Fekkai urges men to let their hair say who they are

By Paula Rath
Advertiser Style Writer

Hairstyle consultant Frederic Fekkai demonstrates techniques for Asian men's hair on Richard Kuwada. Deborah Booker • The Honolulu Advertiser

Not to worry, said international style guru Frederic Fekkai as he considered the latest trends in men's hair at a presentation last week — it's a look that works for most men.

At the opposite end of the men's hairstyle spectrum, Fekkai said, there's a trend toward lengthening locks. He sports a healthy head of longer hair, a result of a cameo role he plays in the soon-to-be-released movie "Legally Blonde 2." He can now add movie actor to his list of credits, which include author of the book "A Year of Style," columnist for InStyle magazine, owner of two of the nation's most hip salons (in New York and Beverly Hills), and founder of his own line of hair-care products. Fekkai was in Honolulu to introduce his new men's hair care product line to a group of fashion-savvy men at Neiman Marcus.

When Honolulu real estate man Kendric Wong asked if longer hair has a place in the business world, where people need to take you seriously, Fekkai said yes, as long as the hair has a defined style and does not look neglected. Fekkai advised Wong to grow his hair gracefully by leaving it long on top and trimming the sides and back every six weeks.

Regarding the mullet, (the 'do that's short at the front and long at the back), however, Fekkai politely skirted the issue. "There's a lot to take and a lot to leave. Don't be a fashion victim," he said.

In fact, Fekkai's main message was that men are becoming increasingly courageous when it comes to hair. They're more willing to experiment with color, highlights and innovative styles. "It doesn't look strange any more."

Stars Brad Pitt, Tom Cruise and Colin Farrell have become style icons who change their hair frequently and often set trends.

The look for hair today is "whimsical and effortless. Your hair needs to communicate your personality and lifestyle. It's about attitude, and feeling comfortable and empowered," Fekkai said.

About cowlicks, frequently an issue for Asian men whose hair tends to be coarse, Fekkai advised men to ask their stylist to leave the hair longer where the cowlicks are.

How about receding hairlines? "There are two style options. Implants today are really great — they have improved dramatically. Or a buzz cut to make it less noticeable. But be proactive and take these steps before the hair loss gets too far along."

He cautioned that men whose hair is turning gray often fail to recognize that they need to change the clothing colors they wear as well.

Men are using hair products today more than ever before, Fekkai said. Hairspray can be an asset or an enemy. It can make hair look flat and lifeless or it can add body and movement. The trick is to lift the hair up while spraying so it goes through the hair and doesn't sit on top. (It helps to lean over as far as you can and spray while your head is upside down.)

Another mistake men make is using too much product, whether it's gel, mousse or cream. Fekkai recommends using a tiny amount and then adding as you style. If you put too much on at once, he said, it will defeat its purpose, causing hair to collapse and become dull. A dab of his texturizing balm, for example, can mold hair without adding stiffness.

With something like a finishing cream (meant to add sheen), it's best to add just a tad on the ends of hair, leaving the roots with movement and bounce. "You don't want a clay-sculpture look. Hair should be groomed but lived in," he explained.

He warned that silicone-based products do not work for those who enjoy the beach and ocean sports. They can cause hair to get gummy.

He also said men's hair should be treated differently from women's: Men should use milder shampoos and conditioners because they tend to perspire more and wash more frequently, sometimes several times a day.

With men's increasing involvement with fashion at all levels — hair, skin, clothing and accessories — Fekkai advised men not to hesitate to get help.

"Don't be afraid to go to a personal shopper for wardrobe advice, get a hair consultation from a stylist, check in with a dermatologist. For so many years, women did everything for men. Don't be afraid to ask questions and do all these things for yourself," he said.

Sound advice from one of the world's most eligible bachelors.