Looking for a sharp, modern style that stands out? Undercut hairstyles for men have dominated barbershops for good reason. We’ve seen this versatile cut evolve from its edgy origins to become a mainstream favorite that works for virtually any hair type and face shape.
Whether you’re considering a classic disconnected undercut, a slicked-back variation, or something more creative with designed patterns, we’ll guide you through the best options for your personal style. The beauty of the undercut lies in its adaptability—keep it professional for work and transform it for weekend adventures with just a touch of styling product.
What Is an Undercut? Understanding the Classic Men’s Hairstyle
The undercut hairstyle is characterized by short or buzzed sides and back with significantly longer hair on top, creating a stark contrast between the two lengths. This distinctive style features a visible disconnection between the top and sides rather than the graduated blend seen in traditional haircuts. Men’s undercuts gained massive popularity during the 2010s but actually have roots dating back to the 1920s and 1930s when they were common among working-class men.
At its core, an undercut involves shaving or cutting the sides and back of the head very short (typically with clippers set between #1-4) while leaving the top section substantially longer. The top hair can be styled in countless ways—slicked back, combed over, tousled, or even left natural—which contributes to the versatility that’s made this cut so enduringly popular among men of all ages.
What distinguishes a true undercut from other short-sided hairstyles is the deliberate lack of tapering or fading between the top and sides. This creates a bold, dramatic look with clean lines and defined sections that make a striking statement. The style works exceptionally well for men with straight to wavy hair textures, though variations exist for nearly every hair type.
Modern interpretations of the undercut often incorporate elements like fades, hard parts, or textured tops, but the fundamental concept remains the same: short sides with longer top hair creating a noticeable contrast. We’ve seen this style adopted by celebrities, athletes, and fashion-forward individuals across diverse settings, from corporate offices to creative industries.
10 Most Popular Undercut Hairstyles for Men in 2023
Classic Disconnected Undercut
The Classic Disconnected Undercut features a striking contrast between tightly clippered sides and back with longer hair on top. This versatile style suits most face shapes, particularly helping to slim down round faces while not adding height to rectangular ones. Men with receding hairlines often opt for this style as it provides excellent coverage and draws attention away from problem areas. Styling requires minimal effort – simply apply some pomade or wax and shape the top hair according to your preference.
Slicked Back Undercut
Slicked Back Undercuts offer a sophisticated, polished appearance that works wonderfully in both professional and casual settings. This style involves combing the longer top hair straight back using pomade or gel for a sleek finish. The clean contrast between the slicked top and short sides creates a timeless look that’s remained popular for years. For best results, apply product to damp hair and use a fine-toothed comb to achieve that perfect, smooth finish.
Textured Pompadour Undercut
Textured Pompadour Undercuts combine modern styling with classic appeal by adding volume and height at the front. The hair on top is styled upward and backward, creating a dramatic elevation that makes this style particularly eye-catching. Using texturizing pastes or clays enhances the dimensional quality of this cut, giving it movement and definition. This style works exceptionally well for men wanting to add perceived height to their appearance or create a statement look.
Side-Swept Undercut
Side-Swept Undercuts feature top hair that’s styled directionally across the head, creating an asymmetrical, ever-changing appearance. This adaptable style suits various face shapes and can be customized based on how dramatic you want the sweep to be. Styling requires blow-drying the hair in your desired direction and setting it with a medium-hold product. The versatility of this cut allows for both neat, professional styling or more relaxed, casual looks depending on the occasion.
Faded Undercut
Faded Undercuts incorporate a gradual transition in length from the top down to the sides and back. The seamless blend creates a sophisticated gradient effect that can be customized as a high, medium, or low fade depending on personal preference. This modern variation adds refinement to the traditional undercut, making it perfect for men who want a cleaner, more subtle transition. Faded styles require regular maintenance to keep the gradient looking sharp but offer a more nuanced alternative to the stark contrast of classic undercuts.
Undercut with Long Top
Undercuts with Long Top maximize the contrast between short sides and significantly longer hair above. This dramatic style allows for extensive versatility in styling the top section – from flowing quiffs to pompadours or even just letting it fall naturally. The length on top creates many styling possibilities, making this perfect for men who enjoy changing their look frequently. This bold style works particularly well for those with thick, manageable hair that can hold shape and volume.
Curly Undercut
Curly Undercuts embrace natural texture by keeping curly or wavy hair longer on top while maintaining clean, short sides. This style gained important popularity during the COVID era as men sought ways to add visual interest and dimension to their hairstyles. The natural volume of curls creates an automatic statement look without requiring extensive styling. Using lightweight curl-improving products helps define the texture while preventing frizz or heaviness in the style.
Undercut with Hard Part
Undercuts with Hard Parts feature a sharp, shaved line that creates a definitive break between the top section and the sides. This precise detailing adds architecture and intentionality to the style, creating a clean, edgy aesthetic. The hard part serves as a styling guide, making daily maintenance simpler since hair naturally falls along the defined line. This distinctive element works well for men who appreciate structured, precise grooming and want a style with built-in character.
Messy Textured Undercut
Messy Textured Undercuts combine the clean sides of an undercut with deliberately tousled, textured hair on top. This effortless-looking style projects a casual confidence that’s perfect for everyday wear. Styling involves using matte products like clay, paste, or putty to create piece-y definition without stiffness or shine. The undone quality makes this ideal for men who prefer natural-looking styles that don’t appear overly groomed or require frequent touch-ups throughout the day.
Man Bun with Undercut
Man Buns with Undercuts perfectly balance practicality with style by combining short sides with longer top hair that can be pulled back into a bun. This functional style keeps hair off the face while maintaining a fashionable edge that works across various settings. The contrast between the tied-up section and the clean undercut creates a distinctive silhouette that stands out from conventional cuts. This style offers flexibility – wear it down for a different look or up when convenience is needed.
How to Ask Your Barber for the Perfect Undercut
Walking into the barbershop with clear communication skills can make all the difference in getting your ideal undercut. We’ve compiled essential tips to help you effectively convey your undercut vision to your barber.
Key Terminology to Know
Undercut refers to a haircut with shorter sides and back while maintaining longer hair on top, creating a distinctive contrast. When discussing length and layers, be exact about your preferences—whether you want “medium length on top” or “long hair on top” with particular layering. The term fade describes how the hair transitions on the sides, with options like “high and tight,” “medium fade,” or “skin fade” that your barber will understand immediately. Blending indicates whether you prefer a seamless transition from the undercut to the top or a more defined line of demarcation between the two sections. Your preferred styling approach matters too—terms like “slicked-back,” “pompadour,” or “messy texture” help communicate your vision for the finished look.
When speaking with your barber, describe the exact style you’re seeking with phrases like “I’m looking for a medium undercut with a slicked-back style.” Specify precise lengths by saying something like “I want the sides buzzed close to the head and about 4-5 inches on top.” Detail your fade preference clearly: “I’d like a high fade with a clean line” or “A medium fade that blends into the longer hair.” Don’t forget to mention texture requirements: “I’d like some layers to add volume” or “I prefer a messy, textured look on top.”
Visual References to Bring
Pictures serve as the most effective communication tool when visiting your barber. Bring images of exact undercut styles from magazines, websites, or social media that match your desired look. A slicked-back undercut photo demonstrates how the longer top hair is smoothly styled backward, highlighting the contrast with shorter sides. Pompadour undercut images show voluminous hair swept upward and back, paired with clean undercut sides for a dramatic effect. Man bun undercut pictures display shaved sides with sufficient length on top to gather into a stylish bun.
Hairstyle guides and tutorial screenshots can provide technical details that photos alone might miss. These references help barbers understand styling techniques and final outcomes you’re hoping to achieve. Video tutorials showing how to style a spiky undercut or slick back quiff can give your barber insight into not just the cut you want but how you plan to wear it day-to-day. Using both terminology and visual aids ensures your barber has a comprehensive understanding of your undercut vision.
Best Hair Products for Styling Undercut Hairstyles
The right hair products can transform your undercut from ordinary to extraordinary. We’ve compiled the essential styling products to help you achieve salon-quality results at home.
