99 Curly Hairstyles for Men: The Ultimate Guide

1. Aaron Taylor Johnson’s Long, Curly, Swept Back Hairstyle

If you’re blessed with long locks and want something more laid back, then Aaron Taylor Johnson’s swept-back do could be your next curly hairstyle reference for your barber.

This style is ideal if you want looser curls, as longer ones tend to drop more. To achieve this look, ask for a one-length scissor cut. Finding a skilled hairdresser or barber who understands curly hair is also imperative. You can get a good insight from their social media account and always ask for time for a consultation first.

As Aaron’s hair is so curly and thick and has a tendency to grow outwards, his stylist may have put in some hidden layers to take the weight out of it. So it’s worth talking to yours about how they can cut it to stop that ‘mushroom’ factor.

Aaron’s hair sits just above his collar – but when it’s wet, it probably hits shoulder length.

How To Style:

• As much as possible, only wash your hair twice a week. Gently squeeze the water out with a towel, or for better results, wrap your hair with an old cotton shirt to absorb moisture without the rough friction.
• Lather on a curl-defining cream and leave hair to air-dry. You can also use a diffuser to dry your hair faster while you scrunch your locks into shape.
• Use a gel, wax, or pomade to get it swept back. A small, 20p-sized amount would do. 
• Rub the product together in your palms and push back your hair with your fingers. Seal everything with hairspray if necessary.

2. Jeremy Allen White’s Medium Length Tousled Curly Hairstyle

Jeremy Allen White’s curly, tousled hairdo has been the topic of many discussions (like his fiery character in The Bear) because of its seemingly perfect yet effortless nature.

This curly hairstyle works for guys with medium-length, curly hair and can easily pull it off with minimal styling. It just all comes down to getting the right cut from the right barber. Your hair should be thinned out where it needs to be to avoid being poofy. Then it’s all about keeping it in good condition and getting regular trims to keep the shape fresh.

How To Style:

• Hairstylist Ally Vickers, head of the hair department on The Bear, suggests to avoid overwashing your hair and keeping it damp to style it. Then, comb it out with an extra wide-toothed comb
• To give it some dimension, warm up some pomade in your hands and work it into your hair.
• “Scrunch a little Bumble & Bumble Surf Spray and you’re good to go.”

3. Jack Harlow’s Curly 80s Mullet

Mullets are making a comeback despite their polarizing reception and show no signs of fading anytime soon. It’s all thanks to the rise of celebrities and musicians like Jack Harlow rocking the iconic hairstyle. His signature round halo of curls has transformed into an 80s-inspired curly mullet and we’re loving it.

To fashion your locks into the mullet of your dreams, first, tell your barber what length you’re trying to go for. Then, they’ll asses your hair texture, growth patterns, and even your cowlicks. A  scissors-over-comb technique will be crucial to creating that soft ‘bowl’ shape Jack has. The hair will be point-cut throughout to reduce weight, ensuring it can be styled without puffing out at the top and sides.

The back of the hair is longer, reaching Jack’s collar, creating a distinct contrast to the shorter sides.

How To Style:

• To wet hair, apply a curl-enhancing cream, followed by a heat protection spray. 
• For extra frizz control, distribute an anti-frizz product throughout. 
• Dry your hair in sections using a hairdryer equipped with a diffuser, keeping it close to your hair. This technique will define your curls and keep frizz at bay. 
• Once dry, warm a bit of pomade between your palms and apply it to your hair to add definition and texture.

4. Timothée Chalamet’s Mid-Length Curly Hair With Swept Back Fringe

Experimenting with a fringe? Timothee Chalamet’s recent Dune do see him with a slightly longer, one-length curly hairstyle and casually pushed-back fringe that highlight those lustrous curls perfectly. Admittedly, he shares in an interview that there’s no special secret to his glossy coils – which is great news for everyone else wanting the same look. 

To get as close to Timothee’s curly hairstyle as possible, consult with your barber or stylist first. It’s a one-length haircut, likely with added subtle layers and texture to make it easier to style.

Remember everyone’s hair and curl patterns are different, so what works for Timothee might not work for your curl type.

