Spiky hair, a hairstyle characterized by sharp, upward-pointing strands, has gained immense popularity among both men and women. This striking style not only adds a touch of edginess and rebellion but also allows for versatility and experimentation. Whether you’re aiming for a bold Mohawk or a subtle, textured look, spiky hair can be tailored to suit your personality and preferences. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the secrets of styling spiky hair, providing step-by-step instructions, product recommendations, and tips to help you achieve the perfect spiky ‘do.
Before embarking on your spiky hair journey, it’s crucial to understand the essential tools and products. While you can achieve spikes with pomades or gels, a strong-hold hairspray is the key to locking in the style and preventing it from falling flat. Additionally, a blow dryer and a round brush will help create volume and shape. Some hair types may benefit from using a volumizing hair mousse or a root lifter to create extra lift at the roots. These products work together to provide the foundation for long-lasting, gravity-defying spikes.
Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step styling process. Start by washing and conditioning your hair to remove any buildup or residue. Towel-dry your hair and apply a volumizing mousse to the roots. Use a blow dryer and a round brush to create volume and shape, directing the airflow upwards to lift the hair at the roots. Once you have achieved the desired volume, apply a strong-hold hairspray to secure the style. Use your fingertips to distribute the hairspray evenly throughout your hair, paying special attention to the tips of the spikes. Finally, use a small amount of pomade or gel to define and hold individual spikes, ensuring they stay sharp and pointed.
The Art of Styling Spikes with Different Hair Types
Fine Hair
Thin and fine hair requires special attention when styling spikes. To prevent a limp and lackluster look, start with a volumizing shampoo and conditioner. When hair is damp, apply a volumizing mousse or gel to create lift and hold. Use a round brush while blow-drying to add volume at the roots. To style spikes, focus on smaller sections of hair and use a strong-hold hairspray to maintain height and definition. Consider using a teasing comb or backcombing at the base of the spikes for extra volume.
Medium Hair
Medium-textured hair offers more versatility when styling spikes. Start by washing hair with a volumizing shampoo or a thickening conditioner. After conditioning, apply a medium-hold gel or pomade for a controlled yet flexible hold. Use a blow dryer on a medium heat setting to direct the spikes upward. Finish with a light hairspray or a shine spray for a polished look.
Thick Hair
Thick hair can hold spikes easily, but it requires careful styling to prevent an unkempt appearance. Start with a deep-conditioning treatment to soften and reduce frizz. Use a shampoo and conditioner designed for thick hair, focusing on the scalp to remove excess oil. Apply a strong-hold gel or a styling wax to damp hair, distributing it evenly from roots to tips. Use a blow dryer on a high heat setting, directing the airflow upward to lift the spikes. Finish with a strong-hold hairspray to lock in the spikes and minimize flyaways.
Table: Styling Spikes with Different Hair Types
| Hair Type | Key Considerations | Steps |
|---|---|---|
| Fine Hair | Volume and hold | Volumizing shampoo, mousse or gel, round brush, teasing comb or backcombing |
| Medium Hair | Controlled flexibility | Medium-hold gel or pomade, blow dryer, light hairspray or shine spray |
| Thick Hair | Strong hold and frizz reduction | Deep conditioning, strong-hold gel or styling wax, high heat blow dryer, strong-hold hairspray |
Essential Products for Achieving Spike Perfection
Hairspray and Gel: The Dynamic Duo
When it comes to achieving spiked hair, hairspray and gel are indispensable. Hairspray provides strong hold, locking spikes in place, while gel adds definition and control. Look for products that offer maximum hold and control.
Recommended Hairspray:
– Got2b Ultra Glued Invincible Freezing Spray
– Schwarzkopf Professional Osis+ Freeze Pump Spray
Recommended Gel:
– Redken Hardwear 16 Gel
– AXE Clean Cut Style Max Hold Pomade
Pre-styling Products: The Foundation
Before applying hairspray and gel, it’s crucial to prep your hair with pre-styling products. These products provide heat protection, enhance grip, and create a solid foundation for spiking.
Pre-styling Essentials:
– Heat protectant spray
– Volumizing mousse
– Thickening cream
Styling Tools: The Keys to Perfection
The right styling tools can make all the difference in creating flawless spikes. Here are the essential tools you’ll need:
– Hairdryer with a concentrator nozzle
– Wide-toothed comb
– Styling brush
– Hairspray brush (optional)
Styling Tips:
– Use a heat protectant spray before blow-drying your hair.
– Divide damp hair into sections and blow-dry upside down for maximum volume.
– Use a styling brush to create the desired shape and direction.
– Apply hairspray in short bursts to avoid over-stiffening.
– Use a hairspray brush to smooth out flyaways and tame unruly spikes.
Step 3: Building the Spikes
Now that the hair is prepped and sectioned, it’s time to start forming those iconic spikes. Begin by using the fine-toothed comb to thoroughly backcomb the hair in each section, working from the roots toward the tips. This creates the volume and texture necessary for the spikes to hold their shape. However, avoid overdoing it, as excessive backcombing can damage the hair.
Next, use a strong-hold hairspray to mist the roots of the hair in each section, focusing on the area where backcombing was performed. The hairspray will provide additional grip and prevent the spikes from collapsing.
Finally, shape the spikes by carefully molding them into the desired direction using your fingers or a styling tool. To ensure the spikes stay in place, apply a generous amount of hairspray to the exterior of each spike, holding it for a few seconds to allow the product to set. Repeat this process for all sections of hair, and remember to alternate the direction of the spikes to create a more visually appealing effect.
| Tips for Achieving Durable Spikes: |
|---|
| Use multiple layers of hairspray for long-lasting hold. |
| Avoid touching the spikes excessively once they are formed. |
| Apply hairspray to a toothbrush and lightly brush it over the spikes to secure any flyaways. |
| Consider using a hair wax or pomade to add extra texture and control to the spikes. |
Maintaining Spiked Hair for Long-Lasting Altitude
Achieving gravity-defying spikes requires meticulous maintenance to ensure their longevity. Here’s a comprehensive guide to keeping your spiked locks intact:
1. Start with Clean Hair
A solid foundation is crucial for long-lasting spikes. Wash your hair with a clarifying shampoo to remove any product buildup or excess oil that can weigh it down.
2. Apply Gel liberally
Gel is the backbone of spiky hair. Apply a generous amount of high-hold gel to damp hair, focusing on the roots and mid-lengths. Use a comb or your fingers to distribute the gel evenly.
3. Use a Blow Dryer with a Diffuser
A diffuser helps distribute heat evenly, preventing damage and preserving the spikes’ shape. Hold the diffuser upside down and aim it at the roots, scrunching the hair upwards as you dry.
4. Advanced Styling Techniques
- Twisting: Divide the hair into sections and twist each section upwards, securing it with bobby pins or hairspray.
- Braiding: Braid the hair into small sections, starting from the roots and working towards the ends. Once the braids are complete, unbraid them and tease the hair at the roots for extra volume.
- Backcombing: Backcomb the hair at the roots using a fine-toothed comb to create volume and hold. Use a light touch to avoid damaging the hair.
5. Lock in the Style
Once you’ve achieved your desired height and shape, use a strong-hold hairspray to lock in the style. Hold the hairspray about 8-10 inches away and spray evenly over the entire head.
With these maintenance tips, you can enjoy spiky hair that defies gravity and turns heads.
Variations of Spiky Hair to Elevate Your Style
Messy Spikes
This variation is a more casual and effortless take on spiky hair. To achieve this look, simply apply a volumizing mousse to damp hair and scrunch it towards the roots. Use your fingers to separate the spikes and create a textured, messy effect.
Long Spikes
If you have longer hair, you can opt for long spikes. Use a round brush to blow-dry your hair straight, then comb it back and apply hairspray to hold the spikes in place. For a more dramatic effect, tease the roots of your hair before combing it back.
Mohawk Spikes
This edgy variation is created by shaving the sides of your head and leaving a strip of hair in the center. Use a strong-hold gel to style the hair in the center into spikes, and use hairspray to keep them in place.
Faux Hawk Spikes
Similar to a Mohawk, this variation involves shaving the sides of your head. However, instead of leaving a strip of hair in the center, you leave a larger section of hair at the front. Use a volumizing mousse to create volume, and style the front section into spikes.
Detailed Guide to Faux Hawk Spikes
Materials Required:
| Volumizing mousse |
| Hairspray |
| Comb |
Steps:
- Wash and dry your hair.
- Apply volumizing mousse to damp hair.
- Blow-dry your hair back, using a round brush.
- Use a comb to create a deep side part, leaving a larger section of hair on top.
- Use your fingers to tease the roots of the front section.
- Use a comb to spike the front section of hair.
- Apply hairspray to hold the spikes in place.
Styling Spikes in Different Hair Lengths and Textures
Achieving spiky hair requires a combination of products and techniques that vary depending on hair length and texture. Here’s a comprehensive guide to styling spikes in different scenarios:
Short Hair
Short hair is perfect for creating sharp and defined spikes. Use a strong holding gel or pomade and apply it to damp or dry hair.
Medium Hair
For medium-length hair, it’s best to create smaller spikes using a stronghold mousse or wax. Apply the product to the roots and work it through the hair, directing it upwards.
