20 Best curly hair products for men

If you have made your way to this article, it’s likely you have a head of curly hair that you aren’t sure how to manage. Welcome to the club! Curly hair can be sexy, beautiful and luxurious, but it can also be unruly, frizzy and unmanageable.

With a little bit of knowledge about your hair type, combined with some of the finest products on the market, you’ll be rocking your best-looking curls in no time flat. You’ve already taken the first step by finding this list of the 20 best curly hair products for men. The next step is understanding what type of curls you have, because knowing your hair type is the key to learning how to style it, what products to use and the different ways you can support your curls.

Curly hair can be broken down into five subgroups. For men, it can be more difficult to determine the curl type, as many have short haircuts. Grab a mirror and examine the hair on the crown of your head. When looking at your curls, don’t pull or extend them. Just hold the hair so you can see its natural curl pattern.

Type 1 Curly Hair: This is the straightest of the curly hair types, and is most often referred to as wavy. It will start its curl curve around the one-and-a-half-inch mark from your scalp. If you keep your hair cut shorter than an inch and a half, you might look like you have straight hair. The hairstyles that work best for type 1 curly hair are the side swept and mop top. Think George Clooney and Hugh Grant.

Type 2 Curly Hair: These curls are a more condensed version of the type 1 waves. With a curve pattern starting at a half an inch, you’ll notice a full wave in one to two inches. While this hair type can also be confused for straight hair if cut super short, it definitely has a more defined curl pattern. Nick Jonas and Adrian Grenier are examples of men who correctly deal with type 2 hair, and with the right products, you can too. The best hairstyles for type 2 curly-haired men are the caesar cut and the shoulder-length cut.

Type 3 Curly Hair: When people picture typical curly hair, type 3 is usually what comes to mind. This is the coiled ringlet style commonly associated with curly hair. If you have this hair type, you will notice that your curl pattern follows the coiled effect of a cursive uppercase E. The curls form at a much shorter length, typically between half an inch and one inch for a full curl. Will Ferrell and Justin Timberlake are known for their Type 3 curly hair. If you find yourself with this hair type, try styling it in an Ivy League hairstyle or a faux hawk.

Type 4 Curly Hair: There is no denying you have curly hair if this is your hair type. It is commonly referred to as curly-kinky or coiled. The curls form in less than 0.125 inches from your scalp and are an ultra-tight version of the cursive capital E pattern we talked about with type 3 curls. Even if you were to shave your hair short, you would still notice the curve pattern to your hair. Often, men with type 4 curls will have a high and tight haircut or a fade haircut. Corbin Bleu and Jaden Smith both have type 4 curly hair.

Type 5 Curly Hair: The most extreme curl style is type 5. Rather than the cursive E formation, type 5 curls are similar to a Z shape. These curls are so tight that they often don’t present a visible curve. With this hair type, curls start as they emerge from your scalp. Type 5 curly hair is most often referred to as afro-textured, or kinky. Cuba Gooding, Jr., and Will Smith have type 5 curls. The best hairstyles for a man with type 5 curls are afros, recon style or fade haircuts.

One thing that is consistent across all five curly hair types is that curls need moisture! The tighter your curl pattern, the harder it is for your hair to retain moisture. Curly hair is fragile and susceptible to breakage, but with the right products, you can protect and strengthen your hair.

So, have you determined which of the five curly hair types your hair falls into? Great! Now we can take a look at the best curly hair products for men. This might be overwhelming, but trust us, these products made this list for a reason. There are thousands of hair-care products on the market, but these 20 products will actually produce results that you will love. Remember that your hair is unique, and it may take a few tries to find the perfect fit, but we know your new signature product is on this list. Let’s get to it.

1. Blu Atlas Shampoo

Blu Atlas is a premium grooming brand made for the modern man. If you research this brand, you’ll quickly find that it is at the top of nearly all “best of” lists. The reason for their surging popularity is because Blu Atlas creates high-quality products that actually stand up to all of their claims. With everything you need from skin care and hair care to body care and fragrances, this brand is a one-stop shop.

