new thread
I've seen some posters comment, whenever a fellow longhair gets a haircut, that their hair will surely grow back and not to fret.
I'm not trying to be a downer, but what would happen if it didn't?
What would happen if, um, we start going *gasp* bald?
While it is great that we see our hair as part of our identity, I think we shouldn't get too attached to it.
I had a friend who had long hair but then he became bald on top. He was in essence, sporting a skullet :)
He'd be self conscious about it too and he'd always wear a cap or hat.
He did eventually end up just shaving all around and maintaining that look. And for the better I think.
I mean, I know it may be preference and all, but I surely hope that if we as men, do start going bald, we won't be sporting skullets, just for the sake of holding on to our "identity"?
I mean, I'm sure even the ladies on this board, who do support men with long hair, would not find such a sight all too appealing...or would they?
I guess I will probably generate some hate because I think there are a few guys like that on this board but I just figured I'd put it out there and start some sort of healthy discussion.
Skullet, for reference:
And what, pray tell, is so horrible about the "skullet"??
(Although I personally dislike the name, and it's connection to the oft-maligned mullet. Wearing a mullet is a matter of choice, having bald areas generally isn't)
If the guy is comfortable with his look, that's what really matters. Your friend obviously wasn't, but that's his choice. I see no reason to discourage someone else from wearing his hair any way he chooses, just because you're not fond of the style. If we were to do that, does it make us any more right than those that look down on long hair in general?
I see no reason to discourage someone else from wearing his hair any way he chooses, just because you're not fond of the style. If we were to do that, does it make us any more right than those that look down on long hair in general?
The operative word being 'hair'. So even 5 strands count?
My thinking is....if you got a full head of hair, then by all means, rock on.
But if you've got 5 strands you're holding onto, I don't know.
Me personally, if I'm ever in such a position, I'd go the Stone Cold Steve Austin route.
MPB doesn't affect the hair at the back and the sides, so I don't know where you get this '5 strands' concept from?
I agree with your points here:
1. Use of the term 'skullet'. Male Pattern Baldness is not a choice. Also, why is it considered so bad?
2. Long hair, even with MPB, is a choice. Long hair is about what you want and like with your hair, not about social acceptance with your hair.
3. We need to respect choices of others and not look down upon others since their long hair doesn't match our view of social acceptance.
b.j.
I actually like the look
I would. You do what you want, and I'll do what I want. You'd have to shoot me before I'd get a short haircut.
What's wrong with looking like Slartibartfast, anyway?
As far as I'm concerned I think this guy has a great hairstyle that suits him in spite of the fact that he lost the hair at the top of his head.Hey, the guy likes long hair and chose a style that works for him.Nothing to be ashamed of there.
Mark
Well I completely agree with you ATP, I think it looks dreadful. If my hair recedes enough then yes, it would be gone, I don't see the point in looking stupid just to hold on to my 'identity' whatever that is.
~ Dave
I completely agree. I mean, it is one thing to maintain long hair when it's there, but if your long hair is causing you to be self-concious a re-think may be in order. I myself don't want to have long hair with a huge (and unfortunately, inevitable) bald spot, but I'll rock it for as many years as I can! Hopefully I'll make it to 30!
The name is dreadgul and should be dropped now BUT there is nothing inherently wrong with the look of this man. If he is happy (just asa full head of hair long hair is happy) then why on earth not.
I am sure there might be the odd occasion when this does not follow but generally let's support this style equally.
The crux of this discussion lies in the concept of self-consciousness. A guy who does decide to keep the hair he has left long when the hair on top goes and who, after a fashion, feels that he is not acceptable or overly worried and cognizant of his missing hair CANNOT pull this look off. The fear and noticeably obvious sense of self-awareness ruins it for him. However, one who is comfortable with himself, has that sort of devil-may-care attitude, and realizes that his appearance is only a part of a wide spectrum of human appearances, all of which are acceptable as a function their own inevitability, will be just fine. Confidence is the determining factor.
