Having curly hair is both a blessing and a challenge. One day, your curls look like a masterpiece, and the next, they have a mind of their own. Sound familiar?
But here’s the thing: curly hair is one of the most stylish, attention-grabbing hair types out there—as long as you know how to rock it.
Whether you want a clean and professional look, something bold and trendy, or just a low-maintenance cut that lets your curls breathe, 2025 is packed with fresh, modern styles tailored just for you.
In this guide, we’re breaking down 15 of the best curly hairstyles for men that are trending this year. You’ll find everything from short and sharp cuts to longer, more laid-back styles—plus tips on how to style and maintain your curls like a pro.
So, if you’re tired of searching “best curly hairstyles for men” and getting outdated advice, you’re in the right place.
Here are 15 modern men’s curly hairstyles that’ll have you turning heads this year.
1. Curly Taper Fade
If you want a clean, stylish look that keeps the curls on top while the sides stay neat, the curly taper fade is a top choice.
The gradual fade blends effortlessly into your natural curls, making it versatile and sharp for both work and casual settings.
Use a curl cream or lightweight mousse to keep your curls defined without stiffness.
2. Curly Caesar Cut
The curly version of the classic Caesar cut gives you a stylish, low-maintenance look with a textured twist.
Keeping the hair short on top while embracing natural curls, this cut frames your face nicely and works well for all curl types.
A touch of styling cream will enhance your waves without making them look overdone.
3. Short Curly Crop
This effortlessly cool and modern hairstyle keeps your curls short and structured, making it a breeze to style.
A great choice if you want to avoid excessive volume while still letting your curls do their thing. Just apply a bit of matte pomade or curl-defining cream, and you’re ready to roll.
4. Buzz Cut with Natural Curls
Yes, you can still rock curly hair with a buzz cut—just keep it slightly longer on top to show off texture.
This cut is super easy to maintain and gives off a sleek, masculine look while keeping things stylish.
If your curls tend to get dry, use a hydrating leave-in conditioner to keep them soft and frizz-free.
5. Textured Curly Fringe
A textured curly fringe is a great way to add style without too much effort. The soft, natural curls falling slightly over the forehead give off a youthful, laid-back vibe, perfect for casual settings.
To keep it looking fresh, use a light curl-enhancing mousse and avoid heavy gels that make curls crunchy.
6. Messy Curly Undercut
This bold and modern curly hairstyle creates an eye-catching contrast between short, shaved sides and wild, free-flowing curls on top.
It’s perfect if you love a messy yet controlled look that oozes personality.
A salt spray or light-hold styling cream will help keep your curls defined while maintaining that effortlessly cool appearance.
7. Curly Faux Hawk
The curly faux hawk is the ultimate mix of edgy and stylish, letting your curls shine while keeping the sides faded.
It works especially well for tight curls or coils that add natural volume on top. Keep the definition strong by using a curl cream and a bit of styling gel for hold.
8. Mid-Length Curly Pompadour
Want to turn heads? The curly pompadour gives you volume and definition, creating a stylish yet refined look.
Perfect for guys who want a blend of vintage charm and modern flair, this hairstyle works best with a strong-hold curl cream or mousse to keep its shape.
9. Shoulder-Length Loose Curls
If you love your curls and don’t mind the extra length, shoulder-length curls give off a laid-back, effortlessly cool vibe.
This style works great for men with naturally defined curls or waves who want a relaxed, bohemian feel. Keep your curls hydrated with a leave-in conditioner or curl-enhancing cream to prevent frizz.
10. Curly Man Bun
The man bun isn’t going anywhere in 2025, and curly-haired guys can rock it even better.
This style keeps your curls under control while maintaining a stylish, masculine look—perfect for casual and professional settings. Use a moisturizing hair oil or curl cream to prevent dryness while keeping the bun sleek.
11. Half-Up, Half-Down Curls
The half-up, half-down curly hairstyle lets you show off your natural texture while keeping things structured and stylish.
It’s an excellent look for guys with medium to long curls who want a trendy but practical style. Use a lightweight curl serum to enhance shine and definition.
12. Curly Mullet
Yes, the mullet is back, and it looks better than ever with curls! The shorter front and sides combined with flowing curls in the back make this a bold yet stylish option.
To keep it looking modern rather than outdated, use a curl-defining cream to enhance the shape.
13. Curly Mohawk with Fade
If you’re feeling bold, the curly mohawk fade gives you an eye-catching, high-contrast look.
The tight fade on the sides makes the curls on top stand out even more, giving a rebellious yet stylish feel. A strong-hold gel or curl mousse will help maintain the shape and volume all day.
