If you have medium length hair, there is a vast range of styling options to transform your look. Whether you’re a fan of the charming bro flow, a suave slicked back, or a stylish pompadour, each day presents the opportunity to try something new. Additionally, with a whole world of talented barbers out there, adding a fade or undercut can redefine and update your look. Below, we reveal the best hairstyles and haircuts for men with medium length hair.
Medium Length Hairstyles for Men
Bro Flow
For men looking to sweep admirers off their feet, the windswept, charming bro flow is guaranteed to win hearts. This easy-to-maintain, effortlessly cool hairstyle is perfect for medium length locks that are in the process of growing out. The bro flow will ensure you look your best if you’re in that typically awkward in-between stage of long and short hair.
Pompadour
Long live the king (of rock and roll). If you’re looking for a classic way to style medium length hair, take a leaf out of Elvis’ books with a stylish, sculptural pompadour. To achieve this look, blow-dry your hair upwards, creating height, volume, and shape. For best results, combine your pompadour with a big dose of confidence because this is one look that is guaranteed to turn heads.
Quiff
If you a man who loves to look polished, stylish, and confident, then a quiff is for you. With the help of some styling gel, brush that hair up to create volume before curving it back in a defined wave. If you’re after something a little bolder, simply amp up the height of your quiff.
Afro
Afro hairstyles gained popularity in the 60s during the civil rights movement and are associated with empowerment and rebellion. The fantastic thing about this style is that it allows you to enhance and wear your natural hair with pride. If you have medium-length hair, then a mid-length afro is a fantastic choice. It is long enough to show off your curls and create a look with volume but not so long that it is hard to style. Pair it with a fade for a more edgy appearance.
Blowout
Nicknamed the blowout, this casual hairstyle requires you to recreate the effect of the wind. With a hairdryer, blow your hair upwards to create volume and height. Next, take some pomade and work it through your hair to create texture. Finish with a little hairspray, and voila. A windswept look that won’t move an inch on windy days.
Natural Curly Hair
One of the best things about naturally curly hair is that you can pull off many different styles. The interesting texture of your locks makes even the most simple look interesting. It can be hard to maintain, requires certain products, and can appear messy and untamed, but curly hair is incredibly attractive on men. Experiment with different pairings, for example, a fade or undercut, to highlight your curls. Or opt for something daring like man braids or a pompadour.
Slick Back
The suave and sophisticated slick back can instantly elevate any man’s appearance. While this hairstyle may be worn at any time of day, it is particularly charming in the evening. Apply a generous amount of gel or mousse to your hair to get the look. Then use a fine-toothed comb to pull the hair back until it is smooth and sleek.
Surfer Hairstyle
The unstructured and carefree approach of the surfer hairstyle makes it a sexy choice for any man. Surfers first popularized the hairstyle in the 50s, as their hair had a gorgeous, tousled appearance. Even if you are not spending your days at the beach, this style is effortlessly cool and makes you appear relaxed and carefree. It would be best to have some length to replicate this look, but it can be created on wavy, curly, or straight hair. Use sea salt spray or pomade products to help add texture and maximize volume.
Natural Wavy Hair
What is not to love about naturally wavy hair? The texture can help you achieve tousled looks that make you appear relaxed and carefree. Or it can be styled as modern and masculine when paired with a fade for a more polished approach. The great thing about wavy hair is that it lends itself well to various styles and lengths and is never boring. To keep it in its best condition, use a wide-toothed comb when styling and add sea salt spray to enhance the texture.
Hard Part
Despite what the name suggests, there’s nothing difficult about a hard part hairstyle. Additionally, although it may be simple to achieve with the help of your trusty barber, this edgy style will instantly update your appearance. Adding definition and detail to your hair, this look allows you to emphasize a variety of styles, such as the pompadour, quiff, or combover. By realigning the hair’s natural parting, the hard part requires creating a distinct new part. Generally, this will be positioned above the temple on one side of the head. The hair below this part is then trimmed close to the scalp, leaving the hair on top at medium length and ready for styling.
