A faux hawk is a haircut with shorter sides and a strip of longer hair down the middle that's styled upward. Unlike a true mohawk, the sides are not shaved off completely. Here's what sets it apart, who it suits, how to ask your barber for it and how to style it.
Faux hawk at a glance
- Top: 2 to 4 inches along the center
- Sides and back: Faded or tapered
- Maintenance: Medium
- Trim every: 2 to 3 weeks
What makes it different
You get the shape of a mohawk in a version you can wear to work: style it up for an edge, or push it flat for a normal short haircut.
Faux hawk vs mohawk
A mohawk has shaved sides and a single strip of hair. A faux hawk keeps short hair on the sides and blends it, so it's much subtler.
Who it suits
Round and oval faces, since the height lengthens the face. It works on straight, wavy and curly 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 faux hawk
- Ask for a faux hawk: longer down the middle, shorter at the sides.
- Choose the fade: a burst fade is the classic choice.
- Say how wide the center strip should be.
- Bring a photo. Barbers use these names differently, and a picture removes the guesswork.
How to style it
Blow dry the center upward, then use strong-hold clay or gel and push the hair toward the middle from both sides.
Variations
- Mohawk fade: a more defined strip with skin-faded sides.
- Burst fade mohawk: a rounded fade around each ear, long at the nape.
- Curly faux hawk: curls stacked in the center.
Try it before you cut
A haircut takes weeks to grow out. Upload a selfie to the AI hairstyle changer and see the faux hawk on your own face, next to up to three other styles.
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FAQ
What is a faux hawk?
A faux hawk is a haircut with shorter sides and a strip of longer hair down the middle that's styled upward.
Who suits a faux hawk?
Round and oval faces, since the height lengthens the face. It works on straight, wavy and curly hair.
How often does it need a trim?
About every 2 to 3 weeks.
