First of all, you're not Jake Gyllenhaal. Sadly. There can only be one man who so easily flits between PTSD veteran (Jarhead) and cosmic teen (Donnie Darko) and meathead boxer (Southpaw) – and does it all with really good hair. Thankfully, that last part is something you can copy. For Gyllenhaal has navigated most of his stellar career with a solid lid that works for most people. You just need thick hair, and you need to look after it properly.
That's why we've spoke to Joe Mills, a man who knows a lot about hair after running one of the London's most prestigious barbers for years. Joe has experience with the lids of Big Names, and his HQ – now based in London's King's Cross – has become something of a cult hit with guys who want a proper haircut.
And Gyllenhaal has a proper haircut. Several, in fact. But to get that classic, evergreen style – the longish, messy-ish, but still presentable cut – we've got the run-through on products and techniques.
“The key to keeping your hair in the best possible shape – like Jake's – is in the products you use. First thing's first: shampoo," says Mill. “This needs to be cleansing but not so harsh that it dries out your hair and scalp. Wash your hair with this twice as it helps to remove a build up of product and to really give you a good platform.”
“After this, apply a conditioner to help nourish and replace any moisture that both your hair and your scalp need. You want something that's rich in keratin, argan oil and silicone-free. If you have thick and dry hair, leave the conditioner on for a few minutes before rinsing.”
Mills wants you to get smooth. That doesn't involve stock chat-up lines (nor should it ever). “To style your hair like Jake's, you need a smoothing product,” he says. “Try Kevin Murphy’s Motion Lotion styling cream. Smooth around a 2p-sized dollop through all of your hair while it's damp.”
Then it's time to invest in a hairdryer. “Dry your hair using a dryer and a Denman brush. Note: you're trying to smooth it out and not create volume. Do this by using the hair flow in order to keep the hair close to the head and flatten it down. Create a parting on whichever side your hair falls and, once again, use the brush to push over and back.”
Heat won't hold your hair alone. Mills has a tight but effective arsenal that can ensure immaculate Gyllenhaal vibes. “Once your hair is fully dry, you need a product that will give you some hold and weight without looking too overloaded – this is definitely what Jake is going for with his hair,” he says. “Cream with a light hold will soak really well into the hair, giving a great hold and appearance.”
And if you were thinking of a big, satisfying squeeze of a new tube, think again. “Less is more with this product – I’d start with a 5p dollop rubbed through your hands then applied to the hair. You can always add more if you feel you need it.
“Let it dry naturally and, afterwards, give it a brush through and apply a little more grooming cream. Then, you're good to go. Simple styling, but very effective.”
