Spiky hair is a popular hairstyle that can be achieved with a variety of products and techniques. It is a versatile style that can be worn by both men and women, and it can be adapted to suit any face shape or hair type. While spiky hair can be tricky to style at first, with a little practice, you can easily create this edgy look at home. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to style spiky hair, as well as some tips and tricks for keeping your spikes looking their best.
To start styling your spiky hair, you will need to gather a few essential products. These include a strong hold hair gel, a hairspray, and a comb or brush. You may also want to use a blow dryer to help set your spikes in place. Once you have gathered your supplies, you can begin styling your hair. Start by towel drying your hair until it is damp but not wet. Then, apply a generous amount of hair gel to your hair, working it through from roots to tips. Use your fingers to create spikes, and then use a comb or brush to smooth out any flyaways.
Once you have created your spikes, you can use a hairspray to help hold them in place. Start by spraying the hairspray from about 6 inches away from your head. Then, use your fingers to gently shape and hold your spikes in place as the hairspray dries. Once your hairspray has dried completely, your spikes will be set in place. You can now enjoy your edgy new look!
Choosing the Right Products
Selecting the ideal products for spiky hair requires careful consideration. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:
Strength of Hold
The hold strength of a product determines how well it can keep your spikes in place. For short, fine hair, a medium hold product may suffice. However, if you have longer or thicker hair, you’ll likely need a strong hold product to achieve the desired effect.
The strength of hold is typically indicated on the product packaging. It’s recommended to start with a medium hold product and adjust the strength as needed to find what works best for your hair type and desired style.
Type of Finish
Products for spiky hair come in a variety of finishes, including matte, semi-matte, and high-shine. The type of finish you choose will depend on your personal preference. For a natural, understated look, a matte or semi-matte finish is ideal. However, if you prefer a more polished, glossy appearance, a high-shine product will achieve that effect.
Texture
The texture of a product can also impact the look and feel of your spikes. Some products, such as pomades and grooming clays, provide a more structured, defined look, while others, like styling creams and gels, offer a more flexible, natural hold. Consider the desired texture when selecting a product.
Additional Considerations
In addition to the factors above, there are a few other considerations to keep in mind when choosing products for spiky hair:
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Hair Length | Longer hair requires stronger hold products to maintain the style. |
| Hair Thickness | Thick hair requires more product to achieve the desired hold and definition. |
| Hair Texture | Porous hair requires more moisture, so consider using products that provide hydration. |
Washing and Conditioning
To achieve the perfect spiky hair, it’s crucial to start with a clean scalp and conditioned hair. Here’s a detailed guide to washing and conditioning your hair:
Washing
Step 1: Choose the Right Shampoo
Opt for a clarifying or volumizing shampoo designed for fine or oily hair. These shampoos gently remove dirt and oil without weighing the hair down.
Step 2: Wet Hair Thoroughly
Rinse your hair with lukewarm water until it’s completely wet. Avoid using hot water, as it can damage the hair and scalp.
Step 3: Apply Shampoo
Dispense a quarter-sized amount of shampoo into your palm and massage it into your scalp in circular motions. Focus on the roots, where dirt and oil tend to accumulate.
Step 4: Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse your hair with lukewarm water until all traces of shampoo are removed. Ensure that your scalp is completely clean.
Conditioning
Step 1: Choose the Right Conditioner
For spiky hair, look for a light, volumizing conditioner that will enhance body and definition. Avoid using heavy conditioners, as they can weigh the hair down.
Step 2: Apply Conditioner to Mid-Lengths and Ends
Apply a dime-sized amount of conditioner to the mid-lengths and ends of your hair, avoiding the roots. Use a wide-tooth comb to distribute the conditioner evenly.
Step 3: Leave-In or Rinse
Depending on the type of conditioner you’re using, either leave it in your hair for a few minutes or rinse it out thoroughly after 2-3 minutes. If you’re using a leave-in conditioner, focus on applying it to the ends of your hair, where it’s most needed.
| Hair Type | Frequency of Washing and Conditioning |
|---|---|
| Oily hair | Wash every 1-2 days; condition every other wash |
| Normal hair | Wash every 2-3 days; condition every other wash |
| Dry hair | Wash every 3-4 days; condition every wash |
Blow Drying and Styling
To achieve spiked hair using a blow dryer, follow these steps:
- Prep Your Hair: Apply a volumizing mousse or gel to damp hair and brush it through to distribute evenly.
