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Short Messy Hair Tutorial

Style Story

The Short Messy Cut

A carefree, organised mess.

This short and messy hairstyle is really versatile. It works with all kinds of hairstyles: you can rock this laidback look with either straight or curly hair. This messy haircut only needs Axe Messy Look: Matte Gel and a bit of personality for it to work to its full potential.

No need to be super-precise or make sure every hair is in the right place. The messy haircut is all about a wild and carefree attitude, with just a hint of effort. If you want to go for the full rugged look, team your messy haircut with stubble or a full on beard. 

How it Began

The History

Short, messy hair is a staple look of youth subcultures: from the beat poets of NYC to Southern Californian surfers and skaters. There's just something about being young and free that calls for a short and messy do. 

 
A guy with short messy hair, in profile.

A low maintenance cut with plenty of attitude. Rocking this is easy: keep it short. Wear it messy. Walk out the door. 

Kieron Webb - The London Barber


Learn The Fundamentals

How to

Learn the Fundamentals

  • 01

    Dry

    Start with dry hair. 

  • 02

    Coat

    Evenly coat your hands with Axe Messy Look: Matte Gel.

  • 03

    Define

    Squeeze product through your hair to help define and encourage the texture.

  • 04

    Mess

    Go over your hair with a hairdryer to reshape. Add more product to get really wild and messy.