How to Maintain Curly Hair – Men's Edition

Curly hair is a feature to be celebrated – and with the right maintenance, you can achieve a stylish look that’s easy to manage. For curly haired men, the right routine keeps things simple – and that means choosing products that are designed to nourish and support the natural texture of curls.

From washing to styling, this guide covers simple, effective ways to care for curly hair – with a focus on naturally derived ingredients that work with your texture. You’ll learn about different curl types, which hair care products are best suited to your curls, and a step-by-step routine on how to manage curly hair.

What are the types of curly hair for men?

 

All curls are unique – and come with a specific set of needs. Knowing your curl type will help you choose the right curly hair products for men and support your natural hair pattern.

So, what type of curls do you have? Keep reading to find out.

  • Wavy (Type 2): Hair has a loose ‘S’ shape and may sit flatter at the roots with more body through the lengths. Waves can benefit from lightweight products that add moisture without weighing the hair down.
  • Curly (Type 3): Hair forms more defined curls that can range from soft spirals to tighter ringlets. This type often needs extra hydration and curl-enhancing products to support shape and manage frizz.
  • Coily (Type 4): Tight, dense curls or zig-zag patterns that are naturally drier and more fragile. Coily hair may respond well to rich creams and oils that help lock in nutrients and improve softness.

 

The best curly hair products for men

 

Once you know your curl type, the next step is finding the right products to match. Curly hair routines for men need plenty of hydration, definition and care – and that’s where the Garnier Curls Method range can help.

The best hair products for curly haired men are imbued with rich formulas that support curly, textured hair. Below, explore the ingredients that bring out the best in your curls.

  • Hyaluronic acid: Known for drawing moisture into the hair and keeping strands nourished and healthy-looking.
  • Ceramides: Naturally occurring lipids that reinforce your hair's natural barrier and support oil retention.
  • Glycerin: A gentle, plant-derived humectant that helps smooth and soften curls.
  • Shea butter: Known for its rich texture and traditional use in nourishing dry, textured hair.

 

Curly hair routine for men: a step-by-step guide

 

With the right steps and products, caring for your curls is easy. When learning how to maintain curly hair, consistency is key. An easy hair care routine ensures your curls and scalp are getting a regular dose of hydration and nutrients.

With four simple steps, this hair care guide covers all the essentials: cleansing, conditioning, styling, and refreshing – helping you create a routine that’s compatible with your needs.

 

1. Cleanse

For curly haired men, shampooing helps to remove product buildup, excess oil, and daily dirt – creating a clean base for ingredients to be reabsorbed and curls to form their natural shape.

Start with the Garnier Fructis Curls Method Pre Shampoo, which is designed to gently loosen buildup while helping protect the hair before shampooing. Then, follow with our Garnier Fructis Curls Method Curly Hair Shampoo. Blended with a hyaluronic moisture complex and shea fatty acids, it delivers some final cleansing and leaves your hair feeling soft, nourished, and ready to be defined.

These products help to reset your hair, supporting your natural bounce and shine.

 

2. Condition

Your curly strands are naturally drier, and this step revitalises each follicle and reduces frizz – making it easy to detangle your curls and style.

Our Fructis Hair Food Curls Method Hair Mask is a versatile option that works two ways: use it as a rinse-out conditioner for lightweight hydration or apply it as a leave-in curl cream to help define and protect your curls throughout the day. Enriched with hyaluronic acid, the formula supports moisture retention, helping with hydration in the summer, curl texture and general resilience.

 

3. Style

Styling curly hair works best when your hair is still damp, helping curls form and hold their shape. When learning how to manage curly hair for men, a good tip is to use a wide-tooth comb to gently detangle – especially if your hair tends to be dry or frizzy. This helps avoid breakage and keep your curls intact.

For a natural finish, let your hair air dry – this helps preserve your curl pattern and reduce frizz. If you need to speed things up, use a diffuser on low heat to maintain volume and bounce. By taking good care of your curls, you can ensure strands stay healthy-looking and defined, no matter their shape or texture.

 

4. Refresh

To maintain your curl shape and bounce between washes, a refreshing spray can bring them back to life without needing a full reset.

One of the most handy curly hair products for men is our Hair Food Curls Method Refreshing Curl Spray. This lightweight, leave-in formula is designed to soften and redefine curls, helping to reduce frizz and enhance bounce. By imparting nourishment, this step will revive your natural curl pattern and keeps your curls looking fresh.

 

How to manage curly hair: final dos and don’ts

 

When it comes to curl care, a few small habits can make all the difference. Whether you’re just starting your routine or refining it, these final dos and don’ts are here to help keep your curls looking and feeling their best.

 

Do:

  • Get regular trims: Aim for a trim every six to eight weeks to help prevent split ends, add volume and keep your shape in check.
  • Find a barber who understands curly hair: A curl-aware cut can make styling easier and improve how curly hair naturally sits.
  • Sleep on a silk or satin pillowcase: These fabrics create less friction than cotton, helping to lessen frizz and maintain your curl pattern overnight.
  • Use products suited to your curl type: Knowing your needs will make styling simpler, whether that’s lightweight hydration for waves or rich moisture for curls and coils.

Don’t:

  • Brush dry curls: This can cause breakage and frizz. Instead, detangle with fingers or a wide-tooth comb when your hair is wet and conditioned.
  • Over-wash your hair: Shampooing too often can remove your natural oils. Stick to two to three times a week to keep your scalp clean and your curls hydrated.
  • Skip conditioner: Curls need consistent support to stay soft and defined – even on non-wash days.

 

With the right steps, curly haired men can manage and maintain healthy-looking, defined hair every day. With your curl routine sorted, it’s time to protect your progress – next, learn how to prevent hair breakage.