Best Ways to Trim Curly Hair at Home for Men

PDF download Download Article
PDF download Download Article

When it comes to trimming curly hair, there are a lot of options for you to consider. Don’t worry! There are a few tips and tricks you can try if you don’t feel like heading out to the salon. Take a look at some frequently asked questions and answers and see if there’s a solution that works for you!

Question 1

How do you trim the top section of men’s curly hair?

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/ed\/Trim-Mens-Curly-Hair-Step-1-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Trim-Mens-Curly-Hair-Step-1-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/ed\/Trim-Mens-Curly-Hair-Step-1-Version-2.jpg\/v4-728px-Trim-Mens-Curly-Hair-Step-1-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Hair-cutting shears will allow you to leave the top section of the hair a bit longer than the sides and back. Unless the person whose hair you're cutting wants a buzzed, even length over their head, definitely use shears to trim the top so you don’t cut too much off. [1]
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/30\/Trim-Mens-Curly-Hair-Step-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Trim-Mens-Curly-Hair-Step-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/3\/30\/Trim-Mens-Curly-Hair-Step-2.jpg\/v4-728px-Trim-Mens-Curly-Hair-Step-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    For a medium-length cut, you might leave the hair 3 in (7.6 cm) or so along the top. For a long-length hairstyle, you can leave the hair at least 5 or 6 in (13 or 15 cm) long, so it can frame the sides of the head. [2]
    3. Advertisement
Question 2

How do you cut the sides and back of men’s curly hair?

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/bb\/Trim-Mens-Curly-Hair-Step-3-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Trim-Mens-Curly-Hair-Step-3-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/b\/bb\/Trim-Mens-Curly-Hair-Step-3-Version-2.jpg\/v4-728px-Trim-Mens-Curly-Hair-Step-3-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Clippers are a great option if you’d like to achieve a clean-cut look along the sides and back of the head. Whenever you use clippers, you’ll need to pick out the right guard—this is a special cover that helps keep your hair a short, consistent length. The right guard length really depends on how short the person wants the back and sides of their hair to be. [3]
    • Clipper guards are labeled with different numbers—the smaller the number, the shorter the hair will be. For reference, a number 1 guard will leave hair 1 ⁄ 8  in (0.32 cm) long, while a number 8 guard will leave hair 1 in (2.5 cm) long. [4]
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/0f\/Trim-Mens-Curly-Hair-Step-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Trim-Mens-Curly-Hair-Step-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/0f\/Trim-Mens-Curly-Hair-Step-4.jpg\/v4-728px-Trim-Mens-Curly-Hair-Step-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Let the hair grow out all around the head, and make minor adjustments with a pair of hair-cutting shears. [5]
    3. Advertisement
Question 3

How often should you cut curly hair?

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/00\/Trim-Mens-Curly-Hair-Step-5-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Trim-Mens-Curly-Hair-Step-5-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/00\/Trim-Mens-Curly-Hair-Step-5-Version-2.jpg\/v4-728px-Trim-Mens-Curly-Hair-Step-5-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Fine-tuned haircuts, like fades, can get pretty unruly if they aren’t trimmed and adjusted regularly. Don’t worry about trimming hair once every weekend—once a month or so is a good place to keep up. [6]
Question 4

Is it better to trim curly hair wet or dry?

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/8e\/Trim-Mens-Curly-Hair-Step-6.jpg\/v4-460px-Trim-Mens-Curly-Hair-Step-6.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/8\/8e\/Trim-Mens-Curly-Hair-Step-6.jpg\/v4-728px-Trim-Mens-Curly-Hair-Step-6.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Overall, dry haircuts tend to be more precise and make it a lot easier to spot any split ends. Sometimes, damp hair looks longer than it actually is, which can lead to some unwanted surprises once the haircut is done. Dry cutting makes it a lot easier to tell where the curls will naturally fall, and how they’ll look in real time. [7]
    2. Advertisement
Question 5

What haircut is best for curly hair?

