Mar 24, 2026 | Fade Haircuts, Taper Fade
When our male clients opt to have a neat, stylish haircut at First & Mane, we usually advise them to try the taper haircut. Taper is basically trimming the hair from long on top to shorter towards the side and back area, which merges smoothly into skin or very short length.
For those looking for a modern twist, the taper fade hairstyle for men is especially popular. The taper hairstyle is amazing since it can be styled in a number of ways depending on what the client prefers. Our clients like to wear this type of hairstyle since it suits all face shapes.
Popular Taper Haircut Styles
Taper hairstyle does not have one definite method. Based on the individual choice and the hair structure, this kind of haircut will be personalized accordingly. Many clients come in requesting a classic taper haircut, appreciating its versatility and timeless appeal.
Conservative Look
For those guys who wish to maintain their neat looks in the workplace but still like to keep some hairstyle at weekends, a low taper hairstyle would be recommended. In this case, the shortening of the hair takes place right above the ears and near the nape of the neck where there is plenty of volume.
In our experience, this kind of taper suits most men who have a neat perimeter but don’t want to trim much length on the sides. This tapered style is highly popular among our customers, especially those interested in the men’s classic taper haircut.
Sophisticated Look
For clients who want to emphasize their hairstyles with more flair, it is recommended to opt for the high taper hairstyle. This type of taper has an effect of drawing the eyes upwards and makes the hair on top fuller. This is an excellent idea, especially for those guys whose hair is rather thick and curly.
For anyone seeking a timeless look, the classic taper haircut men often choose offers the perfect blend of style and ease. This style helps to reduce volume and weight of the side hair.
How to Maintain and Style a Tapered Hairstyle
Having received your favorite taper hairstyle, make sure to follow these useful instructions in order to preserve its neatness. If you’re looking for a refined yet easy-to-manage option, the classic taper men’s haircut is always a great choice.
Choosing Suitable Products
It totally depends on the desired result how you will style your tapered hair. To get the perfect look, just apply a dime size portion of water-based pomade to damp hair if you desire the smooth finish. Matte clay/styling paste should be applied only to completely dry hair. Apply this product evenly in order to provide an even hold during the whole day.
Maintaining Your Edges
As mentioned above, the taper haircut is made by shortening the sides, thus the new growth of hair appears very soon. For those seeking a more refined look, the classic taper with side part can add an extra touch of sophistication. It is necessary to keep your hairstyle neat and fresh, so try to visit the barbershop once in 3 or 4 weeks in order to keep it well-maintained and tidy.
Timeless Taper
Fashion changes over time, but there are several elements which never fade away. One of them is a perfect taper hairstyle which creates a man’s silhouette and requires only minimum effort for maintenance every morning. At First & Mane, we feel proud of being able to offer personalized styles and cuts to our clients based on their lifestyles, head types and hair structure. Come to us and enjoy an amazing taper hairstyle!
Dru Meskan is the owner and master barber at First & Mane in Scottsdale, Arizona. With 19 years of haircutting experience, including 11 years as a professional barber, Dru is known for precision cuts, modern grooming techniques, and personalized service that keeps clients looking and feeling their best.
Mar 17, 2026 | Hairstyles by Hair Type
Each week, men visit our barbershop at First & Mane, sitting in our chairs feeling uncomfortable with their hair. Sparse edges and abrupt baldness could definitely impact your self-esteem negatively. If you’re searching for short hairstyles for men that work well with thinning hair, you’re not alone. However, there is no need to run around with a baseball hat all day long because we have the exact strategy to make a stylish haircut using natural growth patterns.
With the help of a good cut, it becomes easy to conceal those sparse zones and walk away from our barbershop looking rejuvenated.
Understanding Thinning Hair and Bald Spots
But first, it would be appropriate to explain what causes hair loss in order to select an effective hairstyle. In most cases, genetics and age play the primary role in this case. Male pattern baldness is extremely widespread among Americans, but we assure you that nothing is wrong with that because aging is a part of nature.
Sometimes stress and some medical conditions lead to hair loss, but again, you are not alone. Whether you’re considering hairstyles for men with thin hair or simply curious about the reasons behind thinning, we have the experience to cope with any situation.
Principles of Choosing a Hairstyle
Selecting a suitable hairstyle means applying a number of barbering techniques that help to create an impressive visual effect. These techniques are also effective when recommending hairstyles for men with thinning hair to clients who want a fuller appearance. They are used daily to provide our customers with an appearance of a full head of hair.
