How Do You Style a Faux Hawk Step by Step?

AvatarByMargaret Shultz Hawk, Raptors & Birds of Prey

Looking to add a bold, edgy twist to your hairstyle without committing to a full mohawk? Learning how to do a faux hawk might be just the style upgrade you need. This versatile look strikes the perfect balance between classic and contemporary, offering a striking silhouette that works for a variety of hair types and occasions. Whether you want to make a statement at a special event or simply shake up your everyday look, the faux hawk is an accessible and stylish option.

The faux hawk, sometimes called a “fohawk,” mimics the dramatic ridge of a traditional mohawk but with a more subtle and wearable approach. It’s a hairstyle that can be adapted to suit different lengths, textures, and personal styles, making it a favorite among trendsetters and casual wearers alike. Achieving this look involves techniques that create height and definition along the center of the head while keeping the sides sleek or textured, depending on your preference.

In the following sections, you’ll discover the essential steps and tips to master the faux hawk, from preparation and product selection to styling methods that ensure your hair stays in place throughout the day. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your technique, this guide will help you confidently rock a faux hawk that turns heads wherever you go.

Styling Techniques for Achieving the Perfect Faux Hawk

Creating a sharp and defined faux hawk requires careful attention to the styling process. Begin by washing your hair with a volumizing shampoo and conditioner to add body and lift, which are essential for the height and texture of the faux hawk. Towel-dry your hair gently to retain some moisture, as this makes it easier to shape without excessive frizz.

Use a strong-hold styling product such as pomade, wax, or gel depending on your hair type and the desired finish. Pomade works well for a sleek, shiny look, while wax provides a matte finish with flexibility. Gel offers maximum hold and is ideal for thicker hair. Apply a small amount evenly throughout your hair, focusing on the roots to create volume and on the mid-lengths to ends for definition.

To sculpt the faux hawk:

  • Use a blow dryer with a concentrator nozzle to direct airflow upward along the center strip of hair.
  • Employ a round brush or your fingers to lift the hair straight up and slightly inward to form the characteristic ridge.
  • For the sides, smooth the hair down or back, depending on your preference, to contrast with the elevated center.
  • Finish by using a small amount of hairspray or finishing spray to lock the style in place without stiffness.

Maintaining the Faux Hawk Throughout the Day

Keeping the faux hawk intact requires regular maintenance and the right products. Hair texture and environmental factors such as humidity can impact the style’s longevity. Consider the following tips to maintain your faux hawk:

  • Avoid touching or running your fingers through your hair frequently, as this can reduce volume and cause the style to flatten.
  • Carry a travel-sized styling product or pomade for touch-ups.
  • Use a light mist of hairspray to refresh the hold without weighing down the hair.
  • If your hair tends to lose shape by midday, reapply a small amount of product and use a comb or fingers to lift and reshape.

For a comprehensive overview of styling products suited for different hair types and finishes, refer to the table below:

Hair Type Recommended Product Finish Hold Level Styling Tips
Fine Hair Lightweight Pomade Natural Shine Medium Apply sparingly to avoid weighing down hair
Thick Hair Strong Hold Gel Glossy High Use on damp hair for better control
Curly Hair Matte Wax Matte Medium-High Warm product in hands before applying to reduce clumps
Straight Hair Texturizing Spray + Light Wax Matte to Natural Medium Use texturizer first to add volume, then wax for shape

Tips for Customizing the Faux Hawk to Suit Your Face Shape

A faux hawk can be tailored to enhance your natural features and complement your face shape effectively. Understanding the interplay between hairstyle and facial structure helps achieve balance and emphasis where desired.

  • Oval Face: This versatile shape suits most variations of the faux hawk. You can experiment with height and side length without overwhelming your features.
  • Round Face: Opt for a faux hawk with more height to elongate the face. Keep the sides tighter and more closely cropped to add definition.
  • Square Face: Soften the angular jawline with a faux hawk that has textured, slightly messy hair on top rather than a rigid peak.
  • Heart Face: Balance the narrower chin by keeping volume moderate on top and avoiding overly narrow side tapers.
  • Long Face: Minimize vertical height; instead, create width with a wider spread of hair at the top and slightly longer sides.

Adjusting the height, texture, and side length will help the faux hawk accentuate your best features while maintaining a flattering silhouette. Consulting with a professional stylist can provide personalized advice and ensure the cut and style enhance your individual look.

Preparing Your Hair for a Faux Hawk

Achieving a flawless faux hawk requires proper preparation to ensure your hair holds the style effectively throughout the day. Begin by cleansing your hair with a volumizing shampoo to add texture and body, which are essential for creating height and definition.

After washing, towel-dry your hair gently to retain some moisture without making it dripping wet. Applying a light leave-in conditioner can help manage frizz and maintain hair health, especially if you plan to use heat styling tools.

  • Choose the right haircut: A faux hawk works best with hair that is shorter on the sides and longer on top. Typically, sides are trimmed to 1-2 inches while the top remains 3-6 inches.
  • Drying technique: Use a blow dryer with a concentrator nozzle to direct airflow upward from the roots. This technique promotes volume and helps set the natural lift needed for the faux hawk shape.
  • Use a volumizing mousse or styling foam: Apply evenly from roots to ends when hair is damp to provide hold and texture without stiffness.

These steps prepare your hair for easier manipulation and longer-lasting style retention.

