Skip to Content

How to Shave a Mohawk: Expert Guide to Punk Rock Style in 10 Easy Steps [2024]

This site is supported by our readers. We may earn a commission, at no cost to you, if you purchase through links.

how to shave a mohawkSo, you wanna shave a mohawk? Awesome! First, decide how wide you want those glorious sideburns.

Use clippers to get rid of the excess hair on the sides and back.

Next, carefully shave the sides using a sharp razor. Trust me, a dull blade is your worst enemy—I learned that the hard way.

For the top, carefully use your clippers and then a razor for a smooth finish. Don’t forget shaving cream! Remember, precision is key. A little patience goes a long way.

Want a perfectly straight line? We’ll cover that in the next section…along with some seriously awesome styling tips. Prepare to become your inner punk rock star!

Table Of Contents

Key Takeaways

  • Gather the right tools including electric clippers, a sharp razor, masking tape, and mirrors to ensure accuracy and precision.
  • Wash and dry your hair thoroughly before beginning to make it manageable and avoid uneven cutting.
  • Use masking tape to outline the mohawk area, helping to maintain symmetry and control during the shaving process.
  • Style your mohawk with strong products like industrial-grade pomade or innovative methods to achieve lasting hold and the desired height.

Preparing for a Mohawk

Preparing for a Mohawk
You’ll need a few trusty sidekicks before you transform into your punk rock alter ego: masking tape (not duct tape, unless you’re into painful DIY waxing), electric clippers, and a couple of mirrors to catch every angle of your soon-to-be masterpiece.

Before you grab those clippers and channel your inner mohawk warrior, make sure you’ve washed and completely dried your hair, unless you’re going for that "I stuck my finger in an electrical socket" look.

Choose The Right Tools

Let’s gather your punk rock arsenal – you’ll need the right tools to rock that mohawk like a pro.

Trust me, this isn’t the time to wing it with kitchen scissors.

You can find the perfect sharp electric clippers and other essential tools at mohawk clippers online stores mohawk clippers.

Here’s what you need:

  1. Sharp electric clippers (with oil) for the heavy lifting
  2. A quality razor for that clean finish
  3. Masking tape (not duct tape, unless you enjoy scalp pain)
  4. Two mirrors for the perfect view

Wash and Dry Your Hair

Now that you’ve got your tools ready, it’s time to give your hair the VIP treatment.

Start with a thorough wash using warm water – not hot enough to cook pasta, but comfortable enough for a nice scalp massage.

Pick a gentle shampoo that won’t strip your hair’s natural oils.

Once you’re done, pat it dry with a towel and let it air dry completely before the main event.

Use a Mirror for Visibility

After your hair’s dry, grab a sturdy mirror setup – you’ll need it unless you’ve got eyes in the back of your head! Here’s how to nail the perfect view:

  1. Position your main mirror at eye level, about arm’s length away
  2. Hold a second mirror behind your head at a 45-degree angle
  3. Check the reflection in your main mirror to see the back
  4. Adjust until you can spot every angle without turning into a contortionist

How to Shave a Mohawk

How to Shave a Mohawk
Before diving into your punk rock transformation, you’ll need to understand the basics of shaving a mohawk.

Think of it as creating your own personal rebellion against boring hairstyles – just with sharper tools.

Getting that perfect mohawk isn’t rocket science, but it does require some prep work and the right approach, including using the right clippers and blade types.

Here’s what you’ll need to kick things off:

  • Electric clippers with fresh, oiled blades
  • A quality razor for the final touches
  • Two mirrors – one handheld and one mounted

Your hair should be clean and completely dry before starting.

Trust me, wet hair clumps up in the clippers faster than a mosh pit forms at a Ramones concert.

And here’s a pro tip: if you’re nervous about going full punk, start with a wider strip – you can always make it narrower later.

It’s way harder to put hair back on!

Applying Masking Tape

You’re about to become best friends with masking tape, the unsung hero that’ll keep you from accidentally shaving off your entire head of hair.

Trust me, without this key step you’ll end up looking less punk rock and more like a patchy disaster that’ll have your mom questioning your life choices.

Tear Off a Long Piece of Tape

Tear Off a Long Piece of Tape
Grabbing the right length of masking tape can make or break your mohawk dreams.

You’ll need enough to run from your eyebrows to the nape of your neck, plus a little extra for good measure.

