Top 20 Black Hairstyles for Men You Should Try
Are you looking for a fresh new look? With so many styles to choose from, finding the perfect men’s black haircuts can be overwhelming. You’re not alone – a recent survey found that over 70% of men change their hairstyle at least once a year.
From classic cuts to modern twists, the world of black Black Hairstyles for men has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a stylish update or a bold change, we’ve got you covered.
You’re about to discover the top 20 black hairstyles that are trending right now. Get ready to elevate your style game and find the perfect look that suits your taste and personality.
Table of Contents
Understanding Black Men’s Hair Types and Textures
To achieve the perfect black male hairstyle, it’s vital to first understand your hair’s texture and type. Different hair textures require different care and styling approaches. Understanding your hair type is the first step towards choosing a hairstyle that not only looks great but is also easy to maintain.
Different Hair Texture Classifications
Black men’s hair can be broadly classified into several textures, ranging from tightly coiled to loosely waved. Understanding these classifications can help in choosing the right products and styling techniques. The main textures include:
| Hair Texture | Description | Recommended Styles |
|---|---|---|
| Tightly Coiled | Hair that is closely coiled to the scalp. | Afro hairstyles for men, dreadlocks. |
| Loosely Coiled | Hair with a looser coil pattern. | Twisted sponge curls, curly top with tapered sides. |
| Wavy | Hair that has a wavy pattern. | 360 waves, wavy fade hairstyles. |
Choosing Styles Based on Your Hair Type
Once you’ve identified your hair texture, you can start exploring black male hairstyles that suit your hair type. For instance, if you have tightly coiled hair, you might consider afro hairstyles or dreadlocks. For those with loosely coiled hair, twisted sponge curls or a curly top with tapered sides could be a great option.
By understanding your hair texture and type, you can make informed decisions about your hairstyle, ensuring that you look your best while maintaining healthy hair.
Essential Hair Care Tips for Black Men
For black men, hair care is not just about styling, it’s about maintaining hair health. Proper hair care routines can make a significant difference in the appearance and manageability of your hair.
Proper Washing and Conditioning Routines
Washing your hair regularly is crucial, but over-washing can strip your hair of its natural oils. Use a gentle shampoo formulated for black hair, and condition thoroughly to keep your hair moisturized and manageable. Limit your washing to once or twice a week to maintain the right balance.
Moisturizing and Protecting Your Hair
Moisturizing is key to keeping your hair healthy and preventing breakage. Use a leave-in conditioner or hair moisturizer to keep your hair hydrated. Protective styles like braids or twists can also help minimize damage and promote hair growth.
Tools and Products Every Black Man Should Own
Investing in the right tools and products can make a big difference in your hair care routine. Essential items include a wide-tooth comb for detangling, a microfiber towel for drying, and a hair pick for styling. Look for products containing natural ingredients like coconut oil, shea butter, and argan oil, which are known to nourish and protect black hair.
Classic Black Hairstyles Men Have Loved for Decades
For decades, certain hairstyles have remained at the forefront of black men’s grooming, standing the test of time with their enduring appeal. These classic styles have been favored by many and continue to be a staple in black men’s grooming routines. Let’s take a closer look at some of these timeless hairstyles.
The Timeless Caesar Cut
The Caesar cut is a classic hairstyle that has been popular among black men for decades. Characterized by a short, even cut around the head, with a fringe (or bangs) typically cut straight across the forehead, this style is both simple and stylish. It’s a versatile look that suits many face shapes.
How to Style and Maintain
To style the Caesar cut, use a small amount of pomade or styling cream to keep your fringe in place. Regular trims are essential to maintain the neat, even length that defines this style. You can also use a bit of texture paste to add some volume to your hair if you prefer a slightly messier look.
Clean Buzz Cut Variations
The buzz cut is another classic style that has remained popular among black men. This style involves cutting the hair very short using clippers, with the length often being uniform across the head. It’s a low-maintenance style that’s perfect for busy men.
Best Face Shapes for This Style
The buzz cut looks great on men with a variety of face shapes, but it’s particularly flattering on those with a square or oval face shape. If you have a round face, a slightly longer buzz cut can help elongate your face.
Traditional Low Fade
The low fade is a classic cut that involves a gradual decrease in hair length as you move up the head, starting from a point just above the ears or at the temples. This style is highly versatile and can be paired with a variety of top styles, from short and neat to longer and more textured.
As
“The low fade is a testament to the evolution of black men’s hairstyles, offering a clean and sharp look that complements many different styles.”
Trending Fade Hairstyles for Black Men
Black men are increasingly embracing fade hairstyles for their clean and stylish appearance. Fade hairstyles offer a versatile canvas for personal expression, ranging from subtle, understated fades to bold, eye-catching designs.
