34+ Men's Hair Care Tips Experts Swear By

The right haircut has the power to change just about everything—your face shape, how old you look, and most importantly, your confidence. If you’ve been feeling a need for some change in your life or are just feeling like your haircut is aging you, it's time to visit your local barber. From how often you should wash your hair to hairstyles you should avoid once you hit the age of 50, these tips will have you feeling confident. Get ready to look fresh!

Consider a Toupee

When you begin to lose a little hair off the top, wearing a toupee can offer a natural look that allows you to regain the confidence that balding or thinning hair might take away. With the right style and application, a toupee is a perfect way to achieve the appearance of a fuller head of hair. Choose one with the same color, thickness, and density as your own hair, and have a professional help you both apply and style it for the most secure and comfortable fit for you.

Avoid the Pompadour Style

Our hairlines recede as we grow older—it’s nothing to be ashamed about. However, if you're feeling a bit self-conscious about this, it's best to stay away from a pompadour style. This high-volume hairstyle puts emphasis on the front, making it tricky for those with thinner hair to pull off effectively. Instead of struggling to maintain the pompadour’s demanding look, which requires excessive products, opt for cuts that minimize attention to thinning areas and can create a stylish, flattering appearance.

Mohawks Are In

You might think of mohawks as being tall and spiky, but the modern version of this hairstyle is actually an excellent choice for men looking to stay trendy and appear younger, especially if they have ample hair on the crown and mid-scalp. A close fade enhances the contrast between the short sides and longer tops, giving the look a sharp, youthful edge while drawing attention away from a receding hairline. Use wax or pomade to slick the hair forward—just don’t go too overboard with the look.

Brush Your Hair Daily

You might quickly run a brush through your hair without thinking, but did you know that brushing your hair is actually essential to proper hair care? Not only does it remove any loose hair, but it helps to distribute natural oils to the rest of your hair and stimulate the scalp. Gently brush your hair twice a day to distribute those oils and get it looking naturally shiny. In addition, find the best brush for your hair type to make sure you're protecting those precious strands.

Get a Good Barber

Your haircut is only as good as your barber. After all, they're the ones with shears and trimmers in their hands. Communication is crucial—this is your moment to practice being clear and specific about the style you want. Bringing reference photos can go a long way in helping your barber visualize your desired outcome. This straightforward step avoids any confusion, making sure you leave with a sharp, stylish cut that fits your personality and boosts your confidence.

Offset the Effects of Chlorine

Chlorine can be harmful to your precious hair. Before you dive into the pool headfirst, give your head a good rinse with fresh water to minimize the absorption of harmful chemicals while in the pool. After swimming, follow up with a nourishing, moisturizing conditioner to restore softness and shine, countering the drying effects of chlorine. With just a little care, you can enjoy your swim without compromising your hair’s health.

Regular Upkeep is Key

Those first few days after a haircut are the best, with sharp lines and soft fades looking fresh. However, over time, hair grows out and blurs the crisp lines that define these looks. Scheduling frequent touch-ups with your barber—every couple of weeks—will help maintain that polished appearance. To keep things smooth in between visits, use a good-quality trimmer at home to lightly shape your edges. Consistent maintenance ensures your hairline stays sharp, your fade stays soft, and your overall look stays on point.

When in Doubt, Go Shorter

For those times when the weather heats up or you’re just fed up with your current look, going shorter can be a game-changer. A fresh, close-cropped cut not only feels lighter but can also give you a clean, refreshed appearance. Shorter styles are easy to manage, making them perfect for those looking for a low-maintenance option. Plus, in warm weather, you’ll appreciate the cooler feel. Opt for a shorter fade or a buzz cut to reset your style—it’ll always grow back.

Embrace Your Grey

The first sign we’re getting older is that stray strand of grey hair. Suddenly, by the time we hit 50, it seems our whole head is covered in them. However, we’re here to tell you that it’s time to embrace the greys! In fact, grey hair can elevate your style, giving you a distinguished and mature look that's often admired. Plus, going natural means less upkeep than constantly dyeing your hair, saving you time and effort. With the right cut and grooming, your grey hair can look sharp, polished, and effortlessly sophisticated.

