Long hair on men has made a major comeback in recent years, breaking traditional gender norms and offering endless styling possibilities. From flowing locks to intricate braids, long hairstyles allow men to express their personality and individuality while maintaining a masculine edge. This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about long hairstyles for men, including popular styles, maintenance tips, and how to choose the right look for your face shape and hair type.
Why Choose Long Hair?
Before diving into specific styles, let’s explore why long hair has become increasingly popular among men:
Benefits of Long Hair for Men
- Versatility: Long hair offers countless styling options, from ponytails and buns to flowing free styles.
- Expression: It allows for greater self-expression and individuality.
- Timeless Appeal: Long hair has been fashionable throughout history and across cultures.
- Softens Features: It can balance and soften strong facial features.
- Youthful Appearance: When well-maintained, long hair can create a more youthful look.
- Adaptability: Long hair can be styled for both casual and formal occasions.
Considerations Before Growing Your Hair Out
While long hair offers many benefits, there are important factors to consider before making the commitment:
- Time Commitment: Growing long hair takes time and patience.
- Maintenance: Long hair requires more care and products than short hair.
- Professional Environment: Some workplaces may have grooming standards regarding hair length.
- Face Shape: Not all long styles suit every face shape.
- Hair Type: Your natural texture will affect how your long hair looks and behaves.
Popular Long Hairstyles for Men
1. Man Bun
Description: A practical and stylish hairstyle where long hair is gathered and secured at the back of the head. The man bun keeps hair out of the face while looking polished.
Key Characteristics:
- Hair gathered at back of head
- Secured with hair tie
- Can be worn high or low
- Works with various hair lengths (minimum 6-8 inches)
Styling Tips:
- Use a leave-in conditioner for manageability
- Secure with a quality hair tie that won’t damage hair
- Can be worn sleek for formal occasions or messy for casual looks
- Consider an undercut for a modern twist
Best Face Shapes:
- Oval
- Rectangular
- Diamond
- Heart
Best Hair Types:
- Straight
- Wavy
- Curly
- Coily
Maintenance Level: Medium (regular trims, daily styling)
Celebrity Examples: Chris Hemsworth, Jared Leto, Harry Styles
Variations:
- Top Knot: Worn on top of the head instead of at the nape
- Half-Up Man Bun: Only the top section is tied back
- Undercut Man Bun: Sides are shaved while top remains long
2. Long Flowing Hair
Description: The classic long hairstyle where hair is worn loose and flowing freely. This style emphasizes natural texture and movement.
Key Characteristics:
- Hair worn loose and free
- Emphasizes natural movement
- Can be center-parted or side-parted
- Requires significant length (shoulder-length or longer)
Styling Tips:
- Use a lightweight conditioner to prevent tangles
- Apply a small amount of argan oil for shine and frizz control
- Avoid over-washing to maintain natural oils
- Consider layers for added movement and shape
Best Face Shapes:
- Oval
- Rectangular
- Diamond
Best Hair Types:
- Straight
- Wavy
- Curly
Maintenance Level: High (regular trims, daily care)
Celebrity Examples: Jason Momoa, Chris Hemsworth, Brad Pitt
Variations:
- Center-Parted Flow: Hair parted in the middle
- Side-Parted Flow: Hair parted to one side
- Layered Flow: Hair cut with layers for movement
3. Ponytail
Description: A versatile hairstyle where hair is gathered and secured at the back of the head. Ponytails can be worn at different heights and tightness levels.
Key Characteristics:
- Hair gathered and secured
- Can be worn high, mid, or low
- Adjustable tightness
- Works with various hair lengths
Styling Tips:
- Use a hair-friendly elastic without metal parts
- Apply a smoothing serum to control flyaways
- Vary the position based on face shape and occasion
- Add texture with sea salt spray for a more casual look
Best Face Shapes:
- Oval
- Square
- Rectangular
Best Hair Types:
- Straight
- Wavy
- Curly
Maintenance Level: Medium (regular trims, daily styling)
Celebrity Examples: Keanu Reeves, Brad Pitt, Kit Harington
Variations:
- High Ponytail: Worn at the crown of the head
- Low Ponytail: Worn at the nape of the neck
- Side Ponytail: Gathered to one side
4. Half-Up, Half-Down
Description: A stylish combination where the top section of hair is secured while the bottom section flows freely. It offers the best of both worlds.
