Curls aren’t just for women—men’s hairstyles with waves or defined curls have dominated fashion runways, red carpets, and street-style trends for years. From loose beachy waves to tight ringlets, textured hair adds personality, volume, and a modern edge. Many men avoid trying curls because they assume it’s complicated or “too high-maintenance,” but with the right tools and techniques, achieving the look is straightforward. Whether your hair is short, medium-length, or long, curling it can enhance your natural texture or completely transform your style.
Essential Tools & Products You’ll Need
Before diving into techniques, gather these basics: a heat protectant spray (non-negotiable for hot tools), a curling iron or wand (1-inch barrel for tight curls; 1.5-inch for loose waves), hair clips for sectioning, a comb, and styling products like sea salt spray or light-hold mousse. For heat-free methods, foam rollers or soft fabric hair ties work. If you have thin or fine hair, avoid heavy products—opt for texturizing sprays instead. For thick or coarse hair, a smoothing serum can tame frizz.
The Top 3 Methods to Curl Men’s Hair (Ranked by Difficulty)
Heat Tools: Fast & Precise
Heat tools like curling wands or flat irons create long-lasting curls in under 30 minutes. Start with clean, dry hair. Apply heat protectant evenly. Section hair into 2-inch layers, clipping the top layers away. Wrap a small section around the barrel, holding for 8–10 seconds. Release gently—don’t shake the curl out. Repeat, alternating curl directions for a natural look. Finish with a light hairspray.
Pro tip: For messy, undone curls, rake your fingers through the cooled curls instead of brushing.
Overnight Heatless Curls: Low-Effort, High Reward
Ideal for avoiding heat damage. After showering, apply a leave-in conditioner. Divide damp hair into 4–6 sections. Twist each section tightly, then coil it into a bun or wrap around a soft hair roller. Secure with a fabric tie. Sleep on a silk pillowcase to reduce friction. Unravel in the morning and scrunch with texturizing spray. This method works best for medium to long hair and creates soft, romantic waves.
The “Towel Dry & Go” Beach Wave Hack
No tools? No problem. After washing, scrunch your hair upward with a microfiber towel to encourage natural waves. Apply a dime-sized amount of sea salt spray evenly. Let hair air-dry while occasionally scrunching it. Once dry, tousle with your fingers. This works well for shorter haircuts (2–4 inches) with slight natural texture. For extra definition, twist random sections while damp.
How to Make Curls Last All Day (Without Stiffness)
The secret to long-lasting curls is layering products correctly. Start with a heat protectant, then add a volumizing mousse at the roots for lift. After curling, let hair cool completely before touching it—this “sets” the shape. Use a lightweight hairspray (avoid aerosol sprays that feel crunchy). For second-day curls, spritz dry shampoo at the roots and reshape stubborn sections with a damp toothbrush.
Common Mistakes Men Make When Curling Their Hair
- Using too much product: Overloading with gels or waxes weighs curls down.
- Skipping heat protection: This leads to dry, brittle hair over time.
- Rushing the process: Curling large sections at once creates uneven results.
- Combing curls out: Use fingers or a wide-tooth comb to preserve texture.
Conclusion
Curly or wavy hair isn’t about perfection—it’s about embracing movement and dimension. Experiment with different techniques to find what suits your hair type and routine. Short fades with subtle waves add edge to a sharp look, while shoulder-length curls channel a relaxed vibe. Remember: Hair grows back. Don’t stress over a “failed” curl day. With practice, you’ll master the art of effortless texture.
Related topics:
7 Stylish Long Layered Curly Hairstyles For Men
How to Master the Art of Managing Short Wavy Hair for Men
7 Effortless Ways to Style Your Own Curly Hair
