Lately, hairstyles for men with curly or wavy hair have moved beyond simply prioritizing manageability, embracing the studied anarchy that defined an era in men's style. Today, the goal is to enhance the hair's natural texture and play with volume, rather than concealing or straightening it at all costs.
This means that if your hair is fully or partially curly or wavy, you now have every advantage in letting it grow longer and preserving its natural texture instead of cutting it to make it more manageable , as was common practice until recently. Curly and wavy hair is one of the most versatile hair types: it allows for everything from very short, layered cuts to long locks, with countless hairstyles that can be adapted to your face shape and personal style.
Let your hair grow to a medium or long length and create a natural-looking style that accentuates your curls or waves and flatters your face shape. Using a hairdryer on a low setting after washing your hair will help prevent it from looking too frizzy. If you use a diffuser, tilt your head forward and move the diffuser from the ends to the roots to better define the curl and avoid frizz.
If some of your waves aren't defined enough, you can always use a curling iron or a mini flat iron . To shape them, take inspiration from the strands of your hair that already have waves, thus maintaining a natural look. Always work on slightly damp hair and apply a curl-defining cream or gel beforehand to provide hydration and ensure a longer-lasting, frizz-free result.
Haircuts and hairstyles that best suit men with curly hair
A key aspect is choosing a haircut that suits your curl type and face shape. High-layered, curly cropped cuts work very well on oval, square, and diamond-shaped faces, as they combine volume on top with very clean, slimming sides. This contrast also helps to visually lengthen rounder faces, while it may not be the best option if your face is very long.
If you prefer bolder styles, curly mullets , midi-length hair , center or side parts, and looks with defined sideburns are excellent ways to take advantage of the natural movement of curly or wavy hair. You can also opt for high ponytails, half-up buns, or tousled styles, which offer a relaxed and youthful look while still maintaining a polished appearance.
There are no strict rules when it comes to wearing curls: if you love your curly hair, age shouldn't be a barrier . It's worth noting, however, that curls tend to give a more casual look, so if you prefer a more understated style, you can opt for shorter cuts or combine curls with clean layers and styling products that control volume.
Before considering a perm to achieve tighter curls, assess the condition of your scalp and the density of your hair. If you have a receding hairline or bald patches , very defined curls can accentuate those areas. In such cases , soft waves or relaxed curls that add texture without leaving noticeable gaps are usually more flattering .
Basic routine for styling curly or wavy hair without frizz
For any hairstyle to work, a specific care routine is essential . Start by washing your hair with a shampoo for curly or wavy hair , or failing that, with a gentle product that doesn't strip away too much of the natural oils. Curly hair tends to be drier, so it's best to avoid overly harsh formulas.
After washing your hair, don't towel dry it completely. Working with damp hair allows products to absorb better and curls to stay more defined. Apply a cream, lightweight mask, or leave-in conditioner for extra hydration and focus on areas where curls loosen or lose their shape.
One of the key tools is a hairdryer with a diffuser . Always use it on a medium heat setting and low airflow to avoid loosening the curls or drying out your hair. Place sections of hair inside the diffuser and gradually move it towards the roots, without rubbing or separating the curls too much with your fingers while drying, to prevent unwanted frizz. Alternatively, if you don't have a diffuser, using the hairdryer on a low speed and moderate heat also helps control volume.
When your hair is about seventy percent dry, you can apply a light-hold mousse, foam, or gel designed for curls. This helps redefine the curl pattern, keep it in place for hours, and add body to areas with less density. It's best to use moderate amounts and distribute the product evenly from roots to ends.
Volume control, definition, and all-day hold
Then there's the issue of volume. A hairstyle with curls or waves shouldn't lie too flat against the head, which is why it's so useful to have volumizing products on hand , such as Aveda's Volumizing Tonic. Brush it from roots to ends and then use your fingers to add the finishing touch. Sea salt sprays and styling powders are also great allies for lifting the roots without weighing down the rest of your hair.
Flexibility is especially valuable when it comes to curly or wavy hair, but if your hair is prone to frizz, don't hesitate to apply hairspray before going out to keep your curls in place, whatever the weather. Choose hairsprays or styling sprays that respect the elasticity of your curls and don't leave a white residue.
If you want a more polished style, you can gently separate the curls with your fingers once they're completely dry, creating effects like an undercut with a curly top , a sharp side part, or a perfectly defined high ponytail. The important thing is to avoid over-manipulating your hair while it dries, because the more you touch it, the more the curls loosen and lose definition.
For those who don't have naturally curly hair and don't want a perm, it's possible to achieve temporary curls or waves using texturizing products and heat tools like a medium-barrel curling iron. Work with thin sections, alternating the curl direction, and gently loosen the curls with your fingers to avoid an artificial look. You can also use a mini flat iron or wet-braiding techniques for softer, temporary waves.
By taking care of hydration, using specific products and respecting the natural shape of your curls or waves, you can show off hair with controlled volume, defined texture and zero frizz , whether you prefer a short and structured style or opt for a longer and freer mane.