I'm not averse at all to being bald with long hair. I can't be. That's what I'm going to be eventually. I know of a blond haired guy locally who has long hair and not a strand on top. He looks totally awesome with his hair at a little past shoulder length. I've seen a good amount of guys with similar looks, and I just can't see how it's a problem. As many people at large are conditioned to see long hair on men, even a full head of hair, as a "problem," the logic is working the same against men with long hair that's otherwise missing on top, but from within the long hair group, us and from the populace as a whole. An interesting dynamic. This is the same phenomenon that devalues difference and seeks consonance across the board, basic human behavior.
It's interesting that you chose this picture to make your point. A tank top really isn't a flattering wardrobe choice for any one who has more than about 2% body fat. Also, this guy doesn't look like he's been preening very much at all. It's amazing how a still image can sway perception. Further, if he shaved the fuzzy hair left off the top and had a nice smooth pate and was dressed in a nice collared shirt and jacket perhaps, I imagine there would be some of us saying the man looked quite distinguished or some such.
Hi Matt,
I do agree with what you said here. Even though this guy does pull off the look rather well it would help if he took your advice as he would look more distinguished removing those stray hairs on top and improving his wardrobe.I do agree with your tank top statement and that goes for spandex too!LOL.
Mark
I may be wrong, I believe the term "Skullet" originated on this board and personally I think it is a great word !!
Being in the geriatric crowd myself, I observe older guys and how they wear their hair.....in my part of the world (Southwest U.S.) where the lifestyle is extremely casual, a significant percentage of the older guys (50, 60 and 70+ years old) are now letting their hair grow. Obviously, we do not have the extremely long and thick hair of the younger guys, but most are uninhibitedly wearing what they have.....semi-skullts abound ! If you look at historical photos; men in the past let their hair grow (and depart) as nature allowed....in today's modern world this look is becoming more commonplace and acceptable. A neatly dressed and groomed man looks fine.....a slob looks even slobbier with unkempt hair.....
Personally, I am a bit self-conscience of my skullet look and is part of the reason I wear a hat often (although my climate demands it and I like the look of long hair under a hat), however when I pass half shaved, half multi-coloured spiked, nose-tongue pierced, X-rated tatted kids, I get over it quickly ! HA!
Disclaimer: This post is not intentionally critical towards "half shaved, half multi-coloured spiked, nose-tongue pierced, X-rated tatted kids"
Good topic ATP
Thanks
Walter
I think there may be some missing of the point in ATP's original post? I did not read it as "nobody should ever do this, and if start losing any hair, CUT!" Rather, it's a hypothetical--what if MPB caused you to not like how your long hair looked?
I think the analogue here might be also, what do you think of the guy who razor shaves his head smooth even though you can see from the shadow that he has no MPB? It can look a little weird, and I say that as someone who has done it.
One las thing is that a few months ago I saw a guy with mid-back hair in a ponytail. Up close you could see that the hair from the front was covering a bald spot on his crown. It was quite frankly the best combover I've ever seen. It was a "pullover," as long as we're coining terms. :-)
FWIW, and I'm 41 without any real MPB so I doubt I'll need to make the choice, I would probably go ahead and keep it trimmed if it was me in the original scenario.
Chris
What I was really trying to convey is,
As men, we do not have long hair forever (well, many of us). And by long hair, I mean, full head of hair.
And if you get really attached to it and feel it is so strongly part of your identity, just be ready and prepared when you start to lose it.
Many guys, from my experience, who sport skullets, often wear hats because they are self-conscious and know it doesn't look good, yet they cling to their 'long hair' because they feel it makes them unique, cool, rebellious, etc.
And I know I may come off as hypocritical if I say that look, looks stupid, but so be it.
As 1 member mentioned, MPB doesn't affect the sides and back....ok, so great. Does that mean we will now support guys who have only 5 strands on the lower back of their head twisted together in a rat tail?
It's your hair, etc. I'm just saying...