Pomades and Waxes
Water-based pomades stand out as the top choice for undercut hairstyles, particularly for achieving a slicked-back look. These products provide excellent hold without making your hair feel stiff or unnatural, allowing for restyling throughout the day. Bed Head for Men by TIGI Slick Trick has gained popularity among men who prefer slicking their hair to one side with a refined comb finish. Pomades work exceptionally well for comb-over long undercuts, creating that sleek, smooth appearance that defines the style. Unlike traditional oil-based alternatives, water-based pomades wash out easily while still delivering the shine and control needed for a polished undercut.
Sea Salt Sprays
Sea salt sprays offer a perfect solution for adding texture and volume to longer hair on top of an undercut. These products create natural-looking waves and movement, mimicking the effortless beach-tousled effect that works particularly well with textured undercut styles. Applying sea salt spray to damp hair before blow-drying can enhance volume and create definition in your longer top section. Men with wavy or slightly curly hair on top will find sea salt sprays especially beneficial for improving their natural texture while maintaining the contrast between the short sides and textured top of an undercut hairstyle.
Matte Products
Reuzel Clay Matte Pomade delivers outstanding results for men who prefer a natural, non-shiny finish to their undercut styles. This product provides strong hold while creating a more understated, contemporary appearance that’s become increasingly popular in modern undercut variations. Firm-hold gels like AXE Adrenaline Spiked Up Look: Extreme Hold Gel work effectively on the sides of half-up knot undercuts to prevent unwanted spikes and maintain a clean aesthetic. Combining different products often yields the best results for medium and long undercut hairstyles—applying firm-hold gel to the sides and a matte product on top helps maintain structural integrity while adding desired texture. Your exact undercut style, hair length, and personal preferences about hold strength and finish should eventually guide your product selection.
How to Maintain Your Undercut Between Barber Visits
Regular Trims
Regular maintenance is essential for keeping your undercut looking sharp. We recommend scheduling professional trims every 2-3 weeks to maintain those clean lines and fresh fades. Without consistent trimming, the contrast between the longer top and short sides—which defines the undercut style—begins to blur, making your hairstyle lose its distinctive edge and polished appearance.
At-Home Styling
Proper at-home styling techniques can extend the life of your undercut between barber visits. Always use a hand mirror to check all angles of your haircut, ensuring the sides and back remain even and well-defined. Styling damp hair rather than dry hair yields better results and gives you more control over the final look. When applying styling products, distribute them evenly from the roots to the ends for a consistent, professional-looking finish.
Product Usage
Choosing the right products based on your exact hair type dramatically impacts how your undercut looks and lasts. For straight hair, opt for stronger hold options like high-hold pomades that will keep your style locked in place throughout the day. Curly-haired men should select lighter, moisture-rich products that enhance natural texture without weighing down their curls. Sea salt sprays work wonderfully for adding natural-looking texture and volume to any undercut style, giving it that effortless yet intentional appearance.
Tools
The right styling tools make maintaining your undercut significantly easier. A blow dryer with a concentrator nozzle offers precision styling capabilities that can help recreate that fresh-from-the-barber look. For textured undercut styles, use your blow dryer on a lower heat setting to avoid damaging your hair while still achieving the desired effect. Many men with undercuts find that letting their hair air-dry after applying styling products creates a more relaxed, natural finish for casual days.
Daily Maintenance
Daily styling is non-negotiable for keeping your undercut looking its best. For a sleek, slicked-back undercut, use a comb and a small amount of styling product to create a polished appearance. Textured undercut styles require a different approach—apply a minimal amount of product and use your fingers to create definition and movement. Taking just a few minutes each morning to style your undercut properly will maintain its shape and impact between professional appointments.
Growing Out Your Undercut
Transitioning phases can be challenging when you’re growing out an undercut. Focus on styling the longer top hair creatively to draw attention away from any uneven growth at the sides and back. Volumizing products can be particularly helpful during this awkward phase, creating the illusion of a more balanced look. Strategic styling techniques like textured waves or deliberately messy top styles can effectively mask the growing-out process while still looking intentional and stylish.
Celebrities Rocking the Undercut Hairstyle
The undercut hairstyle has gained massive popularity in men’s fashion, with many celebrities embracing this versatile look. These influential figures have helped transform the undercut from a trendy choice to a timeless classic. Let’s explore some of the most notable male celebrities who have made the undercut their signature style.
