The Complete Guide to Styling Hair for Men at Pair of Shears Barbers Dublin
You just got a great haircut. It looks perfect in the barber's chair. The lines are crisp. The shape is exactly what you wanted. You walk out feeling like a million euros.
Then you wake up the next morning.
You look in the mirror and something is wrong. The hair does not look the same. You try to style it, but it will not cooperate. The magic is gone.
This scenario plays out every day for men who get great cuts but never learn how to style them. The truth is, a haircut is only half the equation. The other half is styling. Knowing how to work with your hair, what products to use, and how to achieve the look your barber created.
At Pair of Shears Barbers Dublin, we do not just cut your hair. We help you learn to style it. We show you techniques. We recommend products. We set you up for success every day, not just on appointment day.
This guide covers everything you need to know about styling hair. Products. Techniques. Tips for your hair type. And how to work with your barber to master your look.
Because looking great should not end when you leave the chair.
Why Hair Styling Matters
Here is why learning to style your hair is worth the effort.
Your Haircut Looks Best When Styled
The cut your barber created is designed to be styled in a certain way. Seeing it styled properly shows you its full potential. You see what your hair can really do .
Professional Image
In business, your appearance matters. A well-styled haircut signals that you pay attention to details. It projects confidence and competence .
Confidence
When you know your hair looks good, you feel good. That confidence shows in your posture, your handshake, your eye contact. It affects how you perform .
Personal Expression
How you style your hair is a form of self-expression. It says something about who you are. Mastering styling gives you more control over that message .
ReasonWhy It MattersSee potentialUnderstand what your cut can doProfessional imageSignals attention to detailConfidenceAffects performancePersonal expressionControl your message
Hair Styling Products Explained
Here is a comprehensive guide to styling products.
Pomade
Provides shine and medium to strong hold. Water-based pomades wash out easily. Oil-based pomades offer longer-lasting hold but require more effort to wash out. Great for classic styles and slicked-back looks .
Clay
Matte finish with strong hold. Adds texture and volume. Ideal for modern, textured styles. Works well for men with thick hair .
Paste
Medium hold with a natural finish. Provides texture and separation without stiffness. Versatile and easy to use. Good for most hair types .
Wax
Strong hold with low to medium shine. Can be heavy. Good for short styles and defining pieces. Use sparingly .
Gel
Strong hold with high shine. Can create a wet look. Can be stiff and crunchy. Less popular for modern styles but still has its place .
Cream
Light hold with natural finish. Adds moisture and softness. Good for longer hair and natural looks. Provides control without stiffness .
Sea Salt Spray
Adds texture and volume with a beachy, natural look. Not for hold. Good for creating effortless, textured styles .
Hairspray
Provides hold and can add shine. Used for finishing. Can help control flyaways .
ProductFinishHoldBest ForPomadeShineMedium-StrongClassic, slicked-backClayMatteStrongTextured, modernPasteNaturalMediumVersatileWaxLow shineStrongShort, definedGelHigh shineVery StrongWet lookCreamNaturalLightLonger, naturalSea Salt SprayNaturalNoneTexture, volumeHairsprayVariesVariesFinishing
How to Choose the Right Styling Product
Here is a framework for selecting products.
Consider Your Hair Type
Hair TypeRecommended ProductsStraightPomade, clay, pasteWavyPaste, sea salt spray, creamCurlyCream, curl-specific productsThickClay, wax, strong hold productsFineLight products, sea salt spray
Consider Your Desired Finish
Shine: Pomade, gel
Matte: Clay, paste, sea salt spray
Natural: Paste, cream
Consider Your Desired Hold
Light: Cream, sea salt spray
Medium: Paste, some pomades
Strong: Clay, wax, gel
Consider Your Lifestyle
How much time do you want to spend styling? Some products are easier to use than others. Your barber can advise .
Styling Techniques by Hair Type
Here is how to style different hair types.
Straight Hair
Straight hair can be sleek or textured. For sleek looks, use pomade and comb. For texture, use clay or paste and work with fingers. Avoid heavy products that weigh hair down .
Wavy Hair
Work with your waves, not against them. Use products that enhance natural texture. Sea salt spray for casual looks. Paste or clay for more definition. Scrunch to encourage wave formation .
Curly Hair
Curly hair needs moisture. Use products designed for curls. Apply to damp hair. Avoid brushing dry curls, which causes frizz. Scrunch to encourage curl formation. Diffuse or air dry .
Thick Hair
Thick hair can handle stronger products. Clay and wax work well. Layering products can help control bulk. Avoid products that add more volume if you already have plenty.
Fine Hair
Fine hair needs lightweight products. Avoid heavy waxes and oils. Use volumizing products. Apply to roots for lift. Sea salt spray can add texture without weight .
