15 Cool Curly Hairstyles for Men You Need to Try
Curly hair is a blessing in disguise. It offers a dimension and texture that straight hair simply cannot replicate. However, the unique nature of curly hair often requires more attention to detail, from choosing the right cut to adopting a solid care routine. While some men embrace their curls effortlessly, others may struggle to find styles that flatter their face shape or personality.
The beauty of curly hair lies in its versatility. Whether you’re going for a polished look for a formal event or a casual, carefree vibe for a day out, there’s no shortage of styles to experiment with. From short and cropped designs to long, flowing locks, curly hairstyles can be tailored to suit any man. Let’s dive into the possibilities and discover the perfect style for you.
1. Textured Curly Crop
The textured curly crop is a modern favorite for men with loose to medium curls. This hairstyle features slightly longer hair on top with a textured, natural finish, paired with short sides—often faded or undercut. The result is a clean, polished look that’s easy to maintain while still showcasing your curls.
Why It Works: The short sides create a structured contrast with the natural texture on top, making it ideal for those who want a professional yet stylish appearance.
How to Style:
- After washing, apply a curl cream or mousse to damp hair.
- Use your fingers to scrunch the curls and let them air-dry or use a diffuser for added volume.
- For a defined finish, touch up the edges with a small amount of styling gel.
2. High-Top Curls
A throwback to the 80s with a modern twist, the high-top curls style features long, voluminous curls on top and neatly trimmed or faded sides. This bold and edgy look is perfect for those who want to make a statement.
Why It Works: The height on top elongates the face, making it a great option for round face shapes. It also draws attention to the curls, making them the centerpiece of your look.
How to Style:
- Apply a curl-enhancing product to damp hair and blow-dry with a diffuser to lift the roots.
- Shape the top using your fingers or a wide-tooth comb.
- Keep the sides clean and trimmed with regular barber visits.
3. Curly Fringe
The curly fringe is all about letting your curls take center stage by creating a dramatic, face-framing effect. This style works best for medium-length curls and offers a relaxed, effortless vibe.
Why It Works: The fringe softens angular features and highlights the eyes, making it a flattering option for most face shapes.
How to Style:
- After washing, apply a lightweight leave-in conditioner to enhance the natural shape of your curls.
- Let the curls fall naturally over your forehead or use a diffuser to add volume.
- To maintain the fringe’s shape, trim regularly to prevent it from becoming unruly.
4. Short and Tapered Curls
This hairstyle is a minimalist’s dream. With short curls on top and a gradual taper on the sides, it’s easy to manage and exudes a clean, understated charm.
Why It Works: The tapered sides add structure, making this style suitable for professional settings while still embracing natural curls.
How to Style:
- Use a small amount of styling gel to keep the curls defined.
- Comb through with your fingers for a natural look.
- Visit your barber every few weeks to maintain the tapered fade.
5. Long Flowing Curls
If you love the idea of embracing the full glory of your curls, letting them grow long can create a striking, dramatic effect. Long flowing curls radiate confidence and personality, offering endless styling possibilities, from ponytails to half-up styles.
Why It Works: Long curls showcase the natural beauty of your hair and suit men with oval or oblong face shapes.
How to Style:
- Deep-condition your curls weekly to keep them hydrated and healthy.
- Detangle gently with a wide-tooth comb to avoid breakage.
- Add a curl-defining cream to damp hair and let it air-dry for a natural finish.
6. Curly Mohawk
The curly mohawk is a bold style for men who like to stand out. With voluminous curls concentrated in the center and shaved or faded sides, this look combines rebellion and elegance.
Why It Works: The mohawk draws attention to the top of your head, creating a bold statement that works for men with round or square face shapes.
How to Style:
- Apply a curl enhancer to the top section of your hair.
- Use a blow-dryer with a diffuser to maximize volume.
- Keep the sides trimmed for a sharp, clean finish.
7. Tight Ringlet Undercut
If you have naturally tight curls or ringlets, pairing them with an undercut creates a striking contrast. The defined curls on top pop against the clean, tapered sides, making this a head-turning style.
Why It Works: The undercut emphasizes the texture of the curls while keeping the overall style manageable.
How to Style:
- Use a curl-defining cream to enhance the natural pattern of your ringlets.
- Avoid combing through your curls after they’re dry to maintain their shape.
8. Side-Swept Curls
Side-swept curls are a great option for men looking for a sophisticated yet casual look. This style works particularly well for medium-length curls, where the hair is combed to one side for an effortless appearance.
Why It Works: The asymmetry adds a modern edge while drawing attention to the natural texture of your curls.
How to Style:
- Use a light styling mousse to add hold and definition.
- Part your hair slightly off-center and guide the curls to one side using your fingers.
9. Curly Caesar Cut
A modern twist on the classic Caesar cut, the curly Caesar is perfect for men who want a clean yet textured look. This style features short curls on top with a fringe that falls just above the forehead, while the sides are tapered or faded.
Why It Works: This cut works well with tight curls and gives a sharp, edgy appearance, making it ideal for men who prefer low-maintenance hairstyles without sacrificing style.
How to Style:
- Use a curl cream or styling gel to define the curls.
- Apply the product evenly to damp hair and let it air-dry or use a diffuser to add volume.
- Trim the fringe regularly to keep it sharp and structured.
10. Curly Pompadour
The curly pompadour is a stylish, vintage-inspired hairstyle that pairs voluminous curls on top with short sides. The key to this look is lifting the curls high, creating a bold and sophisticated effect.
Why It Works: This style elongates the face and highlights the natural texture of the curls, making it a great option for men with oval or rectangular face shapes.
How to Style:
- Apply a volumizing mousse to damp hair and use a blow-dryer to lift the curls.
- Comb through the hair with your fingers to add structure and volume.
- Use a medium-hold gel or pomade to keep the pompadour in place.
11. Curly Crew Cut
A curly crew cut combines a classic, military-inspired crew cut with natural curls on top. The top section is kept short and textured, while the sides are faded or tapered for a clean and professional look.
Why It Works: The curly crew cut is practical and polished, ideal for men who prefer a low-maintenance style that still showcases their curls.
How to Style:
- Apply a curl-enhancing product to damp hair and use your fingers to shape the curls.
- Blow-dry the hair to add volume and enhance the texture.
- Keep the sides neatly trimmed with regular visits to the barber.
12. The Curly Ivy League
The Ivy League hairstyle is a clean and polished cut that works well with curly hair. The hair is kept short and neat on the sides with slightly longer curls on top, giving a refined, preppy look.
Why It Works: This style is great for professional settings while still allowing the natural curls to shine through. The classic, versatile look suits various face shapes.
How to Style:
- Apply a light styling cream to damp hair to define the curls without weighing them down.
- Comb the curls into place with your fingers or a wide-tooth comb.
- Keep the sides short and neat with regular trims.
13. Messy Curly Hair
The messy curly hairstyle is perfect for men who love a carefree, relaxed look. This style features naturally styled curls with little to no effort in the way they fall, giving off an effortlessly cool vibe.
Why It Works: It’s a low-maintenance look that still looks stylish and dynamic, perfect for men who want to embrace their natural curls without too much fuss.
How to Style:
- Use a curl cream or mousse to define the curls.
- Apply the product evenly and let the curls dry naturally.
- For a more textured look, scrunch the curls with your hands as they dry.
14. Curly Fade
The curly fade is a bold, modern look where the curls on top are complemented by a faded haircut on the sides and back. The fade can be high, medium, or low, depending on the desired style.
Why It Works: The fade on the sides contrasts with the natural volume on top, making the curls stand out even more. This look is highly customizable, making it a great choice for men who like to experiment with their styles.
How to Style:
- Apply a curl cream or gel to damp hair.
- Scrunch the curls with your fingers and let them air-dry or use a blow-dryer.
- Keep the fade well-maintained with regular barber visits.
15. Curly Side Part
The curly side part is a simple yet effective way to style curly hair. The hair is parted on one side, and the curls are shaped to create a natural, voluminous look that flatters most face shapes.
Why It Works: The side part creates an asymmetrical balance, enhancing facial features and giving a youthful, modern vibe to curly hair.
How to Style:
- Apply a curl cream or gel to damp hair.
- Part your hair slightly to one side and use your fingers to define the curls.
- Let the hair air-dry or use a diffuser for added volume.
Hair Care Tips for Curly Hair
- Hydration: Curly hair tends to be drier than straight hair, so regular hydration is essential. Choose a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner to keep your curls soft and healthy.
- Avoid Over-Washing: Curly hair doesn’t need to be washed every day. Over-washing can strip natural oils, causing frizz and dryness. Aim to wash your hair 2-3 times a week.
- Use a Wide-Tooth Comb: Curly hair is more prone to tangling. Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to gently detangle hair when it’s wet.
- Deep Conditioning: Incorporate a deep conditioning treatment once a week to restore moisture and reduce frizz.
- Use a Satin Pillowcase: To minimize frizz and breakage while sleeping, opt for a satin pillowcase that reduces friction.
FAQs – Curly Hairstyles for Men
Q1: What’s the best haircut for curly hair?
The best haircut depends on your curl type and face shape. Popular styles include the curly crop, curly fade, and high-top curls. These offer versatility, structure, and the chance to showcase your natural texture.
Q2: How do I manage frizz in curly hair?
Frizz can be managed with anti-frizz products, such as curl creams or serums. It’s also important to avoid heat styling, as it can damage the natural curl pattern and lead to frizz.
Q3: Can I straighten my curly hair?
Yes, you can straighten curly hair, but it’s important to use a heat protectant to minimize damage. It’s also good to give your curls a break from heat styling to maintain their health.
Q4: How often should I trim my curly hair?
To keep curly hair looking neat and healthy, it’s best to trim it every 6-8 weeks. This helps prevent split ends and allows curls to maintain their shape and definition.
Q5: How can I get more volume in my curly hair?
To add volume, try blow-drying your hair with a diffuser or using a volumizing mousse. Scrunching your curls as they dry can also help lift the roots and create more volume.
Conclusion
Curly hair is a natural asset that deserves to be embraced. With these 15 cool curly hairstyles for men, you have a variety of options to choose from, whether you prefer a classic, sophisticated look or a bold, modern style. By finding the right cut and care routine, you can make the most of your curls and confidently rock any of these trendy hairstyles.
Experiment with different looks and don’t be afraid to show off your natural texture—your curls are a unique and defining feature!
