Maybe it’s the change in season or an aftershock of the Jackson Maine effect but there’s a new trend growing (mind the pun) in the grooming space – guys are growing out their hair in droves. While Bradley Cooper may have defaulted back to his shorter red carpet-ready haircut after A Star is Born wrapped, the longer hair revolution is showing no signs of slowing down.
“After years of same-same haircuts the movement for men right now is not to look alike, and guys are growing their hair out more than ever,” says ELEVEN Australia Education Ambassador, Rachel Vitullo. But growing out your hair isn’t as easy as breaking up with your barber. “It’s a process and guys are often unsure how to style their hair as it goes through that awkward stage, you need to change your products and your styling approach.” Read on for your growing-out game plan.
First, get visual
It’s basic advice but bring a picture to your barber or hairdresser of you end goal hair. Visual aids are the best way to communicate to your stylist exactly the look you’re going for so you guys can get a plan of attack together.
Next, prepare to be patient
Truth time: transitioning from a short back and side to Timothee Chalamet-level long hair is a process that can take anywhere from several months to a couple of years. “The top will take the longest to grow out so during the early stages make sure you’re booking in for regular trims to keep the back and sides shorter,” recommends ELEVEN Australia Educator, Rachel Vitullo. “They won’t take as long to catch up once you’re getting close to the length you want on top.”
Again guys, don’t stop getting haircuts
Seriously bailing on your barber isn’t a good move. “Maintenance is key, it’s a common mistake to stop getting cuts whilst growing your hair out,” warns ELEVEN Australia Educator, Shantelle Neate who recommends booking in for a trim every eight weeks on your journey to longer hair. “Regular trims help maintain style and debulk, making the growing-out process much more pleasant.”
Finally, rethink your products
You’ll likely need to switch up your styling products. “During the awkward growing out phase it’s a matter of controlling hair and keeping shape, plus longer hair tends to need something softer and more hydrating,” says Rachel, recommending ELEVEN Australia Medium Hold Styling Cream or ELEVEN Australia Frizz Control Shaping Cream. “Another trick is to add a small pump of ELEVEN Australia Miracle Hair Treatment into any styling product to make it more emollient and moisturising.”
WHAT YOU NEED
Miracle Hair Leave-In Treatment
Images via The Cut and Instagram.