Shag
The shag, a messy and unstructured look that was popular in the 70s, is still relevant today. It is defined by feathered hair, choppy layers, and a fuller crown, but many modern updates exist. The excellent thing about this cut is that it is highly adaptable and can be done on different hair textures and lengths. This is the perfect option if you have medium-length hair because it can create a laid-back appearance and add texture and volume. As a bonus, it can also suit every face shape.
Comb Over
A favorite of men young and old, there are multiple reasons as to why the side-swept comb over is always a winner when it comes to medium length hair. Firstly, the name says it all. This style is charmingly casual and easy to achieve, as a comb is all required. This is used to create a parting on one side of your head and then to comb your hair across and “over” to the other. Sometimes a little styling gel may be added, but really, it’s all about the simplicity of this look. If stress or time has left you with thinning hair, the comb over is an instant way to recreate fullness.
Curtains
The curtain haircut has a very grunge aesthetic and is loved by men who want a fun look that draws attention to their faces. The style is defined by a fringe, which is often divided into a middle parting. However, the modern approach lends itself well to personalization and can work with various textures, hairstyles, and partings. Curtains can be particularly appealing on medium-length hair, especially on men with wavy or curly hair.
Tousled Hair
For that ‘I woke up like this’ bedroom look, a simple tousled is your go-to hairstyle. Effortless in its appearance, this look is youthful, charming, and fun. While some men’s hair falls this way naturally, for most, a little styling product will help you achieve this laid-back look. Simply grab a small amount of pomade and work it through your hair. From there, let it fall as it wishes, and enjoy your carefree hairstyle.
Man Braids
If you truly want to test that upper arm strength you’ve been working on at the gym, it’s time to start braiding. Guaranteed to get those muscles going, this hairstyle requires a bit of time and patience as you work to weave your locks into cool, intricate man braids. Once you’ve mastered this skill, we guarantee you won’t look back. Whether you go for a relaxed style with a single braid and a man bun, or for something more detailed, the styling options are endless. Perfect for the summer months, this look will have heads turning your way at the beach and keep those pesky locks out of your eyes as you catch a wave or simply relax in the sun.
Hair Twists
Hair twists are a fantastic protective style for Afro-textured hair. They can work on various lengths but are easy to achieve with medium-length locks and can be paired with different fades for a fresh and modern appearance. There are several different twists, so you can pick the look that appeals to you the most. The great thing about twists, which are created by dividing the hairs into several sections and then twisting them, is that they can prevent breakage and are low maintenance. They are also easier to create than other, more time-consuming braids.
Spiky Hair
Spiky hair was popular 90s hairstyle but has since been adapted to suit a wide range of hair textures and lengths. It is kept longer on the top and short on the back and sides. This is a great option on medium-length locks as the appearance is more dramatic and noticeable; the spiky effect will be difficult to achieve if the hair is too long. It is ideal for men with naturally textured hair but can be achieved with most hair types with the right grooming techniques and products.
Swooping Fringe
Fringes are great choices because they can transform your appearance and highlight your facial features. There are many cuts to choose from, depending on your preference and hair texture and length. A swooping fringe haircut is an edgy and cool look for someone who wants to make a statement. The length and volume of the fringe make it one of the more complicated options to style, and you may have to constantly readjust so that the hair is not in your eyes, but it will grab attention. It can also help disguise problematic skin and balance the proportions of your face.
Mullet
The mullet is not a look that every man can pull off, but daring people should try it. The cut is kept short on the sides and the top of the head and left longer in the back, creating an interesting contrast that takes confidence to wear. There are pros to the mullet; it can be done with a variety of hair textures, it suits most face shapes, and it is low maintenance. If you have medium-length hair, your look will be more blended and less dramatic than longer styles. This makes it easier to wear and creates a rebellious yet cool vibe.
Medium Length Haircuts for Men
Undercut
In recent years, we have seen a distinct re-emergence of the undercut as one of the most popular haircuts for men. This style is similar to the Mohawk in its basic form, featuring mid-length to long hair on the top and a closely-shaved head across the sides and back. The great thing about this look is that it may be transformed daily, or hourly if you so choose, into a range of other looks. Upstyle it into a quiff or pompadour for a night on the town or slick it back for a meeting in the boardroom. Essentially, all that’s required to make the most out of this confident cut is some styling experimentation.
