Sep 30, 2025 | Men’s Grooming Tips
Whether you are making a bold color change or just fixing up your roots, booking in your hair color and haircut appointments can make all the difference in your final result. This age-old dilemma haunts women just as much as men when attempting a balance between a new color and a sharp cut. Should I dye my hair before or after a haircut? This is one of the most common questions clients ask their stylists.
The order you choose depends on several factors, including your desired outcome, hair condition, and the type of transformation you’re seeking. Understanding the pros and cons of each approach will help you make the best decision for your hair goals. Here are some essential barber shop tips to assist in making an informed choice – contact First & Mane if you have any questions or need help!
Understanding the Hair Coloring Process
Hair dyeing involves chemical processes that can temporarily alter your hair’s texture and manageability. Professional colorists use various techniques, from single-process colors to complex highlighting methods, each affecting how your hair behaves during and after the service.
The coloring process opens up your hair cuticles so color molecules can enter into the hair shaft. That chemical alteration can cause newly colored hair to feel a different texture when you cut it, so timing is key when scheduling a haircut. Many clients wonder about whether to dye hair before or after a haircut for optimal results.
Dyeing Your Hair Before a Haircut
Advantages for Both Women and Men
Getting your hair colored initially allows your stylist a full canvas upon which to create. Your stylist is able to gauge how color works with the direction of hair’s natural movement and make strategic cutting decisions based upon those insights. This is a particularly effective plan when you are transitioning dramatically in color because your stylist can ensure an arrangement works in concert with a totally different hue.
For women with lengthy hair thinking about drastic cuts, pre-coloring allows you to experience your new color at its full length before shorter styles are a last decision. Exact cuts are an option for men when color makes a dramatic effect on their hair’s inherent texture.
Possible Drawbacks
New color makes hair slippery and more difficult to cut accurately. Newly colored hair is sometimes found by stylists not to fall so naturally, making it difficult for stylists to gauge what it is going to look like once it falls. Cutting fresh color hair can also result in minimal color bleed issues, especially when cutting brightly or semi-permanently colored hair. Some stylists weigh the risks of whether they should dye hair before or after a cutting when considering vibrant color transformations.
Dyeing Your Hair After a Haircut
Advantages for Women and Men
Some professional stylists would rather cut first prior to coloring because it is easier for them to manipulate your hair’s texture and fall. This is also a more accurate method for cutting hair for detailed styles such as women’s layered haircuts or men’s fade haircuts.
Cutting first also implies you’re only cutting hair you’re going to retain, which may prove cheaper for full hair color treatments. On maintenance visits, this just makes more fiscal sense since you’re revising color as well as cut. In fact, many experts discuss the option to cut hair before or after coloring when aiming to minimize color waste and cost.
Things to Keep in Mind
The main disadvantage is that your stylist must visualize how the final color will look with the cut. This requires more experience and expertise, particularly for complex color combinations. If you’re uncertain about your color choice, seeing it on your full head of hair before cutting might provide more confidence in your decision.
Choosing the Correct Option for Your Hair
Timing is best in your individual circumstance. When you’re making a dramatic color change or a first-time use for a shade, pre-dyeing with a cut allows you full effect before making a shorter-length commitment. When you’re doing a routine upkeep or dealing with a seasoned colorist familiar with your likes, cutting first could produce more accurate results.
You may want to bring it up with your stylist, as they understand what hair you have and can recommend what you should do for a specific effect. Stylists generally have preferences based on their experience and what service you are requesting.
Remember, both techniques can yield wonderful results when performed by trained professionals knowledgeable in how combinations of color and cutting techniques best make you appear. Book an appointment at First & Mane to discuss your hairstyling plans today!
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.
Jul 9, 2025 | Men’s Grooming Tips
Good grooming is not selfish or vain; it is bringing forth the best in oneself. Whether it is for a job interview, a first night out, or simply gaining more confidence in the daily routine, the education in the fundamentals of male grooming can provide the difference in the manner in which one appears and even the manner in which one perceives himself. A comprehensive grooming essentials guide like this can help refine your daily routine and bring out your best self.
Contemporary grooming is more than a shower and shave. A complete regimen runs from facial and hair care through the maintenance of the body to the choosing of fragrances. The important thing is finding a routine tailored to your life and meeting the needs unique to you.