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/a\/a9\/Trim-Mens-Curly-Hair-Step-7-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Trim-Mens-Curly-Hair-Step-7-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/a\/a9\/Trim-Mens-Curly-Hair-Step-7-Version-2.jpg\/v4-728px-Trim-Mens-Curly-Hair-Step-7-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Quiffed hair is curled upwards, which creates a really posh, sophisticated look. Try out this haircut for a change of pace, or if you’d just like to look a little more elegant while you’re out and about. [8]
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/05\/Trim-Mens-Curly-Hair-Step-8.jpg\/v4-460px-Trim-Mens-Curly-Hair-Step-8.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/05\/Trim-Mens-Curly-Hair-Step-8.jpg\/v4-728px-Trim-Mens-Curly-Hair-Step-8.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Afros can be tough to work with and manage, especially if they’re on the longer side. Instead, try a fade haircut, which keeps the afro longer on the top but shorter and sleeker along the sides and back. [9]
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/3e\/Trim-Mens-Curly-Hair-Step-9-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Trim-Mens-Curly-Hair-Step-9-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/3\/3e\/Trim-Mens-Curly-Hair-Step-9-Version-2.jpg\/v4-728px-Trim-Mens-Curly-Hair-Step-9-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Shave the sides to create an undercut . Clip sides of the hair so they’re super short. Let the curls along the top of the head grow out, which creates a cool contrast between the top and sides of the head. [10]
    4. Advertisement

Expert Q&A

Search
Add New Question
  • Question
    How should I style my curly hair?
    Michael Van den Abbeel
    Professional Hair Stylist
    Michael Van den Abbeel is a Professional Hair Stylist and the Owner of Mosaic Hair Studio and Blowout Bar in Orlando, Florida. He has been cutting, styling, and coloring hair for over 17 years. Michael loves showing his clients how to wash and wear their hair easily and effortlessly. Mosaic Hair Studio and Blowout Bar is recognized as a Diamond Top Tier level Wella salon.
    Michael Van den Abbeel
    Professional Hair Stylist
    Expert Answer
    Styling all starts with the haircut. Most people who struggle with their hair have the wrong haircut for their texture. You have to work with the texture you have—the more you fight against it, the more work styling is going to become,and the more products you're going to need.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 0 Helpful 2
Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Video

      Tips


      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
      Advertisement

      You Might Also Like

      How to
      Do a Layered Haircut
      Everything You Need to Know about the Low Burst Fade Hairstyle
      9 Ways to Cut Your Long Hair At Home
      How to
      Decide if You Should Get Bangs or Not
      How to
      Give a "Fade" Haircut to Males
      How to
      Cut Your Own Hair (Men)
      Hairstylist-Approved Guide to Cutting Men’s Hair at Home
      How to Get a Fade that Complements Your Style, Hair Type & More
      Tips for Trimming Long Hair Evenly (Your Own or Someone Else’s)
      How to Do a Layered Curly Cut at Home
      What Is a Broccoli Cut and Why Do Younger Guys Like It?
      How to
      Cut a Pixie Cut
      How to
      Do Undercut Hair for Women
      How to
      Cut the Back of Your Hair
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=svH1B0JPZ2U&t=40m49s
      2. ↑ https://haircutinspiration.com/mens-hairstyles-for-curly-hair/
      3. ↑ https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=svH1B0JPZ2U&t=11m7s
      4. ↑ https://www.menshairstylestoday.com/haircut-numbers/
      5. ↑ https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=6hjEkI4wX20&t=1m10s
      6. ↑ https://www.nytimes.com/2016/04/08/fashion/mens-style/how-long-should-a-man-go-between-haircuts.html
      7. ↑ https://www.harpersbazaar.com/beauty/hair/a13624/dry-hair-cut/
      8. ↑ https://www.thetrendspotter.net/10-stylish-hairstyles-for-men-with-curly-hair/
      9. ↑ https://www.thetrendspotter.net/10-stylish-hairstyles-for-men-with-curly-hair/
      1. ↑ https://www.thetrendspotter.net/10-stylish-hairstyles-for-men-with-curly-hair/
      2. ↑ https://www.washingtonpost.com/health/diy-haircuts-during-the-pandemic-experts-weigh-in-and-offer-tips/2020/05/29/b3beb4ec-96fa-11ea-9f5e-56d8239bf9ad_story.html

      About This Article

      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 96,303 times.

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement