Choosing the right hairstyle is a crucial aspect of grooming for men, especially for those with thick hair. Thick hair can be both a blessing and a challenge. While it offers versatility and volume, it can also become difficult to manage without the right cut and style. In this article, we will guide you through the process of choosing the best thick hairstyle that complements your face shape, lifestyle, and personal preferences.
Understanding Thick Hair
Before diving into specific hairstyles, it’s important to understand what defines thick hair and how it behaves. Thick hair is typically dense and voluminous, with more strands packed together. It tends to have more texture, which can make it both easier to style and more prone to frizz. Men with thick hair often need to consider factors like hair type, texture, and maintenance when choosing the right style.
Types of Thick Hair
- Curly Hair – Curly thick hair adds natural volume and texture but can be unruly. It may need more effort to manage, and choosing a style that highlights or tames the curls is key.
- Wavy Hair – Wavy thick hair can be more manageable than curly hair but still offers a lot of body. It can be styled in various ways, depending on the wave pattern.
- Straight Hair – Straight thick hair has a sleek appearance but can look heavy if not cut properly. Layering and thinning techniques can help reduce bulk and enhance movement.
Understanding the type of thick hair you have will help you choose a hairstyle that works with your natural texture.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Thick Hairstyle
There are several factors to consider before picking the right hairstyle. These factors will not only determine the style’s practicality but also how well it suits your appearance.
Face Shape
The shape of your face plays a significant role in determining which hairstyle will look best on you. Here are some guidelines based on different face shapes:
- Oval Face – An oval face shape is versatile and suits almost any hairstyle. Men with oval faces can experiment with different lengths, from short to medium, and styles like pompadours or quiffs.
- Square Face – A square face shape has strong, angular features. A hairstyle with volume on top and softer sides will help balance the sharpness of the jawline. Styles like the textured crop or side part work well.
- Round Face – A round face tends to be fuller, so creating height and structure on top can elongate the face. A pompadour or undercut with longer hair on top can help create this effect.
- Heart Face – Heart-shaped faces have a wider forehead and a narrow chin. Softening the top and keeping the sides longer can help balance out these proportions. Styles like the side-swept fringe or a longer quiff can be flattering.
- Diamond Face – A diamond-shaped face has wide cheekbones and a narrow forehead and jaw. To soften the cheekbones, opt for a medium-length style with texture, like a messy fringe or a textured top with shorter sides.
Hair Texture and Thickness
The texture of your hair will also dictate the best hairstyle for you. Men with thick, coarse hair may need a layered style to prevent their hair from appearing too bulky. On the other hand, men with finer but thick hair can benefit from a style that adds volume and texture, like a messy or tousled look.
Lifestyle and Maintenance
Your daily routine and how much time you’re willing to spend on hair maintenance should also be considered. Some thick hairstyles require regular styling and product application to maintain their shape, while others are low-maintenance and easy to manage. For instance, a buzz cut or crew cut is low-maintenance, while styles like the pompadour or quiff may need regular styling and the use of hair products.
Best Thick Hairstyles for Men
Now that we’ve considered the factors that affect hairstyle choice, let’s dive into some of the best hairstyles for men with thick hair. Whether you’re looking for something short and easy to maintain or a style that makes a statement, there’s something here for everyone.
1. The Pompadour
The pompadour is a timeless classic that works beautifully with thick hair. The style is characterized by voluminous hair on top, which is styled back while the sides are kept shorter or faded. Thick hair provides the necessary volume to achieve this look effortlessly. For a modern take, you can add some texture to the top, making it a bit messier while still maintaining the signature volume.
How to Style:
- Use a strong-hold pomade or styling cream.
- Apply the product to damp hair and blow-dry it upwards and backward.
- Once the hair is dry, use a comb to shape the top while keeping the sides shorter for contrast.
2. The Crew Cut
The crew cut is a short and practical hairstyle that works perfectly for men with thick hair. It’s a versatile style that’s easy to maintain and can be customized to fit different face shapes. The sides are typically tapered, while the top is kept slightly longer. This cut is ideal for men who want something low-maintenance but still stylish.
How to Style:
- For added texture, apply a lightweight styling cream to damp hair.
- Use your fingers to style the top, allowing some natural texture to show.
- Keep the sides neat and trimmed.
3. The Quiff
Similar to the pompadour, the quiff is a voluminous hairstyle with hair styled upward and slightly backward. The difference is that the quiff is usually more subtle and less exaggerated. It’s perfect for men with thick, wavy, or straight hair, as it adds height and texture.
How to Style:
- Apply a volume-boosting mousse or pomade to damp hair.
- Blow-dry the top of your hair upward, using a round brush to create lift.
- Finish with a strong-hold hairspray to keep the quiff in place.
4. The Undercut
The undercut is a bold and edgy hairstyle that works exceptionally well with thick hair. The sides are shaved or clipped very short while the top is left longer and styled into various shapes, from slicked-back to messy. The sharp contrast between the short sides and longer top creates a modern, stylish look that is easy to maintain.
How to Style:
- Apply a matte styling paste or pomade to damp hair.
- Use a comb to slick the top back or create a messy look, depending on your preference.
- Maintain the clean lines on the sides by getting regular trims.
5. Textured Crop
The textured crop is a stylish and contemporary look for men with thick hair. It involves shorter sides with a slightly longer, textured top. This hairstyle is particularly great for those with curly or wavy hair as it enhances the natural texture and creates a relaxed yet polished appearance.
How to Style:
- Apply a light styling cream or mousse to damp hair.
- Use your fingers to create texture on the top, scrunching the hair to enhance curls or waves.
- Keep the sides short and clean for a balanced look.
6. The Caesar Cut
The Caesar cut is a timeless hairstyle that works well for men with thick hair. It’s a short, uniform cut where the hair is trimmed to the same length all around. The fringe is styled forward, which works well with thick hair to create a neat, structured appearance.
How to Style:
- After washing, apply a small amount of styling gel to damp hair.
- Use your fingers to work the product through the hair, creating a forward fringe.
- Keep the sides neat and trimmed for a clean finish.
7. Long and Layered
For men who prefer longer hair, a layered cut is a great option. Long, thick hair can be difficult to manage, but layering helps distribute the volume and prevents the hair from looking bulky. A long, layered style offers versatility, allowing you to wear it loose or tie it back.
How to Style:
- Use a lightweight leave-in conditioner to keep the hair soft and manageable.
- Apply a styling cream or gel to damp hair to help shape the layers.
- Blow-dry for added volume or let it air-dry for a more natural look.
8. The Buzz Cut
For men who want the ultimate low-maintenance style, the buzz cut is the go-to option. It’s a very short, uniform cut that works well with thick hair. It’s easy to maintain and requires minimal styling.
How to Style:
- There’s no real styling required with a buzz cut, but it’s important to get regular trims to maintain the length.
- You may choose to shave the sides for a more dramatic look or keep them the same length as the top for a more subtle effect.
Tips for Maintaining Thick Hair
Once you’ve chosen the right hairstyle, maintaining your thick hair is crucial for keeping your look sharp. Here are some tips to ensure your hair remains healthy and manageable:
- Use the Right Shampoo and Conditioner – Opt for products designed for thick hair. These will help nourish and hydrate your hair while preventing it from becoming dry or frizzy.
- Trim Regularly – Thick hair can grow quickly, and regular trims are essential for keeping your style in shape. Visit your barber every 4-6 weeks for maintenance.
- Avoid Overstyling – Overuse of styling products can weigh down your hair and make it look greasy. Use products sparingly and choose ones suited to your hair type.
- Deep Condition – Treat your thick hair to a deep conditioning treatment once or twice a month to keep it healthy and shiny.
- Don’t Skip the Heat Protection – If you use a blow dryer or other heat tools, always apply a heat protectant spray to shield your hair from damage.
Conclusion
Choosing the right thick hairstyle for men involves understanding your hair’s texture, face shape, and lifestyle needs. Whether you prefer a classic pompadour, a low-maintenance buzz cut, or a textured crop, there’s a style that works for every man with thick hair. Regular maintenance and the right styling products will keep your thick hair looking its best and help you feel confident every day.
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