
If you want a hairstyle that is both edgy and easy to wear, consider the faux hawk haircut, or “fohawk.” This modern take on the classic mohawk skips the shaved sides and punk style. Instead, it offers a look that is more versatile and fits different lifestyles. Let’s go over what makes the faux hawk a killer choice for guys today and dive into various styles to find the right one for you.
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Faux Hawk: The Lowdown on This Stylish Cut
So, what exactly is a faux hawk haircut? Unlike a traditional mohawk, the faux hawk doesn’t require a full side shave. Instead, the sides are tapered or faded, with the hair in the center styled upwards for that signature “hawk” effect. Celebrities like David Beckham and Zac Efron have made this style popular. It works well for both casual and professional settings.
Classic Faux Hawk: A Timeless Twist
The Classic Faux Hawk Haircut takes this trendy style to the next level. It mixes a traditional mohawk with a modern touch. Imagine shorter sides that slowly blend into longer hair on top. This creates a clear ridge down the center of the head. This style strikes the perfect balance between edgy and refined, making it a versatile choice for various occasions.
To achieve the Classic Faux Hawk Haircut, you need good scissor and clipper skills. This helps taper the sides and shape the longer hair on top. It’s ideal for those wanting to add a touch of flair to their look without venturing too far into avant-garde territory.
Whether you want a relaxed look or a polished style, the faux hawk and its classic version provide flexibility. They can be adjusted to fit any occasion.
What Defines an Undercut Faux Hawk?
An Undercut Faux Hawk Haircut is a modern take on the classic faux hawk. It features a bold contrast between the top and the sides. The sides are shaved or trimmed very short, creating a bold disparity with the longer hair left on top. This contrast makes the style visually appealing. It also gives it a sense of confidence and boldness.
Achieving the look requires adept barbering skills, as the transition from the short sides to the styled top must be precise and seamless. Known for its daring attitude, the Undercut Faux Hawk Haircut is perfect for those wanting to make a strong impression. Its sleek, sharp silhouette is designed to capture attention and project an aura of modern sophistication.
What Should Be Included in a Faux Hawk Maintenance Routine?
Maintaining a faux hawk haircut requires dedication to keep it looking crisp and stylish. Here’s how to ensure your faux hawk always makes the right statement:
Regular Trims for Precision
To avoid an overgrown or messy look, regular trims are essential. Set up frequent visits to your hairstylist to maintain its optimal shape and length. This will help you preserve the sleekness of your style.
Essential Hair Care Products
Healthy hair is the foundation of a sharp faux hawk haircut. Invest in top-notch shampoos and conditioners from reputable brands like Kevin Murphy or Eleven. These products will provide the hydration and nutrients your hair needs to remain vibrant and manageable.
Tailored Styling Routine
Every faux hawk haircut needs a personalized styling routine that suits your hair’s unique characteristics and your personal style. Choose styling products—like gels or waxes—from trusted names such as American Crew or TIGI. These can help you craft the perfect look with minimal effort.
With this routine, your faux hawk will consistently exhibit the sophisticated edge you’re aiming for. Embrace these habits to make sure your hairstyle stays fresh and flawless.
How to Maintain a Faux Hawk: Essential Tips
Keeping your faux hawk haircut looking sharp and fresh requires a bit of effort, but the results are more than worth it. Here’s how you can keep your style on point:
1. Schedule Regular Haircuts
Make appointments with a hairstylist every few weeks to maintain the desired shape and length. This prevents your faux hawk from becoming too unruly or losing its structure.
2. Invest in Quality Hair Care Products
Using premium shampoos and conditioners can make a significant difference. They help keep your hair healthy, hydrated, and manageable. Look for products that enhance volume and provide adequate moisture.
3. Develop a Consistent Styling Routine
A structured styling routine is crucial for a faux hawk. Depending on your hair type, select products like pomades, waxes, or gels that offer the right hold and texture.
4. Use the Right Tools
Having the right tools at your disposal makes styling easier. A good hairdryer, a fine-toothed comb, and even a round brush can help you shape and lift your hair as desired.