Here’s what you need to know about tape selection:

Tape Type Best For Avoid
Masking Tape Clean removal Leaving overnight
Painter’s Tape Sensitive scalp Wet hair
Paper Tape Quick styling Strong hold
Medical Tape Emergency fix Long-term use

Center Tape Between Eyebrows

Center Tape Between Eyebrows
While staring into the mirror with steely determination, find that sweet spot between your eyebrows – it’s your center point for mohawk perfection.

Line up the masking tape’s edge right there, making sure it’s dead center.

Think of it like drawing an invisible line down the middle of your face.

If you’re off by even a smidge, your mohawk might end up looking more abstract art than punk rock.

Stick Tape From Forehead to Nape of Neck

Stick Tape From Forehead to Nape of Neck
Now that you’ve got your tape ready, it’s time for the main event.

Press that masking tape firmly against your forehead, right between those eyebrows.

Then, with the steadiness of a brain surgeon, pull it straight back to your neck’s nape.

Don’t worry if it’s not perfect – you can always peel it off and try again.

Just keep it centered like you’re landing a plane.

Clipping Your Hair

Clipping Your Hair
You’re about to transform from average Joe to punk rock pro, and trust me, those clippers aren’t as scary as your mom thinks they are.

Now that you’ve got your tape marking the mohawk’s territory, it’s time to start that satisfying buzz as you clip away the sides with the precision of a punk rock barber who’s had way too much coffee.

Oil Clippers Before Starting

You’ve got your tape line set – let’s get those clippers ready for action.

Before you start buzzing away, give your clippers a few drops of oil.

This keeps them running smooth and prevents them from getting gunked up or overheating.

Plus, oiled clippers slice through hair like butter instead of pulling and tugging.

Think of it as giving your clippers a quick drink before the main event.

Clip Above The Ear in Strokes

Start right above your ear with those clippers, moving in smooth strokes from front to back.

Think of it like mowing a tiny lawn – you’ll want to gradually work your way up toward that taped line.

Keep the clippers steady and parallel to your head, making sure each pass overlaps slightly with the last one.

Trust me, rushing this part is how you end up with a mohawk that looks like a drunk porcupine.

Feel Along The Tape Edge

Feeling along the tape edge while clipping is like having a GPS for your mohawk – it keeps you on track and prevents disasters.

To add some extra lift to your mohawk, consider using root clipping for volume.

Press down firmly on the tape as you go to avoid any sneaky hair slippage.

  • Remember that one time your friend’s mohawk ended up zigzagging? Yeah, let’s avoid that
  • Keep those fingers alert for any tape lifting
  • Think of it as drawing a perfectly straight line
  • Your future punk rock self will thank you for the precision

Shaving Your Mohawk

You’ve taped off your mohawk like a pro, and now it’s time to let loose your inner punk rocker with some serious razor action.

Just remember that while a mohawk screams rebellion, you’ll want to keep those strokes smooth and steady unless you’re going for the ‘attacked by angry squirrels’ look.

Use The Razor’s Sturdy Trimmer

Use The Razor
Now that you’ve got the basic shape down, grab that razor’s trimmer attachment – it’s your new best friend for taming those stubborn spots.

Working in sections, run the trimmer against any remaining hair growth, keeping steady pressure.

Think of it like mowing a tiny lawn on your head.

Pro tip: a quality trimmer will make this process smooth sailing, unlike that time I used safety scissors.

Shave With an L-Shaped Hand Position

Shave With an L-Shaped Hand Position
Position your hand like an ‘L’ – thumb stretched out, fingers wrapped around the razor’s handle.

This grip gives you amazing control while you’re working around your new mohawk’s edges.

Think of it like playing a video game with perfect precision controls.

Keep your movements smooth and steady as you work your way from front to back, always following the natural grain of your hair.

Check for Stubble

Check for Stubble
How can you be sure you’ve nailed that perfect mohawk?

Double-check for sneaky stubble around your crown and neck – these spots love playing hide and seek.

Grab a hand mirror or ask a friend to inspect the back of your head.

Run your fingers against the grain to feel for any missed patches.

Trust me, nothing ruins a mohawk’s edge like random stubble patches.

Styling Your Mohawk

Styling Your Mohawk
You’ve got your mohawk shaved and ready, but let’s be real – nobody wants their punk rock statement looking like a deflated rooster.

To achieve a bold, gravity-defying mohawk, it’s essential to maintain your overall hair health and shape with regular trims, including trimming against the grain. Now it’s time to make that mohawk stand tall and proud with some industrial-grade styling tricks that’ll have your hair defying gravity better than a NASA experiment.

