Setting a comb over for a refined and lasting look involves careful preparation, precise styling, and specific techniques to manage flyaways and ensure a sleek finish.
Mastering the Classic Comb Over
The comb over is a timeless and versatile hairstyle known for its neat, polished appearance. It typically involves parting the hair on one side and combing the longer top section over to the other side, often tapering or fading the hair on the sides and back.
Essential Tools and Products
To achieve a perfectly set comb over, gather the following:
- Fine-tooth comb: For precise parting and styling.
- Blow dryer: To direct hair and add volume.
- Pre-styling product: Such as sea salt spray or mousse, to add texture and hold before drying.
- Styling product: Pomade, wax, or styling cream, for hold and finish.
- Hairspray: For extra hold and to tame stubborn hairs.
Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Your Comb Over
Follow these steps to style and set your comb over:
1. Start with Clean, Damp Hair
Begin by washing and conditioning your hair. Towel-dry your hair until it's damp, not soaking wet, as this provides the best foundation for styling.
2. Apply Pre-Styling Product
Distribute a small amount of pre-styling product evenly through your damp hair. Use your blow dryer on a medium-heat setting, directing the hair with a brush (like a vent brush or quiff roller) into the general direction it will be combed. This helps to create volume and memory in the hair.
3. Define Your Part
Using your fine-tooth comb, create a clean, straight part on the side where your comb over will originate. You can either follow your natural part or create a new one, ensuring it's sharp and distinct.
4. Apply Your Main Styling Product
Take a dime-sized amount of your chosen styling product (pomade, wax, or cream) and warm it thoroughly between your palms. Apply it evenly through the longer top section of your hair, working from the roots to the ends. Ensure good coverage for consistent hold.
5. Comb Hair Over
Carefully comb the longer section of hair from your part over to the opposite side of your head. Use your comb to smooth out any bumps or inconsistencies, creating a sleek, flowing look. Ensure the hair lays flat and neat against your head.
6. Refine and Set with Hairspray and Comb
For a truly pristine finish and to manage any stray hairs, take your comb and spray a light mist of hairspray directly onto the teeth of the comb, rather than spraying directly into your hair. Then, using the back of the comb, gently push down and smooth any flyaways or loose hairs. You're not actually brushing the hair again, but rather using the comb to precisely guide and secure those smaller strands into place with the applied hairspray for a sleek, polished look. This technique ensures control without saturating your hair.
7. Final Touches
Inspect your comb over from all angles. Use your fingers or the comb to make any final adjustments, ensuring the sides and back are tidy and complement the top section. A final, light mist of hairspray over the entire style can offer extra hold, especially in humid conditions.
Tips for a Long-Lasting Comb Over
- Choose the Right Product: Select styling products that suit your hair type and desired hold. Pomades offer shine and strong hold, while waxes provide a matte finish with flexible hold.
- Don't Over-Apply: Too much product can make your hair look greasy or stiff. Start with a small amount and add more if needed.
- Consider a Professional Cut: A well-executed comb over haircut with appropriate tapering and length variations is essential for easy styling.
- Regular Trims: Keep your comb over looking sharp with regular trims to maintain the shape and reduce split ends.
For a quick reference on product selection:
| Hair Type | Recommended Product | Hold Level | Finish |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine/Thin | Styling Cream, Mousse | Light-Medium | Natural |
| Normal/Medium | Pomade, Wax | Medium-Strong | Shiny-Matte |
| Thick/Coarse | Pomade, Clay | Strong | Matte-Low Shine |
By following these steps and utilizing the specific technique of applying hairspray to your comb for precise flyaway control, you can achieve a perfectly set comb over that looks sharp and stays in place throughout the day.
