A modern comb over is a haircut with a side part and the top combed across to one side, with tapered or faded sides. It has nothing to do with covering a bald spot. Here's what sets it apart, who it suits, how to ask your barber for it and how to style it.
Comb over at a glance
- Top: 2 to 4 inches
- Sides and back: Taper or fade
- Maintenance: Medium
- Trim every: 3 to 4 weeks
What makes it different
It's a clean, classic style that reads as professional. A shaved line at the part, called a hard part, makes it sharper.
Who it suits
Most face shapes; a little height at the front helps round faces. It works best on straight or wavy hair.
Not sure about your face shape? Find it with the free face shape detector, or read our guide to men's face shapes.
How to ask your barber for a comb over
- Ask for a comb over with a side part on your natural part side.
- Choose the sides: taper for classic, fade for modern.
- Say whether you want a hard part shaved in.
- Bring a photo. Barbers use these names differently, and a picture removes the guesswork.
How to style it
Apply pomade or cream to damp hair, comb across from the part and lift the front slightly with a blow dryer.
Variations
- Comb over fade: low, mid or high fade at the sides.
- Hard part comb over: a razor line at the part.
- Textured comb over: matte and looser.
Try it before you cut
A haircut takes weeks to grow out. Upload a selfie to the AI hairstyle changer and see the comb over on your own face, next to up to three other styles.
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FAQ
What is a comb over?
A modern comb over is a haircut with a side part and the top combed across to one side, with tapered or faded sides.
Who suits a comb over?
Most face shapes; a little height at the front helps round faces. It works best on straight or wavy hair.
How often does it need a trim?
About every 3 to 4 weeks.
