Curly hair for men is a fantastic asset, but it often comes with its own set of challenges. From frizz to finding the right shape, managing those curls can feel like a full-time job. But what if you could turn that challenge into your greatest style feature? With a few simple techniques and the right approach, you can make your curly hair look its best every single day.
Start in the Shower with the Right Wash
Great curly hair starts before you even pick up a styling product. It begins with how you wash. Many men make the mistake of washing their hair every day, which can strip away natural oils that keep curls hydrated and defined. Instead, try using a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo just a few times a week. On other days, simply rinse your hair with water. Following up with a good conditioner is non-negotiable; it adds moisture, reduces frizz, and makes your curls more manageable.
Mastering the Towel and Air Dry
How you dry your hair is just as important as how you wash it. Rubbing your hair vigorously with a regular bath towel is a recipe for frizz. The rough texture roughs up the hair cuticle. Instead, gently scrunch the excess water out of your curls using a soft microfiber towel or even an old cotton t-shirt. This method helps maintain your curl pattern. Then, whenever possible, let your hair air dry. If you must use a blow dryer, always attach a diffuser to disperse the heat and avoid blowing your curls apart.
Choosing Your Styling Products
Product choice can make or break your curly hair style. For light definition and a natural look, a curl cream is your best friend. It moisturizes and provides a soft hold. If you need more control and want to combat frizz, a styling gel is ideal. Apply it to damp hair to lock in your curl shape. For thicker, coarser curls that need extra moisture and separation, a styling butter or pomade offers a stronger, more defined hold. The key is to apply product evenly through damp hair, scrunching upwards to encourage your natural curl pattern.
Simple Everyday Styles to Try
You don’t need complicated routines. For a quick, go-to look, apply your preferred product to damp hair, scrunch, and let it air dry. Once dry, you can gently “scrunch out the crunch” if you used a gel, leaving soft, defined curls. For a more polished appearance, use a wide-tooth comb in the shower with conditioner to detangle. After applying product, use your fingers to push your curls to one side for a casual side part, or tousle them for a bit of textured volume on top.
Styling curly hair is all about working with your hair’s natural texture, not against it. Embrace the unique pattern of your curls. With consistent care and the right techniques, you can keep your hair healthy, defined, and looking great with minimal daily effort.