Men's Hair Tutorial: How to Style a Comb-Over (The Perfect Side Part)

Comb-Over Requirements:

While the length of hair on the sides and neckline can vary, a classic comb-over shouldn't get too short: Start with a #2 or #3 buzzer setting and work up to a #3 or #4 on top. Work with your hair's natural shape to determine where you should part it.

How to Style a Comb-Over/Side Part:

1. Start with clean, towel-dried hair.

2. Use a blow dryer on high heat for longer hair if you want added volume.

3. Take a dime-sized amount of styling cream for a looser, casual look, or a water-based pomade it you want more shine and hold. Work the product into your hair, beginning at the roots and starting from the back of the head.

4. For a clean part, run a comb lengthwise from the back of the head to your forehead, then separate the hair. For a messier part, just separate with your fingers.

The Best Way to Find Your Part

This is a bit more complicated than dressing to the left or the right: It turns out there is a correct side to part your hair on, but it varies from person to person. Feel for your cowlick (the swirl near the crown of your head). If it moves in a clockwise circle, part your hair on the left. If its counterclockwise, you should part on the right. Another tip: Parting the hair lower on the head is a good way to create a square shape to your haircut, and it looks good on everyone.

More Mens Hair Styling Tips

Be sure to pick a hairstyle that matches your face shape.

Learn how to properly apply hair product.

Different stylerslike wax, paste, pomade, or creamdo different things. See where they fall on the Hold vs. Shine hair-styling matrix.

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