Use Industrial-Grade Pomade

Industrial-grade pomade packs a serious punch when styling your mohawk.

Unlike regular hair products, this heavy-duty stuff is available at rockabilly clubs and specialized shops.

While it’ll keep your spikes standing tall all day, be warned: washing it out can be a real challenge.

Pro tip: apply a thin layer first, then build up gradually – unless you’re going for that "permanent helmet" look.

Try Unconventional Styling Solutions

Looking to get creative with your mohawk?

While some punks swear by rebar (yes, really) or attach helium balloons for that gravity-defying lift, we’ve seen everything from puppet strings to McDonald’s strawberry milkshakes used as styling solutions.

Want a laugh?

Some folks even try talking to their hair, asking it nicely to stand up straight.

Spoiler alert: results may vary wildly.

Consider Hair Gel or Hairspray

For basic mohawk styling, hair gel and hairspray aren’t your best friends.

While they’re easy to find and budget-friendly, they often fall short for serious punk rock looks.

Gel tends to get flaky and droopy after a few hours, while hairspray alone just doesn’t pack enough punch.

You’ll want something stronger if you’re aiming for that gravity-defying spike action.

Maintaining Your Mohawk

Maintaining Your Mohawk
You’ll need to give your mohawk some TLC unless you want it looking like a deflated rooster’s comb after a week.

Keep your punk rock pride standing tall by trimming it regularly, washing it properly, and showing it who’s boss with the right styling products.

Trim Your Mohawk Regularly

Keeping your mohawk looking sharp ain’t rocket science.

To achieve a smooth, clean look, consider using a shaver for the sides and back, following the guidelines of a shaver vs trimmer comparison to find the best tool for your grooming needs.

Regular trims keep it from turning into a hedgehog’s bad hair day.

Grab those clippers or scissors and give it a little snip-snip, especially the sides.

The goal? A taper or fade that shouts, "I mean style business!"

Remember, maintaining mohawk length and shape is key to your punk rock swagger.

Wash Your Hair Properly

Regular trims keep your mohawk sharp, but proper washing is equally important.

Think of it as the foundation of a killer mohawk.

Here’s the lowdown:

  1. Use a shampoo suited for your hair type, and don’t forget to check out [mohawk shampoo products](https://zon.everysimply.com/mohawk+shampoo/dp/ that cater to your specific needs.
  2. Warm water‘s your best bet; avoid scalding your scalp.
  3. Gently towel dry – no harsh rubbing!
  4. Let it air dry completely before styling.

Now that’s a clean slate for your awesome mohawk.

Use a Comb to Style Your Mohawk

Got that Mohawk looking sharp but feeling a bit flat?

Grab a comb, friend.

It’s your trusty ally for that sky-high, rebellious flair.

Start at the roots and swoop upwards, adding style and drama with every pass.

Different comb types can offer fresh angles, so experiment!

You’ll find that perfect balance between chaos and control with just a few strokes.

Common Mohawk Styling Mistakes

Common Mohawk Styling Mistakes
Let’s be real, we’ve all been there—using hair glue instead of pomade and thinking it’ll all work out fine, right?

Keep your mohawk in check by trimming and washing regularly, unless you fancy the "I slept in a dumpster" look.

Using The Wrong Styling Products

Choosing the right products for your mohawk matters.

Hair gel or wax might lead to hair product residue and ineffective hold, turning your style into chaos.

For those with thick or curly hair, consider using a water-based flexible hold styling.

Overuse of hairspray creates product buildup, setting the stage for styling mishaps.

Try pomade sparingly, or you’ll damage those locks.

Keep your mohawk sharp and avoid the “helmet” look with smart product choices.

Not Trimming Your Mohawk Enough

Your mohawk’s looking a bit wild, huh?

Neglecting frequent trims can lead to hair breakage and scalp irritation, not to mention the mohawk shape going from edgy to "what happened here?"

Styling challenges become real when you let it grow unchecked.

Keep those clippers handy and give it the attention it deserves for a standout punk look!

Not Washing Your Hair Properly

Neglecting those trimming sessions? You might also be skipping proper hair hygiene.

Washing your mohawk involves more than a quick rinse.

Product buildup leads to hair damage and even a dry scalp.

Keep your scalp’s health in check—no one wants flaky snow on their black tee.

So, treat your hair right; it deserves regular TLC.

Mohawk Styling Tips and Tricks

Mohawk Styling Tips and Tricks
Ready to rock that mohawk but not getting the height you want?