4. High Fade with Textured Top
The high fade with a textured top is a popular choice among black men. This style combines a high fade that starts just above the temples with a textured top layer, adding volume and character to the hair. To achieve this look, use a texturizing pomade or clay to add grit and texture to your hair.
5. Drop Fade with Waves
The drop fade with waves is another trendy hairstyle that black men are adopting. This style involves a fade that “drops” down around the ear, creating a seamless transition between the fade and the waves on top. To maintain the waves, regular use of a wave brush and wave pomade is essential.
Creating and Maintaining Waves
Creating waves requires patience and dedication. Start by brushing your hair in the direction you want the waves to form. Use a wave brush daily and apply wave pomade to keep your hair moisturized and defined. Regularly brushing your hair in the same direction will help train your hair to form waves.
6. Skin Fade with Surgical Line
For those who want a more defined look, the skin fade with a surgical line is an excellent option. This style involves a fade that is cut very close to the skin, creating a sharp, clean line around the hairline. Finding the right barber who is skilled in creating precise lines is crucial for this style.
Finding the Right Barber
Finding a barber who understands your desired style is key to pulling off any fade hairstyle. Look for barbers who have experience with black haircuts and check their portfolios for styles similar to what you’re looking for. A good barber will be able to advise on the best style based on your hair type and face shape.
Modern Curly and Textured Black Hairstyles
The modern black man’s hairstyle landscape is rich with curly and textured options. These hairstyles not only celebrate natural beauty but also offer versatility and style. In this section, we’ll explore some of the most stylish and contemporary curly and textured hairstyles for black men.
7. Curly Top with Tapered Sides
The curly top with tapered sides is a stylish and modern look that combines the best of both worlds. The curly top adds volume and texture, while the tapered sides provide a clean, defined edge. To achieve this look, use a curl activator or a light hold curl cream to enhance your natural curls. Tapered sides can be achieved with clippers, ensuring a seamless blend from the curly top to the sides.
8. Twisted Sponge Curls
Twisted sponge curls are a popular choice among black men, offering a stylish way to enhance and define curls. The sponge twisting technique involves using a sponge to twist and curl the hair, creating a uniform and textured look. To start, dampen your hair and apply a curl-defining cream. Then, use the sponge to twist your hair in a consistent pattern.
Sponge Twisting Technique
To master the sponge twisting technique, follow these steps:
- Dampen your hair with water or a curl refresher.
- Apply a generous amount of curl-defining cream.
- Use the sponge to twist your hair, starting from the roots to the ends.
- Continue twisting until you achieve the desired level of curl definition.
9. Frohawk Variations
The frohawk is a stylish variation of the traditional mohawk, adapted for curly hair. It involves styling the hair in the center of the head into a mohawk shape while keeping the sides short or faded. Frohawk variations can be achieved by experimenting with different curl patterns and products.
Products for Definition
To enhance and define your frohawk, consider using the following products:
| Product | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Curl-defining cream | Enhances curl texture and definition |
| Light hold styling gel | Provides hold without crunchiness |
| Hydrating leave-in conditioner | Moisturizes and nourishes the hair |
By incorporating these modern curly and textured hairstyles into your look, you can enjoy a fresh, stylish appearance that celebrates your natural texture.
Bold and Statement-Making Afro Hairstyles for Men
Afro hairstyles have long been a symbol of black culture and identity, offering a wide range of styling options for men. These hairstyles are not just a fashion statement but a way to express heritage and individuality. With the right styling and maintenance, afro hairstyles can be a bold and statement-making choice.
10. Classic Full Afro
The classic full afro is a timeless style that exudes confidence and pride. To achieve this look, allow your hair to grow out evenly, then use a comb or your fingers to shape it into a rounded form. Regular trimming around the edges helps maintain a neat appearance.
11. Tapered Afro with Defined Curls
A tapered afro with defined curls offers a modern twist on the classic afro. This style involves tapering the hair on the sides and back while defining the curls on top. To define curls, use a curl activator or a styling product that enhances natural texture.
Defining Your Natural Curls
To define your natural curls, start by applying a curl activator or a curl-enhancing cream to damp hair. Use a microfiber towel or an old t-shirt to gently blot out excess moisture, then allow your hair to air-dry or use a diffuser on a low heat setting.
12. Afro with Designed Hairline
An afro with a designed hairline adds an extra layer of style and sophistication. This look involves creating a design or pattern along the hairline using clippers or a razor. Regular maintenance is crucial to keep the design looking sharp.
