Steve Harrington’s hair is as much a part of his character as his leather jacket and sarcastic one-liners. For fans of Stranger Things, replicating that specific glossy, swept-back look has become a common quest. Understanding what hair product Steve Harrington uses requires looking at the evolution of his style throughout the series, moving from a basic comb-over to a meticulously styled wave.
The Evolution of Steve’s Mop Top
In the first season, Steve’s hair is a messy, undefined mess, suggesting he gives it little thought. By season two, however, the hair becomes a defining feature, styled with a distinct wave and shine that implies effort and product. The look is less about texture and more about a healthy sheen and shape that frames his face perfectly. To achieve this consistently, a lightweight styling cream or pomade is the most likely candidate, providing hold without stiffness.
Decoding the Glossy Finish
The high shine is the most iconic part of Steve Harrington’s hairstyle. This gloss rules out dry matte pastes or heavy waxes that create a dull, chalky look. To get that wet look, stylists often reach for water-based pomades or shine serums. These products coat the hair strand to reflect light, creating that healthy, almost lacquered appearance while keeping the hair soft to the touch rather than crunchy or brittle.
Product Type and Hold
Steve’s wave is defined but not rigid. He can run his fingers through it, and it moves with him, indicating the product provides medium hold rather than a helmet-like grip. Strong hold gels are usually too stiff and flakey, while light mousse often lacks the control needed for the defined pattern. A medium hold pomade or a flexible fiber cream strikes the right balance, allowing for movement and natural separation without the style collapsing by midday.
Modern Day Steve: The Crop and Texture
In the later seasons, particularly after the haircut in season four, Steve’s style shifts to a more modern crop. The focus moves from the wave to the shape and texture of the cut. For this shorter style, the product needed changes slightly. A matte clay or a fiber cream becomes more suitable, providing the texture and separation for the faded sides without adding excess shine. The goal is messy control rather than slick perfection.
Recommendations for Replication
If you are trying to copy the Stranger Things hairstyle, you do not need to hunt down a specific magical formula used on set. The general category is clear: a medium hold pomade for the classic longer look, or a clay for the shorter textured crop. Look for water-based formulas to avoid the greasy residue that can weigh hair down. Brands like American Crew, Suavecito, or even local pharmacy brands often stock the right viscosity to mimic that iconic Hawkins hair.
