So you’ve been growing out your locks and now have a full head of long, wavy hair. First off, congratulations! You’ve made it through the awkward middle stage that sends most guys running back to their barbers. But now comes the real question: what’s the best way to style those waves?

Long wavy hair offers incredible versatility, but finding the right cut can mean the difference between looking like you just rolled out of bed and looking like you stepped off a magazine cover. Let’s dive into the best haircut options that will have you making waves (pun intended).

Embrace the Layers

If there’s one universal truth about long wavy hair, it’s that layers are your best friend. Without them, wavy hair can quickly become a triangular, bottom-heavy mess that weighs you down.

Strategic layering gives your waves definition and prevents that dreaded “poof” effect that happens when wavy hair is cut all one length. Think of it like this: each layer creates a stopping point for your waves to form, creating that coveted tousled look.

Detail your lifestyle as well as your styling routine to your stylist during consultations about layered haircuts. People who prefer no-fuss hairstyles will need layers that are suited for natural styles, requiring little product or additional effort. Complex layering techniques will provide you with various styling options if you invest additional time in your hair maintenance.

Read more: Is It Time for a Haircut? Signs You Need a Trim

The Modern Shag

The shag haircut has made a massive comeback, and for good reason. This 70s-inspired cut features layers throughout with curtain bangs that frame the face. For wavy-haired guys, it’s practically a cheat code.

What makes the modern shag so perfect for wavy hair is how it works with your natural texture rather than fighting against it. The choppy layers enhance wave definition while the face-framing pieces add structure to an otherwise casual style.

The beauty of the shag is its low-maintenance nature. A quick towel dry, a dab of lightweight styling cream, and you’re good to go. It actually looks better, slightly messy, making it perfect for guys who prefer to roll out of bed and get on with their day.

The modern shag works especially well for guys with medium to thick hair density. If your waves tend to be on the looser side, the varied layers will actually enhance your natural texture, making it appear fuller and more defined. For those with tighter waves, the shag prevents your hair from building too much volume on the sides—a common problem that can give your head a triangular appearance.

The Textured Mid-Length Cut

Not ready to go full rock star with your length? The textured mid-length cut hits just at or below the chin and focuses on enhancing your natural wave pattern. This style works particularly well for guys with medium to thick wavy hair. The weight is removed from the ends while maintaining length on top and around the sides. Ask your barber for point cutting to create texture without sacrificing too much length.

This method works well because it adjusts to various hairstyles. It allows you to create different looks by wearing the cut tousled on weekends while using light pomade for a neat professional appearance behind your ears.

Such hair lengths maintain both a formal and laid-back aesthetic. Mid-length hair options serve as a perfect choice for men who want to experience long hair, giving them the opportunity to explore their style without fully committing to long hair.

The Long Layered Cut

For those proud members of the long hair club who want to keep their length while still managing their waves, the long layered cut is your holy grail. This style features face-framing layers starting at the chin or below, with longer layers throughout. The goal isn’t to thin out your hair but to create a strategic weight distribution that allows your waves to form properly.

The long layered cut works well with a middle part or swept to one side, and looks equally good whether you’re in a business casual setting or hanging out with friends. When opting for a longer length, communication with your stylist becomes crucial. Show your stylist reference photos that you find appealing while acknowledging that your waves will behave differently from what the pictures show. The method that creates beautiful loose beach waves on one person will probably fail to produce similar results with tighter waves.

Men who have thick, wavy hair should communicate their needs to their stylist regarding texturizing techniques which trim bulk without damaging their preferred style. Your internal layers will help your waves look more natural without sacrificing the length that took effort to develop.

The Curly Top Fade

The curly top fade offers maximum style options to men with wavy to curly hair by giving them both length upkeep on top and clean sides through a fade. Wavy-haired individuals can achieve perfect results with this style because it keeps their top full and textured while fading the sides thoroughly at any desired height.

The modern yet manageable look stems from how the textured top surface contrasts with the smooth sides. This hairstyle benefits oval face shapes as well as square and diamond face forms because it enhances elevation without tampering with the original wave pattern. Men prefer this style because it provides them with professional short sides together with creative freedom on top using longer wavy hair. People starting their wave-growing journey can use this style to test various top hairstyles without compromising their neat sides.

The versatility of the curly top fade means you can go as dramatic or subtle as you like with the fade itself. A high skin fade creates maximum contrast, while a lower taper offers a more gradual transition that works well in conservative environments.

Face Shape Considerations

When choosing the perfect style for your wavy locks, take your face shape into account:

• Round faces benefit from styles with height on top and closer sides to elongate the face. The curly top fade is particularly flattering.
• Square faces work well with soft layers that frame the jaw, like the modern shag or textured mid-length cut.
• Oval faces can pull off virtually any style, but particularly shine with balanced cuts like the long layered option.
• Long faces look best with fuller sides and layers that add width rather than height.

Feel free to consult with your barber or stylist about face shape-compatible suggestions. Skilled professionals can adjust various hair lengths to create styles that complement your facial features.

Styling Tips for Long Wavy Hair

Whatever cut you choose, these styling tips will help you make the most of your wavy locks:

• Less is more with washing – Wavy hair tends to dry out easily, so limit shampooing to 2-3 times per week.
• Embrace leave-in conditioner – It’s your secret weapon against frizz and will enhance your natural wave pattern.
• Sea salt spray is your friend – For days when your waves need a boost, a light misting of sea salt spray adds texture and definition.
• Diffuse or air dry – Direct heat from blow dryers can create frizz. Either air dry or use a diffuser attachment on low heat.
• Sleep on a silk pillowcase – It reduces friction, which means fewer tangles and less frizz when you wake up.

The Bottom Line

The maintenance of your long wavy hair depends on how well your face shape, lifestyle needs, and individual style match the selected hairstyle. Your selection of hairstyle needs to respect your natural hair, but shouldn’t require constant care.

Ready to make the most of your long, wavy locks? The expert barbers at MEN ZONE specialize in working with all hair textures, including those enviable waves. Our team of skilled professionals can help you find the perfect cut that works with your natural texture, not against it. 

Drop by for a consultation and discover why we have become Canada’s go-to destination for men who take their grooming seriously.