Embracing a new hairstyle can be an exciting journey, and for men with medium curly hair, exploring short sides options opens up a world of fresh possibilities. This style, often referred to as a 'curly fade' or 'tapered cut', combines the texture of curls on top with a neat, short undercut on the sides and back. Let's delve into the intricacies of this look, its variations, and how to achieve and maintain it.
Firstly, it's crucial to understand that this style is highly customizable, making it suitable for various face shapes and personal preferences. The key lies in balancing the length and texture on top with the short, often faded, sides. But before we dive into the details, let's explore the appeal of this style.
Why Choose Medium Curly Hair with Short Sides?
This hairstyle offers a perfect blend of neatness and casualness, making it versatile for both formal and informal settings. The short sides require minimal maintenance, while the medium curls on top provide ample styling options. Moreover, it's an excellent way to showcase your natural curls, adding volume and dimension to your hair.
Now, let's explore the different variations of this style, focusing on the fade and taper options for the short sides.
Faded Sides: The Classic Choice
The fade is a timeless choice for short sides, gradually tapering the hair from the top of the ear down to the skin. It's a clean, sharp look that emphasizes the curls on top. The fade can be high, mid, or low, depending on how high up the sides you want the fade to start.
For a modern twist, consider a 'skin fade', where the hair is buzzed extremely short, almost to the skin, creating a stark contrast with the curls on top. This look is bold and eye-catching, perfect for those who want to make a statement with their hair.
Tapered Sides: A Softer Approach
If you prefer a softer look, a taper might be more your style. Unlike a fade, a taper doesn't buzz the hair short; instead, it gradually increases in length from the neck up to the top of the head. This creates a smoother, more blended look that's ideal for those who want a neat appearance without the stark contrast of a fade.
Tapers can also be customized with different lengths, from a 'number one' (the shortest) to a 'number eight' (the longest), allowing you to choose the level of shortness that suits you best.
Styling Medium Curly Hair with Short Sides
Now that you've chosen your preferred short sides style, let's discuss how to style the medium curls on top. The key to managing curly hair is to embrace its natural texture and work with it, rather than against it.
Start by washing your hair with a curly hair-specific shampoo and conditioner to keep your curls hydrated and defined. After towel-drying, apply a leave-in conditioner or curl cream to help define your curls and reduce frizz. Then, scrunch your hair upwards to encourage your curls to form.
Defining Your Curls
For well-defined curls, consider using a curl-enhancing product like gel or mousse. Apply a small amount to your hair, focusing on the roots and mid-lengths, and then scrunch your hair again to encourage curl formation. Remember, a little product goes a long way with curly hair, so start with a small amount and add more if needed.
To enhance your curls even further, you can use a diffuser attachment on your hairdryer. This helps to dry your hair gently, reducing frizz and preserving your curl definition. Alternatively, you can let your hair air dry for a more natural look.
Styling Options
Once your hair is dry, you can style it in various ways. For a casual look, simply scrunch your hair with your fingers to break up any clumps and encourage your curls to form. If you prefer a neater appearance, you can use your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to gently detangle your hair and create a more uniform curl pattern.
For a more polished look, consider using a curl-enhancing product and a diffuser to create well-defined curls. You can then use your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to style your hair into place. Alternatively, you can use a curling iron or wand to create more uniform curls, but be gentle to avoid damaging your hair.
Embracing a medium curly hair short sides style is a bold and stylish choice that allows you to showcase your natural curls while maintaining a neat and tidy appearance. Whether you opt for a faded or tapered look on the sides, this style is highly customizable and suitable for various face shapes and personal preferences. So why not embrace your curls and give this style a try?