Introduction
Black men have a rich variety of hairstyles to choose from, each offering a unique way to express personal style and culture.
From classic cuts to trendy styles, there is a perfect hairstyle for every occasion and personality.
This article highlights the 17 best hairstyles for black men, providing detailed descriptions and styling tips to help you achieve and maintain each look.
1. The Afro
Description: The Afro is a timeless and iconic hairstyle that celebrates natural hair texture. It offers a bold and voluminous look that is both stylish and culturally significant.
Styling Tips:
- Keep your hair moisturized with leave-in conditioner.
- Use a wide-tooth comb or pick to shape the Afro.
- Regularly trim the ends to maintain shape and health.
2. The Fade
Description: The fade is a versatile haircut that can be paired with many different styles. It features short sides that gradually blend into longer hair on top.
Styling Tips:
- Choose between low, mid, or high fade depending on your preference.
- Maintain the fade with regular visits to the barber.
- Use a light pomade or gel to style the top section.
3. The High Top Fade
Description: Popularized in the late 80s and early 90s, the high top fade features tall hair on top with a clean fade on the sides. This style is making a strong comeback.
Styling Tips:
- Use a strong-hold gel to keep the top section standing tall.
- Regular trims are necessary to maintain the shape.
- Experiment with designs shaved into the fade for extra flair.
4. The Buzz Cut
Description: The buzz cut is a low-maintenance and clean-cut hairstyle that works well for all face shapes. It’s ideal for those who prefer a simple and straightforward look.
Styling Tips:
- Regularly trim your hair to keep it short and neat.
- Moisturize your scalp to prevent dryness.
- Consider adding a line-up or design for a modern twist.
Read Also: 15 Badass & Masculine Buzz Cuts For Men
5. The Fade with Shaved Designs
Description: The fade with shaved designs combines a clean fade with intricate shaved patterns on the sides and back. This eye-catching style allows for personalized expression through unique designs and contrasts with the longer hair on top.
Styling Tips:
- Achieving the Look: Start with a well-blended fade on the sides and back. Work with your barber to create custom shaved designs, which can range from geometric patterns to more detailed artwork.
- Top Section: Style the top hair as desired, whether it’s natural, textured, or slicked back.
- Maintenance: Regularly visit your barber to keep the fade sharp and the designs clear. Use a gentle shampoo and conditioner to maintain hair health and moisture.
The fade with shaved designs is perfect for those looking to add a unique and creative twist to their hairstyle.
6. The Waves
Description: Waves are a smooth and stylish look that requires a bit of dedication to achieve. They create a rippling effect across the scalp, adding texture and definition.
Styling Tips:
- Brush your hair regularly with a wave brush.
- Use wave grease or pomade to help form the waves.
- Wear a durag overnight to maintain the wave pattern.
7. The Cornrows
Description: Cornrows are a traditional African style where hair is braided close to the scalp in straight lines or intricate patterns. They are both practical and stylish.
Styling Tips:
- Keep your scalp moisturized to prevent dryness.
- Choose a pattern that suits your personality and style.
- Regularly clean and condition your braids to maintain their look.
8. The Box Braids
Description: Box braids are individual plaits that are usually divided by small squared-off parts. They offer a versatile and protective style that can be worn long-term.
Styling Tips:
- Use a good leave-in conditioner to keep your hair hydrated.
- Avoid making the braids too tight to prevent scalp damage.
- Experiment with different lengths and thicknesses.
9. The Twists
Description: Twists are created by dividing the hair into sections and twisting two strands around each other. This style is easy to maintain and can be worn in various lengths.
Styling Tips:
- Keep your hair moisturized to prevent frizz.
- Retwist every few weeks to maintain the look.
- You can choose between two-strand twists or flat twists.
10. The Dreadlocks
Description: Dreadlocks are a long-term commitment that involves matting and twisting hair into rope-like sections. They are deeply rooted in cultural significance and offer a unique look.
Styling Tips:
- Keep your scalp clean and moisturized.
- Regularly twist or palm roll your dreads to maintain their shape.
- Experiment with different styles and lengths.
11. The Taper Fade with Curls
Description: This style combines a taper fade with natural curls on top. It’s a modern and stylish look that highlights the natural texture of the hair.
Styling Tips:
- Use curl-enhancing products to define your curls.
- Regularly trim the sides and back to maintain the fade.
- Keep your curls moisturized to prevent frizz.
12. The Frohawk
Description: The frohawk is a bold style that features a strip of hair running from the forehead to the nape, with the sides either faded or shaved.
Styling Tips:
- Use a strong-hold gel to keep the frohawk in place.
- Regular trims are necessary to maintain the shape.
- Experiment with different fade styles on the sides.
13. The Flat Top
Description: The flat top is a retro style characterized by a flat, horizontal top. It’s a statement look that requires precision to maintain.
Styling Tips:
- Use a firm-hold gel to keep the top flat.
- Regular trims are essential to maintain the flat shape.
- Add designs or patterns to the sides for extra style.
14. The South of France
Description: Popularized by Usher, the South of France style features a mohawk with a burst fade. It’s a trendy and eye-catching look.
Styling Tips:
- Use a good clipper to achieve the burst fade.
- Keep the mohawk section moisturized and defined.
- Regular trims will help maintain the sharp lines.
15. The Temple Fade
Description: The temple fade, also known as a Brooklyn fade, is a sharp and clean look where the hair around the temples is faded. It’s subtle yet stylish.
Styling Tips:
- Regularly visit your barber to maintain the fade.
- Use a light pomade to keep the top section neat.
- Experiment with different lengths on top.
16. The Bleached Top with Fade
Description: The bleached top with fade is a striking hairstyle that combines the contrast of a faded undercut with eye-catching bleached strands on top. This style creates a bold visual impact, perfect for those looking to make a statement while enjoying the practicality of a fade.
Styling Tips:
Maintaining: After bleaching, use a purple shampoo to prevent brassiness and keep the blonde color looking fresh. Deep conditioning treatments are crucial to maintaining hair health and minimizing damage.
Achieving the Look:
Fade: Start with a fade on the sides and back, which can be low, mid, or high depending on your preference. The fade should be well-blended to provide a smooth transition from short to long hair.
Bleaching: For the bleached top, visit a professional colorist to achieve the desired level of blonde. The hair should be lightened carefully to avoid damage, especially if you have naturally dark hair. Opt for a platinum blonde or a lighter shade to contrast effectively with the fade.
17. The Sponge Curls
Description: Sponge curls are achieved using a curling sponge, which defines natural curls and coils. It’s a quick and easy way to enhance your hair’s texture.
Styling Tips:
- Use a curling sponge on damp hair for best results.
- Apply a curl-enhancing cream or gel.
- Regularly moisturize to prevent dryness and frizz.
Conclusion – Best Hairstyles For Black Men
Black men have a wide range of hairstyles to choose from, each offering a unique way to express individuality and style.
Whether you prefer the simplicity of a buzz cut or the boldness of dreadlocks, there’s a hairstyle that will suit your personality and lifestyle.
Experiment with these styles and find the one that best reflects who you are.
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.