Curly Hair and Bangs

Shoulder-length curly hair with bangs
Photo: Yana Kallas/Shutterstock
Q: I was wondering if curly-haired women can have bangs. And, if so, what would be the right hairstyle?
 
A: Yes. Curly-haired women can have bangs. In fact, many do. Curly bangs look soft, playful, and flattering, adding instant shape and personality to a haircut. The styles available for curly hair are just as varied as those for straight or wavy hair, so there isn't one single "right" hairstyle. The best choice depends on your curl pattern, hair density, porosity, face shape, and how much daily styling and maintenance you're comfortable with.
 
Curly bangs work well with many different cuts, ranging from shag and wolf cuts to bobs or long hair with face-framing layers. Layers are especially helpful because they remove excess weight, allow curls to spring up naturally, and prevent the dreaded "pyramid shape." A stylist who specializes in curly hair can evaluate your specific curl type and recommend a cut that complements your natural curl pattern while helping your bangs blend seamlessly with the rest of your hair.
 
The most critical factor when cutting bangs on curly hair is accounting for shrinkage. Curly hair shrinks significantly as it dries. Hair cut to eyebrow length while wet will often spring up well above the eyebrows once dry. Because of this, experienced stylists cut curly bangs longer than the desired finished length and usually shape them while the hair is completely dry and in its natural state. Dry cutting allows the stylist to see how each individual curl springs up and where it naturally falls.
 
The shrinkage of bangs on curly hair
 
It's important to know that weather and humidity will affect your bangs: rainy or humid days will cause curls to shrink and bounce even higher, while dry climates or heavy products can pull them down. If you're considering curly bangs for the first time:
 
• Start with curtain bangs: Longer, cheekbone-skimming or face-framing bangs give you maximum styling flexibility. You can wear them forward, sweep them to the side, or easily pin them back.
 
• Consider your morning routine: Curly bangs often require daily "refreshing" with a water spritzer, leave-in conditioner, or diffuser-drying to reshape them after sleeping.
 
• Plan for more frequent trims: Curly bangs they require regular maintenance cuts every 4 to 8 weeks to keep their shape.
 
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See also:
 
How to cut a fringe in curly hair
 
Cutting and trimming bangs
 
The different types and styles of bangs