Long Hair
Styling long hair into spikes requires more hold and volume. Use a volumizing mousse at the roots and apply a strong gel or pomade to the lengths. Brush or comb the hair upwards into spikes, adding hairspray to enhance hold.
Straight Hair
Straight hair requires extra hold to keep spikes in place. Use a spray wax or fiber gel that gives a matte finish and work it through damp hair. Blow-dry on high heat to activate the hold.
Curly Hair
Curly hair can be more challenging to style into spikes. To minimize frizz, use a defrizzing cream or curl-defining gel. Apply the product to damp hair and then finger-style the spikes into place.
Fine Hair
Fine hair can benefit from products that add volume and thickness. Use a volumizing shampoo and conditioner, and apply a mousse or spray wax to the roots. Create spikes by teasing the hair at the root and spraying it with hairspray.
| Hair Type | Product | Application |
|---|---|---|
| Short | Strong hold gel or pomade | Apply to damp or dry hair |
| Medium | Stronghold mousse or wax | Apply to roots and work through hair, directing upwards |
| Long | Volumizing mousse and strong gel or pomade | Apply mousse to roots, apply gel or pomade to lengths |
| Straight | Spray wax or fiber gel | Apply to damp hair, blow-dry on high heat |
| Curly | Defrizzing cream or curl-defining gel | Apply to damp hair, finger-style spikes |
| Fine | Volumizing shampoo and conditioner, mousse or spray wax | Teasing hair at the root, spraying with hairspray |
Avoiding Common Mistakes When Styling Spikes
Using the wrong products
Spikes require a strong hold product, so avoid using gels or pomades that are too lightweight. Opt for a firm-hold gel or wax.
Over-applying product
Too much product can weigh down the hair and make it look greasy. Apply a small amount of product to the tips of your fingers and work it through the hair from the roots to the tips.
Not using enough product
If you don’t use enough product, the spikes will not hold their shape. Apply enough product to ensure that every hair is coated.
Brushing the hair
Brushing the hair after applying product will break up the spikes and make them look messy. Use your fingers to style the spikes.
Touching the hair
Once you have styled the spikes, try not to touch them. Touching the hair will transfer oils from your hands to the hair, making it look greasy and losing its shape.
Using heat
Heat can damage the hair and make it more difficult to style. Avoid using heat styling tools on your spikes.
Sleeping with spikes
Sleeping with spikes can cause the hair to become matted and tangled. To avoid this, wash your hair before going to bed and style it in the morning.
Hairspray and Gel Techniques for Rock-Solid Hold
Achieving spiky hair requires a firm hold that will keep your spikes in place all day long. Two essential styling products for creating rock-solid spikes are hairspray and gel. Here’s how to use these products effectively:
Hairspray Techniques
1. Apply to Dry Hair: Spray hairspray onto dry hair for maximum hold.
2. Lock in Spikes: After styling your spikes, spray hairspray over them to lock them in place.
3. Touch Up: If your spikes start to fall, reapply hairspray throughout the day to maintain the hold.
Gel Techniques
4. Use a Strong-Hold Gel: Opt for a gel with a strong hold to ensure your spikes stay put.
5. Apply to Damp Hair: Apply the gel to damp hair to distribute it evenly and create strong bonds.
6. Create Spikes: Use your fingers or a comb to style your hair into spikes while the gel is still damp.
7. Air Dry or Blow-Dry: Allow your hair to air dry or use a blow-dryer on a low setting to set the spikes.
Combining Hairspray and Gel
8. Combining Products: To achieve maximum hold, you can use both hairspray and gel.
Apply gel to damp hair first, then style your spikes and allow them to set. Once dry, spray hairspray over the spikes to lock them in place. This combination provides a strong, long-lasting hold that will keep your spikes defiant all day.
| Product | Application | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Hairspray | Dry hair, over spikes | Locking in spikes, hold |
| Gel | Damp hair, create spikes | Strong hold, create spikes |
| Combination | Gel first, hairspray second | Maximum hold, long-lasting spikes |
Creating Spiky Texture with Rollers and Clips
Using rollers and clips is a great way to create spiky texture without using heat. This method is gentle on your hair and can be used on all hair types.
Step 1: Wash and Dry Your Hair
Start by washing your hair with a volumizing shampoo and conditioner. Towel dry your hair until it is damp but not wet.
Step 2: Apply Styling Product
Apply a styling product to your hair, such as a mouse or gel. This will help to hold the spikes in place.
Step 3: Section Your Hair
Divide your hair into several sections. The more sections you create, the smaller the spikes will be.
