13 Haircuts For Men With Curly Hair: Top Looks & Styling Guide
Curly hair is one of the most dynamic and versatile hair types for men, offering natural volume, texture, and character that straight hair simply cannot replicate. Yet many men with curly hair struggle to find the right haircut that enhances their natural texture rather than fighting against it. The key to looking your best lies in choosing a cut that complements your curl pattern while fitting your lifestyle and personal style.
This comprehensive guide explores 13 of the most popular and flattering haircuts for men with curly hair. Whether you have loose waves or tight coils, prefer short and structured styles or longer flowing looks, there is a perfect cut waiting for you. Understanding which haircuts work best with curly hair can transform your entire grooming routine, making styling easier and giving you the confidence that comes with a great haircut.
The right haircut does more than just look good. It reduces styling time, minimizes frizz, and allows your natural curl pattern to shine. Modern barbering techniques have evolved to celebrate curly hair rather than suppress it, giving men more options than ever before. From classic cuts with contemporary twists to bold modern styles, the following haircuts represent the best options available for men with curly hair today.
Understanding Your Curl Type
Before selecting a haircut, understanding your specific curl type is essential. Hair texture professionals categorize curls into several types, ranging from loose waves to tight coils. Type 2 hair features gentle S-shaped waves that add subtle texture and movement. Type 3 hair displays defined springy curls that form distinct ringlets. Type 4 hair consists of tight coils with a zig-zag pattern and impressive natural volume.
Each curl type responds differently to cuts and styling techniques. Looser waves maintain their shape with minimal product, while tighter curls require more moisture and definition. Knowing your curl type helps you communicate effectively with your barber and select products that work with your natural texture rather than against it. The thickness and density of your hair also play crucial roles in determining which cuts will look best and be easiest to maintain.
Face shape is another important consideration when choosing a curly haircut. Oval faces have the flexibility to wear nearly any style, while round faces benefit from height and volume on top to create length. Square faces look best with styles that soften angular features, and heart-shaped faces need volume around the jawline to balance broader foreheads. Your barber can help you identify which cuts will most flatter your specific combination of curl type and face shape.
1 The Curly Fade
The curly fade stands as one of the most popular and versatile haircuts for men with curly hair. This style keeps the natural curl texture on top while incorporating tapered or faded sides that create clean, structured definition. The fade can be customized to different heights, from low fades that start just above the ears to high fades that begin near the temples, offering numerous styling possibilities.
The beauty of the curly fade lies in its adaptability. Men with looser curls can maintain more length on top for a relaxed, casual appearance, while those with tighter curl patterns might prefer shorter lengths that are easier to manage. The contrast between the textured top and clean sides creates visual interest and draws attention to the natural curl pattern. This cut works exceptionally well for professional environments while remaining stylish enough for casual settings.
Maintaining a curly fade requires regular visits to your barber every two to three weeks to keep the fade sharp and defined. The top section needs minimal trimming, allowing your curls to develop their natural shape. When styling, apply a curl cream to damp hair and either let it air dry or use a diffuser attachment on your blow dryer. The result is a polished, contemporary look that celebrates your natural texture while maintaining clean lines.
2 The Textured Crop
The textured crop has emerged as a modern favorite among men with curly hair, offering a short, manageable style that maximizes natural texture. This cut features short sides with slightly more length on top, typically ranging from one to three inches. The top is cut with texturizing techniques that enhance the natural curl pattern, creating movement and dimension without requiring extensive styling.
This haircut excels in its low-maintenance nature. The shorter length means curls are easier to control and less prone to frizzing throughout the day. The textured crop looks intentionally casual yet put-together, making it ideal for men who want a stylish appearance without spending significant time on hair care. The cut works particularly well with type 2 and 3 curl patterns, allowing the natural wave or curl to add character without becoming overwhelming.