- Justin Bieber has significantly contributed to the undercut’s widespread popularity among younger generations. His constantly evolving version of this hairstyle demonstrates its adaptability and contemporary appeal, making it a go-to choice for his fans worldwide.
- David Beckham turned the undercut into a fashion statement with his sophisticated take on the style. The soccer legend’s polished approach shows how an undercut can work perfectly in both casual and formal settings, cementing its status as a versatile option for style-conscious men.
- Zayn Malik regularly showcases different variations of the undercut, pairing it with his evolving fashion sense. His creative styling techniques have inspired countless men to experiment with this cut, proving its flexibility across various looks and personal aesthetics.
- Brad Pitt brought Hollywood credibility to the undercut, sporting the style in several blockbuster films. His adoption of the hairstyle demonstrates how it can enhance masculine features while maintaining a sophisticated edge that works both on-screen and in everyday life.
- Justin Timberlake proves the undercut’s cross-generational appeal through his modern interpretation of the style. The singer-actor’s approach shows how this haircut can evolve with changing trends while retaining its fundamental appeal across different age groups and professional backgrounds.
- Zac Efron frequently opts for an undercut to complement his well-known image. His red carpet appearances featuring this hairstyle have further boosted its popularity and showcased its suitability for high-profile events and casual settings alike.
These celebrities have played a crucial role in establishing the undercut as a staple in contemporary men’s hairstyling. Their diverse interpretations highlight the cut’s remarkable versatility and enduring popularity across different fashion sensibilities and age demographics.
Choosing the Right Undercut for Your Face Shape
When selecting an undercut hairstyle, your face shape plays a crucial role in determining which variation will flatter your features best. We’ve compiled face-shape exact recommendations to help you find your perfect undercut match.
Oval Face Shape
Oval faces are blessed with versatility and can successfully rock most undercut variations. These naturally balanced proportions work exceptionally well with:
- Pompadour Undercut: This classic style creates impressive volume on top while maintaining clean undercut sides, adding height that complements oval faces perfectly.
- Man Bun Undercut: The combination of shaved sides with longer top hair gathered into a bun offers an edgy yet sophisticated option that enhances oval face proportions.
Square Face Shape
Square faces feature strong jawlines and angular features that benefit from styles that soften these defined lines:
- Undercut with a Quiff: Styling the top hair into a quiff creates wavy strands that balance the sharp angles of a square face while maintaining a masculine edge.
- Curly Blowout Taper: Adding texture and volume on top with curly or wavy hair helps soften a square jawline while the undercut sides keep the look clean and contemporary.
Round Face Shape
Round faces need hairstyles that add height and create the illusion of more angular features:
- Mohawk Undercut: The dramatic contrast between shaved sides and a center strip of longer hair visually elongates round faces and adds a bold statement to your look.
- Pompadour Undercut: Volume and height on top counterbalance fullness in the cheeks, making this an ideal choice for round face shapes looking to create more definition.
Triangular Face Shape
Triangular faces (with narrower foreheads and wider jawlines) require styles that balance these proportions:
- Mullet Undercut: Keeping length at the back while maintaining short sides helps offset a broader jawline and creates a more harmonious overall appearance.
- Undercut with Long Top: Wearing the top hair with some length and styling it to one side draws attention upward, balancing wider jaw features.
Heart-Shaped Face
Heart-shaped faces (wider at the forehead, narrower at the chin) benefit from styles that add balance to the lower portion of the face:
- Undercut with Volume at the Back: Adding fullness toward the back helps create the illusion of width in the lower portion of the face.
- Natural Afro with Bald Fade: This striking combination adds dimension to the sides while the natural texture on top creates balanced proportions.
Hair texture significantly impacts how your undercut will look, with options available for straight, wavy, and curly hair types. Maintenance requirements vary between styles, with some like the pompadour undercut demanding more styling effort, while others such as the man bun undercut offer more convenience for daily wear.
By matching your undercut to your face shape, you’ll enhance your natural features and achieve a customized look that works perfectly for your unique characteristics.