Personal Grooming Habits Every Man Should Follow
Skincare Essentials
What people see first is the face; therefore the correct face care regimen goes without saying. Start with the basics: mild face wash, moisturizer, and sunscreen. Wash your face twice daily in a bid to remove dirt, grime, and dead skin cells. You may choose face wash as a gel in the case of oily skin, or as a cream in the case of dry skin.
This is non-negotiable, even with oily skin types. You still require moisture in order to maintain the barrier. Apply a moisturizer when the skin is hydrated in order to retain the moisture. Don’t go outside the house without sunscreen with at least SPF 30, even on cloudy days or spending the day inside (sitting by windows can still cause problems!).
Hair Care
Good hair starts with the right products and techniques. Shampoo every other day (not daily) in order to avoid stripping the natural oils. When shampooing the hair, focus on the area at the scalp more than the hair ends. Then condition the hair by applying the product at the mid-lengths and the ends. For those seeking a blog on men’s hairstyling tips, this step forms the foundation of a healthy, stylish look.
Choose styling products based on the hair type and desired look. Pomade is good for a look where the hair is styled back, but paste or clay gives a more natural textured look. Apply styling products on dampened hair lightly for maximum effect and remembering the rule less is more. If you’re considering a men’s haircut in Scottsdale, consult a stylist for advice on the best products and cuts suited to your lifestyle.
Beard Groom
You will need adequate beard maintenance if you possess facial hair. For instance, you’ll need to wash the beard once or twice per week with a special beard shampoo or mild soap. Excessive washing will dry out the facial hair and the skin under the facial hair.
Constant trimming keeps the beard looking tidy and appearing healthy. You will require good quality beard trimmers and a proper adjustable-guard trimmer. You should trim when the beard is in a dry condition and combed for proper trimming. Never neglect outlining the neck area—it should rest approximately two fingers up from the Adam’s apple. For modern grooming essentials tips, paying attention to the details like beard outlines and maintenance is key.
Personal Grooming
Hair maintenance on the body depends on preference, but has some common rules either way. Always shave hairs on the back and on the chest instead of cutting them, in order to prevent ingrown hairs and inflammation. Always shave sensitive areas with new razors and the right shaving gel or cream.
Pay particular attention to usually overlooked areas such as nose and ear hair. A good quality trimmer and accessories will make your life easier. Trim fingernails neat and short, and the toenails in the process too.
A pleasant smell is your trademark, but usage comes before the smell. Spray the cologne on pulse areas—the wrist, the area at the neck, and at the inner back areas at the ears. Two or three light spritzes will do; people should be able to smell you up close and not from a distance.
Layer fragrances by layering the same deodorant or unscented body wash. Store perfumes in cool places out of direct sunlight in order to preserve quality, and realize that many fragrances excel in different situations and at different times of the year. Fragrance is a critical part of grooming style for men, and finding the right scent can elevate your routine.
Building Your Grooming Base
Good grooming is not necessarily about pricey products or spending hours a day on maintenance. Aim for consistency rather than perfection, and construct the routine gradually. Start at the basics and incorporate the specialized product as needs or preferences are pinpointed.
Remember too that good grooming is an investment in oneself. Confidence from looking and feeling good will translate in a positive manner into every aspect of life, from business relations at the office to social gatherings!
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.
May 23, 2025 | Men’s Grooming Tips, Men’s Haircuts
Nothing’s more vexing than exiting the salon, discovering your fresh ‘do wasn’t what you hoped for. Perhaps it’s too short on top, clumsily cut layers, or something just not right—what to do with a bad haircut is a common dilemma. That bad cut has the ability to be an honest confidence damper. On the bright side: it shouldn’t destroy your life or hair repertoire. Here’s how to turn a horrible haircut into an actionable (or even positive) experience.
Things to Do Immediately After a Bad Haircut
The key to addressing an unsatisfying haircut is communication. If you catch a glimpse of your hair not looking as you’d hoped before you leave the salon or barber, don’t be afraid to say something. They won’t bite! The vast majority of professional stylists care about making you happy and will often make adjustments to enhance the style or more closely reflect what you had in mind. Politely describe the parts of your haircut that bother you, and they will usually try to do something to help.
If you’ve already escaped from the chair, don’t panic. Take some time at home and assess the situation. Wash and style your own hair, as salon styling will often cause the cut to look different to your own styling. Seeing how it behaves in its natural state may give you a better idea of what to do when you hate your haircut, or if simple tweaks can make it more manageable.
