How to Liberty Spike Your Hair: A Punk Rock Tutorial

Liberty spikes, an iconic hairstyle of the punk and goth subcultures, are sharp, vertical spikes that scream individuality and rebellion. While they might look intimidating to create, with the right techniques and products, achieving gravity-defying liberty spikes at home is definitely possible. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the process, from preparing your hair to maintaining your magnificent spikes.

## What You’ll Need:

Before you start, gather all the necessary supplies. Having everything on hand will make the process smoother and less frustrating. You’ll need:

* **Strong-Hold Gel:** This is the foundation of your spikes. Opt for a gel specifically designed for extreme hold, often labeled as “spiking gel” or “freeze hold gel.” Look for products that boast maximum hold and are resistant to humidity. Some popular and highly recommended brands include Got2b Glued Spiking Glue, L’Oréal Studio Line Mega Gel, and Murray’s Superior Hold Gel (though Murray’s requires extra effort to wash out). Experiment to find what works best for your hair type and desired stiffness.
* **Strong-Hold Hairspray:** Hairspray is essential for setting the spikes and providing additional hold throughout the day (or night!). Again, choose a product with a strong or extra-strong hold. Aerosol hairsprays often provide a more even and powerful hold than pump sprays. Look for options like Got2b Glued Blasting Freeze Spray, Sebastian Shaper Plus Hairspray, or Kenra Volume Spray 25.
* **Blow Dryer:** A blow dryer, preferably one with a concentrator nozzle, is crucial for shaping and hardening the spikes. The heat helps to activate the gel and hairspray, creating a more rigid and long-lasting hold. A high heat setting (use with caution) combined with low fan speed will provide the most concentrated and effective drying.
* **Comb:** A fine-tooth comb is essential for sectioning the hair and creating clean, defined spikes. Avoid combs with wide teeth, as they won’t provide the precision needed for this style. Rat-tail combs are excellent for creating precise parts and teasing the hair at the base of the spikes.
* **Mirror:** A handheld mirror, in addition to your main bathroom mirror, will be incredibly helpful for checking the back and sides of your head to ensure all spikes are uniform and properly shaped. It allows you to see those hard-to-reach areas and make necessary adjustments.
* **Hair Ties (Optional):** Small, clear elastic hair ties can be used to initially secure the base of each spike, providing extra support while you’re shaping them. This is particularly useful for longer or thicker hair that tends to droop. Remove the hair ties once the spikes are fully set.
* **Gloves (Optional):** If you’re concerned about getting gel all over your hands, wearing disposable gloves can help keep your hands clean and make the cleanup process easier.
* **Towel:** Have a towel handy to wipe up any spills and protect your clothing.
* **Old Clothes:** This can be a messy process, especially the first few times. Wear clothes that you don’t mind getting gel or hairspray on.
* **Hair Color (Optional):** If you want to add color to your liberty spikes, now’s the time. Use a temporary hair color spray, semi-permanent dye, or even colored hair wax. Be sure to choose a color that complements your overall style and personality.

## Step-by-Step Guide to Liberty Spiking:

Now that you have all your supplies, let’s get started!

**1. Prepare Your Hair:**

* **Wash and Dry:** Start with clean, dry hair. Shampooing your hair will remove any excess oils or product buildup that could weigh down the spikes. Condition your hair as usual, but be sure to rinse thoroughly to remove all traces of conditioner. Towel-dry your hair and then use a blow dryer to completely dry it. Completely dry hair is essential for optimal hold. If your hair is even slightly damp, the gel and hairspray won’t be as effective.
* **Teasing/Backcombing (Optional but Recommended):** For added volume and hold, especially if you have fine or thin hair, consider teasing or backcombing the roots of your hair before applying gel. This will create a stronger foundation for the spikes and help them stand up straight. Use a fine-tooth comb to gently backcomb small sections of hair near the roots, working your way around your head. Be careful not to over-tease, as this can damage your hair.

