Curly hair has always had a unique charm. Its texture and volume allow for bold and distinctive hairstyles that stand out. However, for men with thick curly hair, finding the right style that combines manageability and flair can be challenging. The short bob, a timeless and versatile hairstyle, is one such option that works perfectly for thick, curly hair. In this guide, we will explore eight exciting short bob styles that cater to men with thick curls, focusing on how to achieve each look while keeping your hair healthy and stylish.
Why the Short Bob Works for Thick Curly Hair
Understanding Curly Hair Texture
Curly hair can be both a blessing and a challenge. It has natural volume and movement, but it can also be prone to frizz and unruliness. A short bob cuts down on the length, making it more manageable and easier to style. It also allows the curls to maintain their natural shape while offering a clean and sharp look.
How the Bob Style Enhances Thick Curly Hair
The short bob helps maintain a balanced proportion of volume and structure, allowing curly-haired men to embrace their natural texture without feeling overwhelmed by their hair. A bob cut can remove excess bulk, highlight the natural curl pattern, and prevent the hair from looking too heavy.
8 Short Bob Hairstyles for Men with Thick Curly Hair
1. Classic Curly Bob
The classic curly bob is a clean and timeless look. This style involves cutting the hair into a short, blunt bob that sits just above the ears. It’s perfect for men who want a no-fuss, low-maintenance cut that still embraces their natural curls.
How to Achieve the Classic Curly Bob
To create the classic curly bob, the hair should be cut evenly around the head, with the length slightly longer in the front to frame the face. Use a curl-enhancing cream or mousse to define the curls and minimize frizz. Dry the hair naturally or use a diffuser on low heat to enhance curl definition.
2. Curly Bob with Undercut
The curly bob with an undercut is a stylish twist on the classic bob. In this version, the hair on the sides is trimmed shorter while leaving the top section with thick curls. The undercut adds an edgy contrast to the natural curls, giving it a contemporary and bold appearance.
How to Achieve the Curly Bob with Undercut
Ask your barber to create a fade or undercut on the sides and leave the top to grow out with your natural curls. The undercut creates sharp lines that emphasize the volume on top, giving the hairstyle more structure. Use a light styling gel or pomade to keep the curls in place while avoiding crunchiness.
3. Textured Curly Bob
The textured curly bob takes the classic bob and adds layers to it, creating more movement and dimension. This style is great for thick curly hair, as the layers help reduce bulk and create a more defined, bouncy look.
How to Achieve the Textured Curly Bob
For the textured bob, the hair should be cut in layers to create depth and shape. Use a texturizing spray or sea salt spray to add volume and hold. Dry the hair with a diffuser, scrunching the curls to enhance the texture. Finish with a lightweight hairspray to hold the look without weighing it down.
4. Curly Bob with Fringed Bangs
If you’re looking to add a bit of flair to your short curly bob, consider adding fringed bangs. This style works particularly well for men with round or square faces, as the bangs help balance the facial features while still showcasing the natural curls.
How to Achieve the Curly Bob with Fringed Bangs
The hair is cut into a short bob with the front section left longer to create bangs. These bangs can either be blunt or slightly choppy, depending on the desired effect. Use a curl cream or gel to enhance the natural curl in the bangs and keep the rest of the bob defined. This style adds both softness and edge to the classic curly bob.
5. Curly Bob with Side Part
The side-parted curly bob is a sleek and polished look. By simply changing the direction of your part, you can add volume and movement to your curls, creating a more refined and flattering style.
How to Achieve the Curly Bob with Side Part
Start by creating a deep side part with a comb. This will give your curls a natural flow, allowing them to fall beautifully on either side. Apply a curl-enhancing mousse to damp hair and allow it to air dry or use a diffuser. The side part adds structure to the curls and provides a slightly asymmetrical look, which is flattering on most face shapes.
6. Curly Bob with Tapered Sides
A curly bob with tapered sides features a gradual fade from the bottom up, creating a sharp contrast with the voluminous curls on top. This style combines the neatness of a fade with the wildness of thick curls, offering a bold yet clean look.
How to Achieve the Curly Bob with Tapered Sides
Ask your barber to taper the sides while leaving the top section long enough to showcase your natural curls. Use a curl cream or styling mousse to define your curls and add texture. Keep the taper neat, ensuring that the curls stand out on top. This style is perfect for men who want a modern and structured look.
7. Shaggy Curly Bob
For men who enjoy a more laid-back, casual vibe, the shaggy curly bob is the perfect choice. This style features uneven layers that create a carefree, lived-in look while still keeping the curls in check.
How to Achieve the Shaggy Curly Bob
The shaggy bob is all about layers. Ask your stylist to cut uneven layers into your curly hair to create movement and texture. Use a light texturizing spray to enhance the disheveled look, and avoid using heavy products that could weigh the curls down. The key is to keep the style relaxed, with a bit of natural volume.
8. Curly Bob with Highlights
Adding highlights to a curly bob can bring out the texture and depth of the curls, making them appear more dynamic and eye-catching. The contrast between the dark roots and lighter tips gives the curls a more voluminous and sophisticated look.
How to Achieve the Curly Bob with Highlights
Ask your colorist to add subtle highlights or lowlights to your curly bob, focusing on the ends to create a sun-kissed effect. Use a moisturizing curl cream to keep the curls soft and bouncy. Highlighting enhances the movement in curly hair, making it look fuller and more dimensional.
Tips for Maintaining a Short Curly Bob
Taking care of thick curly hair requires regular maintenance to ensure that the curls stay defined, healthy, and manageable.
1. Regular Trims
Curly hair can easily become unruly, especially when it grows out. Regular trims every 6-8 weeks help maintain the shape of your curly bob and prevent split ends.
2. Hydration is Key
Thick curly hair can be prone to dryness, so it’s essential to hydrate your curls. Use moisturizing shampoos and conditioners designed for curly hair, and consider using leave-in conditioners or oils to keep the hair soft and nourished.
3. Avoid Heat Damage
Excessive heat styling can cause curly hair to lose its natural texture and bounce. Whenever possible, allow your curls to air dry or use a diffuser on low heat. If you must use heat styling tools, apply a heat protectant first.
Conclusion
A short bob for men with thick curly hair is not only stylish but also practical. The eight styles highlighted here offer a variety of options, from classic looks to modern twists. With proper care and styling, the curly bob can become a go-to hairstyle that complements your personality and lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for a clean and sharp look or a more relaxed, textured style, there’s a curly bob for every man.
