10 Styling Tips Every Man with Curly Hair Needs to Know

Curly hair can be a game-changer for men when styled correctly. With its natural texture and volume, it offers versatility, but it can also be a challenge without the right techniques. Whether you’re dealing with frizz, undefined curls, or excess volume, these 10 practical tips will help you achieve well-defined, manageable curls that enhance your natural look.

1. Use a Sulfate-Free Shampoo

Sulfates strip your hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness and frizz—a nightmare for men with curly hair. Switch to a sulfate-free shampoo to keep your curls hydrated and healthy.

Tip: Wash your hair no more than 2-3 times a week to avoid over-drying.

2. Don’t Skip the Conditioner

Curly hair tends to be naturally drier than straight hair due to the difficulty of oils traveling down the hair shaft. A rich, hydrating conditioner is essential to keep curls soft and manageable.

Tip: Focus the conditioner on your ends and mid-lengths to prevent buildup on the scalp.

3. Apply Leave-In Conditioner for All-Day Moisture

Leave-in conditioner is a must for men who want to maintain curl definition throughout the day. It locks in moisture, preventing frizz and adding softness.

Tip: Apply leave-in conditioner while your hair is damp and scrunch it in for maximum effect.

4. Use the Right Styling Products

Styling products make all the difference in achieving your desired look. Choose products based on your curl type and goal:

• Curl Cream: For soft, touchable curls.

• Gel: For strong hold and frizz control.

• Mousse: For volume without weighing down curls.

Tip: Layer products if needed—start with a curl cream and finish with a light gel for hold.

5. Detangle with a Wide-Tooth Comb or Fingers

Avoid using a brush, as it can cause breakage and disrupt your curl pattern. Instead, detangle using a wide-tooth comb or your fingers when your hair is damp and coated with conditioner.

Tip: Start detangling from the ends and work your way up to avoid tugging on your roots.

6. Master the Art of Scrunching

Scrunching is essential for enhancing natural curl definition. After applying your styling product, gently scrunch your hair upward to encourage curl formation.

Tip: See if our plop nets are right for your hair type to help scrunch and avoid frizz while air drying.

7. Air Dry or Diffuse (No Rubbing with Towels!)

Rubbing wet curls with a regular towel leads to frizz and breakage. Instead, air dry your hair or use a diffuser attachment on low heat to maintain defined curls.

Tip: Flip your head upside down while diffusing for added volume.

8. Avoid Over-Washing Your Hair

Washing your hair daily strips it of natural oils, leading to dryness and loss of curl definition. Curly-haired men should aim to wash their hair 2-3 times a week.

Tip: Use a co-wash (conditioning wash) between shampoo days to refresh your curls without drying them out.

9. Protect Your Curls While Sleeping

Sleeping on a cotton pillowcase can cause friction, leading to frizz and flattened curls. Instead, use a satin or silk pillowcase, or wrap your hair in a satin bonnet.

Tip: Pineapple your curls by tying them loosely at the top of your head before bed to preserve their shape.

10. Schedule Regular Haircuts with a Curly Hair Specialist

Regular trims prevent split ends and maintain your curl shape. A curly hair specialist understands how to cut curls without disrupting their pattern.

Tip: Book a trim every 6-8 weeks to keep your curls looking their best.

Final Thoughts:

By following these 10 tips, men with curly hair can achieve healthy, well-defined curls that turn heads. Whether you’re after a sleek look or something more voluminous, the right routine and products make all the difference.

Ready to take control of your curls? Book a consultation with a curly hair specialist today and unlock your hair’s full potential.