Pat Your Hair Dry

Most of us quickly rub our hair with a towel after a shower without giving it much thought, but wet hair is at its most fragile and prone to breakage. Instead of rough drying, be gentle with your locks. Use a microfiber towel or even a soft t-shirt to gently pat your hair dry. This reduces friction, protects your hair from damage, and helps preserve its natural volume and texture. Taking a little extra care during this step can make a big difference in maintaining healthy, strong hair.

Try Out a Fringe

The messy fringe allows for a relaxed, tousled look, perfect for anyone seeking a carefree vibe. Because it falls to the front, a fringe cut also helps to conceal thinning areas about the temples while keeping the hairline looking full. Whether your hair is curly or straight, aim for a length just above the eyebrows for practicality. To maintain it, schedule regular barber visits every four to six weeks. For those with wavy hair, wax or pomade creates extra texture and volume, enhancing the effortless appeal of the messy fringe.

Take Care of Your Beard

When it comes to hair care and maintenance, your beard deserves as much love as your hair. Your beard can enhance your jawline and your face, so it's important to invest time and products into your maintenance. A good beard oil can keep coarse beard hair soft and maintainable, while products to treat hair loss can help in places where beards are patchy and thinning. A regular trim and a nice beard brush can also ensure that your beard looks and feels the way you want it to.

Embrace What You Have

Hair loss sometimes feels like an inevitability, though some people experience it a lot sooner than they’d like. The key here is to do what’ll make you feel the most confident. Whether you opt for products that promote hair growth, a specific haircut that complements thinning areas, or a clean shave, focus on what makes you feel good. Embrace the approach that brings you joy and helps you accept your hair as it is.

Don’t Test the Limits

You might be tempted to try something completely new and crazy, but we’d advise against going too wild when it comes to a new haircut. There is, after all, a difference between bold and cringe-worthy. Try to avoid universally bad haircuts. If you want to do something new, just ask your barber what he’d recommend and go from there—they’ll know what works best for your face shape and hair type, and you can avoid that dreaded post-haircut shame.

Style While Wet

When styling our hair, we often use products and gels to keep it in place, but styling your hair right after the shower allows the work to be done for you. Using just your fingers and a comb, you can create volume and a look that lasts all day. On the other hand, it’s important to not throw on a hat right after the shower, so your locks stay voluminous, instead of easily flattened. Make your life easier, save on products, and use nature’s gift of water to get the exact hairstyle you want.

Build Some Height With a Quiff

The quiff is a versatile hairstyle, perfectly customizable to suit various preferences and face shapes. It effectively draws attention away from thinning areas or a receding hairline, creating a balanced and confident appearance. It can be dressed up for formal occasions or worn casually, and with the right styling products, the quiff maintains its shape and volume throughout the day. If you’re trying to decide on a new look, the quiff might just be your next top choice.

Welcome the Bald

If your hair is a source of discomfort or embarrassment, and you want to take things one step further than a buzzcut, why not go all in and embrace the bald? It's one of the simplest hairstyles to maintain, requiring just a good shaver or a quick visit to the barber. Remember to still wash your scalp to remove dead skin and excess oil—and always protect your bare scalp underneath the sun. Get rid of your thinning hair and your bald patches, and welcome a bald head.

Avoid Tight Updos

This tip might be painful to hear for those with long flowing locks, but tight man buns and ponytails might actually be harming your hair more than helping to keep it out of your face. For those suffering from hair loss, it might be time to ditch the long mane. The tension from these styles have the ability to damage hair follicles and worsen hair loss. Opt for looser hairstyles, ones that don't pull as heavily on the scalp to reduce future hair loss.

Don’t Comb Over

Though thinning hair can be a cause for insecurities, it’s best to avoid hairstyles like a combover as an attempt to hide hair loss. In fact, it often draws more attention to hair loss rather than disguising it. By combing longer strands of hair over thinning areas, it can create an unnatural and forced appearance that highlights the issue. Instead, embrace shorter, modern hairstyles for a more flattering and confident look.

Slick Back Your Hair

A messy, laid-back look is great for casual occasions, but if you want to elevate your style and create the appearance of thicker hair, slicking your hair back is the ideal choice. Using a bit of gel or pomade, you can comb your hair back to cover thinning spots and add extra volume. This style offers a polished, sophisticated appearance that lasts all day or night. It pairs exceptionally well with a groomed beard or facial stubble, enhancing your overall look.