Low Fade
With the ability to instantly add sophistication to any look, the stylish low fade is a popular choice for men. Keeping the fade low beneath the midway line of the head, leaves plenty of hair up top to be experimented with. Whether you’re loving the blowout, braids, or wavey hairstyle this season, the incorporation of a low fade will give your look that subtle edge.
Mid Fade
Match your mid-length hair with a trendy mid fade this season for a stylish, unique look. Taking your fade to that midway line between the tops of the ears and the temples, this style offers the ultimate in versatility. Like your general appearance, this mid fade can be dressed up or down to suit any occasion. Whether you’re seeking to elevate your style with a quiff or pompadour, the mid fade is the perfect haircut to try.
High Fade
For a crisp new cut to accompany your medium length hair, we recommend trying out a high fade. Whether you’re currently rocking curls or straight locks, adding a high fade will invite a unique, new depth to your favorite hairstyles. Slightly confused by all this talk of high, mid, and low fades? Essentially, the difference between the three is the point on the scalp at which the ‘fade’ begins. For a high fade, this close shave across the sides and back of the head will reach up above the invisible midway line between your temples and the tops of your ears. There is also the option to shave the hair below this point completely to the skin for a ‘high bald fade’, or taper the look gradually down towards the ears in a ‘high taper fade‘.
Drop Fade
In contrast to other traditional fades, which feature a sharp line across the scalp at the low, mid, or high point, the drop fade presents a distinctly different look. This cut features a smooth, rounded fade that reaches a high point in front of the ears before gradually curving down towards the back of the head. As a result, this unique cut is the perfect partner for mid-length hair, as it will add a point of interest and character to your look. From there, your hair may be styled in any of the season’s most popular hairstyles.
Bald Fade
The bald fade is more noticeable than many other fades because it is all about contrast. The hair is kept longer on the top and back, but the sides are shaved down to the skin, hence the name bald. This creates a masculine and sleek look that is great on men of all ages and can be paired with various cuts. Try out a quiff or pompadour for those who want to play up the volume on the top. Or keep it subtle and simple for a understated and cool look.
Fringe
Why not try a fringe for a laidback, youthful cut for your mid-length hair? Keeping the hair long and swept across the face, this charming style is simple to achieve and easy to maintain. Not only that, but it also provides a range of styling options if you want to get those locks off your face.
Burst Fade
The burst fade is versatile and cool and can be adapted to suit various hair lengths, textures, and styles. The look is defined by hair tapering around the ear and the back of the head, creating a semi-circular appearance. This style will give your hair a modern update and an edge. It can be paired with several cuts, including a Caesar cut for a more subtle approach or a mohawk or mullet for a man who wants a rebellious style that gets him noticed.
Faux Hawk
If you’re a punk at heart but your 9-5 requires you to keep that inner edge within, a stylish faux hawk may present the best of both worlds. For your day job, keep your hair brushed down into a modest style. By night, grab your hair styling products and aim for the sky.
French Crop
The French crop is defined by hair clipped at the back and sides but with a slight fringe. The side, back, and top should be kept relatively the same length so there is only a subtle contrast. The appeal of this look is that it can be adapted to suit your personal preference and works well with most face shapes. The French crop can be styled in several ways, and you can experiment with your fringe, for example, with a blunt cut.
Blowout
The blowout haircut is great for medium-length hair and can help create a windswept look. It is achieved by using heat to dry your hair after washing it, and this is a fantastic option for someone who wants to create volume. A blowout can make a messy and unstructured appearance, which can be incredibly sexy. If you regularly opt for this styling technique, it is essential to take the appropriate steps to avoid hair damage, dryness, and frizz. This can be done by using heat-styling products.
Mohawk
Revive the chaos and confidence of the 1970’s punk rock scene with a statement Mohawk this season. For best results, wait until your hair has length before shaving those sides and styling the remaining hair on top into your mohawk. Once you’ve passed these preliminary stages, you’re all set to start experimenting with the vast possibilities of this rockstar cut. Whether you go for the classic spikes or a more subtle rolling wave is ultimately up to you.
