Curly hair can be both a blessing and a challenge. It looks great, it stands out, and it has personality. But it also needs special care. If you’re a man with curly hair, you may have noticed it doesn’t act the same way as straight hair. It might get dry, frizzy, or hard to control. That’s because curly hair has a different structure. The twists and turns make it harder for natural oils to travel from your scalp to the ends.
How Can Men Take Better Care of Their Curly Hair?
So how do you take care of it? How do you make it look good every day without spending too much time or money? The good news is you don’t need a complicated routine. You just need the right habits and products that work for your curls. In this article, we’ll walk through everything you need to know—step by step.
Understand Your Curl Type
Before anything else, you need to know what type of curls you have. Men’s curly hair falls into different categories. Some curls are loose and wavy. Others are tight and coily. Your curl type will help you choose the right products and techniques.
In general:
Wavy hair (Type 2) looks more like loose S-shaped waves.
Curly hair (Type 3) forms more defined loops and spirals.
Coily or kinky hair (Type 4) has tight, small curls or zigzag patterns.
If you’re not sure, look at your hair after washing and letting it air dry with no products. See how it behaves. This will give you a better idea of your natural curl pattern.
Start With the Right Shampoo Routine
One of the biggest mistakes men with curly hair make is washing too often. Shampoo removes dirt, but it also strips away natural oils. Since curly hair is already dry, frequent washing can make it even drier.
Here’s what to do:
Use a sulfate-free shampoo. Sulfates are harsh and can dry out curls.
Don’t shampoo every day. Try two or three times a week. On other days, rinse with water or use a conditioner instead.
Massage your scalp gently. This improves blood flow and helps remove buildup.
Washing your hair the right way will make it softer and more manageable.
Don’t Skip Conditioner
If shampoo cleans your hair, conditioner is what keeps it healthy. Curly hair needs moisture, and conditioner gives it that boost.
Use a regular rinse-out conditioner every time you wash your hair. Focus on the ends. You can also try a leave-in conditioner for extra moisture and protection.
Some men think conditioner is only for women, but that’s not true. If you want curls that look fresh and healthy, conditioner is a must.
Detangle Gently
Curly hair gets tangled easily. But pulling at knots can lead to breakage. So you need to be careful when detangling.
Tips for detangling:
Use your fingers or a wide-tooth comb.
Detangle when hair is wet and has conditioner in it.
Start from the ends and work your way up.
Be patient. If you rush this step, you could damage your curls.
Drying: Skip the Towel
Traditional towels are rough and can cause frizz. When your curls are wet, they are more fragile. So drying the wrong way can ruin their shape.
Try this instead:
Use a microfiber towel or an old t-shirt.
Gently squeeze the water out. Don’t rub.
Let your hair air dry whenever possible.
If you need to use a blow dryer, always use a diffuser attachment and the lowest heat setting. This will help preserve your curl pattern.
Use Curl-Friendly Products
Not all hair products are made for curls. Some contain alcohol, sulfates, or heavy waxes that can dry out or weigh down your hair.
Look for products that say “curl enhancing,” “moisturizing,” or “anti-frizz.” Good products include:
Curl creams – help define curls without making them stiff
Leave-in conditioners – keep hair hydrated all day
Light gels or mousses – offer hold without crunch
Oils (like argan or coconut) – seal in moisture and add shine
Try different products to see what works for you. Sometimes a small change makes a big difference.
Don’t Overdo It
One of the best things you can do for your curly hair is to leave it alone. You don’t need to style it every day or use tons of product. In fact, doing too much can hurt more than help.
Here are a few habits to avoid:
Don’t brush your curls when they’re dry. This creates frizz and breaks the curl pattern.
Avoid using strong hair gels or waxes. These can make curls stiff and flaky.
Don’t touch your hair too much during the day. It can spread oil and mess up the shape.
Keep your routine simple and focus on keeping your curls healthy.
Trim Regularly
Curly hair hides split ends better than straight hair, but that doesn’t mean you don’t need a trim. Getting a trim every 6 to 8 weeks will help your curls keep their shape and prevent breakage.
Make sure you go to a barber or stylist who understands curly hair. They’ll know how to cut your hair without making it uneven or awkward.
If you prefer to cut your own hair, go slow. Use sharp scissors and always cut when your hair is dry or slightly damp.
Protect Your Hair While You Sleep
You may not think about hair care when you’re sleeping, but it matters. Tossing and turning on a cotton pillowcase can cause friction, which leads to frizz and breakage.
Here’s how to protect your curls overnight:
Use a satin or silk pillowcase. These materials are smooth and reduce friction.
Try a satin hair bonnet or head wrap.
Pineapple your hair. This means tying your hair loosely on top of your head to preserve the curls.
A few small changes at night can make your morning routine a lot easier.
Stay Hydrated and Eat Well
Healthy curls start from the inside. Your hair needs nutrients, just like the rest of your body.
Drink plenty of water every day. Eat foods rich in vitamins like:
Vitamin A (found in carrots, spinach)
Vitamin C (citrus fruits, bell peppers)
Biotin (eggs, nuts, seeds)
Omega-3 fats (fish, chia seeds)
A balanced diet can lead to stronger, shinier curls over time.
Conclusion
Taking care of curly hair is a journey. You may not see results overnight, and that’s okay. As you try new routines and products, you’ll learn what works best for your hair.
Don’t compare your curls to someone else’s. Everyone’s hair is unique. The goal is not to control your curls but to understand them.
Over time, your hair will feel softer, look healthier, and become easier to style.
Related topics:
- What’s the Right Way for Men to Take Care of Their Hair?
- Are You Really Moisturizing Your Hair the Right Way?
- How Often Should You Really Wash Your Hair?
