The 1970s was an era of bold and iconic hairstyles for men. The curly hairstyles of that time were not only a fashion statement but also a symbol of a carefree and groovy spirit. If you want to achieve a 70s men’s curly hairstyle, here is a detailed professional guide to help you through the process.
Understanding the 70s Men’s Curly Hairstyle Aesthetics
The 70s curly hairstyles for men had a distinct look. They were often voluminous, with loose and natural-looking curls. The curls could range from soft waves to tighter ringlets. The overall style was about embracing a sense of freedom and individuality. The hair was usually worn at a medium to long length, allowing the curls to have enough room to show off their shape. For example, the iconic Afro hairstyle was extremely popular in the 70s, which was a large, rounded mass of curly hair that gave a powerful and confident appearance. Another common style was the shaggy curly look, with layers of curls that added texture and movement.
Hair Preparation
Hair Length
The ideal starting length for a 70s curly hairstyle is usually around 4 to 8 inches. If your hair is shorter, you may need to grow it out for a while. However, if it is too long, it might be a bit difficult to manage and style. For instance, if you have very short hair like a buzz cut, it will take several months to reach the appropriate length. You can regularly trim the ends to keep it healthy while growing it out.
Hair Health
Before styling, it is crucial to ensure your hair is in good health. This means using a good quality shampoo and conditioner. Look for products that are formulated for curly hair or those that provide moisture and nourishment. For example, sulfate-free shampoos are great as they don’t strip the hair of its natural oils. A conditioner with ingredients like argan oil or shea butter can help hydrate the hair and make it more manageable. You can also use a deep conditioning treatment once a week to repair any damage and improve the hair’s elasticity.
Drying the Hair
After washing, gently blot the hair with a towel to remove excess water. Avoid rubbing vigorously as this can cause frizz. You can either let the hair air dry partially or use a diffuser on a low heat setting. If air drying, you can scrunch the hair gently with your hands while it is damp to encourage the formation of curls. When using a diffuser, place it close to the roots and move it around in a circular motion to lift the hair and enhance the curl pattern.
Styling Tools and Products
Curling Irons
A curling iron is a key tool for creating 70s curls. For looser waves, a larger barrel curling iron, around 1.5 to 2 inches in diameter, is suitable. If you want tighter curls, a smaller barrel, about 0.5 to 1 inch, can be used. Make sure to choose a curling iron with adjustable heat settings. Start with a lower heat setting if your hair is fine or damaged, and gradually increase if needed. For example, for fine hair, a heat setting of around 300°F might be appropriate, while for thicker hair, you could go up to 350 – 400°F.
Hair Rollers
Another option is to use hair rollers. Foam rollers are great for creating soft, natural-looking curls. They come in different sizes, similar to curling irons. To use them, roll sections of damp hair onto the rollers and secure them in place. Leave them in for a few hours or overnight for a more defined curl. Velcro rollers are also handy as they are easy to use and can add volume. You can use a combination of different sized rollers to create a more textured look.
Styling Products
Mousse: A volumizing mousse is essential for adding body and hold to the curls. Apply a small amount of mousse to the roots and work it through the hair with your fingers. This will help lift the hair and give it that 70s fullness. For example, a mousse with a light hold formula is better as it won’t make the hair feel stiff.
Hairspray: A good quality hairspray is needed to set the curls in place. Look for a flexible hold hairspray that allows the hair to still have some movement. Spray it lightly over the styled curls to keep them from falling out. You can also use a shine spray after the hairspray to give the hair a healthy glow.
Gel: If you want more defined and long-lasting curls, a small amount of gel can be used. Apply it to the ends of the curls and scrunch gently. However, be careful not to use too much as it can make the hair look crunchy.
The Styling Process
Sectioning the Hair
Divide the hair into sections. Start from the bottom and work your way up. Use clips to hold the unworked sections. For example, you can divide the hair into 4 to 6 sections depending on the thickness of your hair. This makes it easier to style each part evenly and ensures that all the hair gets curled.
Curling the Hair
If using a curling iron, take a small section of hair and wrap it around the barrel. Hold it for a few seconds, usually around 5 to 10 seconds depending on the heat setting and the desired curl tightness. Release the hair and let it cool for a moment. Then, gently scrunch the curl with your fingers to break it up and make it look more natural. If using rollers, roll each section as described earlier and let them set.
Creating Volume
To achieve the characteristic volume of 70s hairstyles, you can tease the hair at the roots. Use a fine-toothed comb and gently backcomb the hair near the roots in small sections. This will create a lifted and fuller look. However, be careful not to overdo it as it can make the hair look messy and damaged. After teasing, smooth the top layer of hair with your fingers or a brush to cover the teased area.
Finishing Touches
Apply the styling products as mentioned. Start with the mousse, then style the curls. Once you are satisfied with the look, use the hairspray to set it. You can also use a small amount of pomade or wax to define the ends of the curls or add some texture. For example, a dab of pomade rubbed between your fingers and then applied to the ends can give a more polished look.
Maintaining the 70s Curly Hairstyle
Nighttime Care
To maintain the curls overnight, you can either loosely braid the hair or use a satin or silk scarf. Braiding the hair helps to preserve the curl pattern. If using a scarf, wrap it around your head loosely, covering the hair. This prevents the hair from getting flattened and reduces frizz. You can also use a satin or silk pillowcase as it causes less friction compared to a cotton pillowcase.
Daily Maintenance
In the morning, you can refresh the curls by using a small amount of water or a curl refresher spray. Gently scrunch the hair to revive the curls. If there are any frizzy areas, you can apply a tiny bit of serum or oil to smooth them out. Avoid over-brushing the hair as this can disrupt the curl pattern. If you need to restyle, you can use a curling iron or rollers on the areas that need a touch-up.
Conclusion
The 70s men’s curly hairstyles are a fun and stylish choice. By following these steps and using the right tools and products, you can achieve an authentic and eye-catching 70s curly look. Whether you are going for a retro-themed event or just want to add a unique touch to your everyday style, this guide should help you master the art of 70s men’s curly hairstyling.
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