How to Style Men’s Medium Length Hair?

Medium length hair for men typically falls between 2-4 inches long. This versatile length bridges the gap between short and long styles, offering a wide range of styling options. Whether you have straight, wavy, or curly hair, medium length hair allows you to experiment with different looks.

In recent years, medium length hairstyles have gained popularity among men. Famous celebrities have showcased the potential of this length, inspiring men to embrace a more relaxed and textured aesthetic.

As modern grooming trends shift towards natural and effortless styles, medium length hair has become a go-to choice for men seeking a balance between low-maintenance and stylish.

Choosing the right shampoo and conditioner is crucial for maintaining healthy medium length hair. Avoid over-washing, which can strip your hair of its natural oils and lead to dryness. Aim to shampoo every routinely, depending on your hair type and lifestyle. On in-between days, consider co-washing with a cleansing conditioner to refresh your hair.

As the seasons change, so should your hair care routine. During the colder months, consider switching to a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner to combat dryness and static. In the summer, opt for lightweight, anti-frizz products to manage humidity. Dyson’s Chitosan™ Pre-style cream, for instance, helps protect against environmental humidity². This ensures your medium length hair maintains a polished look, even on more humid days

Incorporating weekly treatments into your hair care regimen can make a significant difference in the health and appearance of your medium length hair. Hair masks are an excellent way to deeply hydrate and strengthen your strands. Choose a mask tailored to your specific hair type, whether it's curly, straight, fine, or thick. Apply the mask once a week, leaving it on for the recommended time before rinsing thoroughly. Regular treatments can potentially improve the overall condition of your medium length hair, making it more manageable and easier to style.

To achieve the best results when styling medium length hair, invest in the right tools. A blow dryer with a diffuser attachment like Dyson’s Supersonic Nural™ hair dryer is a must-have for creating controlled volume and texture. The diffuser helps distribute air evenly, minimizing frizz and enhancing natural waves or curls. When blow drying, use a round brush or vented comb to direct the airflow and create shape. For a sleek finish or to tame unruly strands, a straightener like Dyson’s Corrale™ styler straightener can be a valuable tool in your styling arsenal.

The key to effortless styling lies in selecting the right products for your hair type and desired look. If you have straight hair, a lightweight pomade or styling cream like Dyson Chitosan™ Pre-style cream, can provide control and definition without weighing your hair down. For textured or wavy hair, a sea salt spray is a game-changer. It adds grit and enhances natural movement, creating a laid-back, beachy vibe. If you have curly hair, opt for a curl-defining cream or mousse to enhance your natural pattern and reduce frizz.

When blow drying or using styling tools, focus on techniques and products that enhance your natural texture without weighing your hair down. Lightweight creams, sprays, or mousses can help you achieve control and definition while maintaining movement. To prevent product buildup, which can make your medium length hair appear dull and lifeless, choose water-based or easily washable products. Experiment with different brands and formulas to find the perfect combination that works for your hair type and styling needs. For more options, explore various hair styling products that can elevate your look.

1. Start with damp, towel-dried hair.
2. Apply a small amount of pomade or styling compound to your palms and rub them together.
3. Work the product through your hair, starting at the roots and moving towards the ends.
4. Using a comb, create a side or center part, depending on your preference.
5. Brush your hair back, ensuring even distribution of the product.
6. For a sleek finish, use a fine-toothed comb to smooth any stray hairs.
7. Set the style with Dyson’s Chitosan™ Post-style serum for a flexible all-day hold.*

1. Towel-dry your hair until it's slightly damp.
2. Spritz sea salt spray throughout your hair, focusing on the roots and mid-lengths.
3. Using your fingers, tousle your hair to distribute the product evenly.
4. Blow dry your hair on a medium heat setting, using your fingers to lift the roots and create volume.
5. Once your hair is mostly dry, use a round brush to shape the quiff/pompadour, directing the hair up and back.
6. Finish with a light-hold styling product, such as a wax or clay, to add texture and definition.

1. Start with damp, freshly washed hair.
2. Apply a generous amount of sea salt spray from roots to ends, scrunching your hair to encourage curl formation.
3. Use a diffuser attachment and other hair accessories on your blow dryer to dry your hair on a low heat setting.
4. As you dry, continue scrunching your hair to enhance the natural curl pattern.
5. Once your hair is completely dry, gently run your fingers through your curls to break up any stiff sections.
6. Finish with a light-hold hairspray to keep your surfer curls in place throughout the day.