Exactly, they know it doesn't look good, and I don't beleive anybody here can honestly say hand on heart it looks 'good', but if you are happy with it then wear it, but when Matt says he knows a guy with a skullet and it looks awesome, with respect I don't believe it, skullets are worse tham mullets and they are a joke.
For me my hair isn't what makes 'me', it helps to make me but its whats inside that counts, so rather than look like a fool I would get rid of it, I would however keep the beard :-)
~ Dave
Hand on heart, I can't say I think baldness looks good. Where I differ is that I think more hair always looks better.
In my honest opinion, and I'm not balding, I think a skullet looks better than a bald head with short hair around the sides, and that this in turn looks better than a shaved head. Hand on heart, that's my honest opinion.
As for hats, what's wrong with them? Even those of us with hair on top sometimes wear them, and if you don't have hair on top, then a hat helps replace hair as an insulator and as a sunscreen. Bald men wearing hats makes logical sense.
"Does that mean we will now support guys who have only 5 strands on the lower back of their head twisted together in a rat tail?"
Um, that's what this site is all about, right? Supporting men who endeavor to grow their hair long. More than that, this site is about supporting individuality and free choice. Personally, I think the guy in the image you posted looks pretty cool, and happy with his appearance. If I'm not mistaken, he appears to be attending a rodeo or other livestock or equine event, and having a good time.
To further illustrate my point: also in my opinion, I think some images you've posted of yourself in the past (with chest hair shaved into the shape of a heart, etc.) weren't anything that I would consider flattering, "manly," etc., but I still support your individuality and free choice to be yourself and effect whatever appearance you choose.
A bald head is not in my future, but even if it were, I like to think I could still rely on the MLHH to support my desire to grow long hair. For those members who may fall into the "skullet" category, I hereby voice my most heartfelt support and encouragement in your longhair endeavor.
--Val
I'm totally with you on this one.
You took the words right out of my mouth. Saved me some typing too. I agree 100% on all points.
Kevin
But guys, what happened to freedom of speech, the land of the free eh?
I wouldn't breate somebody for a skullet I just wouldn't comment, but for me it doesn't work, we don't know the guy in the picture.
The people with opposite views to me are saying that we shouldn't be ruled by fashion etc etc, and we should have freedom to do what we want, even if you look bad. Yes thats true, but most here grow their hair as it improves their appearance.
ATP asked for views and I gave mine, now I am bad for being honest, crazy world isn't it. You can only be my buddy if you agree with me?
Thanks, Dave
Hey Dave
Listen, I have no problem with you giving your honest opinion as that what this thread was about anyway.At least I thought that was the case.I stated my opinion as well as you and the others and I respect all.If someone had say started a thread saying that skullets look horrible and went off on some sort of rant then I would have a problem with that.So Dave, just know that I'm not upset with your views on this topic and actually appreciate your being honest instead of going with the flow.That's what good debates are all about anyway,right?At times there are threads started that unfortunately raise there ire of some of our loyal users.Hey I like all you guys:)Take care Davie my friend!Cheers
Mark
Hey Markie-Babes, no problem, I don't let things get to me honestly, and as you say a good debate is all about passion. Sometimes this world is too politically correct and people fear speaking. Well I'm not, and I won't be bullied into feeling bad about my opinions. I respect everyones opinion and they have the right to that, and I don't feel any bad feeling toward anyone here as as far as I can tell its a great bunch of guys, skullets or not.
You know some of those that berated me would pass judgement on others for maybe having short hair, piercings etc, but some of my buddies have mohawks and piercings and are fine individuals, so it cuts both ways.
There IS more to life than hair and the length of it, and it's about the person inside.
