Embracing those natural curls is no longer just a trend—it’s a lifestyle statement that more men are confidently making every day. We’ve seen a remarkable shift in men’s grooming, with curly hairstyles taking center stage on runways, in Hollywood, and on social media feeds everywhere.
Whether you’re blessed with tight coils, loose waves, or something in between, there’s never been a better time to show off your textured locks. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the most stylish and manageable curly hairstyles for men in 2023, along with expert tips on how to maintain them. From the classic curly fade to the bolder curly man bun, we’ve got you covered.
Understanding Men’s Curly Hair Types
Before diving into hairstyles, it’s crucial to understand your exact curl type. Knowing your curl pattern and hair porosity will help you choose styles that work best for your hair and develop an effective maintenance routine.
Identifying Your Curl Pattern
Curl patterns in men’s hair typically fall into four main categories, ranging from type 2 (wavy) to type 4 (coily). Type 2 curls present as loose waves that form an “S” shape when dry. Type 3 curls create a more defined spiral pattern that ranges from loose loops to tight corkscrews. Type 4 hair forms very tight, dense curls that can shrink up to 75% of the hair’s actual length when dry. Most men have a combination of different curl patterns throughout their hair, with tighter curls often appearing at the crown and looser patterns around the hairline. We recommend examining your hair when it’s completely dry and product-free to accurately determine your curl type, as this will guide your styling choices and product selection.
The Importance of Hair Porosity
Hair porosity refers to your hair’s ability to absorb and retain moisture, which significantly impacts how you should care for curly hair. Low porosity hair has tightly closed cuticles that repel moisture, making it challenging for products to penetrate. Medium porosity hair strikes the perfect balance, easily accepting moisture and holding styles well. High porosity hair features widely spaced cuticles that absorb moisture quickly but lose it just as fast, often resulting in frizz and dryness. You can test your porosity at home by placing a clean strand of hair in a glass of water – hair that floats indicates low porosity, while hair that sinks quickly suggests high porosity. Understanding your hair’s porosity will help you select appropriate styling products, determine how often to condition, and establish an effective washing schedule for your curly hairstyle.
Essential Products for Styling Curly Hair
Choosing the right products for curly hair is vital for maintaining and improving your natural texture. The proper hair care regimen can make all the difference between frizzy, unmanageable curls and well-defined, healthy locks.
Shampoos and Conditioners for Curly Men
Finding the right cleansing and conditioning products forms the foundation of any curly hair routine. Sulfate-free shampoos are essential for curly-haired men as they cleanse without stripping away natural oils that curls desperately need to stay healthy and defined. These gentle formulations prevent the dryness that often leads to frizz and breakage in curly hair types.
Deep conditioning is non-negotiable for maintaining curl health. Moisturizing conditioners containing ingredients like coconut oil, shea butter, or argan oil provide the hydration curly hair craves. We recommend using these rich conditioners at least once a week to keep your curls manageable, soft, and bouncy.
Styling Products That Define Curls
- Curl-Defining Creams – These specialized creams work wonders for improving natural curl patterns while fighting frizz and adding moisture. Apply them to damp hair and use your fingers to create separation between curls for the best definition. Air drying or using a diffuser attachment on low heat settings will help maintain and enhance your curl pattern.
- Pomades and Waxes – Men sporting styles like the side-part sweep benefit from high-quality pomades or waxes that provide both hold and shine. These products excel at keeping curls in place throughout the day and work perfectly for sweeping hair across the forehead in more structured styles.
- Curl Activators and Refreshers – Reviving curls between wash days becomes effortless with oil-infused wave-revitalizing sprays. These products breathe new life into curls that have lost their definition, making them perfect for quick touch-ups without complete restyling.
- Leave-In Products – Daily curl maintenance often requires leave-in conditioners or curl enhancers applied to damp hair. These versatile products help with detangling while providing all-day moisture and definition, preventing the mid-day frizz that curly hair often experiences.
- Styling Gels – Men with tighter curl patterns (Types 3C or 4) should consider light-hold styling gels for definition without weighing down their hair. Apply these products sparingly to avoid drying effects while still achieving well-defined curls that hold their shape throughout the day.
10 Popular Curly Hairstyles for Men
Now that you understand your curl type and essential products, let’s explore the most stylish curly hairstyles that are trending this year. These versatile options work for different curl patterns and face shapes.
