Lately, there’s been a rising trend among men—letting their hair grow longer. If you’re thinking about jumping on this bandwagon, curly hair is one of the top choices for a stylish, longer look. Curly hair isn’t just adaptable; it can also be incredibly striking and unique, echoing the effortlessly cool styles of celebrities like Timothée Chalamet or Jason Momoa.
In this article, we’ll help you figure out if your hair type is suited for curls and provide some pro tips on how to achieve and maintain those enviable ringlets. Next, we’re showcasing the 15 most popular curly haircuts for men right now. So, get ready!
What is curly hair?
If you’re already an expert on curly hair, feel free to skip this section. However, if you want to dive deeper and truly understand what curly hair is, this part is definitely worth your time. Curly hair is distinguished by its spiral shape, which can range from loose waves to tight coils. This unique texture influences everything from volume and bounce to its tendency to frizz. By grasping these intricacies, you can choose the best curly haircut that enhances your natural look and suits your lifestyle.
Curly hair vs. other hair types:
| Hair type | Description | Curl pattern | Texture | Volume | Frizz level | Maintenance needs |
| Straight | Hair that grows without any curl or wave | None | Smooth | Low | Low | Low, easy to manage |
| Wavy | Hair that forms loose, gentle waves | S-shaped waves | Slightly coarse | Medium | Moderate | Moderate, can be frizzy |
| Curly | Hair that forms tight spirals or ringlets | S to Z-shaped curls | Coarse | High | High | High, requires moisturizing |
| Coily | Hair that forms very tight curls or coils | Z-shaped, tight coils | Very coarse | Very high | Very high | Very high, needs intense care |
What length is best for curly hair for men?
Choosing the right length for your curly hair can really elevate your style. Whether you’re aiming for a short, tidy cut or long, luxurious curls, each length brings its own set of perks and challenges. The key is to find a length that not only enhances your curls but also fits your personal style and daily routine. Let’s compare the different lengths and what they have to offer.
How to decide the best length for your curly hair?
| Length | Description | Benefits | Challenges |
| Short | Close-cropped, usually up to 2 inches | Low maintenance, easy styling, neat appearance | Limited styling options, can look untidy if not cut well |
| Medium | Between 2 to 6 inches | Many-sided, balanced volume, manageable | Requires regular upkeep, can frizz without proper care |
| Long | Usually 6 inches or longer, reaching shoulders or beyond | Statement-making, numerous styling possibilities | High maintenance, can be more difficult to manage and prone to tangling |
How do you know curly hair is suitable for you?
Curly hair can be a fantastic look, but how do you know if it’s right for you? Here are some questions to help you determine if curly hair suits you. If you find yourself answering “yes” to several of these questions, curly hair might just be your ideal style.
1. “Do you have naturally wavy or curly hair?”
If your hair naturally has a wave or curl to it, enhancing those curls can be a great way to embrace your natural texture.
2. “Are you comfortable with regular maintenance?”
Curly hair often requires more upkeep than straight hair, including regular conditioning and styling to keep it looking its best.
3. “Do you enjoy trying different styles?”
Curly hair is incredibly convertible and allows for a range of styles from tight ringlets to loose waves. If you like changing up your look, curly hair offers plenty of options.
4. “Are you prepared for a bit of frizz?”
Curly hair tends to be more prone to frizz. If you’re okay with managing a bit of frizz and finding products that work for you, curly hair can be a great choice.
5. “Do you have the right hair products?”
Maintaining curly hair often requires professional products, such as leave-in conditioners, curl creams, and anti-frizz serums. If you’re willing to invest in these, you’re on the right track.
6. “Do you like volume?”
Curly hair naturally has more volume than straight hair. If you love the look of voluminous hair, curls can help you achieve that effortlessly.
7. “Are you patient?”
Styling curly hair can take more time and patience. If you’re willing to spend a bit more time on your hair each day, curly styles can be very rewarding.
Here’s a quick checklist to see if curly hair is right for you:
| Question | Yes | No |
| Do you have naturally wavy or curly hair? | ||
| Are you comfortable with regular maintenance? | ||
| Do you enjoy trying different styles? | ||
| Are you prepared for a bit of frizz? | ||
| Do you have the right hair products? | ||
| Do you like volume? | ||
| Are you patient with your hair care routine? |
If you answered “yes” to most of these questions, curly hair is likely a great fit for you. And then, it’s time to review some of the best men’s curly haircuts.
15 best haircuts for curly hair men
Here are 15 of the best haircuts for curly hair men, each with detailed descriptions to help you choose your next style.
1. Curly high top fade
The curly high top fade is a modern twist on a classic style. This haircut features short, tapered sides with a voluminous, curly top. It’s a look that has remained popular over the years, thanks in part to icons like Will Smith during his Fresh Prince of Bel-Air days.
The high top fade is all about contrast—sharp edges against the natural, bouncy curls on top. It’s not just stylish but also relatively low-maintenance. Regular trims on the sides keep the look sharp, while curl-defining products help maintain the volume and shape of the top.
2. Textured curly crop
The textured curly crop is one of the best haircuts for men with thick curly hair and more recommended for guys who want a stylish look without a lot of fuss. This cut features short sides and back, with longer, textured curls on top. It’s a great way to show off your natural curls while keeping things neat and manageable.
You can play around with different styling products to achieve various looks, from a more defined curl to a relaxed, tousled appearance. Just apply a bit of curl cream or mousse, and you’re good to go.
3. Curly pompadour
The curly pompadour is a bold and fashionable choice. This hairstyle combines the classic pompadour shape with natural curls, creating a look that’s both voluminous and full of personality. To achieve this style, you’ll need a strong-hold product to keep the pompadour in place while enhancing the texture of your curls. It’s a look that’s great for special occasions or whenever you want to stand out. Celebrities like Bruno Mars have rocked the curly pompadour, proving just how stylish it can be.
4. Curly mohawk
If you’re feeling adventurous, the curly mohawk might be a nice fit. As the best haircut for men with curly hair, this edgy style features closely shaved sides with a strip of longer, curly hair running from the front to the back. It’s a look that’s all about making a statement. The curly mohawk requires a bit of maintenance to keep the sides trimmed and the curls defined, but it’s worth it for the bold impact it makes.
5. Curly undercut
The curly undercut is a modern, stylish haircut that pairs short, buzzed sides and back with longer curls on top. This contrast creates a striking look that emphasizes the natural texture of your curls. The undercut is a popular style that can be adapted to suit your personal taste. Whether you prefer a more polished appearance or a tousled, carefree look, the curly undercut can deliver.
6. Curly fringe
The curly fringe is a fantastic choice for adding a bit of flair to your look. This style involves letting the curls fall naturally over the forehead, creating a relaxed and youthful appearance. It’s a great option if you want to add some texture and movement to your hair. To keep the fringe looking its best, use a light styling cream to define the curls and reduce frizz.
7. Medium-length curly hair
Medium-length curly hair offers a balanced look that’s neither too short nor too long. This length is so good for showcasing your natural curls while still being easy to manage. Think of celebrities like Kit Harington, whose luscious curls have become iconic.
To keep medium-length curls looking their best, use a leave-in conditioner to maintain moisture and prevent frizz. And you can use the Laifen Swift ionic diffuser hair dryer to help organize and blow out your hair naturally and healthily.
8. Curly taper fade
The curly taper fade is a polished haircut that gradually shortens the hair from the top down to the sides and back. This creates a smooth transition that highlights the curls on top. It’s a modern look that works well for many occasions. The taper fade requires regular maintenance to keep the fade sharp, but the effort is worth it for the clean, defined look. Use a curl cream or gel to enhance the curls on top and keep them in place.
9. Curly shag
As the best men’s haircut for thinning curly hair, che curly shag is a laid-back and effortless style that works well for those who prefer a more relaxed look. This haircut features layers that add volume and movement to the curls, creating a tousled and textured appearance.
It’s reminiscent of the 70s rockstar vibe, making it a fun and trendy choice. To style a curly shag, use a lightweight mousse to define the layers and give the hair some lift.
10. Long curly hair
Growing your curls long can result in a stunning and dramatic look. Long curly hair allows you to fully embrace the natural texture and volume of your curls. This style requires more maintenance to keep the curls healthy and prevent tangles, but the result is well worth it. Celebrities like Jason Momoa have made long curly hair a desirable look, showcasing how it can be both rugged and sophisticated.
11. Curly undercut with beard
The curly undercut with a beard is a dynamic look that pairs a sharp undercut with natural curls on top and a well-groomed beard. This combination creates a balanced and rugged appearance. The contrast between the short sides and the voluminous curls adds depth and character. Use a beard oil to keep your beard soft and a curl cream for the hair on top.
12. Curly comb over
The curly comb over is a refined style that works well for both professional and casual settings. This haircut involves longer curls on top that are combed to one side, with shorter sides to create a clean look. The comb over adds a touch of sophistication while allowing the natural texture of the curls to shine.
13. Curly top with temple fade
The curly top with a temple fade is a trendy haircut that emphasizes the curls on top while gradually fading down the sides. This style is particularly popular for its sleek, modern look. The temple fade requires regular touch-ups to keep the fade crisp, while the curly top can be styled with a curl enhancer to maintain volume and definition. This haircut is great for highlighting the natural curls without too much maintenance on the sides.
14. Curly bowl cut
The curly bowl cut is a bold and fashion-forward choice that’s made a comeback in recent years. This style features a rounded cut that follows the natural curve of the head, with the curls creating a unique and textured appearance. While it might not be for everyone, the curly bowl cut is perfect for those who love to experiment with their look.
15. Curly faux hawk
The curly faux hawk is an adventurous style that brings a bit of edge to your look. This haircut features closely shaved sides with a strip of longer, curly hair running from the front to the back of the head. It’s a more subtle version of the traditional mohawk but still packs a punch. To style a curly faux hawk, use a strong-hold gel to lift the curls and create height.
Lastly
Embracing your natural curls is an excellent choice for many men. Letting your hair grow out and adopting a curly hairstyle can enhance your unique look and showcase your personality.
For those with straight hair who want to achieve curly styles, you will need some products and a bit more maintenance. Products like curl-enhancing creams, mousses, and proper conditioning are essential to creating and maintaining those curls. Also, a hair dryer with a diffuser like Laifen Swift Special is pretty useful when blowing out your curly hair.
Curly hairstyles are truly captivating, offering a dynamic and textured look that stands out. We hope you’ve found a style in our list that inspires you and helps you make the most of your curly hair.