14. Curly Twists with Undercut
This stylish hybrid between curly twists and a clean undercut gives you a trendy, polished appearance.
The twists enhance your natural curl pattern, making them more defined and structured. A hydrating curl butter or light gel will keep your twists looking sharp and fresh.
15. Natural Afro Curls
For guys who love embracing their natural texture, the afro remains one of the most stylish and confident curly hairstyles.
The key to making it look its best is keeping it well-shaped and moisturized. Use a moisturizing hair cream or oil to maintain definition and prevent dryness.
How to Choose the Best Curly Hairstyle for Your Face Shape
Alright, before we jump into the best men’s curly hairstyles of 2025, let’s talk about something crucial—your face shape.
Not every hairstyle works for every face shape, and picking the right one can be the difference between looking effortlessly stylish and… well, looking like you just let your barber freestyle.
Here’s a quick and easy guide to help you find a curly hairstyle that compliments your features like a pro.
#1. Oval Face Shape (The Jackpot)
- Best Hairstyles: Literally anything. You hit the jackpot—oval faces are super balanced, meaning you can pull off most curly styles.
- Top Picks: Curly taper fade, textured fringe, curly undercut, or a mid-length curly pompadour.
#2. Round Face Shape (Add Some Angles)
- Goal: Make your face appear longer and more structured.
- Avoid: Extra volume on the sides—it makes your face look even rounder.
- Top Picks: Curly faux hawk, high taper fade with curls, curly fringe with a sharp fade, or a messy curly undercut.
#3. Square Face Shape (Strong & Defined)
- Goal: Show off that strong jawline while keeping things balanced.
- Avoid: Hair that’s too bulky on the sides—it can make your head look boxy.
- Top Picks: Curly crop fade, short curly taper, curly twists with a low fade, or a curly side-part style.
#4. Diamond Face Shape (Balance is Key)
- Goal: Add volume to the top and sides to create symmetry.
- Avoid: Super short cuts that make your cheekbones look even wider.
- Top Picks: Medium-length curly fringe, shoulder-length curls, curly pompadour, or a curly mullet (yes, mullets are making a comeback!).
#5. Heart Face Shape (Fuller Looks Work Best)
- Goal: Keep some volume on top and at the sides to balance a narrower jawline.
- Avoid: Styles that are too short on the sides with excessive volume on top—it can make your forehead look even bigger.
- Top Picks: Loose curly waves, mid-length curly afro, curly man bun, or a soft-textured curly undercut.
#6. Oblong/Rectangular Face Shape (Don’t Go Too High)
- Goal: Keep the top slightly textured but not too tall, so your face doesn’t look even longer.
- Avoid: Super high-volume styles that add too much height.
- Top Picks: Textured curly fringe, medium curly crop, or a laid-back curly style with a low taper.
Maintenance & Styling Tips for Curly Hair
Alright, you’ve got the perfect curly hairstyle—now, let’s talk about keeping it looking fresh every single day.
Because let’s be real: curly hair has a mind of its own. One day it’s all defined and bouncy, the next, it’s a dry, frizzy mess. The key? A solid maintenance and styling routine.
Here’s how to keep your curls looking sharp without spending hours in front of the mirror.
1. Use the Right Products (Ditch the Cheap Stuff)
Curly hair needs moisture, definition, and frizz control. If you’re still using the same shampoo your dad buys in bulk, we need to talk.
Here are the must-haves:
- Sulfate-Free Shampoo: Regular shampoos strip natural oils, leaving curls dry and frizzy.
- Leave-In Conditioner: Hydrates and softens curls while reducing frizz.
- Curl Cream: Defines curls and keeps them in place.
- Mousse or Gel: Adds structure without stiffness (great for looser curls).
- Hair Oil or Serum: Locks in moisture and gives your curls a natural shine.
Pro Tip: Try products with argan oil, shea butter, or aloe vera—they’re game-changers for hydration.
2. Don’t Overwash Your Hair
Curly hair does not need to be washed every day. Overwashing strips away the natural oils that keep curls soft and bouncy.
Ideal Routine:
- Shampoo: 2–3 times a week (max).
- Conditioner: Every wash day (or daily if needed).
- Co-Wash: (Conditioner-only wash) in between shampoo days to refresh curls.
Pro Tip: Use cold or lukewarm water when rinsing—hot water dries out curls.
3. Dry Your Curls the Right Way
- Do Not: Rub your hair with a regular towel (it causes frizz).
- Do This Instead: Use a microfiber towel or a cotton T-shirt to gently blot excess water.
Air-drying vs. Diffusing:
- Air-Drying: Best for looser curls that don’t need extra volume.
- Diffuser (on low heat): Helps define curls while adding volume—perfect for tighter curls.
