Comb over

Unruly combover

Carl Levin

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Charles Lindbergh on April 12, 1972 with Major Bruce Ware USAF, 31st ARRS

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Combover patent

Comb over is a hairstyle commonly adopted by men to cover baldness or hair loss on the top and back of the head. The style involves growing hair on one side of the head longer and then combing it over the bald area. The comb over has been a popular method for concealing hair loss since the early 20th century, although its popularity and social acceptance have varied over time.

History

The comb over dates back to at least the early 20th century, when hair loss treatments were limited and often ineffective. Men sought ways to cover their baldness without resorting to wigs or hairpieces, leading to the adoption of the comb over. The style gained widespread recognition and was particularly popular in the mid-20th century. However, it has often been the subject of ridicule and is sometimes seen as a dated and ineffective solution to hair loss.

Technique

The key to a successful comb over begins with growing the hair on one side of the head long enough to cover the bald area. The hair is then combed over the top of the head, sometimes using hair products like gel or hairspray to keep it in place. The effectiveness of the comb over depends on the extent of hair loss and the texture and length of the remaining hair.

Cultural Perception

The comb over has been a subject of both humor and sympathy in popular culture. It is often portrayed in media as a desperate attempt to hide baldness, leading to its reputation as an outdated and unattractive hairstyle. Despite this, some individuals have embraced the comb over, using it as a statement of confidence or indifference to societal beauty standards.

Modern Alternatives

With advances in hair loss treatments, such as hair transplantation, medications like minoxidil and finasteride, and the popularity of shaving one's head, fewer men are opting for the comb over. These modern solutions offer more permanent and aesthetically pleasing options for dealing with hair loss.

See Also

• Baldness
• Hairstyle
• Hair transplantation
• Minoxidil
• Finasteride