Men’s Hair Types you’re sporting sleek straight locks, laid-back waves, or proud curls, your hair is more than just a style accessory; it’s a unique identifier that sets you apart from the crowd. In order to keep your mane in top shape, it’s essential to understand the difference between men’s hair types and textures as they relate to how well a haircut will hold, as well as how to properly care for your hair to prevent damage.

According to Walker’s system, straight hair is characterized by a flat texture that lacks a noticeable curl pattern and can be thin or thick, depending on your specific subtype (the thinnest are 1A, the medium is 1B, and the thickest is 1C). It has a naturally shiny appearance and tends to get oily faster than other types due to the clear path for sebum from your scalp to your ends. For this reason, it’s a good idea to use a light hair oil and brush your hair twice a day with a volumizing or thickening conditioner to avoid build-up.

Men’s Hair Types: A Complete Overview

Wavy hair falls right in the middle of straight and curly, with a visible but subtle curl pattern (think Bradley Cooper or Timothee Chalamet). Unlike straight hair, it’s less likely to get oily, which makes it easier to manage. But like curly hair, wavy hair can be susceptible to frizz and should be moisturized with a lightweight conditioner.

Coiled hair, also known as kinky or Afro hair, is characterized by tight, dense coils or spirals that often form into a ‘Z’ shaped pattern at the roots. Typically seen on men of African or Afro-Caribbean heritage, this type is highly expressive and can be worn in a variety of ways including dreads, braids, twists, or afros, all of which offer a great way to show off your personality and style.