25 Best Cool Haircuts Guys Curly Hair Trends for 2026

Look, I get it. A curl’s mind is its own. One day they’re perfect; the next, it’s total chaos.

Looking for a fresh look this year? We have curated a list of the 25 best cool haircuts guys curly hair trends for 2026 to help you find your perfect style. From modern fades to natural textures, these trends are taking over the grooming world.

The game has changed. From Tik Tok to Hollywood, everyone is rocking their natural pattern. In this guide, I’m breaking down the 25 cool haircuts that guys curly hair can pull off this year. Whether you’ve got loose waves or tight coils, let’s find your next look.

🔗 Quick Navigation: Jump to Style

• Identify Your Curl Type (Type 2, 3, 4)
• Viral 2026 Trends (Broccoli Cut, Wolf Cut)
• Short & Low Maintenance Styles
• Medium to Long Professional Looks
• Maintenance 101: Stop the Frizz
• Face Shape Matching Guide

Identifying Your Curl Type

Identifying your specific pattern is the first step in finding cool hair cuts that guys curly hair can maintain.

Type 2 (Wavy Hair)

These strands follow a slight S-pattern, creating that sought-after beachy texture. While this type is generally the easiest to manage, it tends to go flat without a strategic, layered cut.

Type 3 (Curly Hair)

• Classic spirals and ringlets with defined curl pattern
• Bounces when you walk and has serious volume potential
• Requires moisture to prevent frizz and maintain definition

Type 4 (Coily Hair)

• Tight zigzag patterns that form dense, textured coils
• Maximum volume and unique texture
• Needs consistent hydration and gentle handling

Knowing your type helps you pick styles that’ll actually work with your hair instead of against it. Your barber needs to know this too.

Quick Product Guide for Your Curls

Choosing the right product is just as important as the haircut itself:

Curl Type	Recommended Product	How it Helps
Type 2 (Wavy)	Sea Salt Spray	Adds natural volume and prevents hair from looking flat.
Type 3 (Curly)	Curl Defining Cream	Controls frizz and keeps every spiral sharp and defined.
Type 4 (Coily)	Leave-in Conditioner	Locks in moisture and prevents breakage/dryness.

The 25 Best Styles for Curly Hair Men

Modern Viral Trends

These are the styles blowing up on social media right now. They’re bold, they’re fresh, and they’re everywhere in 2026.

1. The Broccoli Cut

The Broccoli Cut is a high-volume hairstyle featuring a rounded top with tapered or faded sides, specifically designed for Type 2 and Type 3 curly hair.

Best for:

• Type 2-3 curls
• Oval or round face shapes
• Guys who want instant volume

How to get it:

• Ask for a mid-fade on the sides
• Keep 3-4 inches on top
• Use curl cream and let it air dry for that natural puff

The key is letting your natural curl pattern create that rounded shape on top. Don’t fight it.

2. Wolf Cut

This shaggy, layered look combines a mullet vibe with messy texture. It’s got an attitude.

Best for:

• Type 2-3 curls
• Square or diamond face shapes
• Guys who like edgier styles

Styling tips:

• Get heavy layers throughout
• Keep length in the back (past your collar)
• Use texturizing spray for that lived-in look

This needs regular trims every 6 weeks to prevent it from looking sloppy instead of stylish.

3. Modern Mullet

Business in the front party in the back but make it 2026. This isn’t your dad’s mullet.

Best for:

• Any curl type
• Oval faces (creates width)
• Confident guys who don’t care what others think

How to style:

• Keep front and sides clean with a low fade
• Let the back grow to shoulder length if you’re committed
• Apply curl cream to the back for definition

This is one of those cool haircuts guys curly hair either love or hate. No middle ground.

4. Burst Fade Mohawk

Edgy and clean at the same time. The fade bursts around your ears while the center strip stays full.

Best for:

• Type 3-4 curls (looks insane)
• Strong jawlines and oval faces
• Guys who want to stand out

Barber instructions:

• Request a burst fade that follows your ear’s curve
• Keep 2-3 inches on top
• Style forward or up with matte pomade

The contrast between the fade and the textured top is what makes this pop.

5. Fluffy Middle Part

The TikTok heartthrob special. Center part with volume on both sides.

