HOW-TO STEPS

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  1 This look is ideal for a consistent wave pattern on hair with moderate length and moderate-high density.
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  2 Start by separating the top from the bottom with a standard horseshoe parting resting at the center of the recession.
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  3 Start with vertical sections and square layering in the longer basic length of support. Be sure to leave behind considerable length so that the hair can easily be combed and brushed.
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  4 At the back where the headshape expands, the length at the top of the section will rest above the occipital closer to the horseshoe parting. The length at the bottom of the section will fall well below the hairline.
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  5 Prepare for your transition by creating a T-parting at the center of the top of the head. Do not round with the head toward the side.
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  6 Beginning behind the ear, facet low to the bottom of the transition zone, leaving length at the top. Use the previously established length found under the horseshoe parting as the starting length for the transition. Cut flat—do not round with the head.
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  7 Return to the section behind the ear. Follow the guide and vertical sectioning pattern around the crown. Maintain a low facet by keep the fingers low to the transition zone. Walk around the head, section by section, until the area behind the ear on the other side is reached.
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  8 Using side-to-side sections across the top of the head, connect long by cutting off the corner only at the center top of the head. Overdirect to the previous for a slight increase in length toward the front of the head.
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  9 Detail the sideburn to a long, yet classic, length with subtle fullness. The length rests near the bottom of the ear. Use shear-over-comb to reduce the width. Suspend the comb cut to a length where the coverage is just beyond scalp exposure.
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  10 Use shear-over-comb to give final detail to the hairline. Work in panels or isolated areas around the hairline. Anchor the comb lightly where the final length is desired, then pivot to suspend and remain suspended off of the head.
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  11 To build control and shine, work a low dosage of American Crew Light Hold Gel thoroughly through the hair with low water saturation. Use the pressure from your hands against the hair to force the gel into the hair strands and down into the root.
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  12 Use a blow dryer and concentrator while directing the hair with your hands toward the final shape. Use your fingers as a comb to force movement and the inside of your hand to flatten the shape.
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  13 Using moderate tension, brush into the final shape, off the face, with a paddle brush. Finish with an overall mist of American Crew Grooming Spray to set the style.
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  More How-Tos
  The Ultimate Pompadour How-To
  How-To: The Classic Crew
  How-To: The Boxer