Conclusion: Is the Undercut Right for You?
The undercut remains one of the most adaptable and striking men’s hairstyles available today. From celebrities to everyday style enthusiasts this versatile cut offers something for every face shape hair type and personal style.
Whether you’re drawn to a classic disconnected look or prefer a textured pompadour the key to a successful undercut lies in clear communication with your barber and consistent maintenance. With the right styling products and techniques you’ll keep your undercut looking sharp between appointments.
We’ve seen how this iconic style has evolved while maintaining its fundamental appeal. For men seeking a hairstyle that balances bold individuality with timeless sophistication the undercut continues to be an excellent choice that’s both fashion-forward and practical.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is an undercut hairstyle?
An undercut is a hairstyle characterized by short or buzzed sides and back with significantly longer hair on top, creating a stark contrast. This distinctive style features a visible disconnection between the top and sides. While it has roots dating back to the 1920s and 1930s, it gained massive popularity in the 2010s and remains a versatile option for men of all ages.
How often should I get my undercut trimmed?
You should get your undercut trimmed every 2-3 weeks to maintain its sharp appearance. The short sides grow out quickly and can lose their definition, making regular maintenance essential for keeping the distinct contrast between the top and sides that defines this style. Between professional trims, you can use clippers at home to touch up the sides and back.
Which celebrities have popularized the undercut?
Several celebrities have helped popularize the undercut, including David Beckham, Justin Bieber, Zayn Malik, Brad Pitt, Justin Timberlake, and Zac Efron. Each has showcased unique interpretations of the style, demonstrating its versatility across different fashion sensibilities and age demographics. Their influence has helped establish the undercut as a timeless classic in men’s fashion.
What are the most popular undercut styles in 2023?
The most popular undercut styles in 2023 include the Classic Disconnected Undercut, Slicked Back Undercut, Textured Pompadour Undercut, Curly Undercut, and Man Bun with Undercut. Other trending variations include faded undercuts, side-part undercuts, and textured crop undercuts. Each style offers unique options for personal expression while maintaining the fundamental short sides and longer top.
How do I choose the right undercut for my face shape?
Choose your undercut based on your face shape: oval faces suit most styles, particularly pompadour undercuts; square faces benefit from textured tops with short sides; round faces look best with height on top like mohawk undercuts; triangular faces work well with fuller tops and tight sides; and heart-shaped faces are complemented by slicked-back styles that add balance to the forehead and chin.
What products should I use to style my undercut?
The best products for styling undercuts depend on your desired finish. Use water-based pomades for slicked-back looks, sea salt sprays for texture and volume, and matte clay products for natural appearances. Popular options include Bed Head for Men by TIGI Slick Trick and Reuzel Clay Matte Pomade. Consider your specific style, hair length, and personal preferences when selecting products.
How do I communicate what I want to my barber?
To communicate effectively with your barber, use specific terminology such as lengths (e.g., “#2 on the sides”), fade types, and styling preferences. Bring visual references like photos or hairstyle guides to illustrate your desired look. Clearly explain whether you want a hard or soft disconnect between the top and sides, and discuss how you plan to style the top portion.
Can I maintain my undercut at home between barber visits?
Yes, you can maintain your undercut at home between barber visits. Use clippers with proper guard sizes to touch up the sides and back. A hand mirror helps ensure evenness when trimming the back. Style damp hair for better control, and choose products based on your hair type—strong hold options for straight hair and moisture-rich products for curly hair.
Is an undercut suitable for all hair types?
Yes, undercuts are versatile and can work with all hair types. Straight hair provides a clean, defined look, while wavy or curly hair adds interesting texture to the top. Fine hair benefits from the volume contrast an undercut creates, and thick hair becomes more manageable with shorter sides. Your barber can customize the undercut to complement your specific hair texture and density.
How do I grow out an undercut if I want to change styles?
Growing out an undercut requires patience and strategic styling. During the awkward phase, consider a mid-fade to blend the disconnection, use styling products to direct hair growth, and experiment with side parts to manage uneven length. Trimming the top slightly while allowing the sides to catch up creates a more balanced look. Regular maintenance trims help keep the style looking intentional during transition.
