The Best Short Haircuts For Curly Hair

If you have curly hair and you’re feeling inspired to change up your hairstyle, now is the perfect time to opt for a chop (even a big chop if you dare). Warm weather is here and you’re likely looking for ways to get your hair out of your face anyway. Plus, short hairstyles are a major trend this season. But, cutting your hair can be intimidating. Perhaps you're not sure which style will suit you best, or maybe you’re afraid that short strands provide less styling versatility. So here, we're sharing ultra-flattering short haircuts for curly hair that you’re bound to love. In addition to finding the best haircut for your curly hair, using the right styling products is also key, so we’re including our best product recommendations, too. 

1. Curly Lob

If you’re hesitant about making a drastic change and losing most of your length, the lob—long bob—is for you. Lob haircuts are super-low maintenance and look amazing when paired with curly hair. With longer pieces in the front and a shorter length in the back, this style adds tons of dimension to your hair. To style a curly lob, apply the L’Oréal Paris Elvive Dream Lengths Super Curls Cream Leave-In to damp hair and gently scrunch your hair to define your curls. 

2. Curly Pixie

Not only is the pixie haircut incredibly easy to style when you’re rushing to get out the door, but it’s also a flattering cut that lets your face and bone structure shine. Pixie cuts are often associated with ultra-short, straight hair, but you can absolutely sport this cut with curly hair, too. At the salon, ask your stylist for a slightly longer pixie cut, that way you can still show off your curls. When your hair is damp, apply a mousse, like the L’Oréal Paris Advanced Hairstyle CURVE IT Elastic Curl Mousse which adds definition and hold to your curls, then let hair air dry for a beautiful texture. 

3. Curly Pompadour

The curly pompadour is a retro-inspired haircut that suits everyone. It features about five to six inches of length on top and shorter sides for an eye-catching look with a vintage ‘50s vibe. This cut is all about the volume up top! To style this cut and let your natural curls shine, work a little bit of lightweight hair gel, like the L’Oréal Paris Advanced Hairstyle LOCK IT Clean Style Gel, through dry or damp hair, then tousle. You can use your fingers to mold and shape your curls for a piecey effect.

4. Curly Bob

You can’t go wrong with a classic bob haircut—and that’s certainly true if you have curly hair. One of the best things about styling a curly bob cut is how low maintenance it is. Let your natural texture shine by applying any styling products that you typically use, and let your strands flow. If you’re looking to add extra volume to your bob, pair it with a side part—despite Gen Z rooting for middle parts, we still think a side part can be chic. 

5. TWA (Teeny Weenie Afro) 

A great short cut for natural hair is a TWA or teeny weenie Afro of about one to two inches long. If you’re looking to sport an-ultra short style or you feel like you need a big chop to start fresh with your strands, this cut is perfect for you. To style, appy a bit of a leave-in curl defining cream to add definition and hydration to your curls. 

6. Curly Shag

Shag haircuts, which typically hit around the shoulders (but can be adapted for shorter lengths), feature lots of layers. Layers can help create movement and dimension which is great for curly hair as sometimes curls can make the hair appear to be all one length. To style a curly shag, apply a leave-in hair cream or mousse to define your curls, and finish off by applying a few drops of a hydrating hair oil like the L’Oréal Paris Elvive Extraordinary Oil Treatment to your ends.  

7. Buzz Cut With Bangs

While you might be thinking that a buzz cut will leave you with incredibly limited styling options, think again. You can have a short buzz cut and leave your curly fringe in the front to add something fun and edgy to your look. You can also have your barber or stylist incorporate shapes or shading into your buzzed areas to add a unique touch to your hair. Use just a bit of the L’Oréal Paris Elvive Dream Lengths Super Curls Cream Leave-In on your damp bangs to add some definition to your curly fringe. 

Next: Why the Big Chop for Natural Hair Is Trending

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