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Taming Curly, Tangled, & Unruly Hair: The Ultimate Guide for Barbers

Take it from us–sometimes, the most challenging heads of hair can be the most rewarding. 

And TBH, you know (probably better than we do) that sometimes, those heads of hair are the curly, tangly, unruly ones.

There’s no denying that, when styled and maintained right, thick, curly, and unruly hair can be the most beautiful of all. 

But for your male clients who aren’t interested in some high-maintenance system to keep it all in check, it’s probably super frustrating to have a head of hair that’s got all this potential they just don’t know how (or want) to unlock. 

Your job? To help them not just deal with their gorgeous locks but find ways to help them live a better life, letting that thick, curly hair thrive, and love their unique do (no matter how they style it). 

Our job? To help you do your job better than ever. That’s why we’ve dropped a few curly, thick tips to abide by alongside some advice you can offer your curly-headed clients who must deal with unruly locks.

So, what are you waiting for? Keep reading for a knowledge drop to help you unlock the best way to master that beautiful, thick, curly hair your clients are bringing to the table (or rather, your chair). 


Top Tips & Techniques for Taming Thick & Curly Hair

You might have your own tips and tricks for dishing out the goods with thick, curly, or unruly hair–but these techniques and tricks can help, too. All we ask? Give these a read and consider how they could improve the lives of your curly, thick, and unruly-haired clients. 

Sometimes, A Chop is Best

We are not–we repeat–are not telling you to give up on beautiful curly hair and chop it all off. But sometimes, a cut is actually the best move. Whether this is a necessary choice to help your client’s hair start fresh or you think your client would benefit from a closer-crop look to help those curls thrive, opting to chop is not always a no-no. 

Shorter hair is sometimes a must for those with tangled, tough hair seeking a low-maintenance style. Other times, a shorter crop that’s not weighed down by mass can help those curls come to life. 

Whatever you and your client decide, know that a chop isn’t always a strategy for eliminating the curl–it could be just the thing your client needs to breathe new life into those lovely locks. 

Cutting-Edge Conditioners 

Make sure you’re preaching the benefits of a quality conditioner to your male clients–even if they’re hesitant at first. The reality? This is a super low-maintenance way they can improve their locks on a daily basis–bonus points if they’re interested in opting for a once-to-twice weekly leave-in conditioner treatment, but no pressure. 

Curly Cutting Is a Must-Invest-In Skill 

We’re going to tell you something you already know–cutting curly hair is different from cutting straight-to-wavy hair. 

That’s why curly-cutting techniques exist. If you haven’t yet tackled this skill set, consider this your sign to take a course or learn from a master. 

Trust us, this might not be a right-this-second solution, but your curly-headed clients will thank you for your commitment and dedication. 

Add a Little Heat 

The best advice you can offer your curly-haired clients who are willing to put a little effort into their hair maintenance? Bring the heat with a blow-dryer and a brush. 

Send them a list of recs for the best products to help give their hair some hold and shape, and they’ll be on their way to rockin’ those curly locks like never before. 

Keep it Simple (LayerWise, At Least) 

Curly, unruly, and tangle-prone hair sometimes does best when the layers remain uncomplicated. By that, we don’t mean avoid all layers; just keep them minimal to keep the style fresh and streamlined. 

Don’t get us wrong; we know layers add texture and volume, but often, curly hair is working with plenty of that. Don’t overcomplicate the style by making it too layered. 


Big fan of these big tips? We’re glad to hear it. And guess what? We’re nowhere near done offering you the advice you need to help take your clients’ looks to all new heights–and your barbering career, too. 

Want to make sure you never miss a blog post, tip, trick, or must-know technique? Make sure you subscribe to the National Association of Barbers right here, right now, to get a little alert whenever we drop some hot advice on the site.