Curly Hairstyle for Men: Best Styles, Hair Care Tips and Maintenance

Curly hair can add natural texture, volume and personality to a man’s overall appearance. Whether the curls are loose and relaxed or tight and defined, the right haircut can make them easier to manage while allowing their natural pattern to stand out.

Unlike straight hair, curly hair often needs a little more attention when it comes to moisture, styling and detangling. Choosing a hairstyle should therefore be about more than simply following a trend. The length, curl pattern, hair density and daily routine can all influence which style works best.

A Different Approach to Curly Hair Care

Hair that is naturally curly will have a greater number of bends and curves throughout the hair strand. Due to this characteristic, oils secreted by the scalp may not travel evenly along the hair strand compared to hair that is straighter.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, curly or coily hair is at a higher risk of being dry and prone to breaking. For this reason, dermatologists advise a regimen based on proper washing, conditioning, and moisturizing.

Short Curly Crop

Curly hair in a short crop hairstyle is a basic choice for men who wish to maintain a hairstyle that is not very high-maintenance.

This is because the curls will be short on top, but the sides of the hair can be cut shorter in order to define a neat shape.

Curly Fade

Curly fade is an interesting hairstyle which involves having curls on top while having sides and back hair cut shorter than the top. This difference in hair length helps create a striking, contemporary look.

There are different types of fades one can consider for his/her hairstyle, depending on their preferences. For instance, one can decide to go for low, mid, or high fades, depending on how much contrast they want to create.

Curly Undercut

The contrast becomes much clearer with a curly undercut because the sides and back will be much shorter than the top part of your head.

You can wear your longer curls naturally towards your face, you can put them behind your ear, or even allow them to frame your face.

Medium-Length Natural Curls

If you prefer a relaxed appearance, medium-length natural curls can be a great choice. Rather than cutting the curls very short, the hair is allowed to maintain more of its natural length and movement.

This style works particularly well when the goal is to embrace the natural curl pattern rather than create a highly structured appearance.

Curly Fringe

A curly fringe allows natural curls to fall towards the forehead. The fringe can be kept short and controlled or slightly longer for a softer appearance.

This hairstyle can add definition around the face and works with different curl patterns. Your barber can adjust the length and shape of the fringe according to your face shape and how your curls naturally fall.

Curly Pompadour

A curly pompadour gives the traditional pompadour a textured update. The hair on top is kept longer and styled upward or backward, while the sides are usually shorter.

Instead of trying to completely straighten the curls, the style allows the natural texture to remain visible. This creates volume while giving the hairstyle a more polished shape.

Long Curly Hair

Men who enjoy longer hairstyles can let their curls grow beyond the shoulders or around the neck, depending on their curl pattern and hair density.

Long curls can create a relaxed and expressive look, but they also require more maintenance than shorter styles. Regular conditioning and careful detangling become particularly important as the hair gets longer.

Curly Taper

A curly taper offers a cleaner alternative to a full fade. The hair gradually becomes shorter around the sideburns and neckline while leaving more length around the top.

This creates a neat outline without removing too much of the natural texture. It can be a good choice if you want a professional-looking hairstyle while still keeping your curls visible.

Curly High Top

A curly high top focuses attention on height and volume. The sides are usually kept shorter while the curls on top are allowed to create a stronger vertical shape.

This hairstyle can be particularly striking with dense, tightly curled or coily hair. The exact height and shape should be adjusted according to the natural texture and density of the hair.

Choosing the Right Curly Hairstyle for Men

The best curly hairstyle is not necessarily the one that looks best in a photograph. It should also work with your natural curl pattern, hair density and lifestyle.

If you have a busy schedule and want minimal styling, a short crop, taper or fade may be easier to maintain. If you enjoy spending more time styling your hair, medium or long curls provide more room for experimentation.

Maintaining a Curly Hairstyle

A good haircut is only part of the process. Everyday care plays an important role in keeping curls looking defined.

Wash According to Your Hair Needs

Curly hair does not necessarily require frequent washing compared to other hair types. Too much washing might lead to dryness of the hair. According to the AAD, washing of curly hair is recommended when necessary, using products that are suitable for curly hair.

According to Cleveland Clinic, how often one washes their hair is dependent on several factors, including hair type and texture.

Keep Curls Conditioned

Conditioner is particularly important for curly hair because moisture can help make curls easier to manage and detangle.

The AAD recommends conditioning the full length of dry or curly hair. Depending on your hair type, you may also benefit from a leave-in conditioner or another moisturising product.

Avoid Rough Towel Drying

Rubbing wet hair aggressively with a towel can contribute to damage and frizz. Instead, gently squeeze out excess water and wrap the hair in a soft towel or T-shirt.

Be Careful With Heat

Frequent use of high heat can damage hair regardless of whether it is straight, wavy or curly. The AAD recommends limiting heat styling and using low or medium heat when heat tools are necessary.

Final Thoughts

There are many ways for a man with curly hair to wear his hair – everything ranging from very short haircuts to short and long curls. This all depends on your hair type and how much maintenance you want to have.

While not all curls can be perfectly tamed, getting the right haircut can work in favor of your hair. In addition to washing it carefully, applying conditioner and detangling hair without using excessive heat, your curls can look better.

Sources and References

• American Academy of Dermatology – 6 Curly Hair Care Tips from Dermatologists
• American Academy of Dermatology – Tips for Healthy Hair
• American Academy of Dermatology – Hair Styling Without Damage
• American Academy of Dermatology – Hairstyles That Pull Can Lead to Hair Loss
• Cleveland Clinic – How Often Should You Really Wash Your Hair?
• Cleveland Clinic – Can the Sun Damage Your Hair?