Curly hair, with its natural texture and volume, presents a unique canvas for a wide range of hairstyles. While some men may feel challenged by their curls, the right haircut can enhance their natural beauty and make styling easier. In this article, we’ll explore the best haircuts for men with curly hair, focusing on various lengths, face shapes, and lifestyle needs.
Understanding Curly Hair Types
Before diving into specific haircuts, it’s essential to understand the different types of curly hair. Curly hair is generally categorized into three types:
Type 2: Wavy Hair
Wavy hair falls between straight and curly, forming loose, S-shaped waves. It’s not as voluminous as other curly types but still offers some texture.
Type 3: Curly Hair
Curly hair forms well-defined ringlets or corkscrews. It tends to be more voluminous and prone to frizz, requiring regular maintenance.
Type 4: Coily Hair
Coily hair is the tightest curl type, forming very tight coils or zig-zags. It is the most voluminous but also the most fragile, needing extra care and moisture.
Choosing the Right Haircut
The best haircut for curly hair depends on factors such as hair type, face shape, and personal style preferences. Below are some of the most popular and flattering haircuts for men with curly hair.
1. The Curly Undercut
Overview
The curly undercut is a modern, stylish option that works well with all curl types. This haircut involves keeping the sides and back short and leaving the top long. The contrast between the short sides and voluminous curls on top creates a bold and contemporary look.
Why It Works
The undercut is ideal for men who want to showcase their curls while maintaining a clean, edgy appearance. It’s versatile, allowing you to style the top in various ways, such as slicked back, tousled, or even in a man bun.
Styling Tips
- Use a curl-enhancing cream to define your curls and reduce frizz.
- Apply a light hold gel or mousse to keep the curls in place without weighing them down.
- Regular trims are necessary to maintain the undercut’s sharp contrast.
2. The Curly Taper Fade
Overview
The taper fade is another popular haircut that complements curly hair beautifully. This style features a gradual fade from longer hair at the top to shorter hair on the sides and back. The curls on top can be kept at any length, making this a flexible option.
Why It Works
The taper fade provides a balanced look by softening the transition between the curls and the shorter sides. It’s a great choice for men who prefer a more subtle, polished appearance while still emphasizing their natural curls.
Styling Tips
- To enhance the curls, apply a leave-in conditioner followed by a curl-defining product.
- For added volume, consider diffusing your hair while blow-drying.
- Regular maintenance is key to keeping the fade sharp and clean.
3. The Curly High Top
Overview
The curly high top, inspired by the 80s and 90s, is making a strong comeback. This haircut involves growing out the top while keeping the sides and back short or faded. The top is shaped into a high, flat, or slightly rounded shape, emphasizing the volume and texture of the curls.
Why It Works
The curly high top is perfect for men who want to embrace their curls in a bold and eye-catching way. It works particularly well for those with Type 3 or Type 4 curls, as the natural volume adds to the overall impact of the haircut.
Styling Tips
- Use a moisturizing curl cream to keep the curls soft and hydrated.
- Shape the high top with a pick or wide-tooth comb to maintain its structure.
- Regular trims are essential to keep the high top looking fresh and even.
4. The Curly Fringe
Overview
The curly fringe is a trendy haircut that features longer curls at the front, which fall naturally over the forehead. The sides and back can be kept short or tapered, depending on your preference. This style adds a youthful, relaxed vibe to your look.
Why It Works
The curly fringe is ideal for men with wavy to curly hair who want a laid-back, yet fashionable, appearance. The fringe adds texture and movement to the hairstyle, making it a great choice for those looking to soften their facial features.
Styling Tips
- Apply a lightweight styling cream to enhance the natural curl pattern.
- Allow the fringe to air-dry for a more natural, tousled look.
- Regular trims will prevent the fringe from becoming too heavy or unruly.
5. The Curly Crop
Overview
The curly crop is a low-maintenance haircut that keeps the curls short and neat. This style features a uniform length all around the head, with the curls cut close to the scalp. It’s a practical and stylish option for men who prefer a no-fuss look.