Beard Shaping Techniques

To achieve the perfect beard shape, follow a careful process of trimming and defining. Start by using a longer setting on your trimmer and gradually switch to shorter settings until you reach the style you want. In addition, define the edges around your cheeks and neckline for a clean look. For extra detail, use your trimmer without any attachments to sharpen the edges. Regular trimming helps keep your beard healthy and in shape, as long as you stay patient and precise.

The Routine to Trim Your Chest

For those who prefer to keep their chest hair short and sweet, you’re probably familiar with an ingrown hair or two. In order to avoid these uncomfortable side effects of trimming, start with exfoliating the skin and taking a hot shower to open the pores. Then, with a moisturizer applied to the chest, trim in the direction of the hair growth, making sure to use a sharp and clean trimmer head. That way, you can achieve that smoother surface without any of the annoying ingrown hairs.

Never Skip Conditioning

Conditioner is essential for men’s hair care, as it helps maintain healthy, manageable hair. It nourishes and hydrates, reducing dryness and preventing breakage. Regular use of conditioner detangles hair, making it easier to style and less prone to damage. For those with longer or textured hair, conditioner is particularly crucial for softness and smoothness. Even if you’re not shampooing every day—which you shouldn’t be—by incorporating conditioner into your grooming routine, you ensure your hair stays strong, shiny, and well-maintained.

Part Your Hair to the Side

Many people let their hair fall naturally, but we’re here to encourage a side-swept hairstyle for a natural flow and added coverage. It all starts at the barber, with a haircut done specifically to emphasize the side part of the hair. From there, for daily styling, begin at the temple and use pomade or wax to slick the hair back and to the side, adding some extra texture to the longer pieces in front. With the haircut already supporting the fall of the hair, styling becomes easy and allows for a polished look every morning.

Avoid 2-in-1 Products

It might be easier to grab one bottle off the shelf that promises both cleansing and moisturizing. But we’re here to tell you to leave that 2-in-1, shampoo and conditioner at the store. These products focus too much on cleansing the hair, often leaving it more brittle and prone to breaking than it should be. Invest in your hair health by buying separate bottles for all your hair care needs—and get the good stuff that keeps your hair strong and healthy.

Keep it Symmetrical

While we’re all for adding a side sweep or a quiff to your everyday look, you’ll be better off avoiding a hairstyle that’s *too* asymmetrical. For everyday life, they’re a bit too difficult to maintain, and they can often feel impractical. The right barber can help to create dimension and subtle asymmetry without causing you look to off-balance. Opt for manageable and reliable, instead of simply going for the bold choice. You’ll thank yourself later when you’re just too tired to style it in the mornings.

Emphasize the Jaw Line

The jawline is a strong feature and is not to be underestimated. When it comes to the right haircut, you can surprisingly add some dimension and attention to your jawline, especially with the right fade and sharp lines. Opt for a short and edgy hairstyle, adding some layers and texture. Pair your cut with a groomed beard that works with your facial structure and shows off your jawline in the most flattering way.

Implement Some Hair Creams

As much as we want our hair to do all the work itself, there’s nothing wrong with getting a little extra texture or shape with the help of creams and gels. After the shower, a medium hold cream can help tame those flyaways, add some shine, and put some texture into your hair that’ll last a decent amount of time. With the help of your barber, and the internet, you can figure out the perfect products to use to help your specific hair type keep that desired shape, without the need for products that are heavy and sticky.

How to Achieve a Man Bun

For those who can’t give up their long locks, the man bun is perfect for keeping hair out of your face while maintaining a stylish, laid-back look. It’s a quick, low-maintenance option that works for both casual and professional settings. The man bun works perfectly for men with medium to long hair. Start by gathering your hair into a ponytail at the crown of your head, then twist the ponytail and wrap it around the base to form a bun. Secure it with a hair tie or pins and you’re good to go.