How To Style:

• Avoid washing your hair too frequently – limit it to 2-3 times a week. When you do wash, choose shampoos and conditioners free of harsh chemicals like sulfates and parabens.
• When drying, gently pat your hair instead of rubbing it to prevent frizz and breakage. For best results, use a microfiber towel to wrap your hair for about 15-20 minutes to speed up drying without causing damage.
• Begin your styling routine with a curl cream to define your curls. For a tousled look, you can lightly spritz sea salt spray, but use sparingly to avoid a gritty or sticky texture. 
• Apply a heat protector throughout your hair and blow dry on medium heat, preferably using a diffuser to maintain the curl shape.
• Finally, treat your hair with a deep conditioner once a week, ideally overnight, to keep it nourished and hydrated.

5. Penn Badgley’s Shoulder Length Curly Hair

If you’re looking to grow out your locks, then take Penn Badgley’s shoulder-length hairstyle for example. It’s intentionally dishevelled for that “woke up like this” look.

This is all about embracing your long, shiny curls. Find a barber or stylist experienced with curly hair. His hair would have been expertly cut to thin it in the right places, preventing it from puffing out at the sides. Maintaining this style requires regular trims to keep it looking sharp and ensure it stays in excellent condition.

How To Style:

• Limit washing your hair to a couple of times a week. 
• When styling, dampen your hair and use an extra wide-tooth comb to avoid pulling or damaging it. 
• Warm a pea-sized amount of pomade between your hands and work it through your hair. 
• For added texture, scrunch in some sea salt spray. If you choose to blow dry, use a hairdryer with a diffuser to maintain the shape and quality of your curls. 
• Once dry, apply a bit of frizz-reducing product or hair oil to enhance shine.

6. Brodie Townsend’s Curly Modern Mullet

Brodie Townsend’s modern take on the mullet has us wishing we had locks like his. It’s a bit more understated than the old-school cut but retains the signature length at the back. This is definitely a great way to highlight your long curls if you’re ever blessed with them.

Barbers who have experience working with curly hair will know how to pull this off. If they also have experience in cutting mullet hairstyles? Even better.

Your hair has to be cut shorter at the sides by a soft scissor cut, taper, or skin fade while keeping the back the same length as on top, or slightly longer. It’s less drastic than an old-school mullet.

How To Style:

• Start by applying a small amount of curl cream that’s about the size of a penny after washing out your hair. This will help define and nourish your curls.
• When styling, work a little lightweight mousse or sea salt spray through towel-dried hair. 
• Use a low-to-medium setting when blow drying to prevent frizz and heat damage. A diffuser attachment can help distribute and control airflow to maintain curled structure. 
• The messier, the better – use your dryer and hands to shape your hair.
• For added texture, warm a pea-sized amount of matte styling clay or wax in your hands, then run it through your hair

7. Aryan Simhadri’s Curly Hairstyle With Fringe

A fringe can spice up any hairstyle and Aryan Simhadri has coupled it with his medium-length curly haircut for a laidback yet stylish look. This allows for plenty of texture and movement for the new Percy Jackson series actor.

To recreate this look, work with a barber who specialises in curly hair since they know what’s best for your curl pattern. Aryan has opted for a medium-length cut that falls nicely around the collar. The hair is trimmed shorter on the sides, allowing it to be tucked behind the ears. 

Your scissor cut should leave more length on top, adding texture and layers that add fullness and shape. Your stylist can build this in to balance out the style.

Lastly, his fringe hangs right at the browline. If you’re unsure, ask for it to be left longer at first. Nothing is permanent – it can always be adjusted shorter next time or trimmed more after styling. 

How To Style:

• Curly hair can tend to be dry due to its shape, making it harder for natural oils to reach the ends. Make sure to use nourishing products made for your hair type. Take care of those curls and they’ll take care of you!
• Apply an ample amount of nourishing curl cream into your hair after washing.
• Towel dry your hair gently before applying a small amount of heat protectant like a mousse. Carefully squeeze and twist your curls as you work the product in.
• When it’s time to blow dry, use a low-medium heat setting on your blow dryer along with a diffuser attachment. This helps control the airflow so curls keep their shape without frizzing up.
• If needed, warm a bit of styling product like pomade in your hands and scrunch it throughout. 
• You can use your fingers to shape your curls and add definition to your bangs. 

8. Charles Melton’s Short Curly Hairstyle

Looking to rock your natural, lustrous curls? Charles Melton’s short curly look is the perfect example of chill yet still cool. He keeps styling very simple by admittedly “not doing anything much” and “keeping it messy and greasy”.

This style very much relies on getting regular trims for healthy locks. Tell your barber to keep it longer on top and trim the sides shorter, with a bit of length at the back. Any heaviness on the top and sides should be reduced so your hair doesn’t end up poofing up.