Best for:

• Type 2-3 curls only
• Square faces (softens the jawline)
• Younger guys following 2026 grooming trends

How to achieve:

• Grow hair to at least 4 inches
• Part it in the middle while wet
• Add sea salt spray and scrunch

This style is low-effort once you’ve got the length. Just part and go.

6. Messy Fringe

Textured bangs that fall forward over your forehead. Casual and cool.

Best for:

• Type 2-3 curls
• Longer face shapes (shortens appearance)
• Low-maintenance guys

Maintenance:

• Keep 3-4 inches on top with shorter sides
• Fringe should barely touch your eyebrows
• Use light-hold styling cream

The “messy” part is intentional. Don’t try to make it perfect.

7. Broccoli Perm

If your hair is naturally straight or wavy, you can perm it into the broccoli shape. Controversial but popular.

Best for:

• Creates Type 3 curls artificially
• Round and oval faces
• Guys wanting to experiment with texture

Important notes:

• Requires a professional perm (don’t DIY this)
• High maintenance—you’ll need curl products daily
• Lasts 3-6 months before growing out

Only go this route if you’re ready for serious men’s curly hair maintenance.

Short & Low Maintenance

These cuts are for guys who want to look sharp without spending 30 minutes on their hair every morning.

8. Mid-Fade

Classic, clean, and works every single time. Tight on the sides, textured on top.

Why it works:

• Any curl type can pull this off
• Any face shape looks good
• This is your safe bet

Specifications:

• Mid-fade starts around the temples
• Keep 1-2 inches on top
• Can style it or just let it do its thing

This is the best fade for curls if you want versatility.

9. Short Crop

Minimal effort, maximum impact. Everything’s short but the curls still show texture.

Best for:

• Type 3-4 curls shine here
• All face shapes
• Busy guys who want easy styling

Cut details:

• About 1 inch all over or slightly longer on top
• Natural curl pattern creates texture without products
• Use leave-in conditioner only

Get up, shake it out, and you’re good to go.

10. Buzz Cut with Line-up

When you want low maintenance but still want some edge. The line-up makes it pop.

Best for:

• Type 4 curls look incredible
• Square and oval faces
• Ultimate low-maintenance option

Maintenance schedule:

• Go with a #2 or #3 guard all over
• Line-up should be sharp and clean
• Touch up every 2 weeks to keep it fresh

The line-up is non-negotiable. That’s what separates this from a basic buzz.

11. Temple Taper

Smooth taper at the temples with more volume on top. Professional and polished.

Best for:

• Type 2-3 curls
• Diamond and oval faces
• Office environments

Key features:

• Taper blends gradually from temples upward
• Keep 2 inches on top for curl definition
• Perfect balance of clean and textured

This is what I recommend to clients in corporate jobs.

12. Caesar Cut

Short all around with a small textured fringe pushed forward. Roman emperor vibes.

Best for:

• Type 2-3 curls
• Rounder faces (adds forward dimension)
• Classic style lovers

How to get it:

• Cut to 1-2 inches with front slightly longer
• Push it forward when styling
• Add tiny bit of matte clay for hold

Simple, timeless, and always looks put-together.

13. High Taper

Clean fade that starts high up on the sides. More dramatic than a mid-fade.

Best for:

• Any curl type
• Longer faces (adds width on top)
• Guys who want a bold fade

Specifications:

• Taper starts around your temples
• Goes skin-tight on sides and back
• Keep 2-3 inches on top with curl cream

This creates serious contrast between top and sides.

14. Afro Fade

The classic afro with a clean fade on the sides and back. Timeless.

Best for:

• Type 3-4 curls exclusively
• Angular faces (the roundness balances sharp features)
• Guys embracing natural texture

Styling approach:

• Grow the top to 3-4 inches
• Keep sides faded clean
• Pick it out for maximum volume
• Daily leave-in conditioner is essential

This style makes a statement. Own it with confidence.

15. Low Taper Quiff

The quiff pushed up and back with a subtle low taper. Sophisticated.

Best for:

• Type 2-3 curls
• Square and oval faces
• Guys who want polished style

Requirements:

• Need 3 inches minimum on top
• Style up and back with medium-hold pomade
• Taper should be subtle and gradual

This is dressier than most styles on this list. Perfect for dates or professional settings.

Medium to Long Professional Looks

These styles require more length and maintenance but give you serious style points in professional settings.

16. Low Fade Office Look

Conservative fade with enough length to show your curls without looking wild.