Pro Tip: Apply curl cream while your hair is damp to lock in moisture and prevent frizz.
4. Sleep Like a Curl King
Did you know your pillowcase could be killing your curls? Cotton absorbs moisture, causing dryness, tangles, and frizz.
- Switch to a satin or silk pillowcase to keep curls soft and hydrated overnight.
- If you have longer curls, try a loose pineapple bun (high ponytail) to prevent flattening.
Pro Tip: Use a light mist of leave-in conditioner in the morning to refresh curls.
5. Get Regular Trims (Yes, Even If You’re Growing It Out)
Curly hair is prone to split ends and uneven growth. Even if you’re growing it out, trimming every 6–8 weeks helps maintain a clean shape and prevents damage.
Pro Tip: Find a barber who knows how to cut curly hair properly. (Trust us, it makes all the difference.)
6. Humidity-Proof Your Hair
Humidity is public enemy #1 for curls—it turns definition into frizz city real quick.
Combat frizz with:
- A good anti-frizz serum or hair oil (argan or coconut oil works wonders).
- Curl-defining products (mousse or gel) to keep curls locked in place.
- Avoiding too much heat styling—heat dries out curls and makes them more frizz-prone.
Pro Tip: If your curls get frizzy throughout the day, rub a drop of hair oil between your hands and lightly scrunch your hair for a quick fix.
The Bottom Line
At the end of the day, curly hair isn’t just hair—it’s a statement. Whether you’re rocking a short and sharp curly fade, a messy undercut, or letting those curls flow freely, the key is confidence and the right care.
You’ve now got 15 trending curly hairstyles for 2025 to choose from, plus pro tips on how to maintain and style them like a boss.
No more bad hair days, no more wondering what to ask your barber—just great curls and an even better look.
What’s Next?
- Pick a style that fits your face shape and personality.
- Get the right products to keep your curls fresh.
- Book that barber appointment and show them exactly what you want.
And most importantly—own your curls. The right hairstyle is just the beginning.
Now, let’s hear from you! Which curly style are you most excited to try? Got a go-to product that works wonders for your curls? Drop a comment below and let’s talk hair!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is the best haircut for men with curly hair?
The best haircut depends on your face shape and personal style. For a clean and modern look, go for a curly taper fade or a textured curly fringe. If you prefer longer styles, a curly man bun or shoulder-length loose curls work great. The key is to embrace your curls while maintaining a shape that flatters your face.
Q. How do I make my curls look more defined?
To enhance definition, use a curl-enhancing cream, mousse, or light gel while your hair is damp. Scrunch your curls gently and let them air dry or use a diffuser on low heat. Avoid overwashing your hair—too much shampoo can dry out curls and make them frizzy.
Q. How often should I wash my curly hair?
Curly hair should be washed 2–3 times a week to prevent dryness. Instead of daily shampooing, try co-washing (using conditioner only) to keep your curls hydrated and frizz-free. Use a sulfate-free shampoo to maintain moisture.
Q. What’s the easiest curly hairstyle to maintain?
If you want low maintenance, go for a curly taper fade, short curly crop, or a buzz cut with natural curls. These styles require minimal styling—just a touch of curl cream or mousse to keep your curls defined.
Q. How do I prevent my curls from getting frizzy?
Frizz happens when your hair is dry or lacks moisture. Use a leave-in conditioner, curl cream, or hair oil to keep your curls hydrated. Also, switch to a satin or silk pillowcase to reduce friction while sleeping.
Q. Can I grow my curly hair long without it looking messy?
Absolutely! Keeping your curls well-conditioned and trimmed will help them grow out without looking wild. Opt for styles like shoulder-length curls or a curly man bun for a structured yet natural look.
Q. What’s the best way to style curly hair in the morning?
If your curls are flattened after sleep, revive them with a light mist of water or leave-in conditioner. Scrunch your hair to reshape the curls and apply a light styling product like mousse or curl cream to add definition.
Q. How do I ask my barber for a good curly haircut?
Bring a reference photo and be clear about how much length you want to keep. Ask for a barber who specializes in curly hair, and use terms like “taper fade,” “textured top,” or “layered curls” to describe your desired look.
Q. Is a fade good for curly hair?
Yes! A fade is a great way to keep your curls looking fresh and stylish while reducing bulk on the sides. The curly taper fade, curly undercut, and curly mohawk fade are some of the best modern and trendy fade styles for curly-haired men.
Q. What are the best products for men’s curly hair?
Look for hydrating and curl-enhancing products like: Sulfate-free shampoo (to prevent dryness), Leave-in conditioner (for moisture), Curl cream or mousse (for definition), and Hair oil or serum (to control frizz).
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