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 in 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. Keeping it in shape is a must even if your goal is to keep 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. 

Let’s face it, 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. The good news is you can pick one from these three choices to start: 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 on 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 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.

Use Dove Men+Care Refreshing Clean Shampoo with infused caffeine and sparkling menthol. It’s both a shampoo and conditioner, so it leaves your curls fresh and soft until the next wash. If you have flakes, don’t worry. Use Dove Men+Care Anti-Dandruff Shampoo instead. It’s made with Zinc AD and tea tree extracts, two powerful ingredients that eliminate dandruff and strengthen hair.

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 pay your barber a visit every four months for a trim.