Step 4: Roll Your Hair
Take a section of hair and roll it around a roller. Secure the roller with a clip.
Step 5: Repeat
Repeat steps 4 and 5 until all of your hair is rolled up.
Step 6: Let Your Hair Dry
Allow your hair to dry completely. This may take several hours, or you can use a blow dryer on a low setting.
Step 7: Remove the Rollers
Once your hair is dry, remove the rollers and clips. The spikes of your hair should now be set in place.
Step 8: Finishing Touches
If you want to add a little extra hold, you can apply a hairspray to your hair. You can also use your fingers to shape the spikes to your desired look.
Tips
Here are a few tips for creating spiky texture with rollers and clips:
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Use small rollers | Smaller rollers will create tighter spikes. |
| Roll your hair in different directions | This will create a more natural-looking spiked style. |
| Let your hair dry completely | This is important for the spikes to hold in place. |
| Use a hairspray or gel | This will help to keep the spikes in place. |
Inspiring Spiky Hair Looks for Men and Women
1. Short Spikes with Undercut
A combination of short, textured spikes with an undercut provides a modern and edgy look. The undercut creates a clean base, allowing the spikes to stand out and define the face.
2. Long Spikes with Side Part
Long, sharp spikes paired with a side part exude a bold and sophisticated vibe. The side part adds structure and highlights the spikes’ direction.
3. Mohawked Spikes
For a daring and rebellious look, opt for a mohawk-inspired style with spiky hair. The central strip of spikes can be left long or cropped short to create different effects.
4. Spiky Pompadour
The classic pompadour can be transformed with edgy spikes. Combine a high volume pompadour with sharp, upward spikes to achieve a stylish and captivating look.
5. Messy Spikes with Fringe
For a more relaxed and effortless style, go for messy spikes with a fringe. Create controlled spikes while leaving some strands loose and flowing over the forehead.
6. Formal Spikes with Side Swept Bangs
Transition your spiky hair into a formal setting by sweeping the bangs to the side and setting the spikes with hairspray. The result is a refined and elegant look that still maintains a touch of edginess.
7. Pinned Up Spikes
Add a touch of creativity to your spiky hair by pinning them up in different sections. Create sections with gel or hairspray and use bobby pins to hold the spikes in place.
8. Colored Spikes
Elevate your spiky hair with vibrant colors. Dye the tips or entire spikes in eye-catching shades to make a bold statement.
9. Spikes with Asymmetrical Length
Create a unique and dynamic look by leaving one side of your hair with long, voluminous spikes while keeping the other side short and cropped.
10. Long, Cascading Spikes
For those with longer hair, consider long, cascading spikes. These spikes gradually transition from short to long, creating a sense of movement and volume. The spikes can be parted to the side or styled with hairspray to enhance their length and texture:
| Instructions | Effect |
|---|---|
| Part hair deeply to one side and brush up spikes using hairspray | Asymmetrical, voluminous spikes |
| Apply mousse to damp hair and blow dry, using fingers to shape spikes | Natural, textured spikes with slight hold |
| Use a styling gel with a strong hold and comb through hair to create defined spikes | Precise, well-structured spikes with a glossy finish |
Spiky Hair How To
Spiky hair is a popular hairstyle that can be achieved with a variety of products and techniques. To get spiky hair, you will need to start with clean, dry hair. Apply a small amount of mousse or gel to your hair and work it through from roots to tips. Use your fingers to create spikes by pulling sections of hair up and away from your head. You can also use a styling brush to help create more defined spikes.
Once you have created the spikes, you can use hairspray to help hold them in place. You can also use a blow dryer to help dry your hair and set the spikes. Be careful not to over-dry your hair, as this can make it look frizzy and damaged.
People Also Ask
How do you get spiky hair naturally?
There are a few ways to get spiky hair naturally. One way is to use a sea salt spray. Sea salt spray can help to create texture and volume in your hair, which can help to give it a spiky appearance. Another way to get spiky hair naturally is to use a styling gel. Styling gel can help to hold your hair in place and give it a more defined look.
What is the best hairspray for spiky hair?
There are a few different hairsprays that are good for spiky hair. One option is to use a strong hold hairspray. Strong hold hairspray will help to keep your spikes in place all day long. Another option is to use a volumizing hairspray. Volumizing hairspray can help to create more volume in your hair, which can help to give your spikes a more dramatic look.
How do you get rid of spiky hair?
There are a few different ways to get rid of spiky hair. One way is to wash your hair with shampoo and conditioner. Shampoo and conditioner will help to remove any product that is holding your hair in place. Another way to get rid of spiky hair is to use a detangling spray. Detangling spray can help to loosen up any knots or tangles in your hair, which can make it easier to brush out.
