How to Take Care of Wavy Hair Men

wavy hair men

Wavy hair possesses the ultimate blend between curly and straight hair, yet it demands special care to appear at its best. Frizz, unpredictable curl patterns, as well as appropriate product choices, plague many men. The following guide from Frank’s Gentlemen’s Salon gives you insight into your hair type and offers advice for a routine that amplifies your natural texture while keeping your waves both healthy and defined. 

Interested in learning more or connecting with experts? Take a moment to meet our team, who have hands-on experience with a variety of wave patterns.

Determining Your Wave Type

Prior to talking about product and technique, there needs to be a decision as to your particular wave pattern. Mens’ wavy hair normally falls into three categories: Type 2A has loose, soft waves that comb out very easily; Type 2B has more obvious waves with some frizz as well as body; and Type 2C has strong waves that nearly fall into the curly category with strong frizz potential. As a wavy hair male, understanding your wave pattern is essential.

Each wave type reacts differently to product and styling techniques. Recognizing your wave pattern will guide the product choices and help set realistic expectations about your hair.

Top Tips for Luxurious Wavy Hair

The foundation to great wavy hair begins with the proper product choices. Your hair must be moisturized, never weighed down, so product choices do count as part of the keeping-your-waves-fabulous package. During this section, you’ll quickly learn more about how to take care of wavy hair for men.

Shampoo and Conditioner Choice

Curly hair is most likely drier than other hair types due to the difficulty that the natural oils have migrating beyond the hair shaft. Choose sulfate-free shampoos that cleanse without stripping the appropriate moisture. Consider curly or wavy hair shampoos, as they contain gentler cleansers.

Conditioning is just as necessary. Employ a moisturizing conditioner each time that you shampoo, including the middle-lengths and bottom instead of your scalp. Deep conditioning treatments once or twice a week may be used as additional moisturizing for very dry or damaged curls.

Making Styling Easy

Styling products are either the best part or the worst part of your wavy hair regimen. Lightweight creams are great for Type 2A hair, adding moisture without weight. Gels are used to provide firmer hold to get more defined waves, best suited to Types 2B and 2C. Mousses gain body while adding flexibility, best suited to thin wavy hair that requires body.

Do not use drying alcohols, heavyweight silicones, or sulfates, as they will do as much harm as good to your natural wave structure. Stay motivated - remember, the journey of a wavy hair guy is all about experimenting to find what works best for your locks.

Proper Cleaning Procedure

It doesn't so much matter how you wash your wavy hair as it does that you do. Shampoo no more than 2 to 3 times a week so that the hair doesn't over-dry. Shampooing the scalp instead of the hair length is best.

Apply conditioner from the middle length to the ends, working your fingers gently through the tangles. Cool-water rinse to seal the hair cuticle and tighten the shine. A few men need "co-washing" (using conditioner alone) every other day as a moisturizing touch.

Drying Methods to Achieve Better Waves

Drying your wavy locks properly has a great impact on the ultimate finish. Frizzing and wave distortion are some common problems that may be triggered by towel drying, so instead, try gently blotting off excess moisture with your hands or a microfiber towel.

This provides the most natural curl definition and frizz minimization. As a time-saving trick, employ your blow-dryer's diffuser attachment, operating on a low temperature setting as well as a slow speed setting. Cup the sections of the hair into the diffuser, then lift to your scalp, being careful to employ no harsh manipulation that will create frizz.

Accept Your Own Texture

Caring for wavy hair requires patience and experimentation. Your hair's needs may change with seasons, humidity levels, and hair length. Pay attention to how your hair responds to different products and techniques, adjusting your routine accordingly.

You want natural movement through your wave pattern, as that gives personality. Of more concern than trying to battle natural inclinations is keeping your hair healthy, nourished, and well-structured. Be sure to visit Frank’s Gentlemen’s Salon for tailored advice! 

lisa franz

Lisa Franz


Lisa Franz is the founder and owner of Frank’s Gentlemen’s Salon, a veteran-owned men’s salon and barbershop in Denver. With a background in theatre and a deep passion for community-building, she created Frank’s to merge high-end grooming services with a warm, inclusive space.

Lisa Franz