Growing your hair out can be a real struggle if you do not know the right steps. With the gentler hair trend taking over in 2026 and guys switching to softer classic looks you want to get it right. Here is how to survive the awkward stage and get that clean old money style without looking like a caveman.
Get Regular Maintenance Trims
You might think avoiding the barber is the fastest way to get long hair but that is a huge mistake. Trimming the split ends every few weeks keeps the hair healthy and stops it from looking like a frizzy mess while it grows.
Keep the Back and Sides Tidy
The awkward phase happens when the sides grow out too wide and make your head look like a giant mushroom. Asking your barber to keep the neck and sides clean with a low taper helps you maintain that polished old money shape while the top gets longer.
Use Sea Salt Spray for Texture
Straight fine hair just falls flat into your face when it gets longer and that gets annoying really fast. A few sprays of sea salt spray gives your hair some nice volume and natural flow so it sweeps back perfectly out of your eyes.
Switch to a Leave In Conditioner
Longer hair needs way more moisture than a short buzz cut because the natural oils do not reach the ends easily. Using a good leave in conditioner keeps your hair soft and smooth instead of looking dry and damaged like straw.
Train Your Hair to Go Backwards
Your hair naturally wants to fall forward but that classic old money aesthetic is all about that slicked back flow. You have to start brushing it backwards while it is wet so the roots learn to sit in that new direction over time.
Find a Good Light Hold Pomade
Heavy gels make long hair look stiff and greasy which is exactly what we want to avoid right now. A nice light paste or pomade gives you control over the awkward pieces while still letting the hair move naturally in the wind.
Rock the Classic Side Part
Sometimes straight back does not work for your face shape so a deep side part is your absolute best friend. This style looks very classy and wealthy and it hides uneven hair lengths perfectly while you wait for everything to grow out.
Do Not Wash It Every Single Day
Washing your hair too much strips away all the good oils that keep it looking shiny and super healthy. Try washing it just two or three times a week and you will notice it becomes much easier to style without looking all fluffy.
Use Hats During the Worst Days
We all have those mornings where the hair just refuses to cooperate no matter how much product you use. Throwing on a simple clean baseball cap saves you time and hides the mess until you can get to the barber for a quick fix.
Just Be Patient With the Process
Growing your hair takes months of waiting and looking a bit goofy in the mirror sometimes before it gets better. Trust the process and stick to your grooming routine because that wealthy flow look is totally worth the wait once you finally get there.
About the Author
