Black men have a rich choice of haircuts, ranging through traditional lengths: short, medium and long. Most men stick to short and medium-length haircuts though, because they offer a stylish and low-maintenance look.
Not all Black men hairstyles or Black men haircuts are the same. Rooted in history and modified through the years, we have seen many iterations and styles on this hair type, such as cool dread styles, the natural afro, hair that’s buzzed short, and every iteration of a fade! No matter how you want to style or cut it, there are tons of trending hairstyles.
Your haircut can tell much about you. Active, sporty men, for instance, opt for attractive short hairstyles or imaginative Mohawks. More creative personalities often choose a natural curly look or braided hairstyles. Younger guys love somewhat messy hairstyles with a cool mean look that drives girls crazy.
To get inspired a bit, or to simply check out what’s out there, we’ve compiled a gallery of some of the most stylish African men hairstyles that just may inspire your next ‘do. You can modernize the pompadour or embrace your natural hair texture and wear it with pride in an Afro hairstyle. There are fabulous fades, interesting lineups, and protective styles to lock in moisture and reduce grooming time. Whether you love wearing your hair long or short, textured or shaved, these are some of the best haircuts to try today.
Buzz Cut with Line Up
A buzz cut never goes out of style when it comes to haircuts for black men. If you find yourself constantly on the run, then a buzz would probably suit your daily regimen. You need very little care in maintaining it daily and you don’t need styling products unless your hair is a medium length. Simply put a dab of moisturizer and brush it.
Mini Afro.
Regarding many of the haircuts available for black men, the small afro doesn’t take much to look great and up-to-date. Ever so popular in the 70’s, this short length is attractive and refined on any man and requires a small bit of styling. If you are considering this look and your hair is longer, consider having it cut down to achieve this look. As far as styling tips, some men apply wax to their hair while damp prior to styling it. Be sure to have hair conditioned regularly to avoid breakage and use good styling products.
Short Dreads with a Fade
If a whole head of dreads isn’t for you, try this cut. It’s a mix of mini dreads, a high top, and the stylish Brooklyn fade. That might sound like a lot all together, but this look is actually fairly simple and extra cool. Loc-ing just the hair on the top of your head will feel a lot lighter, and the fade ties the style together.
Relaxed Dreads Undercut
Here’s a casual look that incorporates shorter dreads and an undercut. As shown here, this haircut can seamlessly connect with a beard, which frames the face and creates symmetry.
Dreadlocks with Blonde Tips.
Rooted in Rastafarian culture, dreadlocks have definitely made their way to popular culture and it’s easy to see why! Once you’ve mastered the loc style, you simply have to maintain the look with minimal styling. Add some color or cool hair ties to your hair to mix up this cool look!
Angled Top With Fade.
For a slightly sharper high-top look, try adding in an angle. The precise cut of this look makes it extra special and stylish. To get this look, make sure you show your barber just how much of an angle you would like, i.e. not too steep, but not too low either to look off-kilter. Aim for an angle like the above, which exemplifies the style while keeping things in proportion.
Caesar Fade.
The high low Caesar fade is a classic! You can’t go wrong with this sharp hairline. We’ve seen this look on so many celebrities, it’s definitely a great option if you’re going after a put-together, polished look.
Cropped.
We can’t get enough of the baby ’fro, and it looks like the guys agree with us. Different versions of the cropped afro have been seen on designer runways and celebrities, and with good reason: This look keeps your head cool (literally) and ready for the workday, while retaining some natural swag. Not to mention relatively easy upkeep, which entails a simple trim every month.
Buzz Cut with Lineup and Skin Fade.
There are many ways to alter the buzz cut to allow it to reflect your personality. The cut is clipped close to the head but is versatile and highly adaptable. To add a little edginess to the classic look, you can pair it with a lineup and a skin fade. The lineup cuts sharp lines or angles into the hairline, drawing attention to the face. You can also change up the placement, opting for it to go along the temples or parting. The skin fade will add dimension and contrast to your haircut as it cuts downwards, removing all hair from around your ears and below. This can make the hair on top of the head seem fuller and thicker. If you are a man who has loads of confidence and doesn’t mind getting attention, this is the look for you.
Clean Shave.
Do you want to take a break from styling your hair? Then opt for a clean shave. Shaving off your hair creates a very masculine appearance. Men without hair are often considered stronger, more powerful, and confident. It is also an excellent way to wear your hair if you want to reduce your grooming time and get rid of all your hair products. Although you will save money on conditioners, you will need to make regular trips to the barber for touch-ups. Something to consider before taking the plunge and opting for a clean shave is that every imperfection will be highlighted. It is, therefore, best not to choose this look if you have any scars, bumps, or anything that you do not want to draw attention to; if you are comfortable in your own skin, then do not let this stop you.
Long Box Braids.
Box braids are a popular protective style for men and women because they are easy to install and incredibly versatile. Box braids can also be created in various lengths and thicknesses and worn down or in an updo; this allows you to put your own touch on the look. They can have a soulful feel to them but are also cool. Opting for long box braids will make a statement and are a great way to draw attention to your face. Depending on how you style them, they can have a face-framing effect that can be incredibly flattering. The length can also draw the eye up and down, giving the illusion of a slimmer and longer face.
Short Hair + Low Taper Fade.
This fresh cut has just enough length to create a rounded profile. The skin fade follows the same arc while a line up defines the forehead.
Line Up with Waves.
Adding waves to any buzz cut provides another trendy dimension. Get a good wave brush and pomade to start creating these sleek 360 deep waves. And the thick, full beard makes for a very classy look.
Edge Up + High – Low Fade.
This short cut has just enough length to see some kinky curly texture. The edge up arcs directly into the beard but is interrupted by a low skin fade.
Bleached High Top.
Do you have thick hair that you can’t seem to manage? Try embracing your robust, textured curls. Grow them out on top and throw in some bleached tips. The highlighted short dreads brighten up that hair and make it look more interesting and unique.