Honest and fair, thats me ;-)
Take care buddy,
~ Dave
Very well said Dave.As much as I relate to longhairs you still have to look at the entire package to really judge a person.Shutter to say there could be a longhair that's a total bastard and a bald guy who is the coolest person you may have ever met.As for that guy pictured in ATP's thread I thought he carried off that look rather well but if I was in his shoes who's to say if I would carry that look well.It could look awful on me.So its a matter of taste I suppose.Anyway I'm thrilled to have you as a friend even though we live many miles or kilometers away from each other.Have a great weekend Davieeeeeeeee!Cheers
Mark
I am biassed, but I have no bone to pick with those who have short hair, mohawks, skullets or even mullets. I confess, though, I can't stand shaved heads. So there it is.
Freedom of Speech? Land of the free? Dave you've been reading too many comic books. LOL
Kevin
It's more like freedom to have their hair how they want even if YOU think they look bad. A subtle distinction, but not everyone shares your opinion that it looks bad.
Thank You!
As someone who is going bald, I was very shocked to even see this article on this board, and even a little offended. I thought the purpose of this board was about growing ones hair long, and supporting each other. I guess I was wrong. I've always believed that, if you can't say something nice, then don't say anything at all. I guess it's easy when you can hide behind your keyboard. Sure, you will probably think that I am over reacting, but I bet if I said something about your hair that I didn't like, you would get upset at me.
I ware my hair long because that's how I like it. If you have a problem with it, then that's your issue. Not mine.
Looks like the fashion police have gotten a hold of this board, and part of the moderation crew :-(
Thanks for letting me vent. :-)
I think the guy in the picture looked great!
Very well-articulated thoughts, Val, --- I agree!!
A good five or more years ago, I saw a guy who was completely bald on top and in front; but, what hair he did have, was almost to his knees (and looked AWESOME)!!!!
Even though he was a complete stranger to me, I couldn't help but pay him a compliment.
He replied with something like, "God made hair grow; what right do we have to cut it off?" (or some similar philosophical statement to that --- close enough, anyway (lol)....)
I've never forgotten him, because it changed my viewpoint completely.
When I was in my teens and early 20s, I thought "skullets" (hate the term, BTW) looked terrible, --- and told myself that if I ever lost too much hair due to MPB, I wouldn't grow it long... Then when I finally DID have my first true window of opportunity to grow my hair out, I was in my late 30s when I started (my first real ponytail not being until my 40th birthday), --- and had a minor degree of a receding hairline to contend with. My own vanity and self-consciousness ALMOST prevented me from ever growing my hair out, because my hair wasn't 100% "PERFECT!"
To Hell with the Fashion Police and their rules of what is "OK" vs. "not allowed", --- whatever makes a person happiest (be it long hair or short), THAT is the correct choice of action!!!
Great discussion topic, by the way, ATP!! I do agree with you that one's physical appearance does NOT have to limit one's "individuality" (just think of all the soldiers in the world's armies that have come home from some god-awful war and are seriously injured / maimed for life); but, if and when ever there is a choice to be had, chosing ONES OWN tastes in hair length (even if it's only 2 or 3 hairs that are 7 feet long - lol), --- not some so-called "rule" made by Fashion --- is what I will always support and stand up for the right of each individual to choose their own preference that will make them happiest.
- Ken
but, if and when ever there is a choice to be had, chosing ONES OWN tastes in hair length (even if it's only 2 or 3 hairs that are 7 feet long - lol), --- not some so-called "rule" made by Fashion --- is what I will always support and stand up for the right of each individual to choose their own preference that will make them happiest.
Absolutley Ken, but we aren't asking whether the fashion police care - ATP was asking what we thought of skullets, do I lie and say I love them?
I would hate to see the rights of people repressed, but this is just a simple poll of peoples opinions on here and you're correct if someone wants to grow his skullet to his knees then go for it, its still gonna look as funny as hell!
~ Dave
Naaa, no reason to lie: honest answers are what makes discussions like this both interesting and worth reading!
I understand the points you made re. skullets not looking very appealing to you (and that you would probably cut your own hair short, if you ended up losing the top and front portions of your hair due to MPB). I suppose I would cut my own hair short, too, if and when I was down to just 3 lone hairs that were 7 feel long... Then again, after the haircut I might decide to "regrow" them, --- only it will take a long, looooooong time to get back those 7 feet of length (and by then I might be down to just 2 hairs - LOL)!!!!