1. Distraction and Volume
The main trick is to distract attention from those zones which are not so dense. For this purpose, a volumizing powder or a matte clay is utilized to create additional thickness. It is vital not to use heavy gels because such products will result in clumping and highlighting your scalp. That is why we recommend choosing matte products that are applied to the roots of hair. Opting for a hairstyle for men with thinning hair can make a noticeable difference, helping you style with greater confidence.
2. Shorter Sides, Longer Top
The described haircut strategy helps to achieve a look of a full and thick head of hair. When sides of the hair are cropped shorter, the contrast with the longer hair creates a very modern image that makes the head look voluminous. Styles like the crew cut or French crop are often considered among the best hairstyles for men with thin hair, as they reflect the given principles and help maximize the appearance of fullness.
3. Texture and Layers
If the cut is not textured properly, then it will turn out lifeless and blunt. For this reason, a point cut and texturing shears help to create additional volume. Creating a choppy layer is extremely effective since this technique gives an opportunity to cover the bald area with hair naturally. Choosing a men’s hairstyle for thinning hair that uses thoughtful texturing can significantly improve overall appearance and boost your confidence.
4. Strategic Parting
The choice of parting is essential when coping with baldness. A standard straight parting will highlight that the hair is sparse. It would be better to try a messy or zigzagged one in order to cover sparse zones easily. In such a way, additional volume will be created at once.
Hide Your Bald Spots Today
It is quite possible to look amazing despite the fact that you are suffering from hair thinning. An efficient cut along with a few tips for styling will become a magic wand in your hands. We strongly recommend visiting First & Mane to address your hair loss issues!
Dru Meskan is the owner and master barber at First & Mane in Scottsdale, Arizona. With 19 years of haircutting experience, including 11 years as a professional barber, Dru is known for precision cuts, modern grooming techniques, and personalized service that keeps clients looking and feeling their best.
Mar 10, 2026 | Hairstyles by Face Shape
Turning fifty can be an extremely powerful experience because of the confidence you will gain. But your barber will be happy to see you coming for a haircut that not only reflects your age but also makes you stand out (we promise!). There is no need to stick to the same old haircut when there are hundreds of stylish options available, including modern haircuts for men. We guarantee you that a proper haircut can easily take off a few years from your look!
Popular Haircuts That Will Help You Feel Confident
We recommend sticking to the basics and making them more relevant and trendy at First & Mane. Let’s take a look!
The Refined Quiff
This is one of the most popular haircuts right now. You’ll see it often. The haircut suggests leaving some length on top and cutting the sides quite short. Then we style the hair in such a way that it would fall upwards and backwards. Moreover, we add some volume in order to create a natural look. What makes this haircut look amazing is that we make it look more textured so that it would require as little styling product as possible. If you’re searching for inspiration for hairstyles for men over 50, the refined quiff is a timeless yet trendy option.
The Textured Crop
For those men who want to hide any receding hairlines, this haircut is perfect. We trim the sides quite short (sometimes even shaving them off). Then we trim the top to have some length that will look voluminous and textured due to the cut. What makes this haircut amazing is that it looks extremely masculine, but it does not require any styling at all. If you’re looking for inspiration, many lists of men’s hairstyles for men over 50 often feature this kind of easygoing yet stylish crop.
The Side Part
There is nothing like the side part! This classic style can be modernized in a variety of ways. In most cases, we prefer making a soft fade on both sides and the back in order to create a nice contrast. We draw your natural part and carefully style the hair to make it look smooth. You just need to apply a tiny bit of pomade to fix it in place. For those seeking men’s hairstyles for over 50, the side part offers an easy blend of tradition and trend.
Styling-Free but Cool Haircuts for Men
For some guys, it might not be fun to spend a lot of time styling their hair. This does not mean, however, that they cannot be cool!
The Buzz Cut
In most cases, men who want low-maintenance haircuts opt for something like the buzz cut. It accentuates your facial structures and gives you a neat look. We use clippers to provide you with a very short cut all over your head. In case you already have gray hair, then we will make it look even more fashionable. If you’re searching for a hairstyle for men over 50, the buzz cut is a simple yet stylish choice.
The Crew Cut
The crew cut is quite versatile, meaning that you do not need to make too many compromises when choosing this haircut. We give your hair a fade on the sides and the back and leave enough length on top so that you could comb the hair to one side. For those interested in modern men’s haircuts over 50, the crew cut stays current while remaining easy to maintain.
Style with Confidence!
