How to Get Curly Hair for Men: Curly hair can add texture, volume, and personality to your look, but not all men are naturally blessed with it. If you have straight or wavy hair and want to achieve curly locks, don’t worry—it’s possible! Whether you want tight curls, soft waves, or something in between, there are methods and products that can help you achieve the curly hair of your dreams.
Steps to Get Curly Hair for Men
Here’s a step-by-step guide for transforming straight or wavy hair into curls, along with tips on how to maintain the curly look once you’ve achieved it.
1. Start with Clean, Damp Hair
Curly hair starts with a good foundation. Wash your hair using a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner to ensure your hair is clean, soft, and hydrated. Curly hair tends to be drier, so using products that add moisture will make your hair more pliable and easier to curl.
- Tip: Use a sulfate-free shampoo to prevent stripping your hair of its natural oils, which are essential for curl formation.
2. Apply a Curl-Enhancing Product
Once your hair is damp, apply a curl-enhancing product to encourage your hair to form curls. Depending on the type of curl you want, you can use:
- Curl Cream or Gel: These products are designed to hold curls in place while keeping them soft and defined.
- Mousse: Mousse can add volume and texture, making it great for looser, more natural waves.
- Sea Salt Spray: For a beachy wave look, sea salt spray can add texture and give your hair a wavy, tousled appearance.
Work the product through your hair with your fingers, ensuring it’s evenly distributed from root to tip.
3. Twist or Scrunch Your Hair
If you have straight or wavy hair, manually shaping your hair can help encourage curls. Here are two popular methods:
- Twist Method: Take small sections of your damp hair and twist them tightly. This will help create defined curls. Allow the twists to air dry, or use a diffuser to speed up the process. Once your hair is dry, gently separate the twists with your fingers for a natural, curly look.
- Scrunching Method: Use your hands to scrunch your hair upward toward your scalp, creating a wave or curl pattern. Do this while your hair is still damp and coated with product. Continue scrunching until you see the shape of curls forming.
4. Use a Diffuser to Dry Your Hair
A diffuser attachment on your hair dryer is essential for men trying to achieve curly hair. The diffuser helps to evenly distribute heat and prevent frizz while enhancing the curl shape. Here’s how to use it:
- Attach the diffuser to your blow dryer.
- Set your dryer to low heat to avoid damaging your hair.
- Flip your head upside down and place sections of your hair into the diffuser.
- Gently lift the diffuser toward your scalp while drying to encourage curl formation.
Using a diffuser is especially effective if your hair has some natural wave or curl to it, as it will enhance and define your curls.
5. Use a Curling Iron or Perm for Long-Lasting Curls
If you want more defined curls or have very straight hair, you can use heat tools like a curling iron or consider a chemical perm.
- Curling Iron: Choose a curling iron with a small to medium barrel for tighter curls. Wrap small sections of your hair around the iron, hold for a few seconds, and release. Be sure to use a heat protectant spray to prevent heat damage.
- Perm: A perm is a chemical treatment that can turn straight hair curly for an extended period (usually several months). This is a more permanent solution and requires the help of a professional hairstylist. Perms involve using chemicals to break and reform the bonds in your hair to create long-lasting curls.
6. Lock in the Curls with a Finishing Product
After you’ve styled your hair, use a light-hold hairspray or styling cream to lock in the curls and reduce frizz. Avoid heavy products that can weigh down your curls. Look for products that offer hold and shine without making your hair stiff or crunchy.
Maintaining Curly Hair
Once you’ve achieved your curly look, maintaining it requires specific care:
- Moisturize Regularly: Curly hair is prone to dryness, so use a leave-in conditioner or hair oil to keep your curls hydrated and soft.
- Avoid Overwashing: Curly hair doesn’t need to be washed daily. Washing too often can strip the natural oils that keep your curls healthy. Aim to wash your hair two to three times a week, using a conditioner every time you wash.
- Refresh Curls Between Washes: On non-wash days, you can refresh your curls by lightly misting your hair with water and applying a curl-defining cream or spray. Scrunch your hair with your hands to bring the curls back to life.
Conclusion
Getting curly hair as a man is possible with the right techniques and products. Whether you want soft waves or defined curls, you can achieve the look by starting with clean, moisturized hair, using curl-enhancing products, and employing tools like a diffuser or curling iron. With consistent care and the right styling routine, you can maintain your curls and enjoy a textured, voluminous look.