The man bun has become a popular hairstyle for men with longer hair, combining practicality with a stylish, versatile look. Whether you’re aiming for a casual, everyday style or a more polished, professional appearance, learning how to put your hair up in a man bun is essential. This guide will cover everything you need to know about the man bun, including the different types of man buns, the techniques to achieve them, and the tools you’ll need.
Understanding the Man Bun
Before diving into the step-by-step process, it’s important to understand what a man bun is and why it’s so popular. The man bun is a hairstyle where long hair is gathered into a bun, typically at the back of the head. This style can vary from high buns to low buns, tight buns to loose buns, and can be styled to suit different occasions and personal preferences.
Why Choose a Man Bun?
Versatility
The man bun is a versatile hairstyle that can be adapted for various occasions. Whether you’re heading to a formal event or just running errands, a man bun can be styled to fit the situation.
Practicality
Long hair can be difficult to manage, especially during physical activities or in hot weather. A man bun keeps hair out of your face and off your neck, making it a practical choice for active individuals.
Style and Fashion
The man bun has become a fashion statement. It’s a way to express personal style and can be customized to reflect individuality. Many celebrities and influencers have embraced the man bun, making it a trendy choice.
Types of Man Buns
The Classic Bun
The classic bun is positioned in the middle of the back of the head. It’s a balanced and timeless look suitable for most occasions.
The Messy Bun
The messy bun is a more relaxed and casual version of the classic bun. It’s great for everyday wear and requires less precision.
The Smooth Bun
The smooth bun is a sleek and polished version of the classic bun. It’s ideal for formal events or professional settings.
The Half Bun
The half bun involves gathering only the top half of the hair into a bun, leaving the rest of the hair down. This style is trendy and adds a unique twist to the traditional man bun.
The Low Bun
The low bun is positioned at the nape of the neck. It’s a sophisticated and understated look, perfect for formal occasions.
Tools and Products You’ll Need
Hair Ties
High-quality hair ties are essential for securing your man bun. Opt for hair ties that are gentle on your hair to prevent breakage.
Hair Brush or Comb
A good brush or comb helps detangle your hair and makes it easier to gather into a bun. For a smooth bun, use a fine-tooth comb.
Hair Gel or Pomade
For a sleek and polished look, hair gel or pomade can help tame flyaways and keep your bun in place.
Bobby Pins
Bobby pins are useful for securing any loose strands and ensuring your bun stays intact.
How to Put Your Hair Up in a Man Bun
Step 1: Prepare Your Hair
Start with clean, dry hair. Brush or comb your hair to remove any tangles. If your hair is freshly washed, make sure it’s completely dry before you begin. Wet hair is more prone to breakage when styled.
Step 2: Decide on the Type of Bun
Choose the type of man bun you want to create. This will determine the placement and technique you’ll use.
Step 3: Gather Your Hair
Use both hands to gather your hair at the desired position on your head. For a classic bun, gather the hair in the middle of the back of your head. For a low bun, gather it at the nape of your neck.
Step 4: Secure the Hair
Hold the gathered hair with one hand and use the other hand to wrap a hair tie around it. Make sure the hair tie is tight enough to hold the hair securely, but not so tight that it causes discomfort.
Step 5: Create the Bun
Twist the gathered hair to form a rope. Wrap this twisted hair around the base where the hair tie is, forming a bun shape. Use another hair tie to secure the bun in place. If you’re creating a messy bun, you can skip the twisting and simply wrap the hair loosely.
Step 6: Tidy Up
Use bobby pins to secure any loose strands and ensure the bun stays in place. For a smooth bun, apply a small amount of hair gel or pomade to tame flyaways and give a polished finish.
Step 7: Final Adjustments
Check the bun from all angles to make sure it’s symmetrical and secure. Make any final adjustments as needed.
See Also: How To Cut Men’s Hair Long On Top Short Sides
Tips for Maintaining Your Man Bun
Avoid Tight Buns
Wearing your bun too tightly can cause tension and breakage. Make sure your bun is secure but not overly tight.
Use Gentle Hair Ties
Opt for hair ties that are designed to be gentle on your hair. Avoid using rubber bands as they can cause breakage.
Regular Trims
Keep your hair healthy by getting regular trims. This helps prevent split ends and keeps your hair looking neat.
Moisturize Your Hair
Long hair can become dry and damaged. Use a good conditioner and consider using a leave-in conditioner or hair oil to keep your hair moisturized.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Not Brushing Hair Before Styling
Brushing your hair before styling is essential to remove tangles and ensure a smooth finish. Skipping this step can result in a messy, uneven bun.
Using Too Much Product
While hair gel or pomade can help tame flyaways, using too much can make your hair look greasy and weighed down. Use a small amount and build up if necessary.
Ignoring Flyaways
Flyaways can ruin the look of a sleek bun. Use bobby pins and a small amount of gel to smooth them down.
Conclusion
The man bun is a versatile and stylish hairstyle that can be adapted to suit any occasion. With the right tools and techniques, you can master the art of the man bun and enjoy a practical, fashionable look. Whether you prefer the classic bun, the messy bun, or something in between, this guide provides all the information you need to put your hair up in a man bun. Remember to take care of your hair, avoid common mistakes, and experiment with different styles to find the perfect man bun for you.