Styling Strategies to Make the Best of It
Once you’re dealing with the haircut as-is, consider creative ways to style it. Knowing what to do if you don’t like your haircut often comes down to experimenting. Messy waves can soften harsh layers, while sleek styles may disguise uneven cuts. Got bangs that feel too blunt or too short? Try side-sweeping them to change the look altogether. For those struggling with unexpected short sections, accessories are your new best friend. Headbands, scarves, and hair clips can stylishly hide problem areas.
Splurging on quality styling products can pay off big time, too. A good texturizing spray can give life to flat or lifeless hair, and pomades or creams can smooth out layers that just won’t cooperate. Experimenting with these tools may change your view of the cut. If you’re unsure, you can schedule your appointment with a trusted stylist for advice on fixing the cut.
Patience and Healthy Habits for Growth
There sometimes just isn’t any other choice but to wait for your hair to grow. Fortunately, proper hair care can speed up the process and keep your locks in prime condition. Add in healthy treatments such as hair masks or oils to assist in strengthening your hair, and avoid too harsh treatments or equipment while waiting. Trims (yes, even on a not-so-great cut) can assist in avoiding split ends and even encourage hair growth.
If waiting feels like an eternity, resort to a quick fix like adding extensions for volume or length. Extensions can be a lifesaver for hiding choppy cuts or adding some balance to an unbalanced style. If your haircut gone wrong has left you frustrated, extensions might be the instant solution you need.
Your Confidence is More Than Your Hair
A bad haircut is irritating at the time, but remember that hair grows back, and generally faster than you realize. Focus on what you have control over, whether that’s experimenting with new styles, figuring out new tricks, or just looking at this as an opportunity to do something new.
If you need inspiration or further tips on how to deal with a bad haircut, there are plenty of online videos and resources to aid you. You’re not who you are after one haircut—firstly because it’s just temporary, and secondly because you have the creativity and ability to make the most of it!
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, 2025 | Men’s Grooming Tips, Men’s Hair Care
Curling cream is a styling product that the majority love using to define curls and add volume to them. It’s the natural curly or wavy-haired individual’s choice, providing them with moisture, control, and bounce.
What happens when the straight-haired person picks up the same product, though? Does curl cream work on straight hair? Does curling cream create curls, or is it just a hopeful wish? Let’s see if curling cream is suitable for straight hair, how to experiment with it, and what alternatives will provide textured haircuts. Can you use curl cream on straight hair?
Can Curling Cream Work on Straight Hair?
Curling cream is comprised of substances that enhance curl growth by defining already present curl or wave texture within the hair. Curling cream for straight hair doesn’t create curls out of nowhere. Straight hair individuals do not possess this texture, sadly.
In the absence of an already present curl or wave texture upon which to define curls, hair curling cream for straight hair is not able simply to conjure up curls into being. It cannot play around with what doesn’t come naturally with the hair—it can only mess around with what’s already present.
All that being said, though, there is some limited room for styling. In the event your straight hair is naturally slightly curved or wavy, curling cream can be used to bring out that natural texture, through the assistance of a bit of styling expertise. And although the product will never produce ringlets, it will provide softness, a slight amount of movement, and a shiny finish if done properly.
How to Use Curling Cream on Straight Hair
If you’re curious about experimenting with curl cream for straight hair, the process requires a combination of product and technique. First, apply curling cream to damp, towel-dried hair, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends. Avoid using too much product, as this can weigh the hair down and minimize any potential wave or texture.
Next, you will need to combine curling cream with heat styling technique to cause curl or wave creation. For example, twist and pin your tiny hair sections or braid and blow-dry your wet hair with a blow-dryer. You may also scrunch lightly with fingers while blow-drying for easy waves. Once your hair is dry, use a wand or curling iron to place extra curls, if desired, and top off with a light-hold hairspray to secure your style.
Remember that the effect will be discreet and may take some experimentation depending on hair length and type.
Styling Options for Straight Hair
Does curling cream work on straight hair? If it isn’t giving you the sweeping waves or curls you need, do not panic—there are plenty of other products and methods you can use to give you textured hair. Heat styling tools such as curling irons, wands, or hot rollers are still the best to use to convert straight hair to bouncy curls or soft waves. Heatless methods, overnight braids, or foam rollers work just fine if you want to avoid heating.
