I was on my way to an event in NYC when I looked over at the cab driver and saw his neck hair was long enough to consider his hairstyle a mullet. *pause* Yep, that long.

Now, I completely understand that neck hair can get long in-between haircuts, but allowing it to grow to the point where it’s fighting your neck for space in your shirt is UNACCEPTABLE.

Quick remedy, consider a tapered neckline (See post: Men’s neckline choices: Squared, Rounded, or Tapered). With this option, the back hairline will grow out in a manner that keeps the style looking neater longer. If you happen to be one of the many men who struggle with a fast growing neckline, ask you barber to work out a deal for you where you can come in for a quick clean-up between haircuts. Or, worst case scenario, you can ask a friend, girlfriend, wife (you get the picture) to trim the area with a pair of trimmers. Hey, it doesn’t matter the method you choose, just choose one!

Trust me, it will be worth your “visual” while!

I think there are a few places where over styled hair actually works, for example: a photo shoot, an audition, a Halloween party… anywhere else, it just looks like you’re trying too hard. Trust me, I’m the last guy that’ll steer you away from trying your best to look good. Just know that “looking too good” has it’s disadvantages.

1. The “I’m too sexy effect” – Sometimes looking like you spend more than 5 minutes in front of mirror scares women into the thinking that you couldn’t possibly have time for them.
2. The “Too much to handle effect” – Ever had to deal will high expectations? Well, that is the type of pressure you’re putting on yourself in order to maintain this look. Tone it down and it’ll make it easier to handle.
3. The “Winter effect” – Over styled hair usually requires the over-use of products. Since product build-up is one of the leading causes for dandruff, toning it down will definitely reduce potential embarrassment.

So there you have it. In this case, taking it down a notch makes for a win-win situation.

I think we all know of at least one person who’s losing their hair.

So what are your options? Pills, potions, plugs, surgery or simply shave it off are clear options. But what if there was a procedure that didn’t require the scarring of surgery, created a realistic hairline, and provided effective results? Well, there is!

The new ARTAS system by Restoration Robotics Inc., is a minimally invasive way to perform a hair restoration procedure that doesn’t create the permanent scarring seen in the current procedure - strip harvesting. In fact, patients are able to go back to work after 2-3 days! I had the opportunity to speak with Dr. James Harris, one of the medical advisors for this new procedure, and here’s how he explains it.

Hair restoration  moves healthy, functioning follicles to the areas of the patient’s scalp most impacted by baldness- this procedure is called follicular harvesting and is normally done by hand. The new ARTAS system performs this procedure faster and much more accurately with the use of an image-guided robotic arm. This allows for significantly reduced procedure time and costs, not to mention the ability for the system to recreate a more realistic hairline due to it’s pin-point accuracy.

Here are three things that really stood out for me.

1. The current strip harvesting procedure take 8 – 10 hours to complete, with a week and a half recovery time. The ARTAS system cuts the time in half and gets you back to work in 2 days! 
2. Men that have had the strip harvesting procedure can use the ARTAS system to cover-up their existing scar.
3. FDA approved, with evident results within 5-6 months!

For more information, contact Dr. James Harris  - information@hsccolorado.com

Tell him Craig the Barber sent you!

See below to see before & after pics!

Ever notice how quickly your hair conditioner finishes in comparison to your shampoo?

But here’s what you need to know. Your hair conditioner does not need to lather in order for it to work… It’s purpose is to replace the oils lost in the scalp due to the cleansing action of your shampoo. So believe me when I say this, “a little goes a long way!”

With that in mind, the next time you find your hair conditioner bottle starting to weigh less than your shampoo… just ease up a bit.

Your wallet will thank you!

Every guy gets one… right? Somewhere, right now, there are guys describing their desired haircut to their barbers. And for good reason, because every guy wants their haircut to look good on them.

There are generally 2 schools of thought about haircuts…

• A haircut is supposed to compliment your overall style.
• A haircut is supposed to dictate your overall style.

Personally, I side more with #1 because the average man has only two wardrobe styles – (1) going out & (2) work. Not to mention, for many there is no “wiggle room” in their corporate dress code, so the hairstyle typically follows suit making the “going out” hairstyle virtually the same as the “work” one.

Whatever your position, your haircut is something you should be proud of. So make sure you wear it because it fits you (See: Face Shapes Guide), and not because you saw it in a magazine.

