For guys with natural curls who want definition without discipline, the curly undercut offers a smart middle ground. It suits anyone looking to keep their texture front and center while sidestepping the dreaded pyramid effect.
What is a Curly Undercut?
The curly undercut is built on sharp contrast: dense curls sit high and wide on top, disconnected from the buzzed sides and nape. The top is rounded but kept compact, avoiding puffiness. A touch of curl cream or light leave-in is enough to define this undercut style and hold without crunch.
Who It Works For & What It Takes
This undercut is ideal for thick, coiled, or tight S-pattern curls. Loose waves won’t give the same definition or volume. It flatters oval and diamond face shapes most, as the bulk on top adds height without widening the silhouette.
The sides grow back fast, so expect to tidy the undercut every two to three weeks. The curls up top can stretch longer between trims, but you’ll need a routine to keep them hydrated and shaped. Consider diffuser drying or air-drying with product.
When the Fade Fades
What’s striking about this cut is how quickly its identity softens. After about three weeks, the clean separation begins to blur, especially behind the ears. The bulk on top can start to droop if curls aren’t reshaped.
Still, the grown-in version doesn’t look sloppy. It just reads more casual. For some, that transition is part of the appeal. Others may book that refresher trim right on schedule.