For straight hair texture, use sea salt sprays or texturizing mists. These will give the appearance of beach waves and give body to your hair without heat or time-consuming procedures. If you’re looking for additional tips, consider seeking advice at salon or barbershop services, as professional stylists can recommend alternative methods to achieve your desired look.
Make the Most of Your Styling Routine
Although curling cream might not work its miracle trick on straight hair, it can still be included in the process of obtaining a sleek, touchable finish when used as part of an imaginative styling routine. From searching for soft waves or trying out other methods, it’s all about figuring out what is most suitable to your own locks. And let’s not forget: sometimes, simple styling tricks and some special products will have the ultimate power transformation effect.
So, does curl cream work on straight hair? Not exactly, but with the right styling techniques and products, you can still enhance your natural texture and achieve a polished, stylish look.
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, 2025 | Men’s Grooming Tips
Your hairstyle is more than a simple hair management strategy. It’s a key aspect of your unique style, echoing your personality. The correct haircut is a powerful asset for your image at both professional gatherings and social get-togethers, as well as a form of personal expression. An unbeatable hairstyle can upgrade your whole look.
For gents, a thoughtfully picked hairstyle can accentuate facial features, inspire confidence, and serve as the perfect finishing touch to an ensemble. Still, keeping pace with the current trends and picking the right style can be a bit daunting. If you’re unsure, feel free to contact First & Mane for expert advice on finding a style that suits you.
Men’s Hair Looks: Predictions for 2025
Fashion-forward men will definitely enjoy playing around with hairstyles in the coming year. Current preferences are focused on versatility and texture, offering scope for both traditional and avant-garde variations. The textured crop is a shining star of this year’s trends. This easygoing style showcases short sides with a textured, lightly mussed top. It’s a superior choice for any occasion, adding a sprinkle of refinement while maintaining a neat and flawless look. Pair it with a subtle fade for added depth, making it an impressive option for handsome men’s haircuts.
For medium-length hair bearers, the modern slick-back is stepping back into the spotlight. Shedding the overuse of gel from yesteryears, this year’s rendition underscores a natural gloss. A high-quality pomade or cream-based product will help to keep the hair effortlessly slicked back, showcasing a soft fullness. This style meets professional standards, and also transitions effortlessly into evening social rendezvous. It’s the perfect example of a men’s handsome hairstyle that’s both polished and versatile.
Those blessed with long tresses will find options that cater to their liking. The shoulder-length wave, casually termed the “surfer’s wave,” is redefining male elegance norms. This style is a perfect match for slight natural waves or curls, with hair hydration and health being paramount. Infuse understated layers for flow, and you’re armed with a laid-back yet enduring look.
Let’s not forget the resurgence of the buzz cut. Tidy, poised, and straightforward, the buzz cut represents a direct approach to hair grooming that exudes stark minimalism. Add a current twist with a crisp line-up or temple fade for increased refinement — perfect for those seeking handsome haircuts for men.
Hair Styling Advice for Various Hair Types
Choosing the ideal hairstyle is just the initial stage — understanding how to style and upkeep it is the next, as each hair type necessitates specialized attention.
Short Hair
For gentlemen sporting short cuts, regular upkeep is essential. Short styles, like the buzz cut or the textured crop, need trimming roughly every three to four weeks to maintain the crisp look. Styling with a matte clay or paste can accentuate natural texture without producing an overly shiny effect. Applying the product to damp hair leads to a more natural, distinct finish that lasts throughout the day.
Medium Hair
Medium-length haircuts offer versatility but require a little extra diligence. To secure styles like the modern slick-back, begin by towel-drying your hair after a shower. Apply a light pomade or mousse evenly, using a comb to shape a neat, streamlined structure. Stay away from heavy gels as they can stiffen the hair, compromising its natural movement. Undertaking conditioning treatments weekly can ensure the hair retains its softness and sheen.
Long Hair
Long hairstyles require the most upkeep but provide unmatched style. Hydration is the secret to mastering the shoulder-length flow or surfer’s wave. Invest in a top-tier shampoo and conditioner suitable for your hair type. Incorporating a leave-in conditioner or lightweight hair oil can tame frizz and augment shine. To create gentle waves, lightly scrunch the hair when it’s damp or use a low heat setting for blow-drying while finger combing. Regularly scheduled trims every six to eight weeks will fend off split ends and keep layers looking rejuvenated.