Best for:

• Type 2-3 curls
• Any professional setting
• Conservative dress codes

Details:

• Low fade starts just above the ears
• Keep 2-3 inches on top
• Light curl cream for control and definition

This keeps you looking professional while still showing your natural texture.

17. Executive Side Part

Classic side part with volume. Professional power move.

Best for:

• Type 2-3 curls
• Oval and square faces
• Leadership positions

Styling instructions:

• Part on the side about 2 inches from center
• Medium-hold pomade keeps it in place
• Requires 3-4 inches of length

This screams “I’ve got it together.” Perfect for presentations and meetings.

18. Disconnected Undercut

Sharp contrast between shaved sides and full curly top. Fashion-forward but still office-appropriate.

Best for:

• Any curl type
• Round faces (adds height)
• Creative professionals

Cut specifications:

• Sides are buzzed or trimmed very short
• No fade—that’s the “disconnect”
• Top is 4+ inches

The disconnect between sections is what makes this work. Don’t blend them.

19. Tapered Afro

A shaped afro with gradual tapering on the sides. Professional and proud.

Best for:

• Type 3-4 curls
• Most face shapes
• Natural hair enthusiasts

Maintenance:

• Grow top to 4-5 inches
• Sides taper gradually shorter
• Shape it regularly to maintain rounded silhouette

This is the elevated version of the classic afro.

20. Man Bun 2.0

Curly hair pulled back into a bun. Still going strong in 2026.

Best for:

• Type 2-3 curls
• Oval and diamond faces
• Patient guys (takes time to grow)

Requirements:

• At least 6 inches of length needed
• Pull it back and secure high or low
• Keep sides cleaned up with a fade

The fade on the sides keeps this looking modern instead of messy.

21. Shoulder-Length Flow

Let it all grow out and embrace the volume. Confidence required.

Best for:

• Type 2-3 curls
• Strong facial features
• Creative fields or casual environments

Timeline and care:

• Takes 8-12 months of growth
• Use curl cream daily
• Occasional trims prevent split ends

Not for everyone but looks amazing when done right.

22. Layered Shag

Heavy layers throughout for movement and texture. Effortlessly cool.

Best for:

• Type 2-3 curls
• Rounder faces (layers add structure)
• Guys who want a rock-and-roll vibe

Cut requirements:

• Long layers starting at the ears
• Keep 5-6 inches on top
• Needs a skilled stylist who understands curly hair men

This is one of those cuts that looks simple but requires skill to execute properly.

23. Slick Back

Curls pushed back for a polished, formal look. Weddings and business meetings approved.

Best for:

• Type 2-3 curls
• Oval and square faces
• Formal occasions

Styling process:

• Need 4+ inches of length
• Apply strong-hold gel or pomade when damp
• Comb straight back
• Reapply throughout the day if needed

This tames your curls without hiding them completely.

24. Surfer Style

Long, sun-kissed curls with a carefree vibe. California dreaming.

Best for:

• Type 2-3 curls
• Laid-back lifestyles
• Casual dress codes

How to achieve:

• Grow to shoulder length
• Sea salt spray and air dry
• Occasional trims maintain shape
• Minimal daily maintenance

The ultimate “I woke up like this” look.

25. Voluminous Top with Beard

Big curly hair on top paired with a full beard. Double the texture.

Best for:

• Type 3-4 curls
• Square or diamond faces
• Guys who can grow solid facial hair

Styling both:

• Keep 4-5 inches on top with faded sides
• Grow beard and keep it shaped
• The combination creates serious presence

The contrast and texture combination is unmatched.

Maintenance 101

Proper men’s curly hair maintenance is non-negotiable for keeping your cut sharp.

Use Sulfate-Free Shampoo

Regular shampoo strips natural oils from your curls. That’s why they get frizzy and dry.

What to do instead:

• Switch to sulfate-free formulas
• Wash only 2-3 times per week maximum
• Your curls will thank you

On non-wash days, just rinse with water or use a co-wash conditioner.

The Pineapple Method

This saves your curls overnight. It’s a game changer for men’s curly hair maintenance.

How it works:

• Before bed, flip your head over
• Loosely gather hair at the top of your head
• Use a scrunchie or silk tie (not a tight elastic)
• In the morning, release it

You’ll have volume and definition instead of flat, messy curls.

Sea Salt Spray is Your Friend

Want that beachy, textured look? Sea salt spray creates natural waves and volume.