Key Characteristics:
- Top section secured
- Bottom section flowing
- Balanced and versatile
- Works with various hair textures
Styling Tips:
- Use small, clear elastics for a discreet look
- Leave out face-framing pieces for a softer appearance
- Apply texturizing spray to the loose section for movement
- Can be accessorized with clips or pins
Best Face Shapes:
- Oval
- Heart
- Diamond
Best Hair Types:
- Straight
- Wavy
- Curly
Maintenance Level: Medium (regular trims, daily styling)
Celebrity Examples: Jared Leto, Harry Styles, Jason Momoa
Variations:
- Half-Up Bun: Top section tied in a small bun
- Half-Up Ponytail: Top section tied in a small ponytail
- Twisted Half-Up: Top section twisted instead of tied
5. Long Curly Hair
Description: A natural hairstyle that embraces and showcases curly texture. Long curls create volume, movement, and a distinctive look.
Key Characteristics:
- Natural curl pattern emphasized
- Significant volume and movement
- Requires moisture and care
- Can be worn loose or styled
Styling Tips:
- Use sulfate-free shampoo to prevent dryness
- Apply curl-defining cream to damp hair
- Diffuse or air dry to maintain curl pattern
- Sleep on satin to prevent frizz and breakage
Best Face Shapes:
- Oval
- Square
- Round
Best Hair Types:
- Curly
- Coily
Maintenance Level: High (regular trims, daily moisture routine)
Celebrity Examples: Jason Momoa, Lenny Kravitz, Timothée Chalamet
Variations:
- Defined Curls: Tightly coiled and defined
- Loose Curls: Larger, more relaxed curl pattern
- Curly Shag: Layered for movement and shape
6. Dreadlocks
Description: A distinctive hairstyle where hair is matted or braided into rope-like strands. Dreadlocks can be worn in various lengths and styles.
Key Characteristics:
- Matted or braided rope-like strands
- Can be short or long
- Natural or created with technique
- Low daily maintenance once established
Styling Tips:
- Use residue-free shampoo
- Keep scalp clean and moisturized
- Retwist new growth regularly
- Protect with satin scarf at night
Best Face Shapes:
- Oval
- Square
- Round
Best Hair Types:
- Curly
- Coily
Maintenance Level: High (regular maintenance, long establishment period)
Celebrity Examples: Bob Marley, Jason Momoa, Zendaya
Variations:
- Freeform Dreads: Natural, less maintained
- Maintained Dreads: Regularly retwisted and maintained
- Dread Bun: Dreadlocks gathered into a bun
7. Braids
Description: A versatile hairstyle where hair is divided into sections and woven together. Men’s braids range from simple cornrows to complex designs.
Key Characteristics:
- Hair woven into sections
- Can be close to scalp or hanging loose
- Intricate patterns possible
- Protective style for natural hair
Styling Tips:
- Start with clean, detangled hair
- Apply moisturizing product before braiding
- Keep scalp clean and moisturized
- Protect with satin scarf at night
Best Face Shapes:
- Oval
- Square
- Round
Best Hair Types:
- Curly
- Coily
Maintenance Level: Medium to High (touch-ups every 4-8 weeks)
Celebrity Examples: ASAP Rocky, Travis Scott, Usher
Variations:
- Cornrows: Braided close to the scalp
- Box Braids: Individual braids from roots to ends
- Viking Braids: Two thick braids on sides with center section loose
8. Long Wavy Hair
Description: A natural hairstyle that emphasizes the wave pattern of the hair. Long waves create movement, body, and a relaxed, beachy look.
Key Characteristics:
- Natural wave pattern emphasized
- Movement and body
- Relaxed, casual appearance
- Can be enhanced with products
Styling Tips:
- Apply sea salt spray or texturizing mousse
- Scrunch hair to enhance waves
- Diffuse or air dry
- Avoid over-brushing to maintain wave pattern
Best Face Shapes:
- Oval
- Square
- Heart
Best Hair Types:
- Wavy
- Straight (can create waves with styling)
Maintenance Level: Medium (daily styling)
Celebrity Examples: Jason Momoa, Chris Hemsworth, Bradley Cooper
Variations:
- Beach Waves: Loose, relaxed waves
- Defined Waves: More structured wave pattern
- Layered Waves: Cut with layers for movement
9. Long Straight Hair
Description: A sleek hairstyle where straight hair is worn long. This style can be worn sleek and polished or more casual and textured.
Key Characteristics:
- Straight hair worn long
- Sleek and smooth
- Can be center or side-parted
- Requires regular maintenance
Styling Tips:
- Use a smoothing shampoo and conditioner
- Apply heat protectant before styling
- Use a flat iron for sleek finish
- Add shine serum for polish
Best Face Shapes:
- Oval
- Square
- Rectangular
Best Hair Types:
- Straight
Maintenance Level: High (regular trims, daily styling)
Celebrity Examples: Jared Leto, Keanu Reeves, Tom Cruise
Variations:
- Sleek Straight: Polished and smooth
- Textured Straight: Piecey and separated
- Layered Straight: Cut with layers for movement
10. Long Undercut
Description: A modern hairstyle featuring short or shaved sides with significantly longer hair on top. The long undercut creates a striking contrast.
Key Characteristics:
- Short or shaved sides
- Long top section
- Dramatic contrast
- Versatile styling options
Styling Tips:
- Keep sides neatly trimmed
- Style top according to preference (ponytail, bun, etc.)
- Use strong-hold product for structure
- Consider adding designs for extra edge
Best Face Shapes:
- Oval
- Square
- Heart
Best Hair Types:
- Straight
- Wavy
- Curly
Maintenance Level: Medium to High (trim every 3-4 weeks, daily styling)
Celebrity Examples: Brad Pitt, Justin Timberlake, Chris Pine
Variations:
- Disconnected Undercut: Dramatic contrast with no transition
- Tapered Undercut: Gradual transition between sides and top
- Undercut Bun: Long top section tied in a bun
11. Viking Braids
Description: A bold, masculine hairstyle featuring two thick braids on the sides with the center section left loose or also braided. Inspired by historical Viking warriors.
Key Characteristics:
- Two thick braids on sides
- Center section loose or braided
- Bold, masculine appearance
- Historical inspiration
Styling Tips:
- Start with clean, detangled hair
- Apply texturizing product for grip
- Braid tightly from temples down
- Leave center section loose or create additional braids
Best Face Shapes:
- Oval
- Square
- Rectangular
Best Hair Types:
- Straight
- Wavy
- Curly
Maintenance Level: Medium (regular rebraiding)
Celebrity Examples: Travis Fimmel (Vikings), Alexander Ludwig, Clive Standen
Variations:
- Full Viking Braids: All sections braided
- Half-Up Viking: Center section pulled back
- Viking Ponytail: All hair gathered into ponytail with braids
12. Samurai Top Knot
Description: A traditional Japanese hairstyle where the top section of hair is tied into a high knot while the sides are shaved or cut short. Inspired by historical samurai warriors.
Key Characteristics:
- High knot on top
- Short or shaved sides
- Traditional Japanese influence
- Clean, disciplined appearance
Styling Tips:
- Keep sides neatly trimmed or shaved
- Gather top section into high knot
- Secure with traditional cord or modern hair tie
- Keep knot tight and secure
Best Face Shapes:
- Oval
- Square
- Heart
Best Hair Types:
- Straight
- Wavy
Maintenance Level: Medium (regular trims, daily styling)
Celebrity Examples: Various martial artists, actors in samurai films
Variations:
- Modern Samurai: Less traditional, more casual
- Samurai Undercut: With shaved sides
- Samurai Bun: Lower knot position
13. Long Shag
Description: A layered hairstyle with a messy, undone appearance. The long shag features layers throughout for movement and texture.
