Ultimate Guide: How to Spike Your Hair Like a Pro

Spiked hair, a bold and edgy statement, has remained a popular hairstyle across various subcultures and fashion trends for decades. From the gravity-defying punk rock looks to the more refined and textured spikes seen today, mastering the art of hair spiking is a versatile skill. Whether you’re aiming for a casual messy look or a perfectly sculpted masterpiece, this comprehensive guide will walk you through every step, from choosing the right products to perfecting your technique.

Understanding Your Hair Type

Before diving into the world of spiking, it’s crucial to understand your hair type. Different hair textures react differently to products and styling techniques. Here’s a quick rundown:

• Straight Hair: Straight hair is the easiest to spike but may require more product for hold, especially if it’s fine.
• Wavy Hair: Wavy hair has a natural bend, which can help create volume in spikes, but might need products to control frizz.
• Curly Hair: Curly hair is the most challenging to spike and will require layering techniques to get the desired lift and definition.
• Thick Hair: Thick hair provides ample volume but can be heavy and require stronger holding products.
• Fine Hair: Fine hair might need volumizing products and lighter styling agents to avoid weighing it down.

Gathering Your Arsenal: Essential Products & Tools

Having the right products and tools is half the battle won. Here’s a list of must-haves:

Styling Products:

• Strong-Hold Hair Gel: This is the cornerstone for achieving spiky hair. Look for gels that offer maximum hold without flaking or feeling overly sticky. Brands like Got2b Glued, American Crew Firm Hold Gel, and L’Oréal Paris Studio Line Mega Gel are popular choices.
• Hair Wax or Clay: These products provide texture and definition. Wax is great for softer, more flexible spikes, while clay is better for a matte finish and more structured spikes. Look for products that offer strong hold. Brands like TIGI Bed Head Manipulator, American Crew Fiber, and Suavecito Pomade are well-regarded.
• Hair Spray: A strong-hold hairspray is essential to lock your spikes in place and prevent them from drooping throughout the day. Brands like L’Oréal Paris Elnett, Schwarzkopf got2b Glued Blasting Freeze Spray, and Bumble and Bumble Strong Finish are recommended.
• Volumizing Powder or Spray: If your hair tends to be flat or lacks volume, a volumizing powder or spray can add lift and make it easier to create defined spikes. Brands like Schwarzkopf Osis+ Dust It, Big Sexy Hair Powder Play, and Living Proof Dry Volume Blast are popular choices.
• Pre-Styling Products: Depending on your hair type, you may benefit from pre-styling products like sea salt sprays (for texture) or mousse (for volume).

Tools:

• Comb: A fine-tooth comb is helpful for sectioning and shaping spikes, especially for creating precise styles.
• Hair Dryer: A hair dryer with a nozzle attachment is useful for directing heat and setting the shape of your spikes.
• Clips: Hair clips are useful for keeping sections of your hair out of the way while you’re working on other areas.
• Mirror: A hand mirror can be helpful for checking the back of your head.

Step-by-Step Guide to Spiking Your Hair

Now, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty. Here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide to spiking your hair like a pro:

Step 1: Start with Clean, Dry Hair

It’s always best to start with clean, dry hair. Shampoo and condition your hair as usual, and then dry it completely. Avoid using conditioners that make your hair too soft or slippery, as this can make it harder to spike. If your hair is naturally oily, you might want to use a clarifying shampoo to remove any excess oils.

Step 2: Apply Volumizing Product (Optional)

If your hair is fine or tends to lay flat, this step is crucial. Apply a volumizing mousse or spray from your roots to mid-shaft. You can also use a volumizing powder directly at the roots for extra lift. Work the product in using your fingertips and gently tease your hair at the roots for more volume. Blow-dry your hair using a low heat and medium air setting. Use your fingers to lift your roots while drying for maximum volume. Avoid brushing your hair during this step.

Step 3: Apply the Base Gel

Take a dime-sized amount of your strong-hold hair gel and rub it between your palms to evenly distribute it. Start at the roots, applying the gel upwards and outwards. Be sure to work it into the entire area that you plan on spiking. This initial layer of gel provides the necessary hold and structure. You might need more or less depending on the length and thickness of your hair. Avoid applying too much at once; you can always add more later. Try not to saturate your hair, which can lead to a wet look and reduce the volume and structure you are aiming for.

Step 4: Section Your Hair (If Needed)

For a more precise, structured look, you might want to section your hair. Use a comb to create small sections, typically about an inch or two wide, starting at the front of your hairline and working your way back. You can use clips to keep unused sections out of the way. This step is particularly helpful if you have longer or thicker hair and want to ensure each spike is evenly shaped. However, if you want a more casual messy look, skip this step.

Step 5: Create the Spikes

Now comes the fun part. With your fingers, grab a section of hair (or a section you’ve previously created) and pull it upward. Use your fingers to pinch the hair together at the tips, forming a point. Apply a small amount of gel or wax to your fingertips and reapply to the ends of the spikes for definition and hold. If you’re using wax, twist the end of the spikes gently to give it a defined look. Repeat this process section by section, ensuring the spikes are all standing upright and pointing in the direction you want. As you work, try to keep the spikes as consistent in height and shape as possible.

