The Faux Hawk Haircut
The traditional Mohawk haircut was a staple style of the punk movement in the 1980s that went through multiple incarnations, eventually becoming somewhat mainstream. The style was popularized by US television celebrity Mr. T, known for his roles in "The A-Team" and the "Rocky" films. Even during its more mainstream phase, it remained a symbol of nonconformity, suitable only for individuals who eschewed societal norms.However, the evolution of the Mohawk style has brought us to a modern variation known as the "Faux Hawk" (also referred to as the pseudo-hawk and front hawk). In this style, the hair is cut short with clippers or scissors, leaving a longer "strip" of hair down the center of the head instead of being completely shaved. Additionally, unlike the sharp lines of the traditional Mohawk, the Faux Hawk is often texturized to blend the distinction between the two lengths of hair.
The "strip" can be adjusted to suit individual preferences or situations through styling. Typically, the hair strip is one to two inches longer than the shorter lengths, which are generally between ¼ and ¾ inch, but can vary in length according to personal preference.
How to cut a Faux Hawk:
• Using clippers to cut the hair is an easy option for achieving a uniform cut along the sides of the "strip". Remember to use the clippers only on dry hair, as damp hair will not cut evenly and may clog the blades.
• Ensure that you cut the "strip" to the appropriate size for the individual's head. A good way to judge the size of the strip is to use the centers of the eyes as a guide. You can use the flat edge of a comb to gauge the outer edges of the strip and part the hair along the edge line. Use hair clips to hold the strip hair out of the way while you cut one side, then repeat the process on the opposite side.
• If you choose to create the style entirely with scissors, you should use a traveling guide to ensure uniform lengths. Optionally, you can create the style with tapered sides whether you use clippers or scissors.
• For a funkier, trendier look to the "Faux Hawk," texturize the strip using the point-cutting technique. This will create more movement in the style and allow you to achieve a spiky or disheveled look.
Once the cut is finished, you can style it using mousse or hair gel and dry it with a diffuser to create stand-up spikes or blow it into a tousled look. If you want more definition in your "strip," use a little pomade on your fingers and work it into the hair, pulling the textured hair into points.
Note: Other names given to this hairstyle are fauxhawk, fo hawk, and fohawk.
See also:
How to cut a boys' fauxhawk haircut
More about cutting hair