The faux hawk is a popular men's hairstyle that combines elements of the classic mohawk with a more subdued, everyday look. In this comprehensive tutorial, we will show you step by step how to create a trendy faux hawk, focusing on techniques and tips for professional hairdressers.
What is a faux hawk?
The faux hawk, also known as the "fohawk," is a hairstyle inspired by the classic mohawk, but more versatile and easier to style on a daily basis. It features longer hair in the middle of the head that tapers toward the back, and shorter, often layered sides.
Preparing for a haircut
Before starting the haircut:
- Wash and dry the client's hair.
- Discuss the desired end result with the customer.
- Prepare the necessary tools: scissors, clippers, comb, trimmer
Step by step: Creating a Faux Hawk
- Section designation:
- Separate the top section of your hair, creating a triangular section from your forehead to the back of your head.
- The width of the section should be greatest at the front and taper towards the rear.
- Side haircut:
- Start by shading the sides with clippers, using the fade technique.
- Gradually increase the length from bottom to top.
- Use the taper fade technique for a smooth transition.
- Cutting the top:
- Work on dry hair to better assess the length.
- Start at the back, gradually increasing the length toward the front.
- Use the point cutting technique to add texture.
- Connecting the top part to the sides:
- Use the blending technique to smoothly combine longer hair on top with shorter sides.
- Use scissors and a comb for a precise transition.
- Finish:
- Refine the contours using a trimmer.
- Check the symmetry and correct any inaccuracies if necessary.
Shading and texturing techniques
To achieve the perfect faux hawk, the right shading and texturizing techniques are key:
- Shading with scissors: Use the "point cutting" technique to add texture at the top.
- Shading with clippers: Apply the fade technique on the sides, gradually increasing the length.
- Texturizing: Use texturizing scissors or slicing techniques to add movement and volume.
You can learn more about advanced shading techniques in our course Modeling Volume and Shape in Men's Haircuts.
Faux Hawk styling
After cutting, proper styling is crucial:
- Apply a volumizing product to damp hair.
- Dry your hair by lifting it at the roots with a round brush.
- Use styling paste or wax to create a distinctive "comb" in the middle of your head.
- Finish with hairspray to hold the style in place.
You can find detailed styling tips in our article How to style men's hair: Tips for customers.
Faux Hawk Variations
The Faux Hawk can be modified to suit the customer's preferences:
- Long Faux Hawk: With longer hair on top for a more dramatic effect
- Textured Faux Hawk: With more texture for a modern, tousled look
- Mild Faux Hawk: With less pronounced contrast between the sides and the top, suitable for the office
Advice for hairdressers
- Always tailor the hairstyle to the shape of the client's face and hair type.
- Communicate with the client throughout the entire haircut process
- Educate your client on daily styling and hair care.
- Keep yourself up to date with the latest trends in men's hairstyles.
Hair care and maintenance
Inform the customer about the proper care of a faux hawk:
- Regular touch-ups (every 2-3 weeks)
- Using the right styling products
- Protecting hair from high temperatures during styling
For more care tips, see our complete care guide.
Creating a fashionable faux hawk requires precision, creativity, and an understanding of the client's individual needs. Remember that the key to success is constantly improving your skills and staying up to date with the latest trends. We encourage you to regularly participate in training courses and workshops, such as those offered by Connected Hair.
The History and Evolution of the Faux Hawk
Although the faux hawk has gained immense popularity in recent years, it has its roots in the punk rock scene of the 1970s and 1980s. This hairstyle evolved from the classic mohawk, becoming a more accessible and versatile option for a wider audience.
- The 1990s: The first versions of the Faux Hawk appear in alternative culture.
- Early 2000s: Popularization by celebrities such as David Beckham
- Current times: A variety of options, from subtle to more expressive
This evolution shows how hairstyles can adapt to changing trends and social needs.
Choosing a faux hawk to suit your face shape
The faux hawk can be adapted to different face shapes:
- Round face: Higher Faux Hawk to elongate the face
- Square face: Softer transitions to soften features
- Oval face: Virtually any version of the Faux Hawk will suit you.
- Long face: Lower faux hawk to avoid further elongating the face
You can find more information about choosing hairstyles to suit your face shape in our article on men's hairstyles for different face shapes.
Specialized tools for Faux Hawk
In addition to standard tools, consider using:
- Specialized texturizing scissors
- Machines with precision blades for details
- Razors for creating very sharp transitions
Investing in high-quality tools can significantly affect the end result.
Faux Hawk and other popular men's hairstyles
It is worth comparing the Faux Hawk with other popular men's hairstyles:
| Hairstyle | Similarities | Differences |
|---|---|---|
| Pompadour | Longer hair on top | The sides in a Pompadour are usually longer. |
| Undercut | Contrast between the top and sides | The faux hawk has a distinctive "comb." |
| Quiff | Lifted hair at the front | The quiff does not taper so clearly towards the back. |
Color trends in Faux Hawk
Coloring can add extra character to a faux hawk:
- Color shading: Darker sides, lighter top
- Highlights: Subtle lightening to add depth
- Bold colors: For example, platinum blonde or even neon colors for more extravagant clients.
Remember to always conduct a color consultation before making significant changes to a client's hair color.
Faux Hawk in a professional context
The faux hawk can be adapted to different professional environments:
- Subtle version: For corporations and formal workplaces
- Expressive version: For creative industries and less formal environments
- Variable version: The ability to style your hair in different ways depending on the occasion
Educate customers on how to adapt the Faux Hawk style to different professional situations.
Problems and solutions
There may be some challenges when performing and maintaining a Faux Hawk:
- Problem: Insufficient volume at the top
Solution: Use volumizing products, consider a perm - Problem: Too sharp transition between the sides and top
Solution: Focus on blending techniques, use texturizing scissors - Problem: Difficulties with everyday styling
Solution: Teach the customer simple styling techniques, recommend suitable products
Summary
The faux hawk is a versatile and fashionable hairstyle that requires not only technical precision from the hairdresser, but also creativity and the ability to adapt to the individual needs of the client. Remember that the key to success is to constantly improve your skills, follow the latest trends, and communicate effectively with your clients.
We encourage you to continue exploring the topic of men's hairstyles and cutting techniques through our online training courses and by regularly visiting our blog for the latest inspiration and advice.