The Classic Curly Fade
The Classic Curly Fade combines textured volume on top with clean, gradually tapered sides. This sophisticated style features a fade that seamlessly blends the sides and back while preserving those natural curls on top for maximum impact. Your barber will create a gradual transition from shorter hair at the bottom to longer curls at the crown, resulting in a polished look that highlights your natural texture while maintaining a neat appearance.
Medium-Length Tousled Curls
Medium-Length Tousled Curls offer an effortlessly stylish appearance that’s perfect for guys who prefer a relaxed vibe. This versatile cut keeps hair at a moderate length all around, allowing your natural curl pattern to become the main attraction. Proper moisturizing products enhance these curls by defining their natural bounce and movement. The beauty of this style lies in its simplicity and low-maintenance approach—just apply your favorite curl-defining cream and let your natural texture do the talking.
Long Curly Man Bun
Long Curly Man Bun styles provide a practical solution for managing longer curls while maintaining a fashionable edge. Gathering your lengthy curls into a bun at the back of your head creates a look that works for both casual and formal settings. This adaptable hairstyle can be worn sleek for professional environments or looser for relaxed occasions. Men with shoulder-length or longer curls find this style particularly beneficial for keeping hair controlled during workouts or on windy days.
Short Curly Crop
Short Curly Crop cuts deliver maximum style with minimal maintenance requirements. This practical style keeps hair close to the head while preserving enough length to showcase your curl pattern. Men with active lifestyles appreciate how this cut requires little styling time each morning—simply apply a small amount of styling product to damp hair and go. The short curly crop works exceptionally well for tighter curl patterns, creating a clean, defined look.
Curly Pompadour
Curly Pompadour styles reimagine the classic pompadour by incorporating natural curl texture for a modern interpretation. This bold look involves styling your curls upward and backward, creating impressive height and volume at the front. Styling products with strong hold help maintain the pompadour shape throughout the day. Medium to tight curl patterns provide natural volume that enhances this dramatic style, making it perfect for men who want to make a confident statement.
Curly Undercut
Curly Undercut hairstyles create striking contrast between well-defined curls on top and closely buzzed sides. This ever-changing style emphasizes your texture by concentrating curls on the crown while keeping the perimeter clean and sharp. Many men enhance this look with hand-painted highlights to accentuate the curly texture and add dimension. The undercut’s versatility allows you to adjust the length on top based on your curl pattern and styling preferences.
Natural Afro Style
Natural Afro Style celebrates the fullness and texture of curly hair in its most authentic form. This iconic look embraces volume and showcases your curl pattern in all its glory. Proper moisturizing is essential for maintaining healthy, well-defined curls in an afro style. This versatile option works beautifully for all textured hair types, particularly type 3c to 4c curls, and can be shaped to complement different face structures and personal preferences.
Curly Fringe
Curly Fringe cuts feature soft, bouncy curls that fall naturally across the forehead for a youthful, relaxed appearance. This eye-catching style works well with various curl patterns and can be incorporated into different haircut styles, including the trendy curly mullet. The length of the fringe can be customized to suit your face shape and personal style preferences. Regular trims help maintain the perfect fringe length and prevent curls from obscuring your vision.
Side-Parted Curls
Side-Parted Curls offer a sophisticated approach to styling medium to long curly hair with minimal effort. This refined look involves creating a defined part on one side, instantly adding structure to curly hair while helping to manage frizz. The side part works equally well with product-free natural texture or more defined styles using curl-improving products. This adaptable style transitions smoothly from professional environments to casual settings.
Tapered Curly Style
Tapered Curly Style features a gradual transition from shorter sides to longer curls on top, creating a balanced and polished appearance. This popular variation, often called a curly taper fade, provides structure while showcasing your natural texture. The tapered design keeps the silhouette neat while allowing your curls to shine on top. This low-maintenance option requires minimal styling while providing maximum impact, making it an excellent choice for men seeking a clean yet textured look.
Maintenance Tips for Men’s Curly Hair
Proper maintenance is essential for keeping men’s curly hair healthy, defined, and manageable. Following these key practices will help you make the most of your natural curls while preventing common issues like frizz and dryness.
Daily Care Routine
Pre-Shower: Apply natural oils like coconut or argan oil at least 25-30 minutes before showering. These oils create a protective barrier against the drying effects of shampoo while boosting moisture retention in your curls.