Application tips:

• Spray on damp hair
• Scrunch it in with your hands
• Let it air dry or use a diffuser
• Don’t overdo it or hair will feel crunchy

A little goes a long way. Start with 2-3 sprays.

Moisturize Daily

Curly hair is naturally drier than straight hair. You need a leave-in conditioner or curl cream every single day.

Daily routine:

• Apply to damp hair after showering
• Scrunch it in—don’t comb through
• Keeps curls soft, defined, and frizz-free

This is non-negotiable if you want healthy-looking curls.

Pro Tip: Stop Using Regular Towels!

Most guys make the mistake of drying their hair with a standard cotton towel. The rough fibers of a regular towel create friction, which breaks your curl pattern and leads to massive frizz.

What to do instead: Use an old cotton T-shirt or a microfiber towel.

• Instead of rubbing, gently scrunch or pat your hair dry.
• This keeps the moisture locked in and ensures your cool haircuts guys curly hair stay defined and sharp all day long.

Get Regular Trims

Even if you’re growing it out, you need trims every 6-8 weeks.

Why this matters:

• Prevents split ends from traveling up the hair shaft
• Keeps the shape looking intentional
• Removes damaged ends that cause frizz

Tell your barber you’re growing it out so they only trim what’s necessary.

Face Shape Matching Guide

Not every haircut works for every face. Here’s a quick reference to help you choose.

Face Shape	Recommended Style	Why it Works
Oval	Any Style	Your proportions are balanced; you can pull off anything.
Square	Mid-Fade / Crop	Sharp fades highlight your strong jawline.
Round	High Taper / Mohawk	Adding height on top elongates your face.
Diamond	Messy Fringe / Shag	Curls on the side soften your cheekbones.
Heart	Long Flow / Side Part	Volume at the bottom balances a wider forehead.

Note: If you are unsure about your face shape ask your barber to help identify it during your next visit. A professional eye can make all the difference in choosing the best fade for curls.

FAQs

How often should I wash my curly hair?

You should wash curly hair 2 to 3 times per week maximum. Over-washing strips the natural oils (sebum) that keep curls defined and prevents frizz. On off-days, simply rinse with water or use a co-wash (cleansing conditioner).

Why is my hair so frizzy?

Curly hair becomes frizzy primarily due to a lack of moisture and humidity. When the hair cuticle is dry, it opens up to absorb moisture from the air, causing the hair to swell and frizz. To stop frizz, you must use sulfate-free products, apply leave-in conditioner daily, and avoid rubbing your hair with regular towels.

What products do I actually need?

Essential products:

• Sulfate-free shampoo
• Moisturizing conditioner
• Leave-in conditioner or curl cream
• Light-hold styling product (gel, mousse, or pomade)

That’s it. Don’t overcomplicate it. Start with the basics and add specialty products later if needed.

Can I straighten my curls sometimes?

You can, but frequent heat styling damages your curl pattern over time. The damage is cumulative.

If you must straighten:

• Use heat protectant spray every single time
• Keep temperature below 400°F
• Don’t straighten wet or damp hair
• Limit to special occasions only

Once you damage your curl pattern, it’s hard to get it back.

Do barbers really understand curly hair?

Some do, some don’t. This is crucial to ask before booking an appointment.

How to find a good curly hair barber:

• Ask if they have experience with curly hair men specifically
• Look at their Instagram for examples of curly cuts
• Read reviews mentioning curly hair
• Don’t be afraid to travel for a good barber

Pro Tip: Never just explain, always show a photo. A picture is worth a thousand words when explaining the best fade for curls. Barbers are visual people; showing them exactly what you want ensures you walk out with one of those cool haircuts guys curly hair love, rather than a bad surprise.

Conclusion

Your curls are an asset, not a problem.2026 is proving that natural texture is where it’s at. No more hiding your curls or wishing they were straight.Pick a style from this list that matches your curl type and face shape. Look for a barber who knows what they’re doing.

Invest in the right products. Keep up with maintenance. That’s the formula.These cool haircuts guys curly hair  can rock right now are designed to work WITH your natural texture, not against it.

Whether you go for a viral trend like the broccoli cut or stick with something timeless like an afro fade, own it with confidence.Your hair is going to do its own thing anyway. Might as well make it look intentional. Get to the barbershop and make it happen.