The Almost-Buzz-Cut Look

If you're considering moving from longer hair to a buzzcut but aren't quite ready for the drastic change, a short, military-inspired cut might be the perfect middle ground. With closely shaved sides and a slightly longer top, it offers both simplicity and ease of maintenance. This cut is ideal for those who prefer a no-fuss routine—just wake up and go. Quick trims keep it sharp, and a touch of wax is all you need for styling. It’s straightforward, low-maintenance, and effortlessly cool.

Make a DIY Conditioner

If you want to avoid constantly buying new bottles of conditioner, you can make your very own conditioner with just one ingredient you already have at home—egg yolks! Rich in vitamins like A, D, and E, as well as fatty acids and proteins, egg yolk helps to nourish and strengthen hair. These nutrients can improve hair's texture, add moisture, and promote healthy growth. To use, whisk an egg yolk and apply it directly to your damp hair, leaving it on for about 20-30 minutes before rinsing it out with cool water.

Compliment Your Face Shape

You might be surprised to find out that there are some haircuts that just look better on you because of your face shape. The goal is to create balance and highlight your best features. For example, if you have sharper angles, a softer haircut can add contrast, while more rounded faces may benefit from styles that create structure and height. Ultimately, a well-suited haircut enhances your natural features and complements your unique look.

Sunscreen Your Scalp

Though you might think your scalp is protected under all that hair, it turns out that the scalp is just as vulnerable to sunburn and long-term damage as the rest of your skin. Thus, protecting your scalp from the sun is crucial, especially if you have thinning hair or bald spots. Sunburn on the scalp can also lead to peeling, dryness, and irritation, affecting the health of your hair. Using sunscreen or wearing a hat can help shield your scalp from harmful UV rays, keeping it healthy and protected.

Texturize With Salt Spray

There’s something so nice about the way our hair looks after the beach. But although we’d love to jump into the waves every day, no one has time for that. That’s where a salt spray comes in. Salt spray can add texture, volume, and a natural, tousled look to your hair. It helps create a matte finish and enhances waves or curls, perfect for those looking for extra body. Use in moderation, to avoid excessive dryness.

Avoid the Bowl Cut

This one shouldn’t come as much of a surprise, but for those folks who need a reminder, the bowl cut is one trend that should be left in the past. Not only can it be unflattering for most face shapes, but it often gives a dated, awkward appearance. The even, blunt edges of a bowl cut can create a harsh look, making the head appear rounder or emphasizing features in an unbalanced way. You might think of the cut as a bold, edgy statement, but it’s ultimately more of a fashion faux pas than a flattering style.

Add Some Texture

Adding texture to your hair can make it look fuller and more vibrant. Textured styles help cover up thinning spots, and a popular option is the "brush-forward" look, where you push your hair forward to create a fuller, more voluminous appearance. Start by trimming the back and sides neatly, leaving some length on top for styling versatility. Apply pomade or wax, then use your fingers—or a brush and a hairdryer—to push the hair forward, creating a natural, tousled effect that adds dimension and flair.

Cut to the Shoulders

For those with a little wave or curl in their hair, growing out your locks might create a truly flattering frame around the face that can draw attention away from the hairline. While straight or fine hair may not suit this look as well, it's a great option for curly-haired individuals who want to address common concerns like thinning. To maintain a tousled mid-length cut, let your hair grow to the desired length, while adding products like salt spray to enhance those natural textures. With a regular trim and a good hair care routine, this look really shines.

Rock a High Fade

A high fade starts with a trim to the sides and back of your hair very close to the scalp, with a gradual blend into longer hair on top. The fade starts high on the head, typically around the temples, creating a sharp contrast between the sides and the top. This style works well for many hair types and can be paired with various lengths on top, from short buzz cuts to longer styles. It’s low-maintenance, clean-looking, and versatile, and can be a good alternative to those with thinning hair.

How to Style the Cowlick

A cowlick is a section of hair that grows in a different direction than the rest, often found near the crown or hairline. While managing it can be frustrating, embrace your cowlick and choose a haircut that complements it—like a fade or textured crop. Use lightweight products to shape your hair without weighing it down. The key here is to work with its natural texture, rather than fighting against it. It can become a signature feature of your look, instead of a source of embarrassment.

