So you're growing out your hair? Awesome choice, man. I remember when I decided to grow mine in high school - first came the awkward phase where it just looked messy all the time, then came figuring out what to actually do with it. That's why I'm putting together this complete guide to hairstyles for teenage guys with long hair. We'll cover everything from basic styles to maintenance tricks that actually work for busy teens.
Why Long Hair Rocks for Teen Guys
Let's be real: long hair on guys isn't just a style, it's a statement. When I had shoulder-length hair in 10th grade, it totally changed how people saw me (in a good way). It gives you this creative vibe without saying a word. Plus, the versatility is insane - one day you can rock a man bun, next day loose waves, third day braids. You're basically getting twenty hairstyles in one.
Honest Talk: Not every style works for everyone. My friend Jake looked amazing with his surfer shag, but when he tried that slicked-back undercut? Total disaster. Know your hair type and face shape before committing.
Face Shapes and Long Hair Styles
This is crucial, guys. That killer hairstyle you saw on TikTok might look terrible on you if your face shape doesn't match. Take five seconds to figure yours out:
| Face Shape | Best Hairstyles | Styles to Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Oval | Literally everything (you lucky dog) | Nothing really |
| Round | Layered cuts, high ponytails, side parts | Center parts, blunt bobs |
| Square | Textured shags, messy buns, side-swept styles | Super tight ponytails, slicked-back looks |
| Heart | Shoulder-length with layers, loose waves | Short top layers, heavy bangs |
How to Measure Your Face Shape
Stand in front of a mirror and trace your face shape with lipstick or washable marker (trust me, it's worth the temporary embarrassment). Or measure:
- Forehead width: across the widest part
- Cheekbone width: across apples of cheeks
- Jawline width: from jaw hinge to hinge
- Face length: hairline to chin
Top 7 Hairstyles for Teenage Guys with Long Hair
These are the styles I see actually working in real life for teens, not just models:
The Laid-Back Surfer Shag
This was my go-to junior year. Super low maintenance - wake up, maybe run some sea salt spray through it, and you're done. Perfect for medium to thick wavy hair.
My Experience
Pros: Zero effort, looks intentionally messy, girls loved running fingers through it
Cons: Gets tangled easily, wind is your enemy
The Half-Up Man Bun
When you want to look like you tried but not TOO hard. Takes 90 seconds max. Grab the top section, twist into a loose bun, leave bottom loose. Game changer for hot days when you don't want hair sticking to your neck.
Braided Warrior Style
Sounds intense but actually simple. Dutch braids along the sides meeting in a low bun or ponytail. Looks badass and keeps hair completely controlled. Perfect for:
- Basketball practice
- Music festivals
- That history presentation on Vikings
Textured Layers with Face-Framing
If your hair is pin-straight like mine was, layers add movement. Ask your barber for long layers starting at chin length. Costs $40-60 but makes styling ten times easier.
My stylist Mark told me: "Teen guys always want the rockstar cut immediately. But good layering takes three sessions minimum if you're growing out from short hair."
The Messy Low Ponytail
Classic for a reason. Secret is to pull it loose - leave face-framing pieces out and don't make it tight. Use fabric scrunchies instead of rubber bands to avoid breakage. Seriously, they make guy versions now.
Sleek Center-Part
For days when you want to look sophisticated. Works best on straight or lightly wavy hair. Requires some product though:
| Product | Hold Level | Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Texture Cream | Medium | $10-18 | Natural definition |
| Light Hold Gel | Medium/Strong | $6-12 | Hot/humid days |
| Sea Salt Spray | Light | $8-15 | Beachy texture |
The Undercut Long Top
Shaved sides with long top pulled back. Warning: this requires commitment. When I tried it, regrowth every two weeks was annoying. But man, it looks sharp when fresh. Best if your school allows shaved sides.
Long Hair Maintenance Survival Guide
Here's what nobody tells you about teenage boy long hairstyles: it's WORK. But these tips will save you:
Washing Reality: Every 2-3 days max unless you're super active. Daily washing strips natural oils making hair brittle.
Conditioner is Non-Negotiable: Focus on mid-lengths to ends. Leave in 3-5 minutes before rinsing.
Detangling Hack: Start from ends when wet, work upward. Use wide-tooth comb before brushing.
Essential Products That Won't Break Your Budget
As a teen, I couldn't afford fancy salon stuff. These drugstore finds actually work:
- Suave Clarifying Shampoo ($3): Use monthly to remove buildup
- Not Your Mother's Beach Babe Texturizing Spray ($8): Better than pricier brands
- Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Serum ($5): Tames frizz without grease
School Rules and Long Hair
This is huge. My Catholic high school had "no hair touching collar" rules until 2019. Check your student handbook first. If you face pushback:
- Get parents involved early
- Find examples of professional men with long hair
- Offer to tie it neatly during labs/sports
Some schools are stuck in the 1950s. My cousin transferred schools over hair policies - extreme but worked for him.
Growing Out Journey Timeline
Real talk on what to expect with men's long hairstyles:
| Phase | Duration | Challenges | Survival Styles |
|---|---|---|---|
| Awkward Stage | Months 3-6 | Sticks out everywhere | Hats, headbands |
| Shoulder Stage | Months 7-10 | Constant tangling | Half-up buns |
| Goal Length | 12+ months | Breakage at ends | Regular trims essential |
FAQs: Hairstyles for Teenage Guys with Long Hair
Q: How often should I trim long hair?
Every 10-12 weeks to prevent split ends. Don't skip this - damaged ends make hair look scraggly, not stylish.
Q: What if my parents hate my long hair?
Compromise on neatness. Show them you'll maintain it properly. My dad softened when I kept it tied for family events.
Q: Can I play sports with long hair?
Absolutely. Braids or double buns work best. Use silicone-free elastics to prevent breakage. Sweaty hair? Dry shampoo is magic.
Q: Any hacks for faster growth?
Gentle handling is key. Sleep on silk pillowcases, massage scalp weekly, and eat enough protein. Those expensive growth serums? Mostly snake oil.
Q: How do I handle hat hair?
Dampen hands, rub in tiny bit of conditioner, scrunch. Restores shape without washing.
Seasonal Style Adjustments
Long hair needs different care year-round:
- Winter: Static is brutal. Use leave-in conditioner and silk beanies instead of wool.
- Spring: Humidity = frizz. Anti-humectant serums are lifesavers.
- Summer: Chlorine/saltwater damage. Wet hair with clean water before swimming and use weekly deep conditioner.
- Fall: Wind tangles. Keep hair tied more often.
Final Reality Check
Growing long hair as a teen guy is equal parts awesome and annoying. Some days you'll feel like a rockstar, others you'll contemplate shaving it all off after a bad hair day. Stick with it through the awkward phases. And remember - no hairstyle defines you. My senior year buzz cut after three years of long hair was surprisingly liberating too.
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