Of course hair-loss is an unfortunate situation, but what’s even more unfortunate is not realizing what this style can do to your overall look!

What this guy and so many men don’t realize, is that maintaining this hairstyle not only brings greater attention to the bald spot, but it can also make your face seem longer than it really is!

So what’s the solution? Trim it down. Bring the “focal point” back to where it belongs, your eyes! A low buzz cut will give a truer definition of your face-shape and it will keep the onlookers from peering at the top of your head.

Give it a try! Trust me, you’ll notice many more people looking in your eyes as you talk as opposed to your shiny dome.

Even though hair-loss can be attributed to diet, stress and genetics, this list can definitely help you as you fight the good fight!

Copper – Strengthens the hair and prevents hair loss.  Can be found in shellfish, green vegetables, eggs, beans and chicken.

Inositol- Promote follicle health.  Can be found in whole grains and citrus fruits.

Iron - Prevents hair loss and anemia. Can be found in eggs, fish, chicken, whole grains, green vegetables, and dried fruits.

Vitamin B3 (Niacin) – Improves scalp circulation. Can be found in fish, chicken, turkey, and other meats.

Potassium – Promotes circulation and helps hair growth. Can be found in bananas, brown rice, garlic, nuts, dried fruits, raisins, and yogurt.

Selenium – Promotes scalp health.  Can be found in fish, whole grains, certain meats, and broccoli.

Chromium – Helps regulate blood sugar levels, which affects hair loss.  Can be found in beef and whole wheat bread.

*For a complete list…Click here

But as much as it’s fun, the chlorine in the water can sometimes make it a downer for your hair. So here’s a quick Q & A, that can shed a little light.

Q:  I’m in a chlorinated pool for about 4 to 6 hours every day because of my job. What should I use on my hair and how often? — Daniel

A:  Four to 6 hours a day in a chlorinated pool can do a number to your hair’s cuticle, its protective coat. The chemical strips the natural oils (sebum) from the hair and scalp that normally keep them conditioned.

The best way to prevent continuous damage is to apply a conditioner to your hair (preferably a swimmer’s conditioner) and wear a swim cap. This will create a protective barrier from any water that may enter your cap, and will also maintain proper moisture balance. Afterwards rinse using tap water and shampoo with a swimmer’s shampoo. In your case, this should be done daily to maintain proper hair balance. Pick a swimmer’s shampoo that contains sodium thiosulfate, which is used to neutralize chlorine and prevent hair discoloration, and follow up with a conditioner.

Here’s a great Swimmer’s Shampoo & Conditioner that will get the job done!

• UltraSwim Chlorine Removal Shampoo
• UltraSwim Ultra Repair Conditioner

*Source: Ask the Hair Experts at MensHealth.com

First impressions are lasting ones and looking your best speaks volumes! So, here are a few tips on how to make your “big day” your best looking day.

(1). Get your haircut 2-3 days before the big day. A fresh haircut is always a great look, however, in pictures a 2-3 day old haircut can look even better! For one, it’s kinder on the lenses and you look more natural. Also, freshly cut hairstyles can be a distraction to your interviewer when trying to land that perfect job.

(2). Shave the night before in order to calm any potential irritation; however, if shaving the next day is needed (potential beard shadow), shave only with the grain. Irritation shows up when you least expect it, so for big days always expect it, that way you can take the necessary steps to avoid it.

(3). Remember my manicure post? Well, any big day is going to require well manicured hands. However, in an interview, steer clear of high-buff fingernails. A shiny distraction while expressing yourself in an interview will absolutely draw attention away from the dialogue you’re having (save it for when you get the job!).

(4). Lastly, there is a thin line between a lasting “subtle” fragrance and lasting “overbearing” one. Even the greatest smelling colognes can go overboard! So find a light subtle fragrance that works for you, and your “soon to be” won’t pass out from the fumes at the altar. And, your interviewer will remember you for your talents and not your umm… smell!

Wearing hats can cause hair loss…?

No. That my friend is an age-old myth!

Many have come to this false conclusion simply because of the association of the temporary mark or crease that sometimes results around the head from where the hat has rested.  Rest assured, the only way for any significant damage to take place is to wear the hat so tight AND so many hours, that circulation is cut off to the hair’s follicles.

How many of you would consider purchasing, let alone wearing, a hat that would cause this much discomfort?

Yeah, me either!

So enjoy your hats, and wear them often and in confidence, knowing that your hairline will be just fine!