Styling for Different Looks
Here is how to achieve various styles.
Professional/Office
Clean, polished, and appropriate. Medium hold, natural finish. Pomade or paste works well. Comb for a sleek finish. Keep it controlled .
Casual/Weekend
Relaxed and effortless. Textured, natural finish. Clay or sea salt spray. Work with fingers for a tousled look. Embrace imperfection .
Formal/Event
Sleek and sophisticated. Stronger hold, polished finish. Pomade or gel. Take your time. Precision matters. Use a comb for clean lines .
Textured/Natural
Effortless and modern. Matte finish, visible texture. Clay or paste. Work product through with fingers. Do not over-style .
Sleek/Polished
Smooth and refined. High shine, strong hold. Pomade or gel. Use a comb. Pay attention to details. Everything in place .
Step-by-Step Styling Guide
Here is how to style your hair at home.
Step 1: Start with Clean, Damp Hair
Towel dry your hair after washing. It should be damp, not soaking wet. Product distributes better on damp hair .
Step 2: Apply Product Correctly
Take a small amount (start with a pea-size or fingertip amount). Rub it between your palms to warm it. Apply evenly, starting at the back and working forward. Focus on the areas that need the most control .
Step 3: Style with Fingers or Comb
Use your fingers for textured, natural looks. Use a comb for sleek, polished styles. Work quickly before the product dries.
Step 4: Use a Hair Dryer (Optional)
For volume and direction, use a hair dryer. Blow in the direction you want the hair to go. Use a comb or your fingers to guide it.
Step 5: Finish and Check
Once you are happy with the style, check from all angles. Add more product if needed (sparingly). Use hairspray if you want extra hold .
Common Styling Mistakes to Avoid
Using Too Much Product
Start small. You can always add more. Too much product weighs hair down and looks greasy.
Applying to Dry Hair (When It Should Be Damp)
Most products work best on damp hair. Dry hair does not distribute product evenly.
Not Warming Product in Hands
Cold product straight from the container does not spread well. Warm it between your palms first.
Rushing the Process
Good styling takes a few minutes. Rushing leads to poor results.
Ignoring Your Hair's Natural Behavior
Work with your hair, not against it. Forcing it to do something it does not want to do will not end well .
Working with Your Barber on Styling
Here is how to get the most from your barber.
Ask for a Styling Demo
When your haircut is done, ask your barber to show you how to style it. Watch what they do. Ask questions.
Get Product Recommendations
Your barber knows what products work for your hair type and desired style. Ask for specific recommendations.
Discuss Your Daily Routine
Tell your barber how much time you want to spend styling. They can recommend styles and products that fit your life .
Learn Maintenance Tips
Ask about second-day hair. Ask about dealing with humidity. Ask anything that will help you maintain your look.
Maintaining Your Style Throughout the Day
Here is how to keep looking good.
Touch-Up Tips
Keep a small amount of product with you if needed. A quick touch-up can revive your style.
Dealing with Humidity
Humidity can wreck your style. Use products with some humidity resistance. Carry a comb for quick fixes.
Second-Day Hair
Second-day hair can be revived with a little water and a small amount of product. Sea salt spray can add texture. Dry shampoo can absorb oil .
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How much product should I use?
Start with a small amount, about the size of a pea or a fingertip. You can always add more.
2. What order do I apply products?
If using multiple products, apply the one with the strongest hold last. Generally, pre-stylers first, then main product.
3. Can I use hair dryer on all hair types?
Yes, but use appropriate heat settings. Fine hair needs lower heat. Use a diffuser for curly hair.
4. How do I prevent my style from falling flat?
Use products with enough hold. Apply to roots for volume. Use a hair dryer for lift.
5. What if I have a cowlick?
Work with it, not against it. Your barber can cut to minimize its impact. Styling can help train it.
6. How do I choose between pomade and clay?
Pomade for shine and sleek looks. Clay for matte, textured looks.
7. Can I use the same product every day?
Yes, if it works for your hair and desired style. You may want different products for different looks.
8. How do I remove styling products?
Use quality shampoo. Some products (oil-based pomades) may require two washes.
9. What if I have never used styling products before?
Start with something easy like a paste or light pomade. Your barber can guide you.
10. How long do styling products last?
Most products last 12-24 months. Check for changes in smell or texture .
Master Your Hair Styling at Pair of Shears
A great haircut deserves to be seen at its best. And you deserve to know how to make it look that way every day.
At Pair of Shears, we help you master your hair styling. We show you techniques. We recommend products. We set you up for success.
Whether you are new to styling or looking to refine your technique, we are here to help.
Book your appointment today. Learn to style your hair like a pro.