1. Apply a small amount of curl-defining cream or leave-in conditioner to damp hair.
2. Using your fingers or a wide-tooth comb, create a middle part.
3. Separate your hair into two sections, one on each side of the part.
4. Twist each section away from your face, encouraging your natural curl pattern.
5. Air dry your hair or use a diffuser on a low heat setting to speed up the process.
6. Once your hair is dry, gently shake out the twists to create a soft, natural-looking curtain effect.
7. Set the style with a light mist of hairspray or a hydrating serum, focusing on the roots for added volume.

One of the most common mistakes men make when styling medium length hair is overusing heavy products like pomades or waxes. These products can weigh down your hair, making it appear greasy and lifeless. Instead, opt for lightweight creams, sprays, or mousses that provide hold without the heavy feel. Apply products sparingly, starting with a small amount and adding more as needed.

To maintain a polished appearance and prevent split ends, regular trims are essential. Neglecting to schedule haircuts can lead to uneven growth and a shaggy, unkempt look. Aim to visit your barber or stylist every 6-8 weeks to keep your medium length hair looking its best.

Not all hair styling products and techniques work for every hair type and texture. Using the wrong products can lead to poor results and frustration. Take the time to understand your hair type, whether it's straight, wavy, curly, fine, or thick. Choose products and methods specifically designed for your hair texture to achieve optimal styling results.

The modern side part is a timeless and versatile style that suits any occasion. To achieve this look, start by applying a small amount of styling cream or pomade to damp hair. Use a comb to create a clean side part, then blow dry your hair using a round brush for volume. Finish by running a small amount of product through your hair for definition and hold.

The slick back is a sophisticated style that's perfect for formal events or professional settings. Begin by applying a generous amount of pomade or gel to damp hair. Use a comb to distribute the product evenly, then brush your hair back, starting at the forehead and moving towards the crown. For a sleek finish, use a fine-toothed comb to smooth any stray hairs and set the style with hairspray.

The messy quiff/pompadour is a youthful and edgy style that adds texture and volume to medium length hair. To create this look, apply a small amount of sea salt spray or texturizing powder to damp hair. Use your fingers to tousle your hair, focusing on lifting the roots for added volume. Blow dry your hair using a round brush, directing the hair up and back to create the quiff/pompadour shape. Finish with a matte styling product for a disheveled, textured appearance.

Surfer curls are a laid-back, beach-inspired style that embraces your hair's natural texture. Start by applying a curl-enhancing cream or sea salt spray to damp hair, scrunching your hair to encourage curl formation. Use a diffuser attachment on your blow dryer to dry your hair on a low heat setting, continuing to scrunch as you dry. Once your hair is completely dry, run your fingers through your curls to break up any stiff sections and create a more natural, tousled look.

To keep your medium length hair looking its best, regular haircuts are a must. Schedule appointments with your barber or stylist every 6-8 weeks to maintain your desired shape and length. Regular trims also help prevent split ends, which can make your hair appear damaged and unhealthy.

Healthy hair starts with a healthy scalp. Incorporate scalp care into your grooming routine to promote hair growth and improve the overall condition of your medium length hair. Use a gentle scalp scrub or exfoliating treatment to remove product buildup, dead skin cells, and excess oil. This helps unclog hair follicles and improve circulation, leading to potentially healthier, more vibrant hair. Dyson’s Supersonic Nural™ hair dryer also features a Scalp protect mode that uses a network of Nural™ sensors to automatically reduce heat as it approaches your head, helping protect your scalp from damage. This intelligent technology supports a healthier scalp environment while improving the overall styling experience and preserving hair shine.

One of the best things about having medium length hair is the ability to experiment with different styles and products. Don't be afraid to try new looks and techniques to find what works best for you. If you're unsure where to start, seek advice from your barber or stylist. They can offer personalized recommendations based on your hair type, face shape, and lifestyle, helping you make the most of your medium length hair.

Medium length hair offers endless possibilities for men looking to elevate their style. With the right techniques, products, and inspiration, you can create a wide range of looks that suit any occasion or personal taste. Embrace your hair's natural texture, whether it's straight, wavy, or curly, and experiment with different styling methods to find what works best for you.

The keys to achieving great results with medium length hair is a combination of proper hair care, regular trims, and the use of high-quality styling products. Don't hesitate to seek advice from grooming professionals who can help you unlock the full potential of your medium length hair.

By following the tips and techniques outlined in this guide, you'll be well on your way to mastering the art of styling medium length hair.

¹ HCA Florida Healthcare. How many times a week should you wash your hair? Available at: https://www.hcafloridahealthcare.com/healthy-living/blog/how-many-times-a-week-should-you-wash-your-hair. (Accessed January 2025)

² vs. untreated hair. Tested at relative 80% humidity.

*vs. untreated hair.