5. Adapt to Your Lifestyle
Consider how much time you can dedicate each day to styling. Tailor your routine to fit into your daily schedule, ensuring you achieve the look you want without feeling rushed.
By using these tips, you can keep your faux hawk haircut looking stylish and fresh every day.
Who Can Pull Off a Faux Hawk?
This style is friendly to most hair types, though some might work better with it than others. If you’ve got thick or wavy hair, the faux hawk will give you texture and volume. For guys with straight hair, a brushed-back or spiked look can add sharpness and a little edge. The only hair type that might struggle with this style is tight curls, but hey, there are tons of great curly styles out there!
Face Shape Compatibility with the Faux Hawk
One of the biggest perks of the faux hawk haircut is how adaptable it is. If you’ve got an oblong or triangular face, keeping the sides fuller and going for a short top will balance out your look. For heart or round faces, a tighter fade on the sides and more height on top can help elongate your features.
Styling a Faux Hawk: Getting the Look Just Right
Styling a faux hawk haircut doesn’t require a ton of product, but the right ones make all the difference. My go-to is a sea salt spray for texture, followed by a bit of matte wax to keep everything in place without looking too “done.” A solid blow-dry routine can also work wonders, especially if you want extra volume on top. And if you’re aiming for a slicker look, a pomade or gel will give you a sleek finish.
To truly master the faux hawk, consider these additional expert tips:
- Choose the Right Product
Opt for styling products like pomade or styling wax to create texture and hold while maintaining flexibility and movement. This ensures your style stays sharp without sacrificing natural movement. - Timing is Key
Apply the product to damp hair and style immediately for optimal hold and control. This helps lock in the look from the get-go. - Sculpt with Fingers
Use your fingers to shape and mold your hair, focusing on creating volume and definition at the crown. This hands-on approach helps you achieve a personalized style. - Enhance Volume with Blow-Drying
Utilize a blow dryer to lift and volumize your hair, focusing on the roots and crown for added height and dimension. This step is crucial for those who want a more pronounced faux hawk. - Lock in the Look
Finish your style with a light mist of hairspray or a matte finish product to set your look in place and ensure long-lasting hold. This final touch keeps your faux hawk looking impeccable throughout the day.
By using these techniques along with your favorite products, you can create a faux hawk that looks great and lasts.
Styling a Faux Hawk
Styling a faux hawk doesn’t require a ton of product, but the right ones make all the difference. My go-to is a sea salt spray for texture, followed by a bit of matte wax to keep everything in place without looking too “done.” A solid blow-dry routine can also work wonders, especially if you want extra volume on top. And if you’re aiming for a slicker look, a pomade or gel will give you a sleek finish.
To really nail the faux hawk, consider these detailed steps:
- Start with Damp Hair:
- Apply your sea salt spray to damp hair to build a textured foundation. This helps in enhancing natural waves and adding grip.
- Choose the Right Styling Product:
- For a matte look, use a small amount of matte wax. If you prefer a sleek finish, opt for pomade or gel that offers flexibility and shine.
- Timing is Essential:
- Style immediately after applying your product. This ensures optimal hold and control as your hair dries.
- Shape with Your Fingers:
- Use your fingers to mold and define the faux hawk, concentrating on creating volume at the crown. This technique gives a more natural, lived-in appearance.
- Blow-Dry for Volume:
- A blow dryer is your best friend here. Focus on lifting at the roots and adding dimension around the crown for that extra height.
- Finish Strong:
- To lock in your style, a light mist of hairspray or a matte finish product will set your look, keeping it intact throughout the day.
By combining these techniques, you’ll have a faux hawk that’s not only stylish but also tailored to your hair’s natural tendencies. Whether you’re going for a casual day look or something more polished for the evening, these steps will keep your style game strong.

Faux Hawk Fade: Adding Definition
A faux hawk fade keeps the classic faux hawk shape while adding a fade on the sides for more contrast. This look is sharper than the original style. The top section stands out because of a gradual fade that adds volume. My barber recommends a low fade if you want a more subtle look, while a high fade really turns up the style.