**2. Sectioning Your Hair:**

* **Determine Spike Size and Placement:** Decide how many spikes you want and how close together you want them to be. This will depend on the length and thickness of your hair, as well as your personal preference. Consider the overall shape you want to achieve. Do you want a uniform row of spikes, or a more random and asymmetrical look? Use a comb to visualize the sections before you start applying gel.
* **Create Square or Triangular Sections:** Using your comb, create small, square or triangular sections of hair. The size of the sections will determine the width of the spikes. Smaller sections will result in thinner spikes, while larger sections will create thicker spikes. Use the comb to create clean, defined parts between each section. The more precise your sections, the more uniform and polished your spikes will look. A rat-tail comb is particularly useful here for creating sharp, clean lines.

**3. Applying Gel and Shaping the Spikes:**

* **Apply Gel Generously:** Take one section of hair and apply a generous amount of strong-hold gel, starting at the roots and working your way to the tips. Make sure the hair is completely saturated with gel. Don’t be afraid to use too much; it’s better to have too much gel than not enough. The gel is what will give the spikes their structure and hold.
* **Shape the Spike:** Using your fingers, pinch and twist the gel-covered section of hair to form a spike. Start at the base and work your way up to the tip, squeezing out any excess gel. The goal is to create a sharp, defined point at the end of the spike. You can use your comb to help shape the spike and ensure that it’s straight and even. If you’re using hair ties, secure the base of the spike with a small elastic hair tie at this point. This will provide extra support while the gel dries.
* **Repeat for Each Section:** Repeat the gel application and shaping process for each section of hair, working your way around your head. Be consistent with the amount of gel you use and the way you shape each spike to ensure a uniform look. Use the handheld mirror to check the back and sides of your head and make any necessary adjustments.

**4. Blow Drying and Setting the Spikes:**

* **Blow Dry Each Spike:** Using your blow dryer with the concentrator nozzle, direct the heat at each spike, starting at the base and working your way up to the tip. Use a high heat setting (use with caution, avoid burning your scalp) and a low fan speed for the most concentrated and effective drying. The heat will help to activate the gel and harden the spikes. As you blow dry each spike, continue to shape it with your fingers to ensure that it’s straight and pointed. Rotate the spike as you dry it to ensure even drying and hardening on all sides.
* **Hairspray for Extra Hold:** Once the spikes are dry and hard, apply a generous amount of strong-hold hairspray to each spike, again starting at the base and working your way up to the tip. The hairspray will provide additional hold and help to keep the spikes in place throughout the day. Hold the hairspray can about 6-8 inches away from your head to ensure even coverage. Avoid spraying too close, as this can make the spikes wet and heavy.
* **Final Blow Dry (Optional):** After applying hairspray, you can give the spikes one final blast of heat from the blow dryer to help set the hairspray and further harden the spikes. This is particularly useful if you live in a humid climate or if you want your spikes to last for an extended period of time.

**5. Maintaining Your Liberty Spikes:**

* **Touch-Ups:** Throughout the day, you may need to touch up your spikes with hairspray to maintain their shape and hold. Carry a small can of hairspray with you for quick touch-ups on the go. If a spike starts to droop, simply spray it with hairspray and reshape it with your fingers.
* **Sleeping:** Sleeping with liberty spikes can be a challenge! To avoid crushing your spikes, try sleeping on your back with your head elevated on a pillow. You can also wrap your head in a silk scarf or bandana to protect the spikes from friction. Another option is to sleep with your head hanging off the edge of the bed (not recommended for those prone to falling!).
* **Washing:** Washing your hair with liberty spikes can be tricky, but it’s not impossible. The best approach is to avoid washing your hair as often as possible. When you do wash it, try to focus on cleaning your scalp and roots without disturbing the spikes too much. Use a gentle shampoo and avoid scrubbing too vigorously. Rinse thoroughly and gently pat your hair dry with a towel. Avoid using a blow dryer after washing, as this can soften the spikes.

**6. Removing Liberty Spikes:**

* **Softening the Gel:** Removing the gel from your hair can be a bit of a process, especially if you’ve used a lot of product. Start by applying a generous amount of conditioner to your hair and letting it sit for a few minutes to soften the gel. You can also use a hair oil or detangling spray to help loosen the gel.
* **Combing it Out:** Use a wide-tooth comb to gently comb through your hair, starting at the tips and working your way up to the roots. Be patient and avoid pulling or tugging on your hair, as this can cause breakage. If you encounter any stubborn knots, apply more conditioner or detangling spray and try again.
* **Washing:** Once you’ve combed out as much of the gel as possible, wash your hair with shampoo and conditioner as usual. You may need to shampoo your hair more than once to remove all traces of gel. Be sure to rinse thoroughly to avoid any product buildup.