Shampooing: Limit shampooing to 2-3 times weekly to prevent stripping your hair of natural oils. Excessive shampooing can lead to unwanted frizz and dryness, which curly hair is already prone to.
Conditioning: Use conditioner regularly to nourish your curls. Leave-in conditioners work excellently for providing continuous hydration throughout the day.
Detangling: Only brush your hair when wet using a wide-toothed comb or your fingers. Start detangling from the ends and gradually work your way up to the roots to prevent breakage and maintain your natural curl pattern.
Drying Technique: Gently blot excess water with a microfiber towel or old t-shirt rather than rubbing vigorously. Attach a diffuser to your hair dryer or allow your curls to air dry to maintain their natural shape and prevent frizz.
Styling Products: Apply styling products immediately after showering when hair is still damp. Products specifically designed for curly hair, such as creams, gels, and anti-frizz serums, provide definition without weighing down your curls.
Nighttime Care: Sleep on a satin or silk pillowcase to reduce friction and prevent messy curls and frizz in the morning. This simple change can significantly improve your morning curl quality.
Weekly Deep Conditioning
Frequency: Perform a deep conditioning treatment every three weeks to keep your curls properly hydrated and nourished. This schedule maintains curl health without product buildup.
Product Selection: Choose deep conditioning products that lock in moisture and provide nourishment to your curls. Specialized products containing ingredients like apple cider vinegar and green tea can effectively remove buildup while hydrating the hair.
Application Method: Apply the deep conditioner thoroughly from root to tip, ensuring complete coverage. Leave the product on for 15-30 minutes as recommended before rinsing thoroughly with cool water.
Additional Hydration: Between deep conditioning treatments, use natural oils like coconut, argan, or jojoba oil to provide extra moisture to your curls. These oils penetrate the hair shaft and help maintain elasticity and shine.
Scalp Care: Focus some of your deep conditioning efforts on the scalp itself. Healthy curls start with a healthy scalp, so use products that detoxify and nourish this important foundation.
How to Style Curly Hair for Different Occasions
Curly hair offers tremendous versatility for various settings. We’ve compiled exact styling approaches to help you navigate everything from corporate environments to special events while making the most of your natural texture.
Business-Appropriate Curly Styles
Professional environments call for polished curly styles that maintain structure while embracing your natural texture. The Tight Curl Fade provides an excellent business-appropriate option with its short, tapered sides and longer curls on top. This style creates a clean professional appearance while still showcasing your curl pattern. Ask your barber for a gradual fade on the sides, specifying whether you prefer a low, mid, or high fade based on your workplace environment.
Product selection makes a important difference in business settings. Choose frizz-controlling formulas that won’t weigh your hair down, such as lightweight curl creams or a small amount of clay. These products help maintain a neat, professional appearance throughout your workday while still allowing your natural curl pattern to shine through.
Casual Weekend Looks
Weekend styling offers more freedom to embrace relaxed, low-maintenance curly styles. Short curly hair with close sides creates an effortless weekend look that requires minimal styling. This approach maintains some length on top while keeping the sides trimmed for a clean yet casual appearance.
The Curly Caesar Cut offers another excellent weekend option, especially for men with tight curls. This modern interpretation of the classic Caesar features a short, even cut with a defined fringe, requiring minimal maintenance while looking intentionally styled. For casual settings, reach for lightweight styling products like mousses or cream-based formulas that enhance definition without creating stiffness. Apply these products to damp hair and either air dry or use a diffuser attachment on low heat to maximize volume and bounce.
Formal Event Styling
Formal occasions demand curly styles that appear polished and intentional. Layered curls create sophisticated dimension perfect for special events. Work with your stylist to blend different curl lengths using thinning shears for a seamless appearance that maintains natural movement. This technique preserves thickness throughout while creating definition in key areas.
Product application becomes crucial for formal styling. Use stronger hold formulas that provide lasting definition without sacrificing your curl’s natural texture. Apply curl-defining creams or mousses to damp hair, then style using a diffuser attachment to create additional volume and definition. Before heading out, carefully run your fingers through your hair to redistribute product and check for any sections needing adjustment. This simple finishing touch helps maintain a polished, elegant appearance throughout your formal event.
Common Mistakes to Avoid With Curly Hair
Managing curly hair requires exact knowledge and techniques to maintain its natural beauty. Men with curls often make several common mistakes that can damage their hair’s health and appearance.
Over-Washing Issues
Over-washing curly hair strips away essential natural oils, resulting in dry, frizzy, and undefined curls. We recommend washing curly hair only 2-3 times per week, adjusting based on your exact hair type and lifestyle. Daily washing can be particularly damaging for men with tighter curl patterns, as these hair types already tend to be drier by nature. Using sulfate-free cleansers helps preserve moisture between wash days while keeping your scalp clean. Many men with curls find that co-washing (using conditioner instead of shampoo) on some days helps maintain optimal moisture balance without the harshness of frequent shampooing.
Heat Damage Prevention
Heat styling tools cause important damage to curly hair, leading to breakage and permanent texture loss if used improperly. Always apply a heat protectant spray or serum before using any hot tools on your curls. Select lower heat settings whenever possible, as high temperatures can instantly destroy your curl pattern and protein bonds. Limiting the frequency of heat styling preserves your natural texture and prevents cumulative damage over time. Air-drying represents the healthiest option for curly hair, though using a diffuser attachment on low heat can be a gentler alternative when time is limited. Microfiber towels absorb excess moisture without creating friction that leads to frizz, making them an excellent investment for curly-haired men.
Celebrity Inspiration for Men’s Curly Hairstyles
Looking for ways to style your curly hair? These celebrities and athletes showcase how versatile and stylish curly hair can be when properly maintained and styled.
Hollywood Icons With Curly Hair
David Oyelowo stands out with his well-defined curls, typically sporting a classic, neatly trimmed look that highlights his natural texture while maintaining a professional appearance. Idris Elba frequently displays his curls in a stylish, slightly tousled manner, pairing them beautifully with a well-groomed beard for a masculine yet approachable look. Donald Glover has experimented with various curly hairstyles throughout his career, ranging from a natural afro to more contemporary styles like the curly faux hawk that offers an edgy yet sophisticated vibe.
Music icons have also embraced their natural curls, with Lenny Kravitz becoming famous for his long, flowing curly locks that epitomize rockstar style and confidence. Jason Momoa showcases the versatility of curly hair through multiple styles, including a curly mullet and more rugged, natural looks that complement his overall aesthetic.
Athletes Rocking Natural Curls
Football players have become important trendsetters in men’s curly hairstyles, with Odell Beckham Jr. known for his bold and stylish curly cuts featuring undercuts and fades that combine athleticism with fashion-forward thinking. Saquon Barkley rocks a distinctive high-top fade combined with his natural curls, creating a unique athletic look that’s both practical for sports and visually striking off the field.
Basketball stars also showcase impressive curly hairstyles, with Joel Embiid frequently sporting his natural curls in various forms—sometimes more defined and structured, other times in a relaxed, afro-like style that celebrates texture. Andre Iguodala has worn his curls in multiple ways throughout his career, including a curly taper fade and more natural, untamed looks that demonstrate the versatility of curly hair for active lifestyles.
These celebrity and athlete-inspired styles demonstrate that curly hair offers endless possibilities, from structured and maintained looks to more free-flowing and natural styles that celebrate texture and volume.
Seasonal Care for Curly-Haired Men
Curly hair requires special attention as the seasons change, with each bringing unique challenges that can affect your curl pattern and overall hair health.
Summer Protection Strategies
Summer heat can wreak havoc on curly hair, making proper protection essential for maintaining those enviable locks. Moisturizing becomes even more crucial during hot months, even though what seems counterintuitive, as heat can quickly deplete your hair’s natural moisture. Use curl-improving shampoos, conditioners, and leave-in products specifically designed to lock in hydration and shield your curls from becoming dry and brittle. Sun exposure can damage your curls just as it damages your skin, so wearing a hat or applying hair products with SPF protection will safeguard your hair from harmful UV rays. Natural oils such as coconut oil or argan oil work wonders for deep hydration, penetrating the hair follicles without causing product buildup that weighs down your curls. Swimming requires additional care—always rinse your hair with fresh water before and after pool or ocean swims to prevent chlorine or salt damage that can alter your curl structure.
Winter Moisture Retention
Cold weather brings its own set of challenges for curly-haired men, with dry air being the primary culprit behind winter frizz and breakage. Regular deep conditioning treatments become non-negotiable during winter months, serving as your first line of defense against the moisture-stripping effects of cold, dry air. Incorporating a humidifier into your home environment can significantly benefit your curls by maintaining optimal air moisture levels, preventing your hair from drying out while you sleep or work. Rich, hydrating products like curl creams, butters, and oils become your best allies during winter, forming protective barriers that seal in moisture and shield your curls from harsh elements. Protective styling, such as looser buns or braids, can minimize exposure to cold winds and reduce friction against wool hats and scarves that often cause frizz. Wash day routines should be adjusted to include pre-shampoo oil treatments that provide additional moisture before cleansing, ensuring your curls remain hydrated throughout the colder months.
Conclusion: Embracing Your Natural Curls
Embracing your natural curls isn’t just about following trends—it’s about celebrating what makes you unique. We’ve seen how understanding your curl type and porosity level serves as the foundation for selecting the right products and maintenance routines.
From classic fades to man buns the styling possibilities are endless. Whether you’re heading to the office prepping for a formal event or just enjoying a casual weekend your curls can be adapted to suit any occasion with the right approach.
Remember that proper care changes with the seasons and learning from celebrities who rock their natural texture can provide endless inspiration. With the right knowledge products and techniques you’ll be well-equipped to make your curls a standout feature of your personal style.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main types of men’s curly hair?
Men’s curly hair falls into four main categories: Type 2 (wavy), Type 3 (curly), and Type 4 (coily). To determine your curl type, examine your hair when it’s completely dry and free of products. Understanding your specific curl pattern is essential for choosing the right products and styling techniques that will enhance your natural texture.
How often should men with curly hair wash their hair?
Men with curly hair should limit shampooing to 2-3 times per week to prevent stripping natural oils. On non-shampoo days, consider co-washing (washing with conditioner only) to maintain moisture. Over-washing is one of the most common mistakes curly-haired men make, as it can lead to dryness and increased frizz.
What products are essential for men’s curly hair care?
Essential products include sulfate-free shampoo, moisturizing conditioner with ingredients like coconut oil or shea butter, leave-in conditioner, and styling products specific to your curl type. Curl-defining creams work well for looser curls, while curl activators and light-hold gels are better for tighter curl patterns.
How can I determine my hair’s porosity?
To test hair porosity, place a clean strand of hair in a glass of water. If it floats, you have low porosity; if it sinks slowly, you have medium porosity; if it sinks immediately, you have high porosity. Knowing your porosity helps you choose appropriate products, as high-porosity hair needs more moisture retention while low-porosity hair requires lighter products.
What are the most popular curly hairstyles for men in 2023?
The most popular styles include the Classic Curly Fade, Medium-Length Tousled Curls, Long Curly Man Bun, Short Curly Crop, Curly Pompadour, Curly Undercut, Natural Afro Style, Curly Fringe, Side-Parted Curls, and Tapered Curly Style. Each style can be customized to suit different face shapes and personal preferences.
How should I style my curly hair for a professional setting?
For professional environments, opt for polished styles like the Tight Curl Fade or well-maintained medium-length curls. Use lightweight, frizz-controlling products that provide definition without stiffness. Keep sides neat and maintain regular trims to ensure your style looks intentional and well-groomed in business settings.
What’s the best way to dry curly hair?
Avoid rough-drying with regular towels, which causes frizz. Instead, gently squeeze out excess water with a microfiber towel or old t-shirt. Air-drying is ideal, but if you must use a hair dryer, attach a diffuser and use low heat. Apply styling products to damp (not soaking wet) hair for optimal results.
How should I protect my curly hair while sleeping?
Sleep on a satin or silk pillowcase to reduce friction and prevent frizz. Alternatively, wrap your hair in a satin bonnet or use the “pineapple” method (loosely gathering curls at the top of your head). These techniques help maintain your curl pattern overnight and extend the life of your style.
How does seasonal care differ for curly hair?
In summer, focus on moisture and sun protection using leave-in conditioners with SPF. Keep a spray bottle with water and conditioner to refresh curls. In winter, increase deep conditioning treatments to combat dry air, use heavier moisturizing products, and consider protective styles to minimize exposure to harsh elements.
What can I learn from celebrities with curly hair?
Celebrities like David Oyelowo, Idris Elba, and Odell Beckham Jr. showcase the versatility of curly hair. Study how they adapt their styles for different occasions and embrace their natural texture. Celebrity styles demonstrate that curly hair can be sophisticated, athletic, casual, or formal depending on how it’s styled.