Maintenance Schedule
To maintain your afro hairstyle, establish a regular routine that includes washing, conditioning, and moisturizing. For styles with designed hairlines, touch-ups may be needed every few weeks to keep the design looking fresh.
| Hairstyle | Maintenance Frequency | Styling Products |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Full Afro | Weekly trimming | Afro pick, hair oil |
| Tapered Afro with Defined Curls | Bi-weekly touch-ups | Curl activator, styling cream |
| Afro with Designed Hairline | Every 4-6 weeks | Edge control, clippers |
Braided and Loc Black Hairstyles Men Are Wearing Today
Braids and locs are not just hairstyles; they’re a statement of identity and culture for many black men. These styles offer a unique blend of tradition and modernity, allowing individuals to express themselves in diverse ways.
Box Braids for Men
Box braids are a popular choice among black men, known for their versatility and protective qualities. They can be styled in various ways, from simple, uniform braids to more intricate designs. To achieve box braids, it’s essential to start with clean, moisturized hair and use the right braiding technique to minimize tension on the scalp.
Cornrows with Creative Patterns
Cornrows are another timeless option, offering a canvas for creativity through various patterns and designs. From simple straight-back cornrows to complex geometric patterns, this style allows for personal expression. To maintain cornrows, regular tightening is necessary to prevent loosening and to keep the style looking fresh.
Dreadlocks and Loc Styles
Dreadlocks, or locs, represent a significant cultural and stylistic choice for many black men. They require patience to start and dedication to maintain. Locs can be styled in numerous ways, from freeform to neatly sectioned.
Starting and Maintaining Locs
Starting locs involves allowing your hair to matt and twist into knots. Maintenance includes regular separation to prevent matting and keeping the locs moisturized. Products like loc butter or wax can help keep locs healthy and defined.
Braided Top with Faded Sides
For a modern twist, combining braids with faded sides offers a stylish contrast. This look blends the intricacy of braids with the clean edge of a fade, creating a versatile style suitable for various occasions.
Low-Maintenance Black Hairstyles for Busy Men
Modern men’s grooming is all about simplicity and style, with several black hairstyles fitting the bill. Busy men can still look sharp without dedicating too much time to their hair. Here are some stylish, low-maintenance options.
17. Short Cropped Cut
The short cropped cut is a timeless style that requires minimal upkeep. It’s perfect for men with busy lifestyles as it keeps the hair very short, eliminating the need for daily styling. To maintain this look, regular trims are necessary to keep the hair neat and tidy. This style is not only easy to maintain but also versatile, suiting various face shapes and personal styles.
18. 360 Waves with Clean Lineup
Achieving 360 waves is a great way to add some texture and style to your hair without much daily effort. This style involves training your hair to lie flat against your head in a wave pattern. To maintain 360 waves, use a wave brush daily and keep your hair moisturized. A clean lineup is essential to frame your face and complete the look. Regular visits to a barber can help keep your hairline defined.
19. Temp Fade with Short Natural Top
The temp fade with a short natural top is another low-maintenance hairstyle that is both stylish and easy to care for. The temp fade involves fading the hair on the temples, creating a clean contrast with the short hair on top. This style allows for a natural look that doesn’t require much styling product or effort. Regular trims will keep the fade looking sharp and the top neat.
Choosing the Right Black Hairstyle for Your Face Shape
With so many black hairstyles to choose from, considering your face shape can help narrow down the options. Your face shape is a crucial factor in determining which hairstyle will complement your features.
Determining Your Face Shape
To choose the right black haircut, you first need to determine your face shape. Measure the length and width of your face, as well as the shape of your jawline and forehead. Common face shapes include oval, round, square, and diamond.
20. Flat Top (A Versatile Option for Multiple Face Shapes)
The flat top is a versatile black male hairstyle that suits multiple face shapes. It’s a great option for those with oval, round, or square faces, as it adds height and creates a balanced look.
Best Styles for Oval, Round, Square, and Diamond Faces
For oval faces, most black haircuts look great, but you can try styles like the high-top fade or twisted sponge curls. Round faces benefit from styles that add height, such as the flat top or curly top with tapered sides. Square faces can pull off styles like the traditional low fade or braided top with faded sides. Diamond faces look great with styles that create width, such as the frohawk or afro with designed hairline.
By considering your face shape and choosing a black male hairstyle that complements it, you can enhance your features and boost your confidence.
Conclusion: Expressing Yourself Through Your Hairstyle
Your hairstyle is a reflection of your personality and style. With the numerous black hairstyles men can choose from, it’s essential to pick a look that makes you feel confident and expressive.
Experimenting with different black hair styles can be a fun and creative process. Whether you’re drawn to classic cuts or trendy fades, there’s a hairstyle out there that’s perfect for you.
By understanding your hair type and face shape, you can narrow down your options and find a style that complements your features. Don’t be afraid to try new things and consult with a professional stylist to achieve the look you want.
Ultimately, your hairstyle is a form of self-expression and can say a lot about your personality and culture. So, take the time to explore the many black hairstyles men can rock, and find the one that makes you stand out.