- Rough Dry: Use a blow dryer on high heat and medium speed to rough dry your hair until it is 70% dry.
- Spiking: Divide your hair into sections and use a round brush to style each section using an upward motion. Hold the brush vertically and pull it up while directing the nozzle of the blow dryer at the base of the hair shaft. Repeat until the hair has been styled into spikes.
- Set the Style: Once the hair is spiked to your liking, use a cool setting on the blow dryer to set the style and prevent it from falling flat. Hold the blow dryer a few inches away from the hair and move it around in a circular motion.
Tips for Spiking Hair:
| Tip | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Use a strong hold gel or wax | To keep the spikes in place |
| Blow dry hair in an upward direction | To create volume and lift |
| Use a round brush with a small diameter | To help define each spike |
Using Hairspray
Hairspray is a key product for creating and maintaining spiky hair. Choose a hairspray with a strong hold for maximum staying power.
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Section your hair. Before applying hairspray, section your hair into smaller sections. This will help you evenly distribute the product and avoid overloading any one area.
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Spray at the roots. Hold the hairspray can about 6-8 inches away from your head and spray directly at the roots of your hair. Lift the sections of hair as you spray to ensure that the product reaches all areas.
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Blow-dry. Use a blow-dryer on a medium heat setting to dry your hair while spraying. This will help to set the hairspray and create a more defined look.
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Spike your hair. Once your hair is dry, use your fingers or a comb to spike it into the desired shape. Start at the roots and work your way up to the tips.
Tips for Spiking Hair:
– Use a hairspray with a strong hold. – Section your hair before applying hairspray. – Spray at the roots and blow-dry your hair. – Spike your hair using your fingers or a comb. – Re-spray with hairspray as needed to maintain hold.
Controlling Frizz
Dealing with frizzy hair can be a challenge, especially when styling it spiky. Here are some effective tips to control frizz and achieve a sleek, defined look:
1. Wash and Condition Properly
Start with a gentle shampoo that doesn’t strip your hair of its natural oils. Follow with a conditioner that hydrates and nourishes your locks. Avoid using harsh products or washing your hair too frequently, as this can lead to dryness and frizz.
2. Use Anti-Frizz Products
Incorporate anti-frizz products into your hair care routine. These products typically contain ingredients like silicones, polymers, or oils that smooth the hair shaft and prevent flyaways. Apply an anti-frizz serum or spray to damp hair before styling.
3. Dry Your Hair Properly
Avoid using a blow dryer on high heat settings, as this can damage your hair and increase frizz. Instead, use a low heat setting and point the dryer downward to seal the hair cuticles. You can also air-dry your hair, which is a gentler option.
4. Avoid Brushing Your Hair When Dry
Brushing dry hair can create friction and damage your hair cuticles, leading to frizz. If you need to brush your hair, do it when it’s damp and use a wide-toothed comb.
5. Use Hairspray or Mousse
Styling products like hairspray or mousse can help hold your spikes in place and control frizz. Apply a small amount to dry hair, focusing on the areas where you want to create spikes. Avoid using too much product, as this can weigh down your hair.
| Product Type | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Hairspray | Provides strong hold and controls frizz |
| Mousse | Adds volume and definition while controlling frizz |
Maintaining Healthy Hair
Healthy hair is essential for achieving and maintaining spiky hair. Here are some tips for keeping your hair in good condition:
Use Gentle Shampoo and Conditioner
Choose shampoos and conditioners that are designed for your hair type. Avoid using harsh products that can strip your hair of its natural oils.
Wash Your Hair Less Often
Washing your hair too often can remove essential oils from your scalp and hair. Aim to wash your hair every 2-3 days, or even less frequently if possible.
Use a Wide-tooth comb
A wide-tooth comb can help to prevent breakage and detangle your hair without causing damage. Avoid using brushes on wet hair, as this can also lead to breakage.
Use Heat Protectant
If you use heat styling tools, always apply a heat protectant spray to your hair first. This will help to protect your hair from heat damage and keep it looking healthy.
Eat a Healthy Diet
A healthy diet can help to nourish your hair from the inside out. Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in your diet.