Bowl Cut
For many men, the words ‘bowl cut‘ will bring memories of early primary school years. As a result, this style is not the first thing that comes to mind when deciding how to cut mid-length hair. However, bear with us. As 90’s fashion makes its comeback across the street style scene and the catwalks, so too is the infamous bowl cut. Flashing forward to the 21st century, this cut’s sleek, modern reinterpretations are eye-catching in the best possible way. Whether you go for a more disheveled look or a solid, heavy fringe, there are many ways to reinvent this cut to make it work for you.
High Top
Take a trip down memory lane to the golden era of hip-hop with a stylish high top haircut. If you weren’t around to see this style at its prime in the 80’s and late 90’s, however, don’t worry. The recent resurgence in popularity of the high top has involved a modern reinvention of the classic style. As a result, this sleek cut is a winner for any man seeking to make a statement. To achieve this look, it is best to keep your hair shorter on the sides of the head and mid-length on the top. This will allow you to create the signature ‘high top’ of hair, after which the cut is named.
Hair Design
Hair design is a fantastic way to express yourself and make a statement. It can be paired with any cut and various hair lengths and textures, allowing you to find something that works best for you. There are many different options to choose from, from looks that are simple or daring. You could try out a lightning design, diamond, or bird creation, or for a more subtle approach, create lines or sharp angles. Enjoy the attention your hair is bound to get and wear it confidently. But before opting for a hair design, consider the environment in which you work and whether it would be appropriate.
Medium Length Hair Tips
Face Shape
The shape of your face determines what type of medium-length haircut will look best on you and how you should style and maintain it. For example, guys with round faces should generally opt for medium cuts that are longer on top and short at the sides, such as the quiff, blowout, or pompadour. Square faces could try a side-parted medium cut or a bro flow hairstyle – shorter at the front and longer at the back – to balance the face’s proportions. Many medium haircuts are also paired with a fade, so make sure you schedule regular trips to the barber to maintain yours.
Your age should always play a part in the decision to cut or grow out your hair. In your twenties, don’t be afraid to try more daring and experimental medium-length cuts and styles. Choose more understated and professional medium-length cuts with a dignified vibe as you age.
Texture and Volume
Your hair’s texture and volume are as important as your face shape in determining the type of medium-length haircut you should get. For example, if your hair is thin, you may look better with a shorter, spikier style than a bro flow, which suits thick hair best. In general, medium length hairstyles look best on hair with a little texture and more volume, maximized with the right styling products.
Haircare
Because medium-length hairstyles show off more of your hair, you need to take care of your locks, washing and styling more frequently than you would short hairstyles like a buzz cut. As a rule of thumb, wash and condition your hair every two to three days. This should keep your hair in good condition and keep it from looking greasy without stripping it of its natural oils. However, your hair care routine also depends on whether your hair is Afro-textured, curly, straight, or wavy, so consult your barber for recommendations and advice specific to your needs.
Lifestyle
Growing your hair isn’t as simple as waiting for it to get longer. Many lifestyle factors – such as diet, exercise, and smoking – can impact how long and thick your hair grows. Keep your weight healthy, avoid smoking, and ensure you get enough hair-building vitamins such as zinc, magnesium, and calcium through food or supplements.
Hair Products
There are a couple of essential products for styling medium hair. In addition to shampoo and conditioner that suits your hair type – Afro-textured, curly, straight, or wavy – you’ll also need a hair dryer, electric clippers, and a styling comb. Next, pick wax, gel, clay, or pomade, depending on your desired finish.
Medium Length Hairstyles Men FAQs
What is medium lenght hair?
A medium-length hairstyle can be defined as anything between 2 and 4 inches (5 and 10 cm) long. Your barber will help you decide on the best hairstyle for your face shape once you grow the length out.
How do you style medium length hair?
Ultimately, all that's required to style medium length hair is a mirror, some styling gel, and a bit of practice. However, if you want to nail looks such as the pompadour, and faux hawk, a bit more styling will be involved.
How often should you shampoo medium lengh hair?
Shampoo no more than once or twice a week to keep your hair healthy and retain that natural shine.
How often should you cut medium lengh hair?
Trim your hair monthly to eliminate split ends. This will keep the hair healthy and stimulate hair growth.
How to keep medium lengh hair looking healthy?
Nourish your hair with argan oil to keep it shiny, smooth, and soft. This miracle oil can also prevent dandruff, which can be a common issue for men with medium length hair.
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