Elevate Your Appearance with the Ideal Hairstyle
The impact of a superb hairstyle is profound — it shapes first impressions and can even heighten self-assurance. Whether you have a penchant for an exquisite fade, relaxed waves, or a neat buzz cut, the most vital aspect is selecting a style that complements your face shape, reflects your personality, and fits into your way of life. Tinkering with trends while personalizing them for your unique needs is the best strategy to stay ahead in the men’s fashion game. With the right choices, you can always ensure a handsome men’s hairstyle that’s both stylish and authentic.
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.
Jan 28, 2025 | Blog, Men’s Grooming Tips
The messy hair look is every guy’s secret weapon these days. It’s that perfect mix of “I woke up like this” and “but actually spent 10 minutes styling it.” Whether you’re off to a casual brunch or a night out, this effortlessly cool vibe has you covered. And no, it’s not as wild as it sounds—it’s more about nailing that sweet spot between “totally natural” and “just a little help from my styling products.”
Messy men’s hairstyle trends are here to stay. Ready to upgrade your bedhead to head-turner? Here’s how to master the art of controlled chaos.
Prepping for the Look
Before you even think about styling, prep like a pro. The secret to nailing this look? Start with a solid foundation—aka clean, cooperative hair. Because messy beginnings rarely lead to great endings.
Start by showing your hair some love with a lightweight shampoo that suits its vibe. Skip the heavy stuff unless you’re going for the weighed-down look (hint: you’re not). Go easy on the conditioner unless your hair is extra thirsty—too much and your ‘effortlessly textured’ style might just look like it gave up entirely.
Towel-dry your hair until it’s damp—not looking like you just stepped out of a rainstorm. Over-drying? Big mistake if you want your hair to cooperate. And don’t forget the heat protectant spray—it’s basically armor for your hair against the fiery wrath of your blow-dryer.
The next step is product selection. For that textured, undone look, invest in products like sea salt spray, texturizing clay, or matte pomade. These create a natural hold and add dimension without looking overly styled or shiny. Choose a product based on your hair length and desired level of hold. A messy haircut for men thrives with the right products.
Styling Techniques
Styling depends on your hair length, but the messy look is the ultimate crowd-pleaser—whether you’re rocking a pixie or a shoulder-grazing mane, chaos has never looked so good. Here’s how to tailor your approach:
For short hair, use a small amount of matte pomade or styling clay. Work it between your palms and apply it evenly through your hair using your fingers. Then, start tousling to create a choppy, textured effect. The goal is to avoid sharp lines or flatness—make it look spontaneous. A slight lift at the roots adds dimension, so scrunch your hair upward or gently use a blow-dryer on low heat to achieve this effect. This is perfect for anyone trying out guy’s hairstyles that are messy.
If you have medium-length hair, sea salt spray is your best friend. Apply it generously throughout damp hair, then blow-dry while scrunching your hair with your fingers to enhance natural waves. For added texture, follow up with a lightweight clay or cream. Use a pinching motion to shape select sections of hair while keeping the rest loose and natural. For men with messy hairstyles, this technique strikes the perfect balance of polished and undone.
For longer hair, the messy look pairs best with controlled waves or defined layers. Use a curling wand on a few strands for an effortlessly disheveled look, or stick with sea salt spray for a natural vibe. Focus on volume at the crown, as flat, long hair can detract from the “messy but polished” aesthetic. Finish with a texturizing powder to keep your hair looking light and airy. Long messy fringe hairstyles for a male can benefit from these techniques.
Make the Messy Look Yours
The beauty of the messy hairstyle lies in its ability to look relaxed yet deliberate. With the right techniques, tools, and care, you can make this versatile look work for you—no matter your hair type. Experiment with products and styling methods to find a routine that feels natural and fits your overall vibe. Once you master the art of “messy,” you’ll have a look that’s as low-maintenance as it is fashionable. A messy hairstyle for men is always on-trend and works for nearly any occasion.
Want to take the next step? Book an appointment today to get the messy hair look for men just right. Whether you’re aiming for something casual or a refined edge, a pro stylist can help you achieve controlled chaos like never before!
Also Read:
5 Most Popular Haircut Lines Designs for Guys
How Long Does a Haircut Take for Men?
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.
