How to Keep Your Long, Curly Hair Manageable

Philosophers often say, “Good things come at a price,” and boy, are they right. Every man blessed with long, curly hair knows that keeping it in check is a full-time job. A sudden gust of wind or a surge of humidity can swiftly transform your mane into an unguarded bird’s nest. But on your best days, it’s a total charmer.

So, what’s the cheat code to ensure your locks look their best around the clock? Keep reading for expert tips on taking care of long, curly hair.

Maintaining your long, curly hair begins in the barber’s chair. The key is to find a barber who understands curly hair for men and knows how to work with its unique texture.

Keeping it in shape is a must, even if your goal is to maintain the length. As for the ideal cut, consider the tightness of your curls. A relaxed, surfer-style cut might not showcase the full potential of densely packed coils. On the flip side, layers work wonders for volume, especially on loose waves.

Also, be upfront about your expectations. It’s just good etiquette to prepare several reference photos. If by any chance the style doesn’t complement your face shape or hair type, the barber will offer alternative suggestions.

Long, curly hair needs a lot of attention. The zig-zag structure of the hair makes it harder for the scalp’s natural oils to work their way down to the tips. That’s why an arsenal of hydrating products can be a game-changer in managing your spiral-shaped strands.

Odds are, you prefer no-brainer curly haircare products that don’t take too much effort to apply. Start with finding the right shampoo for men that works with your curl pattern.

Next, pick one from these three choices: leave-in cream, hair oil, and mask treatment. Once you’ve nailed the basics, you can progressively expand your grooming routine. Not sure what to get? Opt for formulations labeled “curl-enhancing” and “moisturizing.”

PSA: Gel and pomade are not haircare products. Overloading your long, curly hair with them is a no-go since they can build up and result in an itchy scalp. Less is definitely more in this case. Apply a small amount to specific areas, then add more if needed.

Your choice of styling products matters, too. Pick one that can work with your curls, not against them. Fine-to-medium hair for men looks best with a lightweight formula that doesn’t leave sticky residue, such as mousses and light-hold creams. Meanwhile, thicker strands require a heavier formula, like waxes and clays.

Daily washing can disrupt the natural moisture balance of your hair and scalp, making your strands susceptible to dryness and breakage. Per the American Academy of Dermatology Association’s recommendation, you should shampoo at least every two to three days. However, you can increase the frequency if your mane is visibly greasy or your scalp is itching.

When it comes to managing long, curly hair, using the best shampoo for guys with your specific hair type makes all the difference. Not all products are created equal, and what works for your friend might not be the recommended shampoo for men with your curl pattern.

Are persistent dandruff flakes ruining your porma? An anti-dandruff shampoo for men should be your go-to. Look for formulas with zinc pyrithione or salicylic acid – these ingredients tackle dandruff while being gentle enough for regular use. The shampoo best for dandruff isn't necessarily the harshest one. It's the one that balances treatment with moisture.

Try CLEAR Men Cool Sport Menthol Anti-Dandruff Shampoo. Its Triple Anti-Dandruff Technology with taurine and vitamin B3 makes it a great shampoo for men, helping remove dandruff while delivering 24-hour cooling freshness.

Dealing with a dry scalp and hair? Focus on finding a good shampoo for men that addresses your curls' moisture needs. The best shampoo for male curly hair typically contains hydrating ingredients like argan oil, shea butter, or coconut oil. These help maintain your hair's natural oils without weighing down your curls.

If you’ve decided to keep it long and flowing, choose a hair growth shampoo for men to keep your curls thriving.

At the end of the day, the best shampoo for men isn’t one-size-fits-all. It always comes down to what your hair and scalp need. Start with products designed for curly hair, then adjust based on how your hair responds – you’ll find your perfect match with a little experimentation.

There’s a reason your bedhead always looks like it has been on the world’s tallest roller coaster. Friction against your pillow messes it up! So, before you hit the hay, pile your hair at the crown of your head and secure it with a hair tie. It’s a technique called “pineapple-ing,” which can minimize friction.

If you don’t want to prop your hair every night, fork out for a silk pillowcase. Unlike cotton, it cuts down on knots and doesn’t suck out the oils from your strands. Plus, it feels like sleeping on a very soft (and cooling) cloud.

Sporting long, curly hair doesn’t need to be a chore as long as you follow this routine to a T. Show off your mane, and don’t forget to visit your barber every four months for a trim.