Styling a textured crop takes minimal effort. After washing, apply a small amount of styling cream or light-hold gel to damp hair, then let it air dry or quickly blow dry with your fingers to add volume. The natural texture does most of the work, creating an effortlessly cool appearance. This cut suits most face shapes and looks appropriate in both professional and casual settings, making it an excellent all-around choice.
3 The Curly Undercut
The curly undercut creates dramatic contrast by pairing closely shaved or very short sides with substantial length and volume on top. This bold style emphasizes the thick, textured curls on top while the sharp undercut adds modern edge and definition. The disconnected look between the top and sides makes this one of the most striking haircuts available for men with curly hair.
The undercut works best for men with thick, healthy curls who want to showcase their natural volume. The length on top can range from three to six inches or even longer, depending on personal preference and how much maintenance you want to handle. This extra length allows for various styling options, from sweeping curls to the side to styling them forward or straight back. The undercut draws the eye upward, elongating the face and creating a strong, confident silhouette.
Maintaining this style requires commitment to regular trims on the sides to keep the undercut sharp and defined. The top section needs periodic shaping to prevent it from becoming too heavy or losing its form. When styling, use a strong-hold curl cream or styling clay to define the curls and create separation. This cut pairs excellently with a well-groomed beard that can blend into the undercut, creating a cohesive, masculine appearance.
4 The Crew Cut With Curls
The crew cut proves that short hair and curls can work together beautifully. This classic military-inspired cut keeps hair short all over, typically ranging from half an inch to two inches on top with even shorter sides. For men with curly hair, the crew cut allows the natural texture to show through while maintaining an extremely neat, professional appearance that requires minimal daily maintenance.
This style is particularly effective for men with tighter curl patterns or those who work in conservative professional environments. The short length prevents curls from becoming unruly while still displaying their natural character. The crew cut can be customized with a fade on the sides to add contemporary style to the traditional cut. This variation creates visual interest while maintaining the clean, masculine aesthetic that makes the crew cut timeless.
Styling a curly crew cut could not be simpler. After washing, apply a small amount of leave-in conditioner to keep the hair moisturized and enhance the natural curl texture. The short length means hair dries quickly and requires no additional styling products or techniques. Regular trims every two to three weeks maintain the shape and keep the cut looking crisp. This is the ideal choice for men who prioritize convenience without sacrificing style.
5 The Long Curly Style
Long curly hair makes a powerful statement, showcasing the full beauty and movement of natural curls. This style typically features hair that falls past the ears and can extend to shoulder length or beyond. Long curly hair requires commitment to proper care and maintenance, but the results create a distinctive, memorable appearance that stands out in any crowd.
Managing long curly hair successfully demands understanding moisture and definition. Longer curls are more prone to dryness because natural oils from the scalp have farther to travel down the hair shaft. Regular deep conditioning treatments become essential to maintain healthy, defined curls. Many men with long curly hair incorporate layers into their cut to prevent the style from appearing too heavy or triangular. These layers add movement and help curls fall more naturally.
Styling long curly hair involves applying products to soaking wet hair immediately after washing. Use a generous amount of curl cream or leave-in conditioner, then scrunch the hair upward to encourage curl formation. Either air dry completely or use a diffuser on low heat to speed the process while minimizing frizz. Once dry, gently scrunch again to break up any product cast and reveal soft, bouncy curls. This style works best for men with looser to medium curl patterns and those with the patience for a more involved hair care routine.
6 The Curly Fringe
The curly fringe, also known as the textured fringe, brings a youthful, fashion-forward element to men’s curly hairstyles. This cut features substantial length at the front that falls onto the forehead, creating a soft, approachable appearance. The sides are typically kept shorter with a fade or taper, while the top maintains enough length to allow the fringe to form naturally from the curls.
This style has gained significant popularity in recent years, particularly among younger men and those in creative fields. The curly fringe softens facial features and works especially well for men with square or rectangular face shapes by breaking up strong horizontal lines. The natural texture of curly hair gives the fringe more volume and character than straight hair could achieve, creating dimension and movement that evolves throughout the day.