The faux hawk fade combines the edgy appeal of a traditional faux hawk with the modern touch of a fade haircut. This style has tapered sides that blend well with the longer hair on top. This creates a smooth change in length. This meticulous blending technique is what sets the faux hawk fade apart, resulting in a polished and refined appearance.
For those seeking a sophisticated twist, this style offers a versatile option that can be tailored to individual tastes. Whether aiming for a subtle or bold statement, the faux hawk fade provides a dynamic way to express personal style through hair.
Variations on the Faux Hawk: Finding Your Style
The faux hawk isn’t a one-size-fits-all cut—there are tons of ways to make it your own. Here’s a rundown of some popular versions that you can choose from:
Textured Faux Hawk
For a tousled, natural look, try a textured faux hawk. This version has a slightly longer top, styled with a matte wax or paste to give it structure without making it look too rigid. The textured style is perfect if you like a relaxed, low-maintenance look that still has style.
What Are the Benefits of Having a Faux Hawk?
Adaptability
A faux hawk stands out for its adaptability. Whether you’re dressing for a laid-back weekend brunch or a sleek corporate meeting, this hairstyle can be tweaked to fit the occasion. It’s perfect for all scenarios as it strikes a balance between edgy and refined.
Expression of Self
Want to showcase your individuality? The faux hawk is your canvas. It’s an excellent way to highlight your personal flair and style, ensuring you leave a distinct impression no matter where you are.
Trendy Yet Timeless
Merging the vintage with the modern, the faux hawk brings together timeless elements and contemporary style. This makes it a go-to choice for anyone looking to maintain a smart and up-to-date appearance. It’s a hairstyle that confidently bridges the gap between tradition and trend.
Ducktail Faux Hawk Fade
If you’re new to the faux hawk, a ducktail fade could be the perfect intro. Shorter on top and brushed forward into a small quiff, this style has the classic hawk shape without the height. A high skin fade on the sides keeps it clean and modern.
Curved-Line Faux Hawk Fade
A curved line design carved into the fade adds an artistic touch to the faux hawk. This style uses blow-drying and some pomade to add volume at the crown. The curved line gives a fresh, stylish look. Great for anyone looking to make a statement.
High Volume Faux Hawk
If you’ve got thick hair, a high-volume faux hawk is a fantastic option. By keeping it shorter on top, this style won’t feel heavy or flop over. Use a matte clay to add definition and keep everything in place, then finish with a quick spray of hairspray for extra hold.
Faux Hawk: Product Recommendations for Perfect Styling
To get the faux hawk just right, a few quality products are essential:
- Sea Salt Spray: Great for texture and volume without the weight.
- Matte Wax or Paste: Ideal for defining your faux hawk without making it look too stiff.
- Pomade or Gel: If you prefer a sleek look, a good pomade can help achieve that polished finish.
- Hairspray: A medium-hold hairspray can lock in your look, especially if you’re going for height.
Other Notable Faux Hawk Styles
There’s no shortage of ways to wear a faux hawk. Here are a few more unique takes on this adaptable cut:
Step Cut Faux Hawk
A step cut offers a more defined look, with the sides cut in a straight line rather than faded. This version is ideal if you have dark, thick hair and want a style that stands out without a high fade.
Fohawk Fade with Hard Line
Add a hard line for extra definition. This style features a fade with a sharp line on one side of the head. It gives a bold and edgy look, perfect for anyone wanting something unique.
Crew Cut-Inspired Faux Hawk
A subtle nod to the crew cut, this faux hawk variation is short on top with a high skin fade. The shorter length makes it easy to style, and it’s perfect for those looking for a lower-maintenance faux hawk.
Final Thoughts: Is the Faux Hawk Right for You?
At the end of the day, the faux hawk is about versatility and a bit of attitude. Whether you want a simple look or something with more volume and definition, there is a style for you. This style works for almost any hair type and face shape. If you want to try something new without going for a full mohawk, the faux hawk is a good choice. It lets you be bold while still being flexible.
So, next time you’re at the barber, consider asking for a faux hawk fade or one of the other styles here. It’s a fun way to update your look, and with a few simple styling tips, you’ll be turning heads in no time.
Check out what people had to say about the difference of a mohawk and a faux hawk.
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