The Faux Hawk Haircut for Height With Flexible Styling
Learn how a faux hawk creates central height and how to choose the sides, length and everyday finish before your next City Barbers haircut.
By City Barbers2 min read4 sections
In this article
In brief
A faux hawk directs the top toward a raised central shape while keeping more connection through the sides than a traditional sharply separated mohawk. It can be compact and subtle or deliberately tall and textured.
The most useful version is one you can also wear comfortably when the top is less styled. Before choosing the cut, decide whether you want the raised shape every day or only occasionally.
Keep enough length to bring the top together
Hair needs enough flexibility to move toward the center. Cutting the top uniformly very short can create an upright brush effect without the narrower raised shape you expected.
At the chair
Ask your barber to show how much of the result comes from length and how much comes from product. Dense straight hair, fine hair and waves will support the same shape differently.
Set the width of the raised area
A narrow central peak creates more obvious contrast. A broader, softer ridge looks closer to a textured everyday haircut. Point out the width you like in a reference rather than simply asking for more height.
The front and crown also need to work together. A tall front with a very flat section behind it may look different from a continuous raised shape through the top.
Choose sides that suit both finishes
A close fade can emphasize the center. Slightly longer tapered sides can make the cut more adaptable when you comb the top forward or to one side. Neither requires changing the basic idea of the style.
Ask to see how the haircut looks with the top relaxed. If you need a restrained finish for some settings, confirm that option before choosing a highly dramatic contrast.
Related guideThe Textured Crop Haircut and How to Make It Your OwnRead the guide
Build the shape before adding more product
Direct the hair while it is being dried or arranged, then apply a small amount of the product suited to your desired hold. Piling on product after the hair has settled flat can make it heavy without creating the intended height.
A firm gel and a more workable paste can produce different surfaces. Choose by the finish and flexibility you want rather than assuming one category is required for every faux hawk.
At City Barbers in Salt Lake City, bring a reference showing the raised shape and describe your ordinary workday routine. A consultation can help you choose a version that has character without demanding more styling than you want to do.
Related service
Men’s Haircuts
A full 55 minutes in the chair: your cut, a straight-razor finish, hot and cold towels, a deep tissue massage and a relaxing hair wash.
241 E 300 S, downtown Salt Lake City · Tuesday to Sunday, 8 AM to 8 PM · (801) 243-6915