Styling a curly fringe requires finding the right product balance. Too much product weighs down the curls and causes them to lose their shape, while too little leads to frizz and lack of definition. Apply a light curl cream to damp hair, focusing on the fringe area, then use your fingers to direct the curls forward. The natural curl pattern will create texture and separation without needing precise styling. This cut requires regular trims to maintain the proper fringe length and prevent it from obscuring vision.
7 The Curly Pompadour
The curly pompadour combines vintage elegance with natural texture, creating a sophisticated yet bold style. This cut features substantial height and volume at the front of the head, with hair swept upward and back. The sides are kept shorter, typically with a fade or taper, to emphasize the dramatic volume on top. The curly pompadour works particularly well for men with thick, voluminous curls that can support the height this style requires.
Creating a successful curly pompadour demands the right combination of cut and styling technique. The top section needs sufficient length, usually three to five inches, to achieve the characteristic lift and sweep. Your barber should cut the top with texturizing techniques that remove bulk while maintaining enough density to create volume. The pompadour draws the eye upward, making it an excellent choice for men with round faces who want to add length to their appearance.
Styling a curly pompadour takes more effort than simpler cuts but delivers impressive results. After washing, apply a volumizing mousse to damp hair at the roots. Use a blow dryer with a concentrator attachment to direct hair upward and back while maintaining the natural curl texture. Once dry, apply a medium-hold styling cream or pomade to shape the pompadour and keep it in place throughout the day. This style suits formal occasions and professional settings where a polished appearance is important.
8 The Curly Buzz Cut
The curly buzz cut represents the ultimate in low-maintenance styling while still celebrating natural curl texture. This ultra-short cut keeps hair uniformly short all over the head, typically using a single guard length ranging from one-eighth inch to half an inch. Even at this short length, curly hair retains its characteristic texture, creating visual interest that straight hair cannot match at similar lengths.
This style works exceptionally well for men with tight curls or coily hair who want a clean, sharp appearance without any styling requirements. The buzz cut is also an excellent option during warmer months when longer hair can feel uncomfortable. The short length accentuates facial features and bone structure, making it a flattering choice for men with strong, defined faces. Athletes often favor this cut for its practicality and no-nonsense aesthetic.
Maintaining a curly buzz cut requires regular trims every one to two weeks to preserve the uniform length and crisp appearance. While styling is virtually nonexistent, keeping the scalp and hair healthy remains important. Use a gentle shampoo and apply a light leave-in conditioner or hair moisturizer to prevent dryness and enhance the natural curl texture that remains visible even at this short length. The curly buzz cut proves that minimal length does not mean sacrificing character or style.
9 The Taper Fade With Curly Top
The taper fade with curly top offers a refined, graduated approach to showcasing curls. Unlike the more dramatic undercut, the taper fade creates a gradual transition from the longer curly top to the shorter sides and back. This seamless blend offers a polished, professional appearance that works in conservative environments while still maintaining modern style and personality.
The versatility of the taper fade lies in its customization options. Low tapers begin the fade just above the ears, creating subtle contrast. Mid tapers start the transition near the temples, offering balanced proportions. High tapers begin the fade higher on the head, creating more dramatic contrast similar to an undercut but with a softer transition. Each variation suits different face shapes and personal preferences, allowing you to tailor the cut to your specific needs.
Styling a taper fade with curly top focuses on enhancing the natural curl pattern on top while maintaining the clean lines of the fade. Apply curl cream to damp hair and use a diffuser to dry while scrunching gently to encourage curl formation. The gradual fade requires less frequent touch-ups than disconnected cuts, typically needing professional maintenance every three to four weeks. This cut strikes an excellent balance between showcasing your curls and maintaining a neat, controlled appearance.
10 The Side Part With Curls
The side part with curls brings classic sophistication to naturally textured hair. This timeless style features a defined part on one side of the head, with curls swept over to create asymmetrical volume and interest. The sides can be kept short with a fade or taper, or left slightly longer for a more traditional appearance. The side part works particularly well for professional settings and formal occasions.