Identify and Avoid Damage
Here are some common causes of hair damage to avoid:
| Cause | Tips to Avoid |
|---|---|
| Heat styling | Use heat protectant, limit heat styling frequency, and use low heat settings |
| Chemical treatments | Limit hair dye, bleach, and perms, and follow the instructions carefully |
| Sun exposure | Wear a hat or use a hair spray with UV protection |
| Friction | Avoid rubbing your hair vigorously with a towel, use wide-tooth combs, and avoid tight hairstyles |
| Environmental factors | Protect your hair from wind, rain, and pollution |
Creating Different Looks
Short and Spiky
For short and spiky hair, start by blow-drying your hair upward with a round brush to create volume. Apply a styling mousse or gel to your hair and use your fingers to spike it up in random directions. Spray your hair with hairspray to hold the look in place.
Medium-Length and Spiky
For medium-length and spiky hair, start by blow-drying your hair in the direction you want it to spike. Apply a styling mousse or gel to your hair and use your fingers to spike it up in sections. Hold each section in place with hairspray as you go.
Long and Spiky
For long and spiky hair, start by blow-drying your hair in the direction you want it to spike. Apply a styling mousse or gel to your hair and use a comb to create spikes. Hold each spike in place with hairspray as you go.
Mohawk
To create a mohawk, start by shaving the sides of your head. Apply a styling mousse or gel to your hair and use a comb to create a spike in the center of your head. Hold the spike in place with hairspray.
Faux Hawk
To create a faux hawk, start by blow-drying your hair upward. Apply a styling mousse or gel to your hair and use a comb to create a spike in the front of your head. Hold the spike in place with hairspray.
Messy Spikes
To create messy spikes, start by blow-drying your hair with a diffuser. Apply a styling mousse or gel to your hair and use your fingers to spike it up in random directions. Leave some strands loose for a more messy look.
Slicked-Back Spikes
To create slicked-back spikes, start by blow-drying your hair backward with a round brush. Apply a styling pomade or gel to your hair and use a comb to create spikes in the back of your head. Hold the spikes in place with hairspray.
| Length | Style |
|---|---|
| Short | Short and Spiky |
| Medium | Medium-Length and Spiky |
| Long | Long and Spiky |
| Mohawk | Mohawk |
| Faux Hawk | Faux Hawk |
| Messy | Messy Spikes |
| Slicked-Back | Slicked-Back Spikes |
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Problem: Hair isn’t spiky enough.
Solution: Use more hairspray. Spritz it onto the roots and lift the hair with a comb. You can also try using a stronger hold hairspray or a combination of hairspray and mousse.
Problem: Spikes are too wide and droopy.
Solution: Use a smaller comb or brush when styling. This will help create tighter spikes. You can also try using a texturizing spray to give your hair more grip.
Problem: Spikes are too small and don’t hold up.
Solution: Use a larger comb or brush when styling. This will help create larger spikes. You can also try using a volumizing spray to give your hair more body.
Problem: Spikes are frizzy and messy.
Solution: Use a smoothing serum or pomade to tame frizz. You can also try using a fine-toothed comb to smooth out the spikes.
Problem: Spikes are too stiff and crunchy.
Solution: Use a styling cream or gel to give your hair more flexibility. You can also try using a light hold hairspray to keep the spikes in place without making them stiff.
Problem: Spikes are too shiny.
Solution: Use a matte hairspray or powder to reduce shine. You can also try using a dry shampoo to absorb excess oil.
Problem: Spikes are uneven.
Solution: Use a comb or brush to even out the spikes. You can also try using a curling iron or flat iron to create more uniform spikes.
Problem: Spikes are falling out throughout the day.
Solution: Use a stronger hold hairspray or gel. You can also try using a hair clip or bobby pins to keep the spikes in place.
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Spikes are too stiff and crunchy | Use less product and allow your hair to dry completely before touching it |
| Spikes are too dry | Use a leave-in conditioner or hair oil to add moisture |
| Spikes are too greasy | Wash your hair more often and use a clarifying shampoo |
Styling Tips for Different Occasions
Spiky hair is a versatile style that can be adapted to a variety of occasions. Whether you’re going for a casual look or something more formal, there are a few key tips to keep in mind.
Casual Occasions
For casual occasions, you can keep your spikes relatively short and loose. Apply a small amount of styling gel or pomade to your hair, and then use your fingers to create spikes throughout your head. You can also use a product like hairspray to hold the spikes in place.
Semi-Formal Occasions
For semi-formal occasions, you can still keep your spikes short, but you may want to style them a bit more neatly. Use a comb to create even, defined spikes, and then apply a stronger styling product like mousse or gel to hold them in place. You can also add a bit of shine to your hair with a serum or pomade.
