Important Note: Hair grows and behaves differently for everyone. What works for one person might not work for another. These are general guidelines.
1. Early Korn Days (Late 90s/Early 2000s): The "Head" Trademark - Spiky, Two-Toned, Often Braided or with Loose Strands
This is probably his most recognizable style. It was a blend of the following:
* Color: Dark underneath (often his natural brown) with bright highlights on top (typically platinum blonde, sometimes with other colors mixed in).
* Cut: Relatively short overall (maybe a few inches long), with lots of texture. It wasn't blunt; it was choppy.
* Styling: The key was the spiking.
* Sometimes: Small braids would be added to the front pieces, and loose strands around the face.
How to Achieve This (and the considerations):
* Coloring:
* Go to a Professional: Seriously. Achieving platinum blonde highlights, especially starting from dark hair, requires bleaching. Bleach can severely damage your hair if not done correctly. A professional stylist can minimize damage and get the color you want.
* Explain the Look: Show the stylist pictures of Brian Welch's hair from that era. Be specific about the placement of the highlights.
* Maintenance: Expect to need regular touch-ups to maintain the highlights and keep them from turning brassy. Use purple shampoo to tone down any yellow.
* Cutting:
* Choppy Layers: Ask for a short, choppy haircut with lots of layers. The layers are what will allow the hair to be spiked easily.
* Bring Pictures: Again, pictures are essential.
* Styling:
* Strong Hold Gel or Wax: This is the most important element. You'll need a product with serious hold to keep the spikes up. Experiment with different gels and waxes to find one that works for your hair type.
* Application: Apply the product to damp hair, working it through from root to tip.
* Spiking: Use your fingers to create the spikes. You can also use a comb or pick to help shape them. Twist the hair as you lift it to help create more defined spikes.
* Hairspray: Finish with a strong-hold hairspray to keep everything in place.
* Trial and Error: This look takes practice. Don't be discouraged if you don't get it perfect the first time.
* Braids: Take small sections of the hair and braid them. You may have to secure them with a hair tie at the bottom, but if the braid is secure, you might not need to.
* Hair Health:
* Bleaching = Damage: Be prepared for your hair to be drier and more brittle after bleaching. Use moisturizing conditioners and hair masks regularly.
* Heat Protection: If you use heat styling tools, use a heat protectant spray.
* Limit Washing: Washing your hair too frequently can strip it of its natural oils. Try to wash it every other day, or even less often if possible.
2. Later Korn Years/Solo Projects:
* He's experimented with various styles, including shorter, less spiked looks, and often a more natural color. He also had longer hair that was more natural, but still contained elements of the 90s style in it, especially around the face.
* He also at times had a side swept and a more "standard" haircut that was very short.
How to Achieve This (general advice):
* Consult with a Barber/Stylist: Bring pictures of the specific style you're aiming for.
* Focus on the Cut: The cut is the foundation. Make sure it's well-suited to your face shape and hair texture.
* Styling is Minimal: For these later looks, styling is often less about aggressive spiking and more about shaping and controlling the hair.
* Consider your hair type: Certain haircuts look better with curly hair than straight hair, etc.
Important Considerations Before Attempting Any Style:
* Hair Type: Is your hair straight, wavy, curly, fine, thick, etc.? This will significantly affect how a style looks and how much effort it takes to achieve.
* Face Shape: Different hairstyles flatter different face shapes.
* Lifestyle: Do you have time to style your hair every day? Choose a style that fits your lifestyle.
* Budget: Professional coloring and haircuts can be expensive. Also, consider the cost of styling products.
* Hair Health: Be realistic about the health of your hair. Over-processing can lead to damage.
Disclaimer: This information is for general guidance only. Always consult with a professional hairstylist for personalized advice and to ensure you achieve the best results while maintaining the health of your hair.