Creating a successful side part with curly hair requires working with your natural curl direction rather than against it. Your barber should identify where your hair naturally wants to part and enhance that line rather than forcing a part in an unnatural location. The side part helps control volume and directs attention, making it an excellent choice for men with very thick or voluminous curls who need some structure.
Styling this look involves applying curl cream to damp hair, then using a comb to define the part while the hair is still wet. Direct the curls to fall to the desired side, using clips if necessary to set the pattern while drying. Once dry, remove any clips and gently arrange the curls with your fingers. A light-hold hairspray can help maintain the part throughout the day without making curls feel stiff or crunchy. This style demonstrates that curly hair can look refined and intentional with the right approach.
11 The Curly Mohawk
The curly mohawk, also known as the curly faux hawk, creates an edgy, attention-grabbing style perfect for men who want to make a statement. This cut features a strip of longer curls running from the front to the back of the head, with the sides shaved very short or faded. The contrast between the voluminous curly center and the clean sides creates a bold, modern look that showcases personality and confidence.
The curly mohawk works best for men with thick, well-defined curls that can create substantial height and volume in the center strip. The width and height of the mohawk can be adjusted based on personal preference and comfort level, from subtle versions that work in professional settings to dramatic styles reserved for creative fields and social occasions. This cut particularly suits men with oval or diamond-shaped faces who can carry the vertical emphasis.
Styling a curly mohawk requires more effort than simpler cuts but delivers dramatic results. Apply a strong-hold curl gel or styling cream to damp hair in the center section, then use your hands to direct curls upward and toward the center. Some men use a blow dryer with a diffuser to add height while maintaining curl definition. The sides need minimal attention aside from regular maintenance to keep them sharp. This bold style definitely is not for everyone, but for men who embrace it, the curly mohawk creates an unforgettable impression.
12 The Messy Curly Style
The messy curly style embraces the natural, carefree aesthetic that curly hair naturally provides. This relaxed approach features medium length hair all over with minimal structure or definition, allowing curls to fall naturally and create organic, lived-in texture. The messy style works particularly well for men with loose to medium curls who want an effortlessly cool appearance without appearing overly groomed.
This style has gained popularity as part of the broader trend toward natural, authentic personal style. The messy curly look suggests confidence and comfort with your natural texture. While the style appears effortless, achieving the right level of controlled chaos requires the proper cut. Your barber should create layers and remove bulk to prevent the style from looking too heavy or unkempt, ensuring the messiness reads as intentional rather than neglected.
Styling the messy curly look ironically requires minimal styling. After washing, apply a light curl cream to damp hair and either air dry completely or roughly dry with a towel. Once dry, use your fingers to separate curls and create additional texture. The goal is to look like you just rolled out of bed with perfect hair, though achieving this actually requires healthy, well-maintained curls. This style suits casual environments and creative fields where a relaxed dress code allows for more adventurous personal expression.
13 The Curly Quiff
The curly quiff modernizes a classic men’s style by incorporating natural curl texture. This cut features short to medium sides with substantial length on top, styled upward and slightly back to create height at the front. The quiff combines elements of the pompadour with the more relaxed attitude of contemporary styling, resulting in a versatile look that works in various settings from office to evening events.
The curly quiff requires enough length on top to create the characteristic lift, typically three to four inches. The natural volume of curly hair makes achieving the quiff shape easier than with straight hair, as curls naturally want to stand up and away from the head. This style works well for men with oval or rectangular face shapes who can carry the forward volume, and particularly suits those with looser to medium curl patterns.
Styling a curly quiff combines blow drying technique with the right products. After washing, apply a volumizing mousse to damp hair at the roots. Use a blow dryer to direct hair upward and slightly back, using your free hand to guide the shape. Once dry, apply a medium-hold styling cream or clay to define the curls and maintain the quiff structure. Unlike the more formal pompadour, the curly quiff maintains a relaxed texture that looks modern and approachable while still being polished.
