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Mohawk Haircut: Burst Fade, Frohawk, andClassic Versions
A mohawk keeps a strip of longer hair down the center with the sides shaved or faded. Here are the main versions, from classic to burst fade, who they suit, and how to ask.
Hairover Team
A mohawk is a haircut that keeps a strip of longer hair running down the center of the head, from the forehead to the nape, with the sides shaved or clipped very short. The strip can be spiked tall, left curly, or worn swept back. Modern versions use fades on the sides, which makes the cut softer and easier to wear day to day.
Main mohawk versions
Classic mohawk. Sides shaved to the skin, with a narrow strip of long hair styled into spikes or a fin. It’s the boldest version and needs strong product.
Burst fade mohawk. The sides are faded in a semicircle around each ear, bursting outward, while the back stays longer. The center strip is often curly or textured. It’s one of the most requested modern versions, especially for curly hair. See our drop fade vs. burst fade guide.
Frohawk. A mohawk on Afro-textured or tightly curly hair, with a fuller, rounded strip in the center and short or faded sides. It needs little product, since the texture holds the shape.
Short mohawk. A strip of one to two inches, with faded sides. It’s subtle enough for most offices.
Faux hawk. Not a true mohawk, since the sides stay longer. See our faux hawk guide for this lower-commitment option.
Who a mohawk suits
Hair type: thick and curly hair is easiest, because it holds height without much product. Straight, fine hair needs a strong gel or wax to stand up.
Face shape: the vertical strip adds height and lengthens the face, which suits round and square faces. On long faces, keep the strip short and wider.
Head shape: the sides are shown, so an even head shape helps. A faded version is more forgiving. See haircuts for your head shape.
How to ask for a mohawk
Be clear on three things:
- Width of the strip: “about two to three inches wide, roughly the width between the inner corners of my eyebrows.”
- The sides: “shaved,” “faded from a 0,” or “burst fade around the ears.”
- Length on top: in inches, or “keep my curls.”
A photo is essential, since mohawks vary a lot.
Styling
Spiked: blow-dry the strip upward, then use a strong gel and pinch it into spikes or a fin. Curly or frohawk: define the curls with a cream or curl sponge. Swept back: a light pomade, combed back.
Upkeep
The sides need cleaning up every two to three weeks. The strip can go longer between cuts.
Related guides
Try a mohawk without commitment
A mohawk is easy to try and slow to undo. Hairover’s Style Studio lets you try haircuts on your own photo before you shave anything off. See how hairstyle try-on works.
FAQ
What is a mohawk haircut?
A haircut that keeps a strip of longer hair running from the forehead to the nape, with the sides shaved or cut very short. The strip can be spiked, curly, or worn flat.
What is the difference between a mohawk and a faux hawk?
A true mohawk has the sides shaved or clipped very short, so the strip stands alone. A faux hawk keeps more hair on the sides and styles the center upward, so it is less extreme and easier to wear to work.
What is a burst fade mohawk?
A mohawk where the sides are faded in a semicircle around the ear, bursting outward, while the back stays longer. It is a softer, modern version popular with curly hair.
Can I wear a mohawk to work?
A burst fade mohawk or a faux hawk is easier to wear in most workplaces than a tall, spiked classic mohawk. The faux hawk can be combed down for formal occasions.