Key Characteristics:
- Layers throughout
- Messy, undone appearance
- Movement and texture
- Casual, effortless vibe
Styling Tips:
- Apply texturizing spray or mousse
- Scrunch for natural movement
- Embrace the messy look
- Can be worn with or without bangs
Best Face Shapes:
- Oval
- Square
- Rectangular
Best Hair Types:
- Wavy
- Curly
- Straight
Maintenance Level: Medium (trim every 6-8 weeks)
Celebrity Examples: Brad Pitt, Chris Hemsworth, Mick Jagger
Variations:
- Modern Shag: More updated, cleaner version
- Curly Shag: Emphasizes natural curl pattern
- Shag with Bangs: Includes face-framing bangs
14. Long Hair with Bangs
Description: Long hair styled with bangs that frame the face. Bangs can add softness, dimension, and a youthful appearance to long hairstyles.
Key Characteristics:
- Long hair with face-framing bangs
- Softens facial features
- Adds dimension and interest
- Various bang styles possible
Styling Tips:
- Style bangs separately from the rest of hair
- Use a round brush and blow dryer for shape
- Apply light-hold product to keep bangs in place
- Trim regularly to maintain length and shape
Best Face Shapes:
- Oval
- Heart
- Diamond
Best Hair Types:
- Straight
- Wavy
- Curly
Maintenance Level: High (regular trims, daily styling)
Celebrity Examples: Timothée Chalamet, Harry Styles, Jared Leto
Variations:
- Curtain Bangs: Center-parted, curtain-like bangs
- Side-Swept Bangs: Swept to one side
- Wispy Bangs: Light, piecey bangs
15. Long Hair with Beard
Description: A combination hairstyle featuring long hair with a beard. This look creates a balanced, masculine appearance with plenty of character.
Key Characteristics:
- Long hair paired with beard
- Balanced facial hair
- Masculine, rugged appearance
- Various lengths and styles possible
Styling Tips:
- Balance hair and beard length
- Use beard oil to keep beard conditioned
- Style hair and beard separately
- Consider face shape when choosing beard style
Best Face Shapes:
- Oval
- Square
- Rectangular
Best Hair Types:
- Straight
- Wavy
- Curly
Maintenance Level: High (regular trims, daily styling for both hair and beard)
Celebrity Examples: Jason Momoa, Chris Hemsworth, Dave Grohl
Variations:
- Long Hair with Full Beard: Thick, full beard
- Long Hair with Stubble: Short, maintained stubble
- Long Hair with Goatee: Focused beard on chin area
How to Choose the Right Long Hairstyle
With so many options available, choosing the right long hairstyle can feel overwhelming. Here’s how to narrow down your choices:
Consider Your Face Shape
Different long hairstyles complement different face shapes:
Oval Face:
- Most long hairstyles work well
- Consider styles with volume on sides to balance proportions
- Avoid styles that add too much height on top
Round Face:
- Styles that add height and length
- Avoid styles that add width to sides
- Consider styles with volume on top
Square Face:
- Styles that soften angular features
- Consider styles with texture and movement
- Avoid styles that are too boxy or structured
Rectangular Face:
- Styles that add width to sides
- Avoid styles that add too much height
- Consider styles with bangs to shorten face appearance
Diamond Face:
- Styles that add width to forehead and jawline
- Avoid styles that add volume on top
- Consider styles with soft, wispy bangs
Heart Face:
- Styles that balance wider forehead
- Avoid styles that are too heavy on top
- Consider styles with volume on sides
Consider Your Hair Type
Your natural hair type will significantly impact how your long hairstyle looks and behaves:
Straight Hair:
- Holds sleek styles well
- May require more product for texture
- Can be prone to looking flat
- Works well with layered cuts
Wavy Hair:
- Naturally has movement and texture
- Benefits from products that enhance wave pattern
- Can be prone to frizz in humidity
- Works well with beachy, casual styles
Curly Hair:
- Naturally has volume and texture
- Requires moisture to prevent dryness
- Benefits from products that define curls
- Works well with styles that embrace natural texture
Coily Hair:
- Has the most texture and volume
- Requires regular moisture and care
- Benefits from protective styles
- Works well with braids, twists, and afros
Consider Your Lifestyle
Your daily routine and activities should influence your hairstyle choice:
Active Lifestyle:
- Consider styles that stay in place during activity
- Ponytails and braids are practical options
- Avoid styles that require constant maintenance
- Consider sweat-friendly products
Professional Environment:
- Consider more polished styles like sleek ponytails or neat buns
- Avoid overly messy or extreme styles
- Consider styles that can be easily transformed for after-work
- Keep hair well-maintained and clean
Low-Maintenance Preference:
- Consider styles that don’t require daily styling
- Natural textures that look good with minimal effort
- Avoid styles that require regular heat styling
- Consider wash-and-go options
Creative Expression:
- Consider unique styles like braids, colored hair, or distinctive cuts
- Embrace styles that reflect your personality
- Experiment with accessories and styling techniques
- Consider styles that can be changed regularly
Growing and Maintaining Long Hair
Growing and maintaining long hair requires patience and proper care. Here’s what you need to know:
The Growing Process
Patience is Key:
- Hair grows approximately half an inch per month
- It can take 1-3 years to achieve significant length
- There will be awkward phases as hair grows
- Resist the urge to cut too much during growing process
Managing Awkward Phases:
- Use accessories like headbands and clips
- Experiment with different styling techniques
- Consider temporary styles like braids or twists
- Visit a stylist for shaping during growing process
Healthy Growth Habits:
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in protein and vitamins
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water
- Get regular trims to prevent split ends
- Avoid excessive heat styling and chemical treatments
Daily Maintenance Routine
Washing:
- Wash hair 2-3 times per week, not daily
- Use sulfate-free shampoo to prevent dryness
- Focus shampoo on scalp and conditioner on ends
- Rinse with cool water to seal hair cuticle
Conditioning:
- Use conditioner after every wash
- Apply deep conditioning treatment once a week
- Consider leave-in conditioner for daily moisture
- Use hair oil for added shine and protection
Drying:
- Gently squeeze out excess water with towel
- Avoid rubbing hair vigorously with towel
- Allow hair to air dry when possible
- Use heat protectant before blow drying
Styling:
- Use minimal products to avoid buildup
- Apply products to damp hair for even distribution
- Use wide-tooth comb or fingers for detangling
- Avoid brushing wet hair to prevent breakage
Regular Maintenance
Trimming:
- Get regular trims every 8-12 weeks
- Remove split ends to prevent further damage
- Ask for dusting (removing only split ends) instead of full trims
- Communicate your growing goals with your stylist
Scalp Care:
- Massage scalp regularly to stimulate blood flow
- Use gentle exfoliation to remove buildup
- Apply scalp treatments for specific concerns
- Protect scalp from sun exposure
Protection:
- Use satin or silk pillowcases to prevent friction
- Wear hats in sun to protect hair from UV damage
- Use protective styles during extreme weather
- Avoid tight hairstyles that cause tension and breakage
Styling Tips and Product Recommendations
Essential Styling Tools
Brushes and Combs:
- Wide-tooth comb for detangling
- Boar bristle brush for smoothing
- Round brush for blow drying
- Detangling brush for wet hair
Heat Tools:
- Blow dryer with diffuser attachment
- Flat iron for straightening
- Curling iron or wand for adding waves/curls
- Heat protectant spray to prevent damage
Hair Accessories:
- Hair ties without metal parts
- Headbands for keeping hair off face
- Hair clips and pins for securing styles
- Scarves and head wraps for styling
Product Recommendations by Hair Type
For Straight Hair:
- Lightweight conditioner
- Volumizing mousse
- Texturizing spray
- Shine serum
For Wavy Hair:
- Moisturizing shampoo and conditioner
- Sea salt spray
- Curl-enhancing mousse
- Anti-frizz serum
For Curly Hair:
- Sulfate-free shampoo
- Deep conditioner
- Curl-defining cream
- Leave-in conditioner
For Coily Hair:
- Moisturizing shampoo
- Co-wash conditioner
- Hair butter or oil
- Styling gel or cream
Styling Techniques
Blow Drying:
- Use heat protectant before blow drying
- Use fingers or paddle brush for straight look
- Use diffuser for curly/wavy hair
- Finish with cool shot to set style