No matter what hairstyle you choose, it will significantly change the way you see yourself! It does not matter which haircut suits you best because we are happy to experiment with styles. Do not hesitate to pay us a visit at First & Mane – you will see how easy it is to get the desired haircut!e contrast and complement the hairstyle.
Most Popular Beard Styles
First, heavy stubble is ideal for guys who prefer the rugged look. This beard style is perfect if you need to combine your beard with a burr cut. Secondly, if you need to highlight the shape of your jawline, then try the short boxed beard. Thirdly, the corporate beard style will help you stay professional despite your short hairstyle. This beard style is kept thick but shaped neatly.
Grooming Tips
In order to look good and well-groomed with a beard, you need to maintain its condition regularly. First, wash it a few times a week using a special beard shampoo. This way, you will protect your skin from irritations and other problems.
Next, apply a beard oil to soften your facial hair. Lastly, remember that you need to use a trimmer regularly in order to maintain neat cheek lines and neckline.
Summary
Buzz cuts may seem rather drastic for most guys, but when combined with the beard, they will provide you with a masculine look. Moreover, such hairstyles save a lot of time!
Dru Meskan is the owner and master barber at First & Mane in Scottsdale, Arizona. With 19 years of haircutting experience, including 11 years as a professional barber, Dru is known for precision cuts, modern grooming techniques, and personalized service that keeps clients looking and feeling their best.
Mar 3, 2026 | Beard Grooming, Beard Styles, Beard Trim Guides
Every week, we meet guys who look for a haircut and a new image in general. They want a low-maintenance haircut and at the same time – a masculine one. No doubt, the buzz cut plus the beard is the best solution for many customers. If you’re ready for a change, you can always book a barber in Scottsdale, AZ, for expert help. We’d be glad to help at First & Mane.
How to Get a Buzz Cut with a Beard
Firstly, you need to choose the appropriate haircut and style. There are many different buzz cuts depending on how long the hair is and what you prefer: a clean look or more volume. If you’re interested in buzz cutting with beard, you’ll want to consider how your facial hair will complement your hairstyle. Next, it’s time to think about the beard. There are plenty of options and styles that will match your haircut.
What Buzz Cut Suits a Certain Face Shape Best?
It turns out that all buzz cuts are not the same. In order to look good with such a hairstyle, you need to consider the shape of your head and facial structure and adjust the length of the hair accordingly. For many, a buzz cut with a beard is the ideal blend of simplicity and style, creating a strong and memorable impression.
Main Types of Buzz Cuts
Most often, when sitting in the barber chair, we offer our clients to choose one of three types of buzz cuts.
First, there is an induction cut which is the shortest type of haircut. This style means applying the clippers directly to your head without a guard. As a result, the uniform layer of stubble will be formed all over your head. This cut is especially popular among military personnel and gives you an extreme look. Many men who opt for a buzz cut with a beard appreciate the sharp contrast and easy upkeep.
Secondly, there is a burr cut. We apply a one or two guard to the clippers. So, you will get the short but soft hairstyle.
Finally, the last type of buzz cut is called butch cut. We use the number three or four guard for this style. The length of the hair is about one-quarter of an inch. Such buzz cuts will be perfect if you need to fade your sides. For those aiming to create a bold beard with buzz cut look, the butch cut offers just the right balance of structure and style.
Advice on How to Match Your Buzz Cut to Your Face Shape
We have already said that the buzz cut looks great with almost any facial structure. However, depending on how your face looks, we may advise you to make various adjustments.
For instance, men who have round faces should shave their sides tightly and leave some space for a low fade. Those looking for an especially masculine buzz cut with beard effect may want to focus on clean fades and defined lines to enhance their features.
If you have a square jawline, then it’s your lucky day. In this case, you will be able to wear an even length all over your head.
Guys who have longer and oval faces should not fade the sides too much. Otherwise, this hairstyle will visually elongate your face.
How to Grow and Style the Beard
The hair on your head is only half of the story. With a buzz cut, the beard will give a nice contrast and complement the hairstyle.
Most Popular Beard Styles
First, heavy stubble is ideal for guys who prefer the rugged look. This beard style is perfect if you need to combine your beard with a burr cut. Secondly, if you need to highlight the shape of your jawline, then try the short boxed beard. Thirdly, the corporate beard style will help you stay professional despite your short hairstyle. This beard style is kept thick but shaped neatly.
Grooming Tips
In order to look good and well-groomed with a beard, you need to maintain its condition regularly. First, wash it a few times a week using a special beard shampoo. This way, you will protect your skin from irritations and other problems.