Step 6: Apply Secondary Product (Wax or Clay)

Once you have all your initial spikes standing upright, take a small amount of wax or clay and warm it between your fingertips. Using your fingers, go through each spike individually, shaping, twisting, or pinching the tips to create more texture and definition. This will give your spikes a more finished look, providing a visual point of interest and helping them stand more erect. Focus on the tips for the most defined look.

Step 7: Fine-Tune and Adjust

Take a step back and assess your work in the mirror. Are all the spikes pointing the right way? Do they have enough height? This is the time to make any necessary adjustments. You can tweak individual spikes with a little extra product or reshape areas that are not quite right. Use a small mirror to check the back of your head and ensure that all spikes are uniform. You may also consider adding some stray, shorter spikes near your hairline for a more natural, textured look. This helps avoid the “helmet head” look that can occur when all the spikes are exactly the same length and height.

Step 8: Lock It In with Hairspray

Once you’re happy with the look of your spikes, it’s time to lock them in place with hairspray. Hold the can about 10-12 inches away from your head and spray evenly over the entire area of your spikes. Use a strong-hold hairspray and spray in short bursts to avoid soaking your hair. Don’t overspray, as this can make your hair feel stiff and unnatural. If you find that some spikes are drooping a bit after spraying, give them a gentle lift with your fingers while the hairspray sets. You can also add an additional layer of hairspray for extra hold, paying special attention to the tips of the spikes.

Step 9: Final Touches (Optional)

For an extra touch of edge, you can use a bit of glitter or temporary hair color spray at the tips of your spikes. This will give your look added flare, especially for special events or parties. Be sure to test the glitter or color on a small section of hair before applying it all over to ensure you like the look.

Different Spiking Styles and Techniques

Spiked hair is incredibly versatile, and there are many variations you can try. Here are a few ideas:

• Classic Spikes: These are the standard, evenly spaced and upright spikes that you typically see. They are neat and structured, and work great for both casual and formal events.
• Messy Spikes: These are less structured and more random, giving off a relaxed and effortless vibe. Create this look by varying the length and direction of your spikes and by not over-controlling each section.
• Faux Hawk Spikes: These spikes are concentrated in the center of your head, resembling a mohawk. Create this style by spiking the central portion of your hair straight up, leaving the sides shorter and sleek.
• Textured Spikes: These spikes have more texture and dimension, achieved by using a combination of products and techniques. You can create this look by using waxes and clays to give the ends of your spikes a more defined and textured appearance.
• Layered Spikes: These spikes involve varying the lengths of your spikes to create a layered, voluminous look. Create this style by spiking your hair in different directions, alternating between short and long spikes, creating a textured and dynamic appearance.
• Spikes with Undercuts: This edgy style combines spikes with shaved or short sides. It provides a high contrast that is visually striking and very trendy.
• Color Coordinated Spikes: Create more visual interest by adding color to your spikes, either by having highlighted ends or using temporary spray colors.

Tips for Maintaining Your Spiked Hair

Once you’ve achieved the perfect spiked look, you’ll want to maintain it throughout the day. Here are some tips:

• Avoid touching your hair: The more you touch your spikes, the more likely they are to lose their shape and definition.
• Carry a mini hairspray: If your spikes start to droop, a quick spritz of hairspray can help them stay in place.
• Reshape spikes if needed: If a spike falls out of place, use your fingertips and a tiny amount of product to reshape it.
• Don’t sleep on your spikes: Sleeping on your spikes will crush them. Consider wrapping your hair in a silk scarf to protect your spikes overnight. If your hairstyle does flatten overnight you can reshape your spikes with a little water and some more styling product.
• Don’t over wash your hair: Over washing your hair will strip it of its natural oils, causing it to be more difficult to style. You can prolong your hairstyle by using dry shampoo on the roots and by not washing it for a couple of days.

Troubleshooting Common Spiking Problems

Even with the best products and techniques, you might run into some common issues. Here’s how to handle them:

• Spikes falling down: Use stronger-hold products, more hairspray, or try layering your products. Make sure to apply your products evenly throughout the roots and tips of your hair.
• Spikes feeling stiff or sticky: You may be using too much product. Try using smaller amounts of product and focusing on just the tips of your spikes. Experiment with lighter formulas or mix different products.
• Spikes looking messy or undefined: Use wax or clay to define the tips of your spikes and take the time to shape them individually. Work in small sections to give more structure and consistency.
• Flaky product: Use a good quality gel and ensure that your hair is dry before applying products. Avoid excessive rubbing and try a different product.
• Lack of volume: Use volumizing products and consider teasing your hair at the roots. Always start with clean dry hair, as any excess oil can make your hair look flat.

Conclusion

Spiking your hair is a fun and creative way to express yourself. With the right products, tools, and techniques, you can achieve a variety of styles, from classic spikes to more edgy and textured looks. This ultimate guide should equip you with everything you need to create the perfect spiked hairstyle. So, go ahead, experiment, and have fun with it! Remember, practice makes perfect, and with time and patience, you’ll become a pro at spiking your hair.