Try egg whites or a blow dryer for volume,

and don’t be shy—experiment with whatever styling products you’ve got, from gelatin to Grandpa’s stubborn hair pomade.

Use a Blow Dryer for Extra Volume

So, you messed up your mohawk styling? Don’t sweat it, we all do. Let’s fix that!

A blow dryer can be your new best friend. It’s a secret weapon for volume.

Here’s how to use it like a pro:

  1. Use a low heat setting to avoid hair damage.
  2. Lift sections of your mohawk with a comb.
  3. Direct the blow dryer upward, aiming for the roots.
  4. For extra hold, use a cool shot after.

See? Easy peasy, lemon squeezy! Now, rock that mohawk!

Try Using Egg Whites or Gelatin

Ever considered cracking an egg on your head? Not for breakfast, but for styling your mohawk.

Egg whites and gelatin might sound like kitchen chaos, but they’re serious contenders in the mohawk styling hacks arena.

Check out this handy table on the pros and cons:

Ingredient Pros Cons
Egg Whites Natural hold, vegan option Can smell funky, messy
Gelatin Strong hold Long setting time, sticky

Happy styling!

Experiment With Different Styling Products

After playing with egg whites and gelatin, it’s time to experiment with different styling products for your mohawk.

Maybe swap that bland gel for something bold.

Try these alternatives:

  • Wax: Offers great hold and flex.
  • Pomade: Perfect for that shiny, rockabilly look.
  • Hairspray: For volume without the stickiness.
  • Gorilla Glue: When in doubt, stick it up.
  • McDonald’s Milkshake: Don’t knock it till you try it!

Finishing Touches

Finishing Touches
You’ve made it through the wild world of shaving your mohawk, but let’s not forget the cleanup—because nothing says punk rock like itchy hair bits in your shirt, right?

So tidy up, change out of your hair-confetti-covered clothes, and take a moment to admire your rebellious new look.

Clean Up Your Workspace

With your mohawk nearing perfection, let’s tackle that mess.

Before we begin, make sure your shaving razor is in top condition to achieve a smooth finish, check out some options for a shaving razor replacement.

Snip off and toss stray hair, because nobody wants to trip in their own hair salon.

Sweep away bits and double-check your gear.

Razor, electric clippers, and masking tape—give ’em a quick wipe.

A clean workspace means smooth DIY haircuts and keeps your mojo intact.

Change Your Shirt to Avoid Itchy Hairs

You’ve cleaned up the workspace, but don’t let itchy hairs stick around like unwanted guests. Change your shirt before it becomes a porcupine prison.

If you’re experiencing itchiness while shaving, consider using a beard care kit for itchy beards to soothe and calm your skin.

Check these steps:

  1. Find your old, comfy tee—it’s about to get hairy.
  2. Put your new shirt on over an old one for easy swap.
  3. Tug off the outer shirt carefully.
  4. Toss it into the wash.

Feel the itch-free freedom!

Enjoy Your Finished Mohawk

With your new mohawk standing tall, you’re ready to rock the world.

Its rebellious stance says more about your style and less about following rules.

Now, just remember, this haircut‘s like a pet—needs some love and maintenance.

So flaunt it confidently, care for it regularly, and let your inner punk soar.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can you cut your own hair into a Mohawk?

Imagine sculpting your own wild creation—yes, you can cut your own hair into a mohawk!

Grab those clippers, tape, and a mirror.

It’s all about control, practice, and a sprinkle of audacious flair.

How do you put a Mohawk on your hair?

Start with clean, dry hair and place masking tape from your forehead to the neck center.

Use clippers to trim sides, shave the edges smoothly, then style using gels or unconventional products like Elmer’s glue for lasting hold.

How do you shave a Mohawk?

Prepping for a mohawk shave is like getting ready for battle.

Tape your path, clip and shave along the line, and remember—a second mirror’s your best ally.

Then, bask in the rebellious glory you’ve created.

How to cut a Mohawk?

Grab your electric clippers, mask off the center strip with masking tape, and clip the sides back to front.

Mohawk

Use a razor for the clean cut, and make sure to admire that perfect mohawk.

How do you make a Mohawk look good?

Did you know 75% of hairstylists believe confidence is key to rocking a mohawk?

Embrace bold styles with products like industrial pomade.

Add a dash of humor with creative solutions—think helium balloons or even milkshake styling!

How do you comb a Mohawk?

Comb your mohawk? Easy peasy!