## Tips and Tricks for Perfect Liberty Spikes:

* **Experiment with Products:** Not all gels and hairsprays are created equal. Experiment with different brands and formulas to find the ones that work best for your hair type and desired hold. Some people prefer gels with a matte finish, while others prefer gels with a glossy finish. Some hairsprays provide a stronger hold than others. Don’t be afraid to try new things until you find the perfect combination.
* **Use a Rat-Tail Comb:** A rat-tail comb is an invaluable tool for creating precise parts and teasing the hair at the base of the spikes. The long, thin tail of the comb allows you to create clean, defined lines, while the fine teeth are perfect for backcombing and smoothing the hair.
* **Tease for Extra Volume:** If you have fine or thin hair, teasing or backcombing the roots of your hair before applying gel can make a big difference in the volume and hold of your spikes. Just be sure to tease gently to avoid damaging your hair.
* **Start Small:** If you’re new to liberty spiking, start with a smaller number of spikes and gradually increase the number as you gain experience. This will make the process less overwhelming and give you more control over the final result.
* **Practice Makes Perfect:** Like any hairstyle, liberty spiking takes practice. Don’t get discouraged if your first attempt isn’t perfect. Keep experimenting and refining your technique, and you’ll eventually master the art of creating gravity-defying spikes.
* **Consider Hair Length:** While liberty spikes can be achieved on various hair lengths, shorter to medium length hair generally works best. Extremely long hair can be challenging to spike effectively due to its weight.
* **Safety First:** When using a blow dryer, be mindful of the heat setting and avoid holding the dryer too close to your scalp for extended periods to prevent burns.

## Adding Color to Your Liberty Spikes:

Liberty spikes provide an excellent canvas for expressing your creativity through color. Here are a few options:

* **Temporary Hair Color Spray:** This is the easiest and most versatile option. You can find temporary hair color sprays in a wide range of colors, from vibrant neons to subtle pastels. Simply spray the color onto the spikes after they’re styled and set with hairspray. The color will wash out with your next shampoo.
* **Semi-Permanent Hair Dye:** For a longer-lasting color, consider using a semi-permanent hair dye. These dyes typically last for several weeks and gradually fade with each wash. Apply the dye to the spikes before styling, following the instructions on the product packaging. Be sure to wear gloves and protect your clothing to avoid staining.
* **Colored Hair Wax:** Colored hair wax is another fun and temporary option. Apply the wax to the spikes before styling, just like you would with gel. The wax will provide color and hold, and it will wash out easily with shampoo.
* **Chalking:** Hair chalk is a dry pigment that you can apply to your hair. It’s a very temporary option, washing out with one shampoo. It’s best for lighter hair colors as it may not show up well on darker hair. Wet the spike slightly and then rub the chalk down the hair shaft.

## Liberty Spikes vs. Other Spiky Hairstyles:

It’s important to differentiate liberty spikes from other spiky hairstyles. While they all involve creating pointed sections of hair, there are key distinctions:

* **Mohawk:** A mohawk involves shaving the sides of the head and leaving a strip of hair down the center, which is then styled into spikes. Liberty spikes don’t require shaving any part of the head.
* **Deathhawk:** Similar to a mohawk, but the remaining strip of hair is teased and styled into taller, wider spikes. Deathhawks are often associated with the deathrock subculture.
* **Spiky Hair (General):** This is a broad term that encompasses any hairstyle with spikes. Liberty spikes are a specific type of spiky hair with distinct characteristics, such as their sharp, vertical orientation and uniform shape.

## Conclusion:

Liberty spikes are a bold and iconic hairstyle that allows you to express your individuality and embrace your inner punk rocker. With the right tools, techniques, and a little bit of practice, you can create your own gravity-defying spikes at home. So go ahead, unleash your creativity and rock those spikes with confidence!