Long hair on men can be a bold and stylish choice, but it requires proper tying techniques to keep it looking neat and manageable. Whether it’s for a casual day out or a more formal occasion, there are several ways for men to tie their long hair.
The Basics of Hair Preparation
Washing and Conditioning
Before tying your long hair, it’s essential to start with clean and well-conditioned hair. Use a shampoo and conditioner suitable for your hair type. If your hair is oily, choose a clarifying shampoo to remove excess oil. For dry hair, opt for a moisturizing conditioner to keep it soft and smooth.
After washing, gently towel dry your hair. Avoid rubbing it too vigorously as this can cause frizz and damage the hair. You can also use a wide-toothed comb to detangle your hair while it’s still damp. This helps prevent breakage and makes it easier to manage when tying.
Drying
If you have the time, let your hair air dry naturally as much as possible. Air drying helps to preserve the hair’s natural oils and reduces the risk of heat damage. However, if you’re in a hurry, you can use a hairdryer on a low to medium heat setting. Use a diffuser attachment if you have wavy or curly hair to enhance the natural texture and reduce frizz.
Hold the hairdryer about 6 – 8 inches away from your hair and move it around continuously to dry the hair evenly. Once your hair is mostly dry, you can use your fingers or a wide-toothed comb to gently style it and remove any remaining tangles.
Simple Ponytail
Gathering the Hair
The ponytail is a classic and easy way for men to tie their long hair. Start by gathering all of your hair at the back of your head, using your hands or a comb. The position of the ponytail can vary depending on your preference and the occasion. For a more casual look, you can place it lower on the nape of your neck. For a more polished and formal appearance, a higher ponytail closer to the crown of your head may be more suitable.
Make sure to gather the hair evenly, so there are no loose strands sticking out. You can use a mirror to check the back of your head and ensure that all the hair is in place.
Securing with an Elastic Band
Once you have gathered the hair, use an elastic band to secure the ponytail. Choose an elastic band that is strong enough to hold your hair in place but not too tight that it causes discomfort or pulls on your hair. There are various types of elastic bands available, including regular ones and those designed specifically for hair. Some men also prefer using fabric-covered elastic bands as they are gentler on the hair and less likely to cause breakage.
Wrap the elastic band around the hair two or three times, depending on the thickness of your hair. Make sure it is secure but not too tight that it creates a dent in your hair. You can also adjust the position of the ponytail by gently pulling on the hair and the elastic band until you are satisfied with the look.
Bun
Creating a Twist or Roll
A bun is a more sophisticated and stylish option for men with long hair. To create a bun, start by gathering your hair as you would for a ponytail. Then, twist the hair tightly or roll it into a coil. You can twist the hair clockwise or counterclockwise, depending on your preference. If your hair is very long or thick, you may need to twist or roll it several times to create a compact bun.
As you twist or roll the hair, try to keep it as smooth as possible to avoid any bumps or lumps. You can use your fingers to smooth out the hair and tuck in any loose ends.
Securing the Bun
Once you have twisted or rolled the hair into a bun shape, you need to secure it in place. There are several ways to do this. One common method is to use bobby pins. Insert the bobby pins into the bun, starting from the bottom and working your way around. Make sure the pins are inserted firmly and at an angle to hold the bun securely. You may need several bobby pins depending on the thickness and length of your hair.
Another option is to use a hair tie specifically designed for buns. These hair ties are usually wider and more elastic than regular ones. Wrap the hair tie around the bun several times, making sure it is tight enough to hold the bun in place but not so tight that it causes discomfort. You can also use a combination of bobby pins and a hair tie for added security.
Styling the Bun
After securing the bun, you can style it further to give it a more polished look. You can pull out a few strands of hair around the face to soften the look and add a touch of elegance. If you have bangs, you can either incorporate them into the bun or leave them loose depending on your preference.
For a more modern and edgy look, you can try a messy bun. Instead of twisting or rolling the hair too tightly, create a more relaxed and loose bun. Let some strands of hair fall out intentionally to give a carefree and stylish appearance. However, make sure the messy bun still looks intentional and not too disheveled.
Braids
French Braid
The French braid is a more intricate and stylish way to tie long hair. It not only keeps the hair out of the face but also looks very cool and trendy. Start by dividing your hair into three equal sections at the top of your head, near the forehead.
Take the right section and cross it over the middle section. Then, take the left section and cross it over the new middle section.
Continue this process, adding more hair to each section as you braid down the head. As you braid, make sure to keep the tension even and the braid tight. You can use your fingers to pick up small strands of hair from the sides and add them to the braid.
Once you reach the end of the braid, secure it with an elastic band. You can leave the braid as is or wrap it around the back of your head and secure it with bobby pins for a more unique look.
Dutch Braid
The Dutch braid is similar to the French braid but with a slightly different technique. Instead of crossing the sections over each other, you will cross them under each other. This creates a raised braid that looks more textured and dimensional.
Start by dividing your hair into three sections as before. Take the right section and cross it under the middle section. Then, take the left section and cross it under the new middle section. Continue adding hair and braiding down the head in the same manner. When you reach the end, secure it with an elastic band and style it as desired.
You can also experiment with different types of braids, such as fishtail braids or braided ponytails. These styles add variety and can make your long hair look even more stylish and interesting.
Accessories
Hair Bands and Scrunchies
Hair bands and scrunchies are simple yet effective accessories for tying long hair. They come in various colors, materials, and styles.
You can choose a plain black or brown hair band for a more classic and understated look or a colorful scrunchie to add a pop of color to your hairstyle.
When using a hair band or scrunchie, make sure it is wide enough to hold your hair securely without slipping. You can wear it around a ponytail or a bun to add a decorative touch. Some men also like to wrap a hair band around their forehead like a headband to keep the hair out of their face and add a stylish element to their overall look.
Hair Clips and Pins
Hair clips and pins can be used to secure loose strands of hair or to add a decorative element to your tied-up hair. There are various types of clips and pins available, including bobby pins, barrettes, and claw clips.
Bobby pins are great for securing small sections of hair or for adding extra hold to a bun or braid. You can use them to tuck in any loose ends or to hold a strand of hair in place. Barrettes can be more decorative and come in different shapes and designs. They can be used to clip back the front sections of your hair or to add a touch of elegance to a ponytail.
Claw clips are larger and more suitable for holding thicker sections of hair. They are easy to use and can quickly secure your hair in a bun or a half-up, half-down style. You can choose a claw clip that matches your hair color or one with a decorative design to make a statement.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are many ways for men to tie their long hair, from simple ponytails and buns to more elaborate braids. The key is to choose a style that suits your personal style, the occasion, and your hair type. Additionally, using the right accessories can enhance your hairstyle and add a touch of individuality. With a little practice and experimentation, you can find the perfect way to tie your long hair and look stylish and confident. Remember to take care of your hair by keeping it clean, conditioned, and well-maintained to ensure it looks its best in any tied-up style.