Just use a wide-tooth comb, starting from the base and gently working your way up.

Avoid yanking; you don’t want to lose any precious spikes!

Keep it neat, and rock that awesome ‘do.

What Are the Best Tools for Cutting a Mohawk?

You’ll want electric clippers for the main cut and a steady hand mirror for those tricky angles.

Don’t forget a trusty electric razor for smooth edges and some quality masking tape to guide your masterpiece.

How Long Should I Let the Bleach Sit on My Hair When Dyeing My Mohawk?

Leave the bleach on your mohawk for 20-30 minutes, depending on how light you want it.

Keep checking every 5-10 minutes to avoid a hair disaster.

Remember, crispy fried hair isn’t the look anyone’s going for!

How Often Should I Trim My Mohawk?

Keep your mohawk fresh by trimming it every 2-3 weeks.

It keeps the style sharp and manageable without turning into a wild, untamed beast.

Plus, regular trims help avoid those awkward "bad hair day" situations.

What is the Best Way to Style My Mohawk to Make It Last Longer?

Think of your mohawk like a rebellious skyscraper needing solid foundation.

Use industrial-grade pomade or Gorilla Glue for ultimate hold.

A dash of humor: if all else fails, insist your mohawk politely stays up.

Is It Necessary to Wash My Hair Before Dyeing It?

You don’t always need to wash your hair before dyeing it, but slightly dirty hair can protect your scalp from irritation.

Slightly dirty hair can help protect your scalp from irritation.

If it’s extremely greasy or has residue, a light wash won’t hurt.

Can you cut your own mohawk?

Cutting your own mohawk isn’t rocket science.

Start with masking tape for alignment, clip away the sides with electric clippers, and then shave the rest to shine.

Keep mirrors handy, and embrace your inner rockstar!

How do you get a perfect mohawk?

Want that perfect mohawk?

Prep your hair, use masking tape as a guide, carefully shave the sides, and style it with your favorite product – maybe even a milkshake?

Don’t forget the mirror!

How to cut a mohawk with tape?

Over a million people experiment with hair but not all dare the tape trick for mohawks.

Start by placing a masking tape strip from brow to neck, ensuring symmetry, then clip along the tape’s edge—simple yet bold!

What is the proper haircut for a mohawk?

You want a mohawk that screams rebellion and style?

Start by shaving the sides evenly with clippers, then trim the top to your desired length.

Use mirrors, or better yet, a friend, to keep it straight.

How long does a mohawk usually last?

A mohawk lasts about 2-4 weeks, depending on how quickly your hair grows and how well you maintain it.

Frequent trims and touch-ups help keep it sharp, while time slowly turns it into just another hairstyle.

Can a mohawk damage your hair?

Coincidentally, a mohawk won’t damage your hair unless you go overboard with harsh styling products or frequent shaving.

Just remember, hair can grow back, so feel free to experiment without worrying about long-term effects!

Is a mohawk suitable for all hair types?

Not every hair type is mohawk-friendly.

Fine hair might struggle to stand tall, while extra curly hair could resist shaping.

But if you’re determined, a truckload of product or some creative solutions might help!

How can I make my mohawk look thicker?

Wishful thinking won’t make your mohawk thicker, but using volumizing shampoo and conditioner sure will.

Volumizing shampoo and conditioner will help make your mohawk thicker.

Blow-dry with a round brush for max lift, tease the roots, and finish with a strong-hold hairspray for that big, bold look.

Blow-drying with a round brush, teasing the roots, and using a strong-hold hairspray will help you achieve that big, bold look.

What should I avoid eating before styling?

Avoid anything messy, like spaghetti. Seriously, you don’t want sauce dripping down your freshly-shaved head. Keep it simple; a light snack is your best bet. Trust me on this one.

Conclusion

Shaving a mohawk is like riding a roller coaster—thrilling, a bit intimidating, but totally worth the ride.

With these steps, you’ll rock that punk style in no time.

Remember, how to shave a mohawk is about precision, creativity, and a touch of rebellious spirit.

Keep those lines sharp and style it like you mean it.

You’ll nail the look but also have a blast doing it.

Now, express your inner punk and flaunt that mohawk!

Avatar for Mutasim Sweileh

Mutasim Sweileh

Mutasim is a published author and software engineer and beard care expert from the US. To date, he has helped thousands of men make their beards look better and get fatter. His work has been mentioned in countless notable publications on men's care and style and has been cited in Seeker, Wikihow, GQ, TED, and Buzzfeed.