Essential Styling Products For Curly Hair
The right products make the difference between frustrating, frizzy curls and well-defined, healthy-looking hair. Curly hair requires more moisture than straight hair because the curl pattern prevents natural oils from traveling down the hair shaft efficiently. A complete product routine for men with curly hair should include several key items that work together to cleanse, condition, and style.
Start with a sulfate-free shampoo designed specifically for curly hair. Sulfates are harsh cleansing agents that strip away natural oils, leaving curly hair dry and prone to frizz. Wash your hair no more than two to three times per week to maintain natural moisture. Follow every shampoo with a hydrating conditioner, focusing on the ends where hair is oldest and most prone to dryness. For longer curls, consider using a deep conditioning treatment once a week to maintain optimal moisture levels.
Leave-in conditioner is essential for most men with curly hair, providing ongoing moisture throughout the day. Apply it to damp hair after washing, before other styling products. Curl cream defines and separates curls while reducing frizz, making it the foundation of most styling routines. For additional hold, layer a curl gel over the cream. Apply products to soaking wet hair and scrunch upward to encourage curl formation. The combination of proper products and application technique transforms unruly curls into a defined, polished look.
Styling Techniques That Work
Beyond products, using the right techniques dramatically impacts how your curls look. The most important rule for curly hair is to avoid touching it excessively while it dries. Constant manipulation disrupts curl formation and creates frizz. After applying products, let your hair air dry completely or use a diffuser attachment on your blow dryer set to low heat. The diffuser disperses airflow, drying hair without disturbing the curl pattern.
Scrunching is the primary technique for encouraging curl definition. Cup sections of hair in your palm and gently squeeze upward toward your scalp. This encourages curls to form and removes excess water or product. Once hair is completely dry, you may notice a crunchy cast from styling products. Gently scrunch again to break up this cast, revealing soft, touchable curls underneath. This technique, sometimes called scrunching out the crunch, is crucial for avoiding stiff, unnatural-looking hair.
For men with longer curls, the pineapple technique preserves curl definition overnight. Gather your hair into a very loose, high ponytail on top of your head before sleeping. This prevents curls from getting crushed and flattened against your pillow. Using a satin or silk pillowcase reduces friction that causes frizz and breakage. These simple techniques, combined with the right products and cuts, help you maintain great-looking curls with minimal daily effort.
Maintenance And Care Tips
Maintaining healthy curls extends beyond styling techniques to overall hair care practices. Regular trims every six to eight weeks prevent split ends from traveling up the hair shaft and maintain your chosen cut’s shape. Even if you are growing your hair longer, periodic trims remove damaged ends and keep curls looking fresh. Communicate clearly with your barber about your goals so they can shape your hair appropriately.
Heat damage represents one of the biggest threats to curl health. Minimize use of flat irons, curling irons, and high-heat blow dryers. When you do use heat, always apply a heat protectant product first and use the lowest effective temperature setting. Over time, excessive heat permanently damages the curl pattern, making hair limp and lifeless. Embracing your natural texture rather than fighting against it produces the healthiest, best-looking results.
Diet and overall health significantly impact hair quality. Ensure you consume adequate protein, as hair is primarily composed of protein. Vitamins A, C, D, and E support hair health, along with biotin and omega-3 fatty acids. Stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Managing stress through exercise, adequate sleep, and relaxation techniques helps prevent stress-related hair loss. Healthy hair reflects a healthy body, so caring for yourself holistically produces the best results for your curls.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
Many men with curly hair inadvertently damage their curls through common mistakes. Over-washing strips natural oils and leads to dry, frizzy hair. Limit shampooing to two to three times per week, using a gentle, sulfate-free formula. On non-wash days, rinse your hair with water alone or use a co-wash product that conditions while lightly cleansing. Your scalp will adjust to this schedule, producing less oil over time.
