Afro hairstyles have become a symbol of culture, pride, and self-expression.
This timeless look has evolved to include a wide variety of styles that cater to different tastes, face shapes, and hair textures.
Here’s a breakdown of the 21 best Afro hairstyles for men, offering options from classic looks to modern twists.
1. Classic Afro
A classic Afro is timeless. It’s all about volume, shape, and keeping it simple. Best suited for men with naturally curly or coily hair, the classic Afro requires regular trimming to maintain its round shape and a good moisturizing routine to keep hair healthy and soft.
2. Tapered Afro
The tapered Afro combines volume on top with a gradual fade down the sides and back. This versatile style offers a cleaner, more polished look while keeping the texture and volume up top. It’s a great choice for men who prefer a lower-maintenance style that looks sharp.
3. Afro with Fade
Pairing an Afro with a fade is a modern twist that emphasizes the volume and shape on top while keeping the sides and back short. This style is adaptable with different fade types: high, low, or skin fade, depending on your preference.
4. High Top Afro
This 90s-inspired look is all about height. The high-top Afro has tall, structured curls or coils that create a square shape. It’s a bold, attention-grabbing look that’s perfect for those who love to stand out.
5. Afro with Curls
For men with looser curls, an Afro with defined curls offers a more textured look. Using curl-enhancing products can help define curls and add a bit of bounce and shine, creating a structured yet natural appearance.
6. Afro with Twist-Out
Twist-outs can add an extra layer of dimension to an Afro. By twisting small sections of hair and unraveling them once dry, you create a more controlled, spiraled curl pattern. This style provides a unique texture and works well with any Afro shape.
7. Temple Fade with Afro
The temple fade adds a subtle yet distinct edge to a full Afro. It fades the hair at the temples and sideburns, drawing attention to the fuller top while maintaining a clean and defined look. This style is ideal for those who want a professional look without sacrificing texture.
8. Blowout Afro
The blowout Afro is about volume and texture. This style is achieved by using a blow dryer to stretch out and add height to the hair, creating a fuller, more rounded look. It’s perfect for special occasions or when you want to make a statement.
9. Box Fade Afro
A box fade Afro has a flat-top shape, inspired by the high-top style of the 80s and 90s but with a more sculpted look. It requires precise trimming and shaping to maintain the boxy form, giving a bold, geometric appearance.
10. Short Afro
The short Afro is a versatile, low-maintenance option that works well for men with tighter curls. This style maintains texture while keeping the length manageable, ideal for men who want an Afro without the hassle of a full, high-maintenance look.
11. Mohawk Afro
The Mohawk Afro combines the fullness of an Afro with a tapered or faded sides, creating a bold Mohawk effect. This style accentuates the natural volume and texture on top while adding an edgy, rebellious look.
12. Afro with Parting
Adding a part to an Afro can be an easy yet impactful way to personalize your look. Whether a side part or a center part, a clean line adds dimension and style, making it stand out while keeping the overall look sleek and defined.
13. Braided Afro
Braiding the Afro adds versatility and a protective style for your curls. Braids can be done in many ways, such as cornrows or single braids, giving texture and control over your look, which can also reduce daily maintenance.
14. Curly Tapered Afro
A curly tapered Afro is a perfect balance of volume and shape. The curls on top are left longer, while the back and sides are faded, creating a gradual and sophisticated look with an emphasis on texture.
15. Afro Puff
The Afro puff is a simple yet stylish way to wear natural curls. It involves gathering the hair into a puff at the top of the head, creating a rounded shape that emphasizes curl texture and offers a carefree, youthful look.
16. Afro with Line-Up
A line-up (or edge-up) is a popular addition to Afros that involves shaping and defining the hairline with precise angles. This sharpens the overall look of the Afro, giving a polished and clean aesthetic.
17. Cornrowed Afro
Combining cornrows with an Afro provides a unique look with multiple styling options. You can braid the sides or add designs in the cornrows to accentuate the Afro on top, creating a modern and edgy vibe.
Read Also: Top 20 CRAZY Cornrow Hairstyles For Black Guys!
18. Afro with Undercut
The undercut Afro has a dramatic contrast between a long, voluminous top and shaved sides, creating a high-impact look. This style is perfect for men who want a bold, eye-catching look with a strong contrast.
19. 360 Waves with Afro
For men who love the wave pattern, the 360 waves with Afro combines defined waves around the head with an Afro on top. This style requires a bit more maintenance, including regular brushing, but it gives a unique, texturized look that’s highly popular.
20. Dreadlock Afro
A dreadlock Afro combines the natural texture of locks with the rounded shape of an Afro. This style is great for men who want to try locks without committing to the traditional length and style of dreadlocks.
Check Also: 15 Stunning Dreadlock Styles For Black Men To Stand Out!
21. Colored Afro
Adding color to an Afro is a fantastic way to express individuality. From subtle highlights to bold, vibrant colors, this trend allows for unique self-expression while keeping the natural texture intact. Just remember to use color-safe products to maintain the health of your hair.
Tips for Maintaining Afro Hairstyles:
- Moisturize Regularly: Afro hair tends to be drier, so using leave-in conditioners and oils will help keep hair healthy and manageable.
- Avoid Over-Washing: Washing too frequently can strip natural oils. Try co-washing (using conditioner only) between shampoos to keep hair hydrated.
- Trim Regularly: Regular trims help maintain the shape and prevent split ends, which keeps the Afro looking fresh and neat.
- Use a Wide-Tooth Comb: To minimize breakage, always detangle with a wide-tooth comb, starting from the ends and working your way up.
- Protect Hair at Night: Use a silk or satin pillowcase or a satin cap to prevent frizz and breakage.
Afro hairstyles are more than just a fashion statement—they’re a celebration of natural beauty and culture.
Read Also: The 17 Top Haircuts For Black Men
With these diverse options, you can find the perfect Afro hairstyle that suits your personality, lifestyle, and look.
Tasos Moulios is the founder of Beardlong. He loves trying different beard and hair styles and blogs about them. The tips he shares come from his own experience and love for what he does.