Creating Texture:
- Apply texturizing spray to damp hair
- Scrunch hair while drying to enhance waves
- Use sea salt spray for beachy texture
- Twist sections while drying for defined waves
Securing Styles:
- Use hair ties without metal parts
- Cross bobby pins for extra hold
- Use clear elastics for discreet hold
- Apply light-hold hairspray to set style
Adding Volume:
- Blow dry hair upside down
- Apply volumizing mousse to roots
- Use dry shampoo for added texture
- Tease roots gently for lift
Common Challenges and Solutions
Dealing with Tangles
Prevention:
- Brush hair before washing
- Use conditioner after every wash
- Sleep with hair in loose braid or bun
- Use satin or silk pillowcases
Removal:
- Apply detangling spray or conditioner
- Use wide-tooth comb, starting from ends
- Work in small sections
- Be patient and gentle to avoid breakage
Managing Frizz
Prevention:
- Use sulfate-free products
- Avoid over-washing hair
- Apply anti-frizz serum before styling
- Protect hair from humidity
Treatment:
- Apply smoothing serum to damp hair
- Use anti-frizz sheets for quick fixes
- Consider professional smoothing treatments
- Embrace natural texture instead of fighting it
Preventing Breakage
Prevention:
- Avoid tight hairstyles that cause tension
- Use gentle hair ties and accessories
- Limit heat styling and chemical treatments
- Keep hair moisturized and healthy
Treatment:
- Get regular trims to remove split ends
- Use protein treatments to strengthen hair
- Apply leave-in conditioner for daily protection
- Consider protective styles for damaged hair
Dealing with Split Ends
Prevention:
- Get regular trims every 8-12 weeks
- Avoid excessive heat styling
- Use heat protectant before styling
- Keep hair moisturized with conditioner
Treatment:
- Get professional trim to remove split ends
- Use split end repair products temporarily
- Consider protein treatments for strength
- Prevent further damage with proper care
Long Hair for Different Occasions
Professional Settings
Appropriate Styles:
- Sleek ponytail or bun
- Neat half-up style
- Well-maintained braids
- Tucked or pinned styles
Styling Tips:
- Keep hair clean and well-maintained
- Use minimal, natural-looking products
- Avoid overly messy or extreme styles
- Consider more polished versions of your everyday style
Formal Events
Appropriate Styles:
- Elegant updos and buns
- Sleek, straight styles
- Sophisticated braided styles
- Half-up styles with accessories
Styling Tips:
- Use stronger-hold products for longevity
- Consider professional styling for important events
- Add subtle accessories for elegance
- Practice the style before the event
Casual and Everyday
Appropriate Styles:
- Natural, flowing styles
- Messy buns and ponytails
- Casual braids
- Half-up styles
Styling Tips:
- Embrace natural texture and movement
- Use minimal products for effortless look
- Focus on styles that are easy to maintain
- Experiment with different casual looks
Active and Sports
Appropriate Styles:
- Secure ponytails or braids
- Tucked or pinned styles
- Headbands to keep hair off face
- Secure buns for high-impact activities
Styling Tips:
- Use strong-hold products to keep style in place
- Consider sweat-friendly products
- Keep hair off face and neck for comfort
- Choose styles that won’t come loose during activity
Conclusion
Long hairstyles for men offer endless possibilities for self-expression and style. From classic ponytails and buns to intricate braids and flowing locks, there’s a long hairstyle to suit every face shape, hair type, and personal style. Growing and maintaining long hair requires patience and proper care, but the results are well worth the effort.
Remember that the best long hairstyle is one that makes you feel confident and comfortable. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different styles and techniques until you find the perfect look for you. With the right care and styling, your long hair can become your most distinctive feature and a powerful form of self-expression.
Whether you’re growing your hair for the first time or looking for new ways to style your existing long hair, this guide provides all the information you need to achieve and maintain healthy, stylish long hair. Embrace the journey, enjoy the process, and rock your long hair with confidence!
