From combating flaky scalps to mastering the art of the slick back, Senior LK stylist Bobby Collier has seen and styled it all. In this Gents 101 edition of The Hair Line, Bobby answers your most-asked men’s hair questions with straight-talking tips, pro product picks, and the kind of insider hacks you’d normally only get in his chair. Whether you’re trying to add volume, embrace a receding hairline, or keep your colour fresh, consider this your go-to guide for great hair days, every day.

Preventing a Flaky Scalp

Q: How can I prevent getting a flaky scalp?

A flaky scalp is usually down to product build-up or a lack of moisture. My go-to advice is to exfoliate the scalp - Clean As A Whistle is my favourite for this, and it’s a big hit at home (my wife loves it!). After exfoliating, use an oil to rehydrate and nourish your scalp. Hydration + exfoliation = happy scalp.

Styling a Receding Hairline

Q: What’s the best way to style your hair if you have a receding hairline?

I often recommend a shorter, forward-styled cut. Shorter hair tends to look thicker, and textured styles can disguise thinning areas. This is how I wear mine - short, textured, and styled forward. If that’s not your thing, avoid overloading your hair with products. Too much product can make it look greasy and thin.

Adding Volume

Q: How can I add volume to my style?

Men can be a bit wary of volume, but it’s a great way to add structure. Start with a mousse or volume spray on towel-dried hair, then blow-dry to lock it in. If you want to tone the volume down afterwards, use a cream, wax, or clay. And invest in a good hairdryer - it’s a game changer.

Getting the “Wet Curl” Look

Q: How can I get that sweaty curl look?

It’s all about moisture! Use leave-in conditioners and cream-based products, and let the product do the work. Don’t over-dry - that’s how frizz happens. Keep the hair damp, load up on product, and ideally air-dry or use a diffuser. Go slow speed, medium heat, and take your time.

Creating a Suave Slick Back

Q: What’s the best way to slick back a gents style?

You’ll need product, gels, clays, waxes - I love the Larry King Velvet Texture Clay. Apply product to wet hair, mould it into place with a hairdryer, then finish with A Social Life For Your Hair cream for a polished look.

Embracing the Bald

Q: Any tips for thinning hair?

Shorter, choppier styles tend to work best. Overloading with product or pushing it back can make thinning areas more visible. Personally, I didn’t want to look like I was “covering up” my thinning hair - confidence is key. These days, hair thickening procedures are common and can look fantastic, but if you choose to embrace the bald, go short or go fully bald - and wear it proudly.

Maintaining Coloured Hair

Q: How can men maintain coloured hair?

Don’t over-wash. Aim for 2–3 washes per week max to avoid fading. Use sulphate- and paraben-free shampoos. I recommend The Wash Cycle:

• City Life – cleanses

• Good Life – adds moisture

• Social Life – gives volume

Taper vs. Fade

Q: What’s the difference between a taper and a fade?

A taper is very low and focused on the bottom edges of the hair. A fade blends higher up the head for a more dramatic gradient.

Bobby’s Wash Bag Essentials

Q: What products do you recommend for men’s hair?

• My Nanna’s Mousse - perfect for prep, volume, shape, and structure.

• Velvet Texture Clay - for hold, grit, and a grungier look.

• A Social Life For Your Hair - lightweight finishing cream for soft texture you can still run your hands through.

These three products work on 90% of my clients - men and women alike. Keep the cream in your bag for top-ups throughout the day. We’ve just brought out The Headliners Edit, which has Velvet Texture Clay and A Social Life For Your Hair mini and is a great little duo for effortless everyday hairstyles.