Formal Occasions
For formal occasions, you’ll want to create longer, more polished spikes. Start by blow-drying your hair to create volume. Then, apply a strong styling gel or pomade to your hair, and use a comb to create spikes throughout your head. You can use hairspray to hold the spikes in place, and you can also add a touch of shine with a serum or pomade.
Special Occasions
For special occasions, you can get creative with your spiky hair. You can add color to your spikes, or you can use hair extensions to create even longer, more dramatic spikes. You can also experiment with different styling techniques, such as creating spikes in different directions or using a texturizing product to create a more rugged look.
Tips for Different Hair Types
The type of hair you have will affect how you style your spikes. If you have thick hair, you’ll need to use a stronger styling product to hold the spikes in place. If you have fine hair, you’ll need to be careful not to apply too much product, or your hair will weigh down and look greasy.
Tips for Different Face Shapes
The shape of your face will also affect how you style your spikes. If you have a round face, you’ll want to create spikes that are longer and more pointed. This will help to elongate your face and make it look more oval. If you have an oval face, you can wear any type of spike style. If you have a square face, you’ll want to create spikes that are shorter and more rounded. This will help to soften your face and make it look less angular.
Inspiring Spiky Hair Styles
Spiky hair can be a great way to add some edge to your look. It’s a versatile style that can be worn by men and women of all ages. If you’re thinking about getting a spiky haircut, here are a few inspiring styles to get you started.
Short and Spiky
Short and spiky haircuts are perfect for those who want a low-maintenance style. They’re easy to style and can be worn with any outfit.
Long and Spiky
Long and spiky haircuts are a great way to add some drama to your look. They can be styled in a variety of ways, from sleek and polished to messy and textured.
Asymmetrical Spikes
Asymmetrical spikes are a great way to add some personality to your haircut. They can be styled on one side of the head or both, and they can be any length.
Colored Spikes
Colored spikes are a great way to add some fun to your look. You can dye your spikes any color you want, and you can even create a gradient effect.
Mohawk Spikes
Mohawk spikes are a bold and edgy style that’s perfect for those who want to make a statement. They’re typically styled with the sides of the head shaved and the spikes in the middle.
Faux Hawk Spikes
Faux hawk spikes are a less extreme version of the mohawk. They’re styled with the sides of the head shorter than the top, and the spikes are typically less pronounced.
Textured Spikes
Textured spikes are a great way to add some volume and interest to your haircut. They can be styled with a variety of products, such as mousse, gel, or pomade.
Messy Spikes
Messy spikes are a great way to create a relaxed and effortless look. They can be styled with a variety of products, such as sea salt spray, dry shampoo, or mousse.
Product Recommendations
To achieve the perfect spiky hair, you’ll need to use the right products. Here are a few of our favorites:
| Product | Description |
|---|---|
| American Crew Firm Hold Styling Gel | This gel provides a strong hold without weighing your hair down. |
| Bumble and bumble Bb.Gel | This gel is perfect for creating textured, messy spikes. |
| Redken Wax Blast 10 | This wax is perfect for adding volume and definition to your spikes. |
Spiky Hair: A Comprehensive Guide to Achieving the Perfect Look
Spiky hair is a versatile and stylish hairstyle that has been popular for decades. It can be achieved by using a variety of techniques, depending on the type of hair you have and the desired effect. Whether you’re going for a classic punk rock look or a more polished and modern style, spiky hair can be a great way to express your personality.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about how to achieve spiky hair, including the necessary tools, techniques, and products. We’ll also provide some tips on how to style your spiky hair and keep it looking its best.
People Also Ask About Spiky Hair How To
What are the best products for spiky hair?
The best products for spiky hair are those that provide a strong hold and a matte finish. Some popular choices include gel, pomade, and wax. You may also want to use a pre-styling product, such as a mousse or cream, to help create volume and texture.
How do I get my hair to stand up for spiky hair?
There are a few different ways to get your hair to stand up for spiky hair. One method is to use a blow dryer to dry your hair upside down. This will help create volume at the roots. You can also use a curling iron or a flat iron to create spikes.
How do I keep my spiky hair from getting frizzy?
To keep your spiky hair from getting frizzy, you need to use a product that provides a strong hold. You may also want to use a hairspray to help lock in the style. Additionally, you should avoid touching your hair too much, as this can cause it to become frizzy.