Let Your Beard Talk to You

We all know a patchy beard can be frustrating, but there are ways to make it work. For areas that are sparse, trim your beard to match the patchy spots, creating a more uniform look. You can also use a beard brush to train the hairs to grow in a way that covers the patches. Beard oil or balm can help nourish the hair and skin. When all else fails, try a shorter, stubbled look or try different styles like a goatee or chin strap to suit your natural beard pattern.

Try a Bleached Look

Bleaching your hair blonde might just be the change you're looking for. It can be a great way to stand out, especially if it complements your skin tone and personal style. In addition, for those dealing with patches or thinning hair, bleaching can sometimes help by creating a more uniform appearance, making thinning areas less noticeable. However, it’s important to make sure your hair is healthy before applying bleach since the chemicals can be harmful to hair. Invest in a good conditioner and a purple shampoo to maintain that light blonde color.

Shampoo Less

This might seem counter-intuitive, but it's actually healthier for your hair and scalp health. While many people think shampoo is for cleaning their hair, it’s actually more about cleaning your scalp. Switching to a sulfate-free shampoo and cutting back to every other day or even less frequently can make a significant difference. When you do shampoo, use just a small amount and gently massage it into your scalp. This method helps maintain a healthier scalp and can lead to more natural, manageable hair.

Shower in Cold Water

Showering in cold water might not sound appealing at first, especially if you’re used to hot showers. However, ending your shower with a blast of cool water can significantly benefit your hair and skin. While hot water feels great, it can damage your hair, making it dry, puffy, and less vibrant. In contrast, cold water helps to close the hair cuticles, resulting in softer, sleeker, and curlier hair when it dries. Over time, you might even find yourself preferring cooler showers for the refreshing effects they provide.

Oil Your Hair

No one likes to have their hair look greasy, but oiling your hair and scalp actually offers several benefits that contribute to overall hair health and appearance. Applying oil helps to moisturize and nourish the scalp, which can alleviate dryness and flakiness. Oils like argan, jojoba, coconut, and castor oil condition the hair, making it softer, shinier, and less frizzy. Additionally, oiling can improve hair strength and potentially encourage hair growth. Now that’s a whole lot of benefits—your hair will thank you.

Go for a Buzzcut

When you’re just done dealing with your hair, a buzzcut is an excellent option. Its minimal upkeep makes it ideal for those who prefer a hassle-free grooming routine. The short length of a buzzcut also saves time, as it dries quickly and requires little attention. It is especially beneficial in hot climates, providing a cool and comfortable option. Additionally, a buzzcut can help conceal thinning hair or bald spots by making the whole look cohesive. Cost-effective, versatile, and low-maintenance—what more could you want?

The Perfect Fade Everytime

Achieving the perfect fade requires attention to detail and skillful blending between different hair lengths. First, consult your barber to determine which fade you want and how much hair you want on top. With the right clippers and different guard lengths, you can seamlessly blend the hair length on the sides, finishing up with clean lines around the hairline, neck, and sides. This completes the crisp look. Though it requires regular maintenance, the sharp and clean look of a nice fade is definitely worth it.

Show Off Your Long Locks

We see hair loss as a pretty sure inevitability, so while we’re younger and have the ability to grow our hair out, why not embrace the long locks and let it out? Long hair can be beautiful and well-suited to all kinds of ages and face shapes—it just requires a bit more upkeep. Continue with regular trims, implement some hair oils, and invest in hair masks to keep your hair feeling and looking as healthy as possible. While you can, let your long locks shine.

Try a Wolf Cut

If you thought the mullet was a style best left in the past, it turns out this trend is coming back around—but this time with a twist. The wolf cut is an edgy version, blending the elements of a shag cut and a mullet, creating a layered, textured look that men of any age can pull off. The wolf cut is popular because it offers a modern twist on classic styles, making disheveled a fashionable trend. If you’re looking to switch things up, ask your barber for a wolf cut, and rock the hairstyle.

Know Your Hair

Thinning hair and fine hair are often confused, but refer to different issues. Thinning hair means a reduction in overall hair density, leading to a more noticeable scalp due to fewer strands. It can result from genetics, stress, or medical conditions. Fine hair, on the other hand, refers to the diameter of individual strands, which are smaller and more delicate, making them appear limp. While thinning hair requires treatments to boost density, fine hair needs volumizing products and styling techniques to add body and fullness.