Using too much product weighs down curls and makes hair look greasy or crunchy. Start with a small amount and add more if needed. A little goes a long way with quality curl products. Similarly, using the wrong products for your curl type produces disappointing results. Lighter waves need different products than tight coils. Pay attention to how your hair responds and adjust your product selection accordingly.
Combing or brushing dry curly hair is one of the worst things you can do. This disrupts the curl pattern and creates massive frizz. Only detangle hair when it is soaking wet and coated with conditioner, using a wide-tooth comb or your fingers. Start from the ends and work gradually toward the roots to minimize breakage. This gentler approach preserves curl definition and keeps hair healthy. Avoiding these common mistakes allows your natural curl pattern to shine through beautifully.
Conclusion
Curly hair offers men incredible opportunities for personal expression and style. The 13 haircuts explored in this guide represent the best current options for showcasing natural curl texture while maintaining a polished, intentional appearance. Whether you prefer short, low-maintenance cuts like the crew cut and buzz cut, medium-length styles like the textured crop and curly fade, or longer flowing looks, there is a perfect haircut waiting for you.
Success with curly hair comes from understanding your specific curl type, choosing a cut that complements both your curls and face shape, and committing to proper maintenance. The right combination of cut, products, and techniques transforms potentially frustrating hair into your greatest style asset. Modern barbering celebrates natural texture rather than fighting against it, giving men with curly hair more options than ever before.
Finding the perfect haircut may require some experimentation. Work with a skilled barber who understands curly hair and can guide you toward cuts that suit your lifestyle and aesthetic preferences. Be patient as you learn what works best for your specific hair type. With the information provided in this guide, you have the foundation necessary to make informed decisions about your curly hair and achieve the confident, stylish look you deserve. Your curls are unique, and the right haircut helps you showcase them at their absolute best.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How often should men with curly hair get haircuts?
Most men with curly hair should visit their barber every 4 to 8 weeks depending on their chosen style. Shorter cuts with fades require more frequent maintenance, typically every 2 to 3 weeks, to keep the fade sharp and defined. Longer styles can go 6 to 8 weeks between trims. Regular trimming prevents split ends and maintains your haircut’s shape, even if you are growing your hair longer.
What products are essential for styling curly hair?
The essential products for men with curly hair include sulfate-free shampoo, hydrating conditioner, leave-in conditioner, and curl cream or gel. Sulfate-free shampoo cleanses without stripping natural oils. Hydrating conditioner provides moisture and helps with detangling. Leave-in conditioner offers ongoing moisture throughout the day. Curl cream defines and separates curls while gel provides additional hold. Start with these basics and adjust based on your specific curl type and needs.
Can men with curly hair wear shorter hairstyles?
Absolutely. Short hairstyles like the crew cut, buzz cut, and textured crop work excellently with curly hair. These cuts maintain the natural curl texture while being extremely easy to manage and style. Short curly cuts are particularly popular in professional environments and among men who prefer low-maintenance grooming routines. The key is finding a barber who understands how to cut curly hair at shorter lengths to enhance rather than diminish the natural texture.
How do you prevent frizz in curly hair?
Preventing frizz starts with proper moisturizing using hydrating shampoos, conditioners, and leave-in products. Apply styling products to soaking wet hair rather than damp hair. Avoid touching your hair while it dries, as manipulation creates frizz. Use a diffuser instead of towel-drying vigorously. Sleep on a satin or silk pillowcase to reduce friction overnight. Never brush or comb dry curly hair. These practices work together to minimize frizz and maintain smooth, defined curls.
What face shapes work best with curly hair?
Curly hair can complement any face shape with the right cut. Oval faces have the most flexibility and can wear nearly any curly style. Round faces benefit from height on top to add length, making cuts like the pompadour or quiff ideal. Square faces look best with styles that soften angular features, such as the curly fringe or longer flowing styles. Heart-shaped faces need volume around the jawline to balance broader foreheads. Consult with your barber to find the most flattering cut for your specific face shape and curl type.