Next, apply a beard oil to soften your facial hair. Lastly, remember that you need to use a trimmer regularly in order to maintain neat cheek lines and neckline.
Summary
Buzz cuts may seem rather drastic for most guys, but when combined with the beard, they will provide you with a masculine look. Moreover, such hairstyles save a lot of time!
Dru Meskan is the owner and master barber at First & Mane in Scottsdale, Arizona. With 19 years of haircutting experience, including 11 years as a professional barber, Dru is known for precision cuts, modern grooming techniques, and personalized service that keeps clients looking and feeling their best.
Feb 28, 2026 | Men’s Haircuts, Style Trends
Men’s grooming has evolved a great deal, and 2026 seems to be a very promising year for men’s haircut styles. We are seeing a major trend of men’s haircut styles that are textured and flexible, providing the right mix of uniqueness and practicality. Whether you are looking to get creative with your haircut or want something simple, men’s haircut styles in 2026 provide a wide range of options for you to get the haircut that you want according to your lifestyle and personality.
One standout option, especially for those seeking a modern and sharp appearance, is the low fade haircut. But let’s consider some others!
Length and Layering: The Versatile Comeback
Long hair is back, and it has never been better for men. We are seeing a very large number of men rocking the shoulder-length haircut with strategic layering, not only because of the unique features that it provides but also because it ensures that the haircut does not get too heavy. This is a great haircut for men looking to get a great deal of variety out of their haircut, as it can be styled neatly for work and casually for the weekend.
Among the new haircuts for men, this style stands out for its versatility and modern appeal. The key to pulling off this haircut is the strategic layering, which ensures that the haircut does not get too flat. We highly recommend that you use a styling product that provides some extra texture without getting too heavy.
The Tech Fade: Growing in Popularity
One of the most popular men’s haircut styles that our clients preferred in 2025 was the tech fade haircut, and men’s haircuts in 2026 are no exception. The tech fade haircut is a haircut that utilizes high-tech cutting-edge techniques, which involve the use of high-tech clippers that ensure a seamless transition from the fade to the longer hair in the haircut. However, what makes the tech fade haircut in 2026 stand out from the tech fade haircut in previous years is the crispness and smoothness that the haircut provides, which perfectly complements the urban chic style that men prefer today.
Our haircut utilizes high-tech cutting-edge techniques that involve the use of high-tech clippers that ensure a seamless transition from the fade to the longer hair, thereby ensuring that the haircut lasts for a longer time. The haircut also utilizes a textured hairstyle on top, which can seamlessly transition from a work environment to a nightspot environment.
Sustainable Styling: Embracing Your Natural Texture
The question is, what is happening with you? What we are seeing is that men are starting to realize that there is a trend to stop with these high-maintenance haircuts and start sporting haircuts that actually work with what they have. We call this sustainable styling, and it is changing the game for haircuts altogether. We no longer want to cut against the natural textures of curls, waves, and other features of our hair. Instead, we want to cut hair that works with these features instead. And the end result is a low-maintenance haircut that still looks great without looking unkempt. If you’re exploring the best haircuts for men in 2026, embracing your natural texture tops the list for both style and practicality.
The Modern Mullet: A Refined and Professional Look
The mullet haircut has officially gone from ridiculous to cool. It’s officially a great haircut for 2026 men haircuts. We know, you thought you’d never say that. But what you have to remember is that the new mullet haircut is not the ridiculous one that you are probably imagining right now. No, it’s got subtle changes in length, short sides, a long back, and it’s cut and blended. It’s still edgy, still cool, still has that whole “I don’t really care” look going on. But it’s also refined, professional, and still has that show-stopper look.
Keep Your Cut Looking Fresh
The above haircuts may be great for 2026, but you will still need the right products to maintain your haircut and make it look great. We recommend that you start off by using a quality styling cream or pomade that will give you the right amount of hold without stiffness. Also, if you have a textured haircut, sea salt spray works wonders.
Finally, don’t forget to get your haircut trimmed every four to six weeks, as all haircuts, including low-maintenance haircuts, need shaping. With so many exciting options among men’s hairstyles in 2026, the right maintenance routine ensures your look stays sharp and current.
The best haircut for you will depend on your hair type, face shape, and lifestyle. We recommend you book a session with First & Mane, and we will help you find the right haircut from the 2026 trends that works for you!
Dru Meskan is the owner and master barber at First & Mane in Scottsdale, Arizona. With 19 years of haircutting experience, including 11 years as a professional barber, Dru is known for precision cuts, modern grooming techniques, and personalized service that keeps clients looking and feeling their best.
