With their laid-back attitude, sun-kissed skin, and beachy vibes, surfers are effortlessly cool. While it might be impossible to fully achieve their look without grabbing a board and hitting the waves, you can definitely rock surfer hair. It doesn’t matter if you’re hundreds of miles away from the nearest beach — or even if you never learned how to swim! Without ever catching a wave, you can pull off surfer hair if you have the right cut, products, and styling techniques.
Surfer Hair Made Easy
Actual surfers don’t even have to try to achieve that iconic, tousled hair. They hit the waves, soak their hair in the salty water, and then let the sun work its magic. But if you want to mimic that look at home, you’ll need to put in a little more effort. Use the following steps to find your inner surfer:
Let Your Hair Grow Out If It’s Short
Surfer hair tends to work best on medium-length (about three to six inches) or long hair. Short hair is typically too neat and tidy and can’t achieve a windswept look. If your hair is currently on the shorter side, you’ll likely need to let it grow out for a few weeks or even months to achieve a beachy style.
Ask Your Barber for Textured Layers
If you tell your barber the look you’re hoping to achieve — or better yet, show them photos — they can point you toward the haircut that will work best for your hair, taking its thickness, density, and texture into consideration. In most cases, that’s going to be a medium-length or longer hairstyle with layers for volume and flow. Some barbers might recommend a scissor cut instead of clippers because they can give a more natural, uneven finish. You might also want to ask for a shaggy fringe, depending on the exact look you’re hoping to replicate.
Add a Pinch of Salt — Sea Salt Spray, That Is
Sea salt spray is the MVP of surfer hair, mimicking the salty ocean water that gives actual surfers their textured, tousled locks. Simply spray it on damp hair and then scrunch your hair with your fingers or twist small sections to encourage waves. Finally, let your hair air dry for a relaxed, slightly wild look. If you want more volume and control, try using a diffuser on low heat. After that, let it be! Don’t worry about perfect symmetry or a slick finish. Overstyling goes against the simple, effortless, carefree ethos of surfers.
Only Use Matte Styling Products
If your hair needs a little extra help to reach the look you’re going for, stick with matte styling products. For example, you could use a matte pomade or texturizing clay to create separation and give your hair some hold. However, use these products sparingly to avoid weighing your hair down and making it look too styled. In addition, avoid shiny and heavy products, which also go against that free-spirited beach vibe.
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Summer’s right around the corner, so now is the perfect time to rock the surfer hair of your dreams — no sand required! Simply schedule an appointment with your barber to get started.
Looking for a barber shop that promises good vibes and a quality cut? If you live in Missouri, Kansas, Arkansas, or Oklahoma, stop by your neighborhood Hudson / Hawk. In our modern, comfortable spaces, people of all ages enjoy stylish haircuts and good conversation. We offer a variety of cuts — from zero fades to shear cuts and everything in between — as well as shaves, beard grooming, and waxing. Book your next haircut today, or stop by to pick up some beard oil!