How To Style:

• Avoid washing your hair daily; try to limit it to twice a week. Opt for a high-quality conditioner specifically for curly hair. 
• After washing, gently pat your hair with a towel to absorb moisture before using any leave-in products. Alternatively, you can use an old cotton T-shirt or a microfiber towel to wrap your hair. Never rub your hair vigorously, as this can lead to frizz.
• Evenly distribute a clementine-sized amount of volumising or texturising product from roots to tips, but avoid brushing your hair. 
• Use a hairdryer on low speed and medium heat, and attach a diffuser to help maintain the curls’ structure. Gently move the diffuser around your hair and scrunch with your fingers while drying to enhance the curls.
• Once your hair is dry, add some texture and curl separation by using a small amount of styling cream or medium-hold pliable paste. Warm it up between your fingers and twist it around individual curls for a more defined texture.

9. Conan Gray’s Long Curly Hairstyle

Where do we even start with Conan Gray’s long iconic locks? The singer is not only a chart-topper, but he takes 1st place for having perfect curly tresses that all his fans adore. He is also a firm believer of only washing your hair a few times a week, which is any hairstylist’s top tip. 

Conan admitted that trial and error was his way of finding the right tools to maintain his hair. It definitely was not the easiest journey. But after some time and discovering the ideal routine for upkeep, he eventually learned to embrace his curls.

A hairstyle like his may look like a bunch of work, but a good barber that knows how to deal with curly hair is what makes a difference. You’ll need to ask them to thin your hair out since some curly hair tends to grow outwards. Your hair should be slightly shorter in the fringe area like Conan’s.

Regular trims every few months are essential to remove split ends and preserve the thinned-out look.

How To Style:

• Follow Conan’s advice: refrain from washing your hair too much. Two to three times a week will do the trick.
• After washing your hair and gently drying it, coat your hair from roots to tips with a texture cream. Use a small amount at first and add more if needed. This will give your hair the right amount of hold. 
• Next, add a curl cream to help define your curls and give them beautiful shape. Look for one with moisturising ingredients.
• Be sure to lock all that moisture in with a leave-in conditioner. Your curls will thank you for the hydration and nourishment.
• Blast your hair with a hairdryer on low heat and medium speed. You can also use a diffuser for maximum curl definition. This helps spread out the air flow so your curls keep their form as they dry. Gently move the diffuser and scrunch your hair as it dries all over.
• For shine and frizz control, add a few drops of hair oil or anti-frizz product after drying. Rub it between your fingers and scrunch it throughout your locks. 
• Deep condition your hair weekly, ideally overnight, to keep it healthy and hydrated. 
• Always protect your hair from heat damage when using hot tools like the dryer. Your curls will last so much longer!

10. Josh O’Connor’s Curly Hair With Short Back And Sides

Fans of The Crown know Josh O’Connor as a young Prince Charles, with a severe and formal hairstyle befitting his royal role. But in real life, Josh sports a more casual curly style with short sides. Gone is the stiff coif of Charles, replaced by Josh’s natural look. 

What MFH appreciate most is that Josh’s haircut always shows off his ears. Many might try to hide ears that stick out, but Josh proves there’s no need for “flaws” to be concealed. By embracing features some see as imperfections and making them a highlight, Josh’s career and confidence have clearly benefited.

Josh O’Connor’s curly hair has more length on top with shorter sides and back. To maintain this look, he needs a barber skilled in cutting curly hair. The top of your hair needs to be lightly layered to remove weight from the curls, allowing them to form naturally. And the sides and back? Subtle tapering is key so it seamlessly blends with the curl pattern above. The last thing you want is a severe ‘wedge’ look between the curls on top and the shorter sides and back. 

How To Style:

• Frequent washing can cause frizz, so aim to wash only when needed. When you do wash, gently squeeze excess water from your hair with a towel instead of rubbing. For even better results, use a microfiber hair towel or wrap to dry.  
• Distribute a golf ball sized amount of volumising product evenly through your hair using your fingers. If your hair is fine, a texture spray like Anforh Texture Volume Spray can add body. 
• Allow your curls to air dry naturally, scrunching occasionally to shape them. Or dry with a hairdryer on low heat while diffusing for defined curls. 
• Enhance shine and fight frizz with a few drops of hair oil or frizz-fighting product. Rub it between your fingers and scrunch it through. 
• Deep conditioning weekly, especially overnight, keeps curls healthy and frizz-free.