- Ken
well, i wouldn't want a skullet for myself.
but that doesn't mean we shouldn't support ppl who like their skullets. just like you don't have to be gay to support gays, a certain race to support said race, or a man to support men with long hair, you don't have to have/want a skullet to support guys with skullets.
just saying... a lot of people seem to think that this issue is determining the board's decision on skullets. i don't think this is intended to be some sort of official vote. this is just personal preference.
Indeed, we are not saying we don't support a guy that wants to sport a skullet if he is happy to do so, but for me it would be a no go.
~ Dave
I mean personally i wouldnt want one but if that guys happy hell let him have his glory!
I love my long hair but the reason I TRULY grew it out was because I think Im more attractive to the opposite sex that way (and since I live in Vegas many people agree), plus Im more confident and rarely self conscious.
That doesn't mean I'm against skullets, but most people in my opinion cant rock the look. If hes happy wearing it then good for him, but if he comes to me asking if he should cut it, Im gonna tell him to cut it.
Hello there. About the so-called Skullet - I really do not like this term to described guys with long hair who also have MPB.
To be any mullet is when the hair is DELIBERATELY shortened on the top and on the sides. I think the guy in the picture still looks cool with a pony tail and think it tragic that some guys would shave their entire head when they start to go bald.
Famous people like Benjamin Franklin were bald but still looked good with longhair.
Even if the guy only had 5 strands of long hair on his head i would still consider him a longhaired brother who defiantly giving the finger to MPB and to the conformist sheep who shave their head when they start to go bald.
Duncan
Duncan, its not about being a sheep and conformist its about being sensible and realistic. I mean if you have 5 hairs that were two feet long and nothing else that would be mad!! :-)
Cheers Dave
Works for our friend, Smeagol !!
Lookin' good Smeag !!
Offical MLHH mascot??
Works for Yoda, too, although Smeagol's got him beat for length.
Walter and Validus, those pictures prove my point perfectly - Thanks!
I love freagin Lord Of The Rings!!!!!I've read both the Hobbit and the trilogy books,and got myself the extended edition trilogy DVD sometime ago,it's awesome!Oo
Smeagol/Gollum is one o' my favorite chars!
He could definetelly run for MLHH mascot,ye got my vote!=D
Well, as a lady on this board (though I am rarely accused of being such a thing, LOL), here's my take: I have a couple good friends with skullets. I think they are fantastic-looking, handsome men with and without their hats. I've only known one of them as a longhair, but I've seen the other with a classic close cut and with the long hair now. He looks good either way.
To each their own, I guess.
Mouse
One of our past female contributors, Elizabeth R, is now MARRIED to a guy with a skullet!
Alun
I believe I remember seeing a lovely picture of the two in a very passionate embrace. :-)
Mouse
If you want to show your skullet or mullet that is up to you and it's a free world and no longhair police here. Even the shave l'amour in your chest is passible I suppose!
Cheers,
John.B
*Well, they are only trying to be supportive and let the guy know that if he feels he has made a mistake that his hair will grow out again. And in trying to be kind, they tell him not to fret nor beat himself up about what has happened.
* The world would still continue to turn.
*We would be losing hair.
*"We" can be other people, but I myself treasure my mane and it is a part of me.
*Best he could do as he had no control over genetics, and if a "Scullet" is what he desired.........so be it.
*His decision by choice of which he had every right.
*Good! :-)
*And I hope everyone of us will always do our own thing as we see fit for ourselves.
*How would I know? Better wait for them to reply to this.
*No hate here. A stupid waste of time and not worth what it takes out of one. Life is too short.
*And as it is for those who LIKE the Scullet, so be it. I mean really, what's the big deal? It is a type of long hair look of which there can be so many great variations.
So much for the answers my friend.