Blu Atlas Shampoo, like the rest of their products, is made with natural ingredients that are completely safe to use. The shampoo includes top-of-the-line ingredients like jojoba protein and aloe vera, making sure your hair is as strong as possible and free of buildup. The jojoba oil brings an impressive blend of vitamins A, E and D, along with antioxidants and fatty acids that will deeply penetrate your strands and deliver maximum nourishment. Aloe vera is included in the formula to provide moisture and soothing benefits to your scalp. You will see optimum results when you use this shampoo every day.

We recommend following up the Blu Atlas Shampoo with their equally effective conditioner. You will benefit from the lightweight consistency intended to nourish dull, dry, breakage-prone hair. The all-natural ingredients will seal in moisture to repair your hair and add depth and shine.

If you fall in love with the way your hair looks after using the Blu Atlas Shampoo, we encourage you to sign up for their subscribe-and-save program. Not only will it shave 20% off your bill; Blu Atlas will also make sure you never run out of your favorite products. Simply select the subscribe-and-save option when checking out and you will receive a new bottle of shampoo (or any other premium product) on your doorstep every 30 days.

2. CHI Man in Fine Form Natural Hold Gel

The CHI Man brand was created from the desire to provide men with products that combine modern ingredients with the traditional history of the beloved men’s barber shop. They have put together a robust line of hair products that will leave you with impressively healthy curls. CHI’s Man in Fine Form Natural Hold Gel is a paraben-, alcohol- and cruelty-free hair gel that will provide high shine while soothing your strands.

Vitamin E, aloe vera, pro-vitamin B5 and antioxidants protect your hair against outside elements and dryness while being gentle enough to avoid irritation. The fragrance of this hair gel is oud, a woodsy and masculine aroma often used in cologne, so not only will your hair look great but it will smell great, too.

3. Christophe Robin Luscious Curl Defining Butter

Christophe Robin has been a leader in hair care for over 20 years. They have blazed their way to the top through an innovative approach to scalp and hair health. They are committed to delivering lasting results and benefits to your hair, because they recognize that when the full potential of your curls is realized, magic happens. This product is best for very curly or tightly coiled hair – think type 4 and 5 hair types.

When you purchase this product, you can rest assured that your curls will be healthy and nourished. Christophe Robin’s Luscious Curl Defining Butter has a creamy, rich texture that will bring intense hydration and conditioning to your curls. Your hair will be shiny, smooth, shapely and free of frizz.

4. Modern Mammals Minimal Rinse

Modern Mammals may be one of the less recognizable brands on this list, but we have a feeling it’s going to become one of the most popular brands on the market. Your hair has natural oils intended to protect it, so you shouldn’t strip your hair with harsh chemicals. Modern Mammals was created with this in mind, and serves to keep your hair naturally moisturized.

What is unique about this product is that it is not a shampoo, but a rinse. While it may be an unconventional approach, it will return your hair to its natural balance and will bring your curls back to life. When you use this rinse, your scalp will be rejuvenated and the natural moisture in your hair will be preserved. Now, there are some aspects that you’ll have to get used to, as there is no added fragrance and this rinse won’t lather or produce suds. However, if you stick with this product, you will never want to go back to your ordinary shampoo.

5. TIGI Bed Head for Men Matte Separation Workable Wax

Have you ever tried to use a wax on your curls and been disappointed with the way they look or feel? We’ve been there, too, but thankfully TIGI Bed Head for Men Matte Separation Workable Wax has provided the perfect solution. This product offers a firm hold for your curls with a matte finish, so you won’t look like you have oily hair or too much gel in your hair.

There is also the option to to create more shapely curls by applying the wax and melting it into your hair with a hair dryer before styling and shaping. Start with a small amount and add more as needed. Once you’ve gotten your hair looking the way you want it, your job is done and your curls will remain for the rest of your day.

