How Does My Hair Type Affect Which Haircut I Should Get?

May 28

When choosing a haircut, most guys think about trends, face shape, or how much time they want to spend styling it. But there’s one important factor that often gets overlooked: your hair type. Whether it’s straight, wavy, curly, or coily, your natural hair texture plays a huge role in how a haircut looks and behaves once you leave the barbershop.

At In The Cut Barbershop in Vancouver, we work with all kinds of hair types and help clients choose styles that enhance their natural look, rather than fight against it. Here's how your hair type should influence the haircut you choose, and how to make it work best for your personal style.

1. Straight Hair: Clean, Sharp, and Versatile

Straight hair tends to lie flat against the scalp and can appear sleek when styled well. It’s easy to work with, but if not cut properly, it can look limp or thin.

Best cuts for straight hair:

Undercut with longer top – Adds contrast and volume
Crew Cut – A timeless, clean-cut style that holds its shape
Side part or comb-over – Great for guys who want a polished, professional look
Textured crop – Adds movement and prevents the hair from looking too flat

What to keep in mind:

Products like matte clay or sea salt spray help add volume
Regular trims are essential to keep ends looking sharp
Thicker straight hair benefits from texturizing to avoid bulk

2. Wavy Hair: Natural Texture That Adds Personality

Wavy hair has a bit more volume and natural movement, which can be a major advantage when styled right. It’s flexible—easy to wear both neat or messy—and tends to give haircuts a more relaxed, casual feel.

Best cuts for wavy hair:

Textured fringe or crop – Embraces your natural wave
Fade with medium-length top – Keeps sides clean while letting waves show up top
Bro flow (mid-length styles) – Ideal for low-maintenance guys who like a laid-back style
Undercut with wavy top – Sharp contrast that lets your texture shine

What to keep in mind:

Use light creams or mousses to define waves
Avoid heavy gels that flatten natural texture
Don’t fight the wave—work with it, not against it

3. Curly Hair: Bold, Textured, and Full of Volume

Curly hair can look amazing when styled and cut right. The key is working with the curl pattern rather than trying to tame it completely. With the right haircut, curly hair brings character and dimension to your overall appearance.

Best cuts for curly hair:

Low fade with curls on top – Keeps volume where it counts
Short afro or temple fade – Ideal for tighter curls or coils
Curly undercut – Gives shape without bulk
Tapered sides with defined curls – Clean but still full of texture

What to keep in mind:

Hydration is key—use curl creams or leave-in conditioners
Ask your barber to cut curls when dry or semi-dry for more accurate shaping
Embrace the curl’s natural volume rather than trying to flatten it

4. Coily or Kinky Hair: Structured and Unique

Coily hair has tight curls or z-shaped strands and offers tons of styling possibilities when properly maintained. It benefits most from cuts that provide structure while allowing the hair’s density to be shown off in a clean, intentional way.

Best cuts for coily hair:

High top fade – A classic that puts the texture front and center
360 waves with low fade – Sharp and polished
Short taper or temple fade – Clean and easy to maintain
Shape-ups and line-ups – Give definition to natural styles

What to keep in mind:

Moisture is your best friend—use oils and leave-ins
Detangle regularly to prevent breakage
Shape and proportion matter more than length

Conclusion

Your hair type isn’t just about appearance—it’s the foundation of a great haircut. Choosing a style that matches your hair’s natural behavior will save you time, keep you looking sharp, and ensure your cut lasts longer between visits. Whether you’ve got straight strands or tightly coiled curls, a haircut tailored to your texture makes all the difference.

At In The Cut Barbershop in Vancouver, our barbers take the time to assess your hair type and recommend styles that bring out its best. From clean fades to textured crops, we’ll help you find a look that fits your lifestyle and makes you feel confident. Book your appointment today and experience personalized grooming built around you.