Why It Works
The curly crop is perfect for men with busy lifestyles who want a haircut that’s easy to manage and style. It’s particularly suited for men with Type 2 or Type 3 curls, as the shorter length helps control frizz and adds definition to the curls.
Styling Tips
- Use a lightweight curl cream or gel to define the curls and reduce frizz.
- Air-dry or diffuse the hair for added texture and volume.
- This style requires minimal maintenance but benefits from regular trims to keep the shape.
See Also: How To Style Curly Hair After Shower Male
6. The Curly Pompadour
Overview
The curly pompadour is a classic haircut with a modern twist, featuring voluminous curls styled upward and backward. The sides are typically faded or kept short, while the top is left long to create the signature pompadour shape.
Why It Works
The pompadour adds height and drama to your look, making it a great choice for men who want to make a statement with their hairstyle. The curls add a unique texture to the traditional pompadour, giving it a fresh and contemporary feel.
Styling Tips
- Use a volumizing mousse or gel to lift the curls and add height.
- Blow-dry the curls with a diffuser while shaping the pompadour with your fingers.
- Finish with a strong hold hairspray to keep the style in place throughout the day.
7. The Curly Quiff
Overview
The curly quiff is a modern, stylish haircut that involves longer curls at the front, styled upward and backward, with shorter sides and back. It’s similar to the pompadour but with a more relaxed, tousled finish.
Why It Works
The curly quiff is ideal for men who want a trendy, yet versatile, hairstyle. The quiff adds volume and height, making it a great option for men with thicker curls. It’s also suitable for various face shapes, adding balance and definition.
Styling Tips
- Apply a curl cream or mousse to damp hair and scrunch the curls for added texture.
- Use a blow dryer with a diffuser to lift the curls while shaping the quiff.
- For a more polished look, finish with a medium hold pomade or wax.
8. The Curly Faux Hawk
Overview
The curly faux hawk is a bold and edgy haircut that features longer curls on top, styled into a faux hawk shape, with the sides faded or kept short. This haircut is perfect for men who want a daring, yet stylish, look.
Why It Works
The curly faux hawk is a great way to showcase your curls while adding a touch of rebellion to your style. It’s versatile enough to be styled in various ways, from a subtle wave to a more defined, spiky look.
Styling Tips
- Use a strong hold gel or wax to shape the curls into the faux hawk.
- Blow-dry the curls with a diffuser for added volume and definition.
- Regular trims will help maintain the shape and keep the style looking sharp.
9. The Curly Mohawk
Overview
The curly mohawk is a more extreme version of the faux hawk, with the sides shaved or closely cropped, leaving a strip of longer curls running from the front to the back of the head. This haircut is for men who want to make a bold statement with their curls.
Why It Works
The curly mohawk is ideal for men with thick, voluminous curls who want to embrace a more daring and unconventional look. It’s a head-turning style that highlights the natural texture of your curls while adding an element of individuality.
Styling Tips
- Use a curl-defining product to enhance the shape and texture of the curls.
- Consider using a texturizing spray for added volume and hold.
- Regular upkeep is necessary to maintain the sharp contrast between the shaved sides and the curly top.
10. The Natural Afro
Overview
The natural afro is a timeless and iconic hairstyle that celebrates the beauty of coily and curly hair. This haircut involves letting the hair grow out into its natural shape, creating a voluminous and rounded afro.
Why It Works
The natural afro is perfect for men with Type 4 curls who want to embrace their natural texture fully. It’s a low-maintenance style that requires minimal manipulation, allowing the curls to grow freely and healthily.
Styling Tips
- Keep your afro moisturized with leave-in conditioner or hair oil to prevent dryness.
- Use a wide-tooth comb or pick to shape the afro and add volume.
- Regular trims will help maintain the shape and keep the ends healthy.
Conclusion
Choosing the best haircut for curly hair involves considering your hair type, face shape, and personal style. Whether you prefer a bold and edgy look like the curly faux hawk or a more classic style like the natural afro, there’s a perfect haircut out there for every man with curls. The key is to embrace your natural texture and work with a hairstylist who understands the unique needs of curly hair. With the right cut and styling techniques, your curls can become your best feature, adding personality and flair to your overall look.