6. Brickell Men’s Texturizing Sea Salt Spray

Sea salt sprays have a bad reputation, but Brickell Men’s Products Sea Salt Spray is here to turn that around. It is an alcohol-free formula that can be used daily to add texture and lift while reinforcing your natural curl pattern. This is a fragrance-free salt spray, so if you prefer to choose your signature scent from products other than hair care, give this spray a try. A little goes a long way – if you use it daily, the bottle will last two full months.

7. Dove Amplified Textures Super Slip Detangling Conditioner

Dove has done an extraordinary job of crafting product lines that are created with specific hair types in mind. They’ve created reliable hair and body care for many years, and their new Dove Amplified Texture line lives up to their high standards. The Amplified Texture collection is intended to enhance the beauty of your natural curls, coils or waves.

This conditioner will give your curls every ounce of nourishment and conditioning they deserve (and require). Since curly hair can be more prone to breakage, this Super Slip Conditioner will allow your comb to glide easily through your hair, reducing any pulling or tension on your strands. The coconut oil is ultra-conditioning and has a calming aroma. Pair it with the Dove Amplified Textures Hydrating Cleanse Shampoo for best results.

8. Ouidad Double Duty Weightless Cleansing Conditioner

Ouidad knows that any added weight can cause your natural curl pattern to be diminished. That is why they created the Double Duty Weightless Cleansing Conditioner. It is multipurpose, meaning it will cleanse your hair from dirt, oil and buildup as well as act as a luxurious conditioning treatment to revitalize your curls.

If you’re experiencing extremely dry strands, just comb this product into your hair from root to tip and massage it in. Let the treatment sit in your hair for at least five minutes. Once you rinse it out, you’ll be blown away by the moisture left behind.

9. Art Naturals Organic Moroccan Argan Oil Shampoo and Conditioner

Products that contain argan oil are almost always beneficial for curly hair (if it is authentic argan oil, that is). This ingredient from a tree native to Morocco is a magic elixir that will stimulate healthy new hair, reduce thinning, strengthen your hair and add shine. Art Naturals products are free from toxic chemicals, and are easy on the wallet. You will find this shampoo and conditioner combo works in tandem to provide hydration and nourishment to reveal bouncy curls. This duo is plant based and gentle enough for daily use.

10. Garnier Fructis Style Curl Shape Defining Spray Gel

Garnier Fructis Style Curl Shape Defining Spray Gel is the perfect product to help you achieve curl definition that lasts throughout your day. It works to give you the bouncy and shiny curls you desire without the tacky, sticky residue often associated with hair gel.

Garnier Fructis is dedicated to creating an entire collection to enhance your curls with products like conditioning cream, creation mousse and reactivating milk spray. You will love the hold this spray gel provides, and will appreciate the fresh Garnier Fructis fragrance.

11. Maui Moisture Curl Quench + Coconut Oil Curl Milk

This product is here to quench your thirsty curls and leave them detangled and hydrated. Maui Moisture’s Curl Quench + Coconut Oil Curl Milk is a vegan formula that is silicone-free and paraben-free. It is a leave-in treatment that is intended for those with thick and tightly coiled curls.

Since this is a leave-in product, you will continue to reap the benefits long after you apply it. Maui Moisture takes its inspiration from the Hawaiian tropics, and you’ll be transported to the beaches of Hawaii each time you apply it.

12. Aveda Men Pure-Formance Liquid Pomade

Aveda Men’s products are packed full of so many nourishing ingredients that they can be classified as high performance. This lightweight pomade integrates itself so well into your strands that you will maintain your natural curl pattern and movement, but with the added benefits of moisture retention, enhanced control, and shine.

Aveda has earned their spot in the trusted hair-care market, and so it is only right that we should include them on our list. The masculine fragrance makes this already great product even better.

13. OrganiGrowHair Co. Brush Bundle

While you may not have expected to find a brush bundle on this list of hair products, some would argue the brushes you use are even more important than the shampoos and conditioners. This brand was created by Kay Cola after she received a terrible haircut and needed to re-establish her curls.

The set includes a detangling brush, a massaging brush, a wide-tooth comb and a parting comb. With this set in your grooming kit, you will have all you need to maintain and treat your curls while maintaining their integrity.

14. Prose Custom Curl Cream

What makes the Prose brand so exciting is their ability to create custom formulas fit specifically for your hair. We’re not just talking about customizing for a hair type; this brand creates a unique blend specifically for you and your needs. With a 100% satisfaction guarantee, there is no excuse not to try these products. To build your curl cream, Prose will ask you a series of questions.

For example, if you experience frizz, they will add pequi oil to the blend. If extra shine is what you desire, you’ll get a curl cream with caviar lime extract included. If you don’t like being quizzed, simply send Prose a few pictures of your hair and they will craft the perfect blend for you.

15. EvaNYC Gotta Bounce Curl Defining Cream in Clear

If you’re nervous about using products on your color-treated hair, try this super-safe cream from EvaNYC. It will deliver definition to your curls and will help make your unpredictable hair a little bit more manageable. You will be left with hydrated curls that are bouncy, touchable and consistent in their pattern.

Aloe leaf locks in essential moisture and cactus flower smooths your cuticles and promotes healthy roots. A study performed by EvaNYC found that 91% of their consumers agreed that their curls were more defined and that their hair felt stronger, healthier and more moisturized after using this product.

16. Uncle Jimmy Curl Kicker

If you’ve been searching for the hair product that will catapult you from having good hair to having great hair, Uncle Jimmy Curl Kicker is the best option for you. Uncle Jimmy has created a full line of grooming products that are designed to promote healthy hair, beards and skin. Their Curl Kicker is perfect for curly and wavy hair.

It provides a medium hold that will keep your curls in place while maintaining movement. This is a flake-free cream that provides moisture as well as hold. The blend of essential oils and extracts works with your natural hair to accentuate your unique texture and curl pattern.

17. Harry’s Taming Cream

Harry’s may have gotten their start as a shaving company, but they have expanded into creating a full line of outstanding grooming products for men. They don’t compromise when it comes to the quality of products they use, and they don’t want you to either. Harry’s team of over 600 engineers, designers, craftsmen and chemists work together to create products that perform at the highest level in all conditions.

Their Taming Cream will style your unruly curls while providing a soft and natural finish. It provides the effortless look that will keep people wondering how you got so lucky to have such amazing natural hair. The lightweight formula was created to ensure you don’t experience any stickiness or stiffness after use.

18. Kiehl’s Smoothing Oil-Infused Leave-In Concentrate

Kiehl’s is a luxury grooming brand that has been beloved by many since 1851. Their long history of creating high-quality products earns the brand its spot on the 20 best curly hair products for men. The argan oil and babassu oil in Kiehl’s Smoothing Oil-Infused Leave-In Concentrate will tame your frizz and leave your curls shinier than ever. Whether you apply it on your dry curls for a shinier look, or apply to your damp hair as a styling aid, you will love everything about this concentrate.

19. Shea Moisture Coconut Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie

A conditioning treatment is one of the best things you can do for your curly hair. It is so easy for curly hair to become dried out, and by using a conditioning treatment you are allowing the nourishing ingredients to soak into your strands. In turn, moisture will be retained. Coconut oil reduces breakage, neem oil adds shine and silk protein leaves you with luxurious softness. Shea Moisture’s Curl Enhancing Smoothie will provide a spa-like experience for your hair without the hefty price tag.

20. Huron Hair Styler

Huron’s Hair Styler won the Men’s Health Grooming Award for Best Pomade of 2021. This is a versatile product that combines the benefits of a conditioning cream and a texture cream. The flexible hold you receive from this styler will keep your hair looking fantastic, while giving your curls a hefty dose of nourishment. The soft cream will add fullness to your curls and will reduce static and frizz. Another perk is that it is humidity resistant, and we all know what humidity can do to our curls.