faux hawk vibe and ready to take the plunge? Awesome! Cutting a faux hawk at home might seem intimidating, but with the right tools and a little patience, you can totally nail it. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you achieve that perfect faux hawk cut.

1. Gather Your Tools

First things first, let’s get your arsenal ready. You’ll need:

Hair Clippers: Invest in a good quality set with various guard sizes. This is crucial for achieving an even and consistent cut on the sides.
Scissors: Sharp hair-cutting scissors are a must. Avoid using regular household scissors, as they can damage your hair.
Combs: A fine-toothed comb and a wider comb will help you section and style your hair.
Mirrors: You'll need a hand mirror in addition to your bathroom mirror to see the back of your head. This is super important for ensuring an even cut all around.
Hair Clips: These will help you section your hair and keep it out of the way while you're cutting.
Towel or Cape: To protect your clothes from falling hair.

Having these tools on hand will make the process smoother and ensure you get the best results. Trust me, investing in good clippers and scissors is worth it – they’ll last you for ages and make a huge difference in the quality of your haircuts.

2. Prepare Your Hair

Before you start snipping away, it's important to prep your hair properly. Begin by washing your hair and conditioning it. Clean hair is easier to cut and style. Once your hair is clean and conditioned, towel dry it until it's damp but not soaking wet. Damp hair is easier to manage and cut evenly. Make sure your hair is free of any tangles or knots. Use a wide-toothed comb to gently detangle your hair, starting from the ends and working your way up to the roots. This will ensure a smooth and even cut. Now, let’s talk about sectioning. Sectioning your hair is key to achieving a well-defined faux hawk. Use a comb to create a central section of hair running from your forehead to the nape of your neck. This section will form the “hawk” part of your faux hawk. Clip the central section up and out of the way. This will keep it separate while you work on the sides. Next, section off the hair on the sides of your head. Use hair clips to secure these sections, keeping them separate from the central section. Proper preparation is the secret weapon to a killer faux hawk cut. By taking the time to wash, condition, detangle, and section your hair, you’re setting yourself up for success. It’s like laying the foundation for a masterpiece – you can’t build a great house on a shaky foundation, and you can’t get a great haircut without proper prep. So, take your time, do it right, and you’ll be one step closer to rocking that faux hawk!

3. Cut the Sides

Alright, let's get down to business! Cutting the sides is where the magic begins in creating that distinct faux hawk silhouette. This is where your hair clippers come into play, so make sure they're charged and ready to go. Start by choosing the right guard size. The guard size you choose will determine how short the sides of your hair will be. For a more dramatic faux hawk, you might opt for a shorter guard size (like a #2 or #3). For a more subtle look, go for a longer guard size (like a #4 or #5). If you’re unsure, it’s always best to start with a longer guard and then go shorter if needed. You can always take more hair off, but you can’t put it back! Attach the guard to your clippers and begin cutting the hair on the sides of your head. Start at the bottom, near your ears, and work your way up towards the top of your head. Use smooth, even strokes and follow the natural curve of your head. For a clean and consistent cut, overlap each pass of the clippers slightly. This ensures that you don't miss any spots and that the hair is cut to the same length. As you move towards the top of your head, gradually fade the hair into the longer central section. This means that the hair on the sides should get slightly longer as you approach the top of your head. This creates a smooth transition between the shorter sides and the longer faux hawk. If you’re feeling fancy, you can use a technique called “fading” to create a more gradual transition. This involves using different guard sizes as you move up the sides of your head. For example, you might use a #2 guard at the bottom, a #3 guard in the middle, and a #4 guard near the top. Take your time and check your work frequently. Use your hand mirror to check the back and sides of your head to make sure the cut is even and consistent. Remember, patience is key! Once you’ve cut one side, repeat the process on the other side. Make sure you’re using the same guard size and techniques to ensure that both sides are symmetrical. It’s super important that both sides match, so take your time and double-check your work. Cutting the sides is the foundation of your faux hawk. It’s what gives the hairstyle its shape and definition. So, take your time, pay attention to detail, and don't be afraid to make adjustments as you go. With a little practice, you’ll be a faux hawk side-cutting pro in no time!

4. Refine the Shape

Now that you've got the basic shape down, it's time to refine the shape and give your faux hawk that polished, professional look. This is where your scissors come into play, helping you to create those clean lines and perfect the overall silhouette. Start by focusing on the transition between the sides and the central section. You want this transition to be smooth and gradual, without any harsh lines or awkward angles. Use your scissors to carefully blend the shorter side hair into the longer central section. Point cutting is a fantastic technique for softening the edges and creating a more natural-looking transition. This involves holding your scissors vertically and making small, angled cuts into the hair. It helps to remove bulk and create texture, resulting in a softer, more blended look. Pay attention to the length of the central section. You might need to trim it slightly to achieve the desired height and shape for your faux hawk. Use your scissors to trim any stray hairs or uneven lengths, ensuring that the central section is uniform and well-defined. If you want a more textured look, you can use your scissors to create some choppy layers in the central section. This involves cutting the hair at different lengths to add volume and movement. Just be careful not to overdo it – you want to create texture, not thin out the hair too much. Check for symmetry. Use your mirrors to examine your haircut from all angles, making sure that both sides are even and balanced. It’s common to have slight differences between the two sides, but you want to minimize any major discrepancies. Take your time and make small adjustments as needed. Sometimes, the smallest tweaks can make a big difference in the overall look. Don't be afraid to experiment with different shapes and styles. The beauty of the faux hawk is that it can be customized to suit your individual preferences. You can go for a more rounded shape, a more pointed shape, or even a more asymmetrical look. The key is to find a shape that complements your face shape and personal style. Refining the shape is like adding the finishing touches to a work of art. It’s the attention to detail that elevates your faux hawk from good to amazing. So, grab your scissors, take a deep breath, and get ready to sculpt that perfect faux hawk!

5. Style Your Faux Hawk

Alright, you've nailed the cut, and now comes the really fun part: styling your faux hawk! This is where you get to unleash your creativity and transform your freshly cut hair into a stylish masterpiece. Styling a faux hawk is all about creating that iconic central crest that stands tall and proud. To achieve this, you'll need the right products and techniques. Start with clean, damp hair. Freshly washed hair is easier to style and will hold its shape better. Towel dry your hair until it’s damp but not soaking wet. Too much water can dilute your styling products and make your hair harder to manage. Apply a styling product. This is key to creating a faux hawk that stays put. There are several options to choose from, depending on the look you’re going for:

Mousse: Provides lightweight hold and volume, perfect for a softer, more natural look.
Gel: Offers a stronger hold and a more defined shape, ideal for a sleeker, more polished style.
Pomade: Gives a medium hold with a touch of shine, great for a classic, rockabilly-inspired faux hawk.
Wax: Provides a strong, pliable hold with a matte finish, perfect for a messy, textured look.

Start with a small amount of product and distribute it evenly throughout your hair, focusing on the roots and the central section. You can always add more product if needed, but it’s easier to start with less and build up. Use a comb or your fingers to lift the hair in the central section upwards and towards the center of your head. This will create the signature faux hawk crest. For extra volume and lift, you can use a hairdryer. Set it to medium heat and blow dry your hair upwards, directing the airflow at the roots. Use your fingers to sculpt the hair into the desired shape as you dry it. If you want a more textured look, use your fingers to create piecy sections and tousle the hair. This will add volume and movement, giving your faux hawk a more relaxed and edgy vibe. For a sleeker, more polished look, use a comb to smooth the hair and create a more defined shape. You can even use a bit of hairspray to hold the style in place. Once you’re happy with the shape and style of your faux hawk, finish with a spritz of hairspray. This will provide extra hold and keep your style looking sharp all day long. When styling your faux hawk, don’t be afraid to experiment and try different techniques. The beauty of this hairstyle is that it can be adapted to suit your individual style and preferences. You can go for a tall, dramatic crest, a sleek, polished shape, or a messy, textured vibe. The possibilities are endless! So, grab your styling products, get creative, and get ready to rock that faux hawk!

Styling Variations and Ideas

Now that you’ve mastered the basics of cutting and styling a faux hawk, let’s dive into some styling variations and ideas to keep things fresh and exciting. The faux hawk is a remarkably versatile hairstyle, and there are countless ways to customize it to suit your individual style and preferences. One popular variation is the textured faux hawk. This style is all about creating a messy, effortless look with plenty of volume and movement. To achieve this, use a texturizing product like sea salt spray or matte wax. Apply it to damp hair and use your fingers to tousle and scrunch the hair as you style it. This will create piecy sections and a relaxed, edgy vibe. For a more polished and sophisticated look, try the sleek faux hawk. This style is perfect for formal occasions or when you want to make a statement without being too over-the-top. Use a strong-hold gel or pomade to slick back the sides of your hair and create a defined crest in the center. Comb the hair upwards and inwards, creating a smooth, sculpted shape. Finish with a spritz of hairspray for extra hold and shine. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding some color to your faux hawk. Highlights, lowlights, or even a bold, vibrant color can transform your faux hawk and make it truly unique. Just be sure to consult with a professional stylist to ensure that the color complements your skin tone and hair type. Another fun idea is to experiment with different lengths and shapes. You can go for a tall, dramatic crest, a shorter, more subtle shape, or even an asymmetrical style. The key is to find a shape that complements your face shape and personal style. Don’t be afraid to play around with different angles and textures to find what works best for you. For a retro-inspired look, try a rockabilly faux hawk. This style is inspired by the classic rock 'n' roll hairstyles of the 1950s and features a high, voluminous crest with slicked-back sides. Use a pomade or wax to create a strong hold and a glossy finish. Comb the hair upwards and backwards, creating a curved shape that resembles a wave. You can even add a quiff at the front for extra flair. The faux hawk is also a great hairstyle for showcasing your personal style. You can accessorize it with headbands, scarves, or even hair jewelry. These accessories can add a pop of color, texture, or shine to your faux hawk and help you create a unique and personalized look. So, whether you’re going for a casual, edgy vibe or a sleek, sophisticated style, there’s a faux hawk variation out there for you. The key is to experiment, have fun, and let your creativity shine. With a little practice and imagination, you can rock a faux hawk that’s all your own!

Conclusion

So there you have it, guys! You're now equipped with all the knowledge you need to cut and style a killer faux hawk. From understanding the difference between a faux hawk and a Mohawk to mastering the step-by-step cutting process and exploring various styling options, you’re ready to take your hair game to the next level. Remember, the faux hawk is more than just a hairstyle; it's a statement. It's a way to express your individuality, show off your personality, and rock a look that's both edgy and sophisticated. Whether you're aiming for a sleek, polished finish or a messy, textured vibe, the faux hawk can be adapted to suit your style. The key to success is practice, patience, and a willingness to experiment. Don't be afraid to try new things, make mistakes, and learn from them. The more you style your faux hawk, the better you'll become at it. And don't forget, the most important thing is to have fun and feel confident in your new look. So go ahead, grab your clippers, styling products, and get ready to unleash your inner rockstar. With a little effort and creativity, you can achieve a faux hawk that turns heads and makes you feel amazing. And who knows, you might just inspire others to rock this awesome hairstyle too! So, what are you waiting for? It's time to embrace the faux hawk revolution and show the world your unique style! Go get 'em, tiger!