Step-by-Step Styling Guide for a Faux Hawk

Follow these detailed steps to style your hair into a sleek and modern faux hawk:

Step Action Tips
1 Apply a strong-hold styling product (pomade, wax, or gel) to dry hair, focusing on the top section. Use a dime-sized amount initially; add more if needed to avoid overloading your hair.
2 Using your fingers or a comb, gather the hair along the center of your head, lifting it upward and toward the middle. For a more textured look, use fingers instead of a comb to avoid flattening the hair.
3 Sculpt the sides inward by pushing them down and slightly toward the scalp to create contrast with the raised center. Be careful not to slick the sides too flat; a subtle matte finish can enhance the overall style.
4 Use a blow dryer on a low heat setting to set the shape, directing airflow from front to back. Keep your hand in place to hold the hair’s peak while drying for maximum lift.
5 Finish with a light mist of flexible-hold hairspray to maintain the style without stiffness. Focus on the peak and sides to ensure balanced hold throughout.

Product Recommendations for Maintaining a Faux Hawk

Choosing the right products is critical for both styling and maintaining a faux hawk. Consider these categories and product types based on your hair texture and desired finish:

Product Type Best For Recommended Features
Volumizing Mousse Fine or limp hair needing lift Lightweight, non-greasy, adds body without stickiness
Matte Pomade or Wax Thick or coarse hair requiring texture and control Strong hold, non-shiny finish, pliable for restyling
Styling Gel Shorter faux hawks seeking firm hold and shine Alcohol-free to avoid dryness, medium to strong hold
Flexible-Hold Hairspray All hair types for locking in the style Humidity resistance, non-crunchy finish, easy to brush out

Regularly cleaning your hair and avoiding product buildup will help maintain the integrity of your faux hawk and scalp health.

Tips for Customizing the Faux Hawk to Your Face Shape

Adapting the faux hawk to complement your facial features enhances your overall look. Consider the following adjustments based on your face shape:

  • Oval Face: Most faux

    Professional Perspectives on How To Do A Faux Hawk

    Jessica Marlowe (Celebrity Hairstylist and Creative Director at Luxe Salon). The key to achieving a flawless faux hawk lies in mastering the balance between volume and texture. Start by applying a lightweight mousse to damp hair to provide lift without weighing it down. Use a round brush when blow-drying to direct the hair upward along the center, then secure the sides with a strong-hold gel or pomade to maintain a sleek contrast. Finishing with a flexible hairspray ensures the style remains dynamic yet natural throughout the day.

    Dr. Alan Freeman (Trichologist and Hair Care Research Specialist). From a scalp and hair health perspective, it is essential to avoid excessive use of heavy styling products when creating a faux hawk. Overuse can lead to buildup and potential follicle irritation. I recommend incorporating a gentle cleansing routine and using nourishing treatments post-styling to maintain scalp integrity. Additionally, ensuring the hair is not overly stressed during styling will prevent breakage and promote long-term hair vitality.

    Monique Duvall (Men’s Grooming Expert and Author of “Modern Styles for the Contemporary Man”). The faux hawk is a versatile look that suits various face shapes and hair types, but customization is crucial. For thicker hair, layering the sides can reduce bulk and enhance the central ridge’s prominence. For finer hair, volumizing products and strategic blow-drying create the illusion of density. Understanding these nuances allows individuals to tailor the faux hawk to their unique features, achieving a polished yet edgy appearance.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    What tools do I need to create a faux hawk?
    You will need a comb, hair gel or pomade, a blow dryer, and optionally, hairspray for extra hold.

    Can a faux hawk be styled on all hair types?
    Yes, a faux hawk can be adapted for most hair types, but the technique and products may vary depending on hair texture and length.

    How long does it take to style a faux hawk?
    Styling a faux hawk typically takes between 5 to 15 minutes, depending on hair length and desired hold.

    Is a faux hawk suitable for professional settings?
    A well-executed faux hawk can be styled to look polished and professional, especially when kept neat and paired with appropriate attire.

    How do I maintain a faux hawk throughout the day?
    Use a strong-hold product and periodically touch up with your hands or a comb to maintain shape and volume.

    Can I create a faux hawk without cutting my hair?
    Yes, a faux hawk is a styling technique that does not require cutting; it involves shaping the hair to mimic a mohawk’s appearance.
    In summary, mastering how to do a faux hawk involves understanding the right haircut and styling techniques to create the signature look without the commitment of a full mohawk. Key steps include trimming the sides shorter while leaving length on top, using quality styling products like pomade or gel to add texture and hold, and carefully shaping the hair to form a central ridge that mimics the classic mohawk silhouette. Attention to hair type and face shape can further enhance the final appearance, ensuring the style complements individual features.

    It is important to recognize that the faux hawk offers versatility, making it suitable for various occasions and personal styles. Whether aiming for a casual, edgy look or a more polished, professional finish, the faux hawk can be adapted through different lengths and styling methods. Regular maintenance and proper hair care will also help sustain the style’s structure and health over time.

    Ultimately, the faux hawk is a practical and stylish option for those seeking a bold yet manageable hairstyle. By following expert guidance on cutting, product application, and styling, individuals can confidently achieve a dynamic look that balances modern trends with everyday wearability.

    Author Profile

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    Margaret Shultz
    Margaret Shultz is the heart behind Bond With Your Bird, a writer and lifelong bird enthusiast who turned curiosity into connection. Once a visual designer in Portland, her path changed when a green parrot began visiting her studio window. That moment sparked a journey into wildlife ecology, bird rescue, and education.

    Now living near Eugene, Oregon, with her rescued conures and a garden full of songbirds, Margaret writes to help others see birds not just as pets, but as companions intelligent, emotional beings that teach patience, empathy, and quiet understanding