Man hair

How to Style Curly Hair Men: My Tried-and-True Tips for Perfect Curls

Men’s curly burst fade with a shaved design on the side

Learning how to style curly hair for men can feel like a lifelong experiment—I know because I’ve been there myself. Growing up, I spent years battling frizz, dryness, and bad haircuts until I finally figured out what worked best for my curls. If you’ve ever wondered how to style curly hair for men so it looks fresh and defined every day, you’re in the right place.

Understand Your Curl Type First

Before you can master how to style curly hair men, you have to know your curl type. Is your hair wavy, loose curls, tight ringlets, or coily? The products and techniques you use will depend on whether you have 2b waves, 3a curls, 3b curls, or tighter 4a coils.

How I Style My Curly Hair: My Daily Routine

Here’s exactly how to style curly hair for men, step by step, based on what’s worked for me—and many guys I’ve helped along the way.
Low burst fade curly hair for a subtle, professional look

1. Start with the Right Shampoo and Conditioner

Use a sulfate-free shampoo that won’t strip your hair’s natural oils. I wash my hair no more than twice a week to keep my curls from drying out. After shampooing, I use a rich conditioner and finger-comb it through to detangle.

2. Never Rub—Pat Dry

One mistake I made for years was rough towel drying. Always pat your curls dry with a microfiber towel or an old cotton T-shirt. This prevents frizz and keeps the curl pattern intact.

3. Use a Leave-In Conditioner or Curl Cream

The biggest game-changer in how to style curly-haired men is a good leave-in conditioner or curl-defining cream. I run it through damp hair to lock in moisture and encourage curl formation.

4. Apply Product When Hair Is Wet

Curls love water. Applying styling products while your hair is still damp helps curls clump together naturally. Scrunch your curls upward to enhance their shape.

5. Air Dry or Diffuse

Let your hair air dry when possible—this keeps curls soft and defined. When I’m in a rush, I use a diffuser attachment on my blow dryer on low heat. This dries and curls gently without causing frizz.

6. Refresh Between Washes

Curly hair doesn’t always cooperate day after day. I spritz my curls with water and add a little leave-in conditioner to reactivate them. This trick keeps curls looking fresh until the next wash day.

Best Products to Style Curly Hair for Men

I’ve tested countless products, and here’s what I personally recommend for men learning how to style curly hair:

  • Sulfate-free shampoo and hydrating conditioner

  • Leave-in conditioner

  • Curl-defining cream or mousse

  • Wide-tooth comb or fingers (never a brush)

  • Microfiber towel

  • Diffuser attachment for your dryer
    Men’s curly burst fade with a shaved design on the side

Haircuts That Make Styling Easier

A good haircut is half the battle. I always ask my barber for a cut that works with my curl pattern. Popular curly styles for men include:

A barber experienced with curly hair can shape your curls so they’re easier to style at home.
mid burst fade curly hair with smooth transition

How to Style Curly Hair for Men with Confidence

Figuring out how to style curly hair men isn’t just about products and techniques—it’s about owning your curls. When I finally embraced my curls instead of fighting them, my hair looked healthier and my routine got so much easier.

Final Thoughts: Master How to Style Curly Hair for Men Once and For All

Whether your curls are loose waves or tight coils, learning how to style curly hair in men is all about moisture, gentle care, and the right products. Stick to a routine, get regular trims, and protect your curls from harsh heat or chemicals.

If you’re just starting on your curly hair journey, don’t stress—experiment, be patient, and enjoy the process. I promise, that once you know how to style curly hair for men, you’ll never wish for straight hair again.
High burst fade curly haircut with defined curls on top

If you found these tips helpful, bookmark this guide and share it with your fellow curly-haired friends! Do you have questions about how to style curly hair for men? Drop them in the comments—I’m always happy to help.

FAQs on Styling Men’s Curly Hair (With Personal Tips)

1. How Do I Style Short Curly Hair for Men?

Short curly hair is all about enhancing definition while keeping it neat. Here’s my go-to routine:

  • Use a lightweight curl cream (like Cantu Define & Shine Custard) to scrunch in damp hair.

  • Avoid heavy gels—they can make short curls look stiff.

  • For a textured look, run fingers through the roots for lift.

Personal Tip: I’ve found that a low fade with tight curls on top gives a sharp, modern look without sacrificing curl definition.

2. What’s the Best Way to Style Long Curly Hair for Men?

Long curls need moisture and structure to avoid tangles and frizz. My routine:

  • Apply leave-in conditioner (Shea Moisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil) to damp hair.

  • Use a wide-tooth comb (never a brush!) to detangle.

  • Diffuse upside-down for volume, or air-dry with a loose pineapple ponytail to preserve curls.

Personal Experience: When my hair was shoulder-length, satin pillowcases and overnight braids were game-changers to prevent knots.

3. How Can I Style Thick, Curly Hair Without It Looking Puffy?

Thick curls need control—here’s how I manage mine:

  • Layer your haircut to remove bulk (ask your barber for point cutting).

  • Use a strong-hold gel (Aussie Instant Freeze) on soaking-wet hair, then scrunch out the crunch when dry.

  • Avoid heavy oils—they weigh down thick hair.

Pro Tip: A mid-skin fade with longer curls on top balances volume while keeping it stylish.

4. How Do I Style Thin or Fine Curly Hair for More Volume?

Fine curls can fall flat, but these tricks help:

  • Mousse is your best friend (Herbal Essences Twisted adds bounce).

  • Root clipping while drying lifts curls at the base.

  • Avoid over-conditioning—it can make thin hair limp.

Personal Hack: I fluff my roots with a pick comb for instant fullness.

5. How Should I Style Frizzy Curly Hair for Men?

Frizz = lack of moisture. My anti-frizz routine:

  • Wash with cold water to seal cuticles.

  • Apply a leave-in + light gel (Curls Blueberry Bliss is my staple).

  • Sleep on silk—cotton causes friction frizz.

Expert Note: If humidity is the issue, a tiny dab of anti-humidity spray (Bumble & Bumble Hairdresser’s Invisible Oil) saves the day.

6. What’s the Best Curly Hairstyle for Black Men?

Black men’s curls (Type 3C–4C) thrive with:

  • The LOC method (Liquid, Oil, Cream) for maximum hydration.

  • Twist-outs or braid-outs for stretched definition.

  • A tapered cut is if you prefer low-maintenance styles.

Personal Favorite: A high-top fade with defined curls is timeless—just ask Kid Cudi.

7. How Do I Style Medium-Length Curly Hair for Men?

Medium curls (shoulder-length) are versatile. My approach:

  • Pineapple method at night to preserve shape.

  • Salt spray for beachy waves, or curl custard for defined ringlets.

  • Half-up man bun for a polished yet effortless look.

8. Can I Style Wavy Hair Like Curly Hair?

Wavy hair (Type 2) needs a lighter touch:

  • Sea salt spray enhances texture without crunch.

  • Avoid heavy butters—they weigh down waves.

  • Scrunch with mousse (Not Your Mother’s Curl Talk) for hold.

Personal Take: My brother has wavy hair, and layered cuts + minimal product work best for his